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The Pankaj Kumar Jha Centre for Security Studies focuses on a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to studies related to security. 

Launched in 2020 under the Jindal School of International Affairs, the Centre  is dedicated to training graduates for various roles in the defence and security sectors. It was given a new name in honour of our beloved Founding Director, Dr Pankaj Kumar Jha, following his unexpected death in 2024. 

CSS, short for its name, focuses on analysing security in the contemporary global context, where the significance of security has risen in various spheres such as individuals, societies, political entities, and international institutions. The Centre offers students a wide range of choices related to various fields of study, like global and national security concerns, focusing on policy relevance. This entails the defence and security strategies of different nations, traditional and non-traditional security challenges like terrorism, civil conflicts, cyber-attacks, nuclear safety, and regional security concerns and so on. 

 

The Centre's work is increasingly focused on new threats like maritime security issues, AI and Quantum technologies, and advancements in space, sustainable development, economic security and supply chain resilience, emerging technologies and innovation, energy security and the green economy,. 

Researchers at the Centre also examine the role of both established and emerging security concept frameworks, like Quad and Indo-Pacific, within a broader international relations framework. With faculty supervision, CSS allows associates and interns to use their theoretical undergraduate education in real policy scenarios. CSS engages in conversations and interactive discussions with respected experts to enhance comprehension of various subjects. The Centre offers its members chances to be involved worldwide by taking part in global conferences and exchange programs. 

Numerous CSS graduates are furthering their education in security studies, collaborating with think tanks, research institutions, and risk assessment firms to improve their hands-on experience with critical thinking, analytical writing, and theory-driven solutions.