The Strategic Defence Leadership Summit 2025, part of a modular MBA program for the defence sector by IIM Visakhapatnam, commenced in New Delhi, focusing on enhancing leadership capabilities within India’s defence production ecosystem. Inaugurated by Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary of the Department of Defence Production, the summit aims to foster innovation and collaboration among government officials, industry leaders, and academics, aligning with the Government of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Prof. M. Chandrasekhar of IIMV and Prof. B. Srirangacharyulu underscored the necessity of strategic thinking and execution excellence in adapting to India’s rapidly evolving defence landscape. This initiative is significant as it seeks to strengthen India’s self-reliance and competitiveness in the global defence sector.