GCPP: Defence & Foreign Affairs

The programme aims to familiarize students with public policy analysis through the lens of geopolitics, strategic studies, and economic perspectives. During the course, students will explore the significance of military power in global affairs and gain an in-depth understanding of India's foreign policy. They will also study texts like the Arthashastra to grasp its application in modern statecraft.

Upon completion, students will be proficient in understanding the interplay between political and economic forces on a global scale and will be skilled in analyzing issues related to defence and international relations. A unique aspect of the programme is the inclusion of officers from the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy, along with civilians in every cohort. This promotes a rich classroom diversity that fosters a multitude of perspectives and enriches students’ learning experiences.

Designed for full-time professionals, the GCPP offers a seamless online learning experience. The programme spans 12 weeks and includes weekly webinars (usually held on Saturdays) and two interactive virtual workshops. Wherever you are, just ensure a stable internet connection, and you're ready to dive in.

Timeline and Key Dates

Next cohort

May to July 2025

Programme Begins

3rd May 2025

Early Bird Deadline (10% scholarship)

23rd March 2025

Application Deadline

20th April 2025

Takshashila Conference Dates (online)

31st May and 1st June 2025

Workshop Dates (online)

25th, 26th and 27th July 2025

Curriculum - Core Modules (weeks 1-5)

CP1 - Policy Analysis and Concepts

This module explores the foundations of public policy, from understanding nations, states, and governments to exploring the paradoxes and pitfalls faced by governments.

- Introduction to Public Policy
- Nations, States, and Governments
- Paradoxes and Pitfalls of the Government
- Goals of the Government and Things Governments Do
- Introduction to Kautilya’s Arthashasthra

CP2 Economic Reasoning for Public Policy – I

This module explores the fundamental principles of economics, from understanding economic reasoning and the price system to trade and government intervention in markets.

- Introduction to Economic Reasoning
- The Price System
- Market Dynamics
- Introduction to Macroeconomics
- Trade
- Government Intervention in Markets

CP3 Effective Communication and Media Engagement

This module aims to get you to start writing. It also provides an overview of the role of narratives and their use in political and policy communication.

- Basics of Writing
- Understanding the Media Environment
- Political and Policy Narratives

Curriculum - Defence and Foreign Affairs (weeks 5 -12)

CS1 Strategic Studies and International Relations

This module highlights the significance of force, foreign policy, internal security, cyberspace, and nuclear policy, underscoring their current geopolitical importance.

- Basics of Strategic Studies
- Understanding Geopolitics
- Tools of Statecraft - Force, Foreign Policy and Diplomacy, Intelligence
- National Security Challenges and Indian Statecraft
- Tools of Statecraft - Strategic Communication (Role of Information in Statecraft), Technology
- High-Tech Geopolitics
- India’s Nuclear Doctrine
- War and Peace

CS2 Introduction to Arthashastra

This module introduces Kautilya's Arthashastra, an ancient statecraft treatise, and highlights its relevance to today's international relations and strategy.

- An Introduction to Kautilya’s Arthashastra
- Concept Cluster I - Anvikshiki, Matsyanyaya, Rajadharma and Saptanga Theory
- Concept Cluster II - Rajamandala, Sadgunyas, Upayas and Yogakshema
- Treaties and Alliances in the Arthashastra

CS3 Strategic Economics

This module delves into how economic power is generated, managed, and utilized for strategic aims. It explores the foundations of economic power and its relationship with military strength.

- Origins and Military Power Dynamics
- Instruments of Economic Power I
- Instruments of Economic Power II
- Economic-Military Power Dynamics (optional)
- Currency and Balance of Payments (optional)

Fee Structure

The full programme fee for individuals is ₹33,000 (plus GST). Officers nominated by their respective Service HQs are eligible for a 100% scholarship, while serving officers not nominated can avail of a 33% scholarship. For all other students, financial assistance is available based on their needs.

The online application process requires students to provide their personal details and educational background. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to submit a compelling essay explaining their interest in the programme. Completing the application thoroughly is crucial, as it will undergo a rigorous screening process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Faculty

Nitin Pai

Nitin Pai is co-founder and director of the Takshashila Institution, an independent centre for research and education in public policy. His current research includes the geopolitics of the Indo-Pacific; defence economics and the politics of radically networked societies.

Lt General (Dr) Prakash Menon

Lt. Gen. (Retd) Prakash Menon is the Director of the Strategic Studies Programme. He is also Professor Emeritus at Trans Disciplinary University (TDU), Bangalore and Adjunct Professor, National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore.

Ambassador Latha Reddy

Amb Latha Reddy is the former Deputy National Security Adviser of India where she was responsible for cybersecurity and other critical internal and external security issues.

Pranay Kotasthane

Pranay Kotasthane is deputy director of the Takshashila Institution. Pranay’s current research includes high tech geopolitics and the politics of radically networked societies. Pranay teaches public policy, international relations, and public finance at Takshashila’s graduate and post-graduate programmes.

Anupam Manur

Anupam Manur is an Assistant Professor at the Takshashila Institution. He was previously working as a Research Associate at the Indian Institute of Management – Bangalore, after completing his Masters in International Business (Economics) from Lancaster University.

Dr. Kajari Kamal

Dr. Kajari Kamal is a PhD in Political Science from the University of Hyderabad. She holds a postgraduate in International Relations from Jawaharlal Nehru University.

Manoj Kewalramani

Manoj Kewalramani is a Fellow-China Studies at The Takshashila Institution. His research focuses on Chinese politics, foreign policy and approaches to new technologies.

Rear Admiral Sudarshan Y. Shrikhande

RADM Shrikhande retired in 2016 after 36 years in the Indian Navy. In flag rank he headed Naval Intelligence; was Chief of Staff/ SNC; served in HQIDS & Strategic Forces Command among others.

Student Testimonials

Praveer, GCPP (D&FA)

Takshashila isn't your typical think tank. It empowers participants to embrace a 360-degree perspective and champions holistic thinking. By urging them to anticipate what's beyond the immediate horizon, Takshashila seamlessly integrates public policy, strategy, and results. In the D&FA programme, the AMRUT exercise challenges participants, expanding their cognitive boundaries and unravelling both internal and external intricacies.
A K Mishra , GCPP (D&FA)

GCPP (D&FA) is a unique course carefully designed by highly knowledgeable and experienced faculty. It covers a wide range of topics relevant to the present global environment. Exercise AMRUT has been thoughtfully embedded in the course, which helps better understand policy-making & defence analysis.
Anand Bhat, GCPP (D&FA)

The AMRUT exercise was both engaging and beneficial. Making crucial decisions within short timeframes for the greater good added an electrifying dynamic to the process. It's no surprise that politics captivates so many. This program was truly an eye-opener.

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