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PRESS NOTE

Covert Wars and Great Power Games with the Spymaster

The Deccan Centre for International Relations (DCIR), an independent think tank under the Institute for Financial Management and Research (IFMR), in collaboration with the Chennai International Centre (CIC), organised a special interactive session titled “Covert Wars and Great Power Games with the Spymaster” on 29^th August 2026 (Saturday) from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm at Tagore Auditorium, TN Govt. Music College, R A Puram, Chennai – 600028.

The session featured Mr. Vikram Sood, former Secretary of the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), in conversation with Mr. Balasubramanian C, Senior Advisor, Deccan Centre for International Relations. Drawing on themes from Mr. Sood’s latest book Great Power Games: From Western Decline to Eastern Ascent, the discussion examined covert wars and intelligence dimensions of great-power competition, the ongoing shift in the global order from West to East, the role of narratives and asymmetric tools in contemporary geopolitics, and the implications of these dynamics for India’s strategic autonomy and security interests.

The event provided a platform for informed engagement with one of India’s most experienced intelligence practitioners, amplifying scholarly and public discourse on national security and foreign policy challenges. The Chennai International Centre (CIC) serves as a forum for thought leaders across diverse fields to share and exchange views on topical issues. This session continues the Deccan Centre’s efforts to bring domain expertise to South India and encourage critical thinking among students, young scholars, academics, professionals, and strategic enthusiasts on evolving geopolitical realities.

29^th August 2026

Chennai

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