Gandhinagar: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Tuesday delivered a wide-ranging and thought-provoking address at the convocation ceremony of Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) in Gujarat, underlining that national security is not merely about military strength but is fundamentally rooted in the morale and willpower of a nation’s people.

Addressing graduating students and faculty, Doval described national security as a “vast, complex, and intricate phenomenon” comprising multiple dimensions, including military capability, technological advancement, economic strength, natural resources, diplomatic leverage, and human capital. However, he cautioned that the most common error in evaluating what he termed “comprehensive national power” lies in underestimating the morale and inherent strength of a nation’s citizens.

Drawing from global conflicts, Doval cited examples such as the Vietnam War and the Soviet–Afghan War, as well as the United States’ prolonged engagement in Afghanistan, to emphasise that military superiority and technological dominance do not guarantee success. “History shows that wars are not lost for lack of resources, but for lack of willpower,” he said, noting that the decisive factor in these conflicts was the depth of commitment among local populations towards their nation.

Doval asserted that the ultimate objective of warfare is not merely territorial gain but the erosion of the adversary’s morale. “National morale—what we call willpower—is the invisible force that determines victory or defeat,” he remarked, adding that breaking this morale compels opponents to concede.

Highlighting India’s current trajectory, the NSA said the country is witnessing a “new awakening” after a long historical phase, where national security is increasingly being understood as a shared responsibility. “National security is not the exclusive domain of the armed forces, police, or intelligence agencies—it is a collective duty shared by every citizen,” he said, stressing that the combined strength and awareness of the population ultimately shape national resilience.

He underscored the critical role of public awareness, stating that the consciousness of citizens regarding their own security significantly influences national morale. According to him, a well-informed and vigilant society acts as a force multiplier in safeguarding national interests.

Focusing on those entering the security domain, Doval highlighted three essential attributes: capability, character, and commitment. He said professionals in the field—whether academics, researchers, or practitioners—play a decisive role through their knowledge, technical expertise, and situational awareness.

Equally important, he noted, is character, which encompasses discipline, mental resilience, and the ability to work collaboratively. “These are not optional traits; they are indispensable in national security,” he said.

On commitment, Doval was emphatic that the field demands unwavering dedication. Expressing confidence in the youth, he said those aspiring to build careers in security possess the resolve required to meet these challenges and will carry the nation’s future security on their shoulders.

Doval also underscored the high stakes involved in national security. “This is not a game where you come second—there are no silver medals. You either win or you lose. If you win, you make history; if you lose, you become history,” he said, drawing a standing response from the audience.

The address, marked by strategic insight and philosophical depth, reinforced the central message that while resources and capabilities are critical, it is ultimately the collective willpower and commitment of a nation’s people that determine its security and destiny.

During the ceremony, Doval was conferred an honorary doctorate (honoris causa) by President Droupadi Murmu in recognition of his lifetime of national service, strategic leadership, and contributions to strengthening India’s security framework, the university said. DeshGujarat