India, April 5 -- Strategic communication in all its forms is a force multiplier in any vibrant democracy. It has the potential to shape the will and opinion of the populace with militaries all over the world. It is inherently critical due to the dynamics of reach and technology.

The socio-economic changes and the growth of digital media platforms have ensured that no component of the DIME paradigm (Diplomacy, Information, Military and Economic) spectrum is left out with militaries open to scrutiny, public debate and accountability. Conversely, media provides avenues of ideation and a silent, implied framework for a mid-course correction in policy and execution of important aspects for the military.

The British kept the military away fr...