Ropar IIT in pact with Army for tech solutions

Tribune News Service

Ropar, October 16

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Ropar, has appointed Lt Gen PM Bali as Professor of Practice here today. Lt Gen Bali was offered the position when he was here to deliver a lecture.

An MoU was also signed on the occasion between Ropar IIT and the Indian Army for collaboration in academics and research.

Chief of Staff of Army’s Western Command Lt Gen Bali delivered his first lecture at the institute on “China: An Overview” that brought out a broad understanding of China, its psyche and philosophy, strategic interests, dynamics of relations with India, possible triggers of future conflict and their manifestation and implications for India.

Explaining the contours of China’s Belt and Road initiative, he marvelled on its scale and sophistication, while underscoring the technological, economic and strategic implications.

He added, “We can foresee with confidence that with the way we are going ahead by associating with institutes such as Ropar IIT, Indian Army will win wars with Indian solutions.”

Highlighting the detrimental effect of India’s dependence on import for military capability, he said, “Military superiority is not determined by numbers alone, armed forces need better technology.”

Professor SK Das, Director, Ropar IIT, said, “This is just a beginning of academia-Army relationship. Ropar IIT is ready to give technological solutions to the issues faced by the Indian Army that needs to be addressed. Ropar IIT will also explore the possibilities of conducting short-term courses and lectures at the institute by the Indian Army.