New Delhi, Aug 21: A new book examining the growing influence of cyberspace, media and strategic narratives in contemporary warfare was launched during the Annual Maj Bob Khathing Memorial Lecture 2026 at the United Service Institution of India (USI), New Delhi, on August 21.

Titled “Information Warfare: Leveraging Cyberspace and Media,” the book has been authored by Brig Amit Kumar Sharma, Commander, 10 Sector Assam Rifles. The publication explores the changing character of conflict and the increasing importance of information as a strategic instrument in modern warfare.
The book release was attended by senior military officials and distinguished personalities, including Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, Director General Assam Rifles, and Vice Admiral Sanjay J Singh, SYSM, PVSM, AVSM, NM, PhD (Retd), DG USI.
The launch formed part of the Annual Maj Bob Khathing Memorial Lecture, an event that provides a platform for reflection on strategic, military and national-security issues. The release of the book added a contemporary dimension to the deliberations by focusing on the expanding information domain.
The publication highlights how cyberspace and media have transformed the battlefield beyond traditional physical domains. In an increasingly connected world, information can influence public perception, shape narratives, affect decision-making and contribute to strategic outcomes without conventional military engagement.
The book also draws attention to the growing importance of narratives in modern conflict. Competing narratives can influence perceptions among domestic and international audiences, making the ability to communicate effectively and counter misinformation an increasingly important component of national security.
The convergence of technology, social media and information operations has created new challenges for military organisations. Cyber threats, rapidly circulating information and coordinated influence campaigns require security forces to develop capabilities that combine technological expertise with strategic communication and a clear understanding of the information environment.
The book’s central theme is therefore particularly relevant to the evolving nature of warfare, where success increasingly depends not only on capabilities in the physical domain but also on the ability to protect, manage and effectively communicate information.
The launch underscored the growing recognition within strategic and defence circles that cyberspace, media and narratives constitute important elements of contemporary national security.
Through its focus on information warfare, the publication seeks to contribute to the wider discourse on how armed forces and national institutions can adapt to emerging challenges and strengthen preparedness for conflicts in an increasingly interconnected world.