Kumaraguru Institutions host 5th Defence Career Expo, illuminates 500+ NCC Cadets on Opportunities and Adventures in Armed Forces
With the intent to create awareness among college students about career and business opportunities in the defence sector, Kumaraguru Institutions, Coimbatore, is organizing the fifth edition of the Defence Career Expo as part of Yugam 2025, its renowned techno-cultural-sports fest.
The two-day event, which began on Friday, has drawn 550 NCC cadets from 25 colleges across Tamil Nadu. The expo features insightful addresses from distinguished officers of the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard, offering cadets a comprehensive understanding of defence career opportunities.
Beyond career guidance, sessions will cover topics such as Capability Development in Defence and Its Relevance to Industries; AI and its Role in Modern Warfare, etc. Adding to the experience, the event includes weapons display by INS Agrani, 35 Field Regiment, and the Madras Regimental Centre, along with military band performances.
Rear Admiral V Mohandoss, Director, Defence Projects, Kumaraguru Centre for Industrial Reserch and Innovation (KC.IRI), Kumaraguru Institutions said that since its inception, the Defence Career Expo has created awareness among more than 10,000 NCC cadets.
He emphasized that the primary objective of the event is to inspire young minds to think about joining the armed forces, as “we become what we think.” He highlighted that several NCC cadets from Coimbatore have gone on to hold prestigious positions in the armed forces, and this event aims to open similar opportunities for aspiring students.
The expo provides guidance on entering the armed forces, the qualifications required, and the rigorous selection process, including preparation for the Service Selection Board (SSB) interview—one of the toughest in India. The students will also gain exposure to defence technologies, particularly the increasing role of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in modern warfare.
Commodore B. Balasundaram, Director of the Centre for Indigenisation and Self Reliance (CISR) – Indian Navy, inaugurated the event as the Chief Guest. In his address, he spoke about Capability Development in Defence and Its Relevance to Industries, emphasizing India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
He highlighted the Ministry of Defence’s recent Positive Indigenisation List, which includes nearly 500 items that will now be procured only from Indian manufacturers. These items span strategically significant systems, sensors, weapons, ammunition, and other critical components. With Rs. 6,81,210 crore allocated to the Ministry of Defence in the latest Union Budget, the government is actively encouraging domestic defence manufacturing.
Commodore Balasundaram pointed out that several Indian companies have already made significant contributions to defence production, including industries based in Coimbatore.
He urged students interested in defence technology to explore opportunities in this growing sector, where they can contribute to indigenous manufacturing and innovation. He also detailed the pathways to joining the Indian Navy, the qualifications required, and the unique experiences, challenges, and privileges associated with a naval career.
The Expo has lots of inspiring addresses and activities for the Cadets planned for Day 2 as well.
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