This report is an outcome of a study conducted by the Vivekananda International Foundation to find out the causes of shortfall in performance and work out recommendations for further reforms in the defence sector. This study was conducted in four components, including four thematic roundtables chaired by prominent personalities like the former Defence Secretary, former Secretary Defence (R&D), former Secretary (DST) and the Vice Chancellor of DIAT; several subject-specific seminars; study of Defence Technology Ecosystems (DTEs) of important countries and review of previous Indian studies.

During the month, the VIF Pakistan Experts Group discussed critical issues shaping Pakistan's current landscape. The session focussed on Pakistan's political outlook, noting the dominant role of the military following the marginalisation of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The current Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, faces challenges, reflecting the military's enduring influence despite opposition limitations. Economically, despite potential IMF support and Gulf investments, structural reforms remain elusive, with a shift away from Chinese engagement noted.

During the month, the VIF Neighbourhood Experts Group hosted a roundtable discussion to analyse recent developments in Nepal and their implications for India. It emerged that Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal's removal of the Nepali Congress from the government marked a significant political shift, as he welcomed the Communist Party of Nepal — Unified Marxist-Leninist (CPN-UML) and two other parties to form a new government, reminiscent of previous coalitions since 2022.

The Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) was visited by several delegations during the month of February. These included representatives of nine countries, Europe, and a delegation from the SWIFT. Diverse range of issues were discussed, including the global world order, regional security situation, ongoing conflicts, and India’s bilateral relations with the individual countries.