Chennai: The Madras University is mulling over naming the Center for Defence Technology and Strategic Studies in the University after former CDS Bipin Rawat, who passed away along with 13 other passengers after the chopper they were travelling in crashed near Coonoor on December 8.
The late CDS Bipin Rawat, who was an alumnus of the University, pursued his MPhil in 2010 where he submitted a thesis on 'Media as a force multiplier for armed forces'.
During the condolence meet, Madras University Vice-Chancellor S Gowri said that the death of CDS Rawat is not just the loss of the country but also the university since he was a former student of Madras University.
Not just the CDS but Brigadier LS Lidder who died in the crash was also an alumnus of Madras University where he completed his MPhil on the topic China's space capabilities and its implications in India. He completed his course in the year 2020.
Group Captain Varun Singh who passed away after a long battle this week also studied Msc Defence and Strategic Studies in the university.
Madras University started the Department of Defence and Strategic Studies in 1997 with former Air Vice Marshal FVA Scudder as an advisor. The University is currently offering three courses, including MA Defence and Strategic Studies, MPhil Defence and Strategic Studies and PhD.
The department focuses to impart the students with knowledge on national security, South Asian security issues, arms control, issues on nuclear proliferation, conflict resolution, international terrorism, economic management, maritime security and enviromental security.