New Delhi: Defence Minister  Rajnath Singh unveiled a plaque at the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses here November 15, to rename the institute after former Defence Minister late Manohar Parrikar.

The renaming as Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA) by the Defence Minister, who is the President of the Institute, follows the unanimous decision by the general body earlier this year to effect the change in the memory of the former Defence Minister. The renaming coincided with the 57th Foundation Day of the Institute that is celebrated on November 11.

Paying rich tributes to the former Defence Minister, Singh, in his address, remembered late Manohar Parrikar who, during his time as Defence Minister, had focussed on promoting the work of the institute.

Recalling his long association with him, Shri Rajnath Singh said, Parrikar ji had a deep understanding of matters related to defence and his insistence on indigenisation and efforts for politico-military synergy made him an invaluable asset. “He was a thoughtful leader for our Armed Forces. His leadership in the 2016 counter-terrorist strikes following the Uri incident and the decision of ‘One Rank One Pension’ taken in the interest of the Armed forces will be long remembered,” he added.

Extending his best wishes to MP-IDSA on its 57th Foundation Day,  Singh lauded the hard work and determination of the institute which, he said, has emerged as one of the best think-tanks in the field of defence, national security and international relations in the last almost six decades.

Singh also inaugurated an Open Air gym at the institute, terming it as an important initiative. He stressed on strengthening the health and immune system, especially during the pandemic.