The Kargil War: A Turning Point in India's Defence Landscape

After the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, a period of apparent calm settled between India and Pakistan. However, tensions resurged in the 1990s due to conflicts with Kashmiri separatists and nuclear tests conducted by both nations in 1998.

The Threat of Nuclear War: Kargil War Part III

On 24 June 1999, an incident unfolded, carrying the potential to escalate into a full-scale war between the nuclear-armed neighbouring countries.

Unmanned Armada: The Futuristic Frontier of Sailorless Ships and Naval Warfare

In recent years, the United States Navy has been exploring new technologies that would allow them to operate ships without any sailors on board. This concept of unmanned vessels, also known as sailorless ships, has been gaining traction in the military community as a means of reducing costs and …

India-Pakistan Relations: A Study of Historical and Contemporary Dynamics

India and Pakistan are two neighboring countries in South Asia with a shared history that dates back to the British Raj. Despite their common history, the relationship between the two countries has been characterized by hostility, conflicts, and occasional attempts at reconciliation. In this blog, we will examine the …

Decoding the Current Landscape of India’s Northeast

The geographical tag of Northeast India is used to denote the collective region of eight states — Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura. Before India attained Independence, however, the picture looked quite different, with five of these eight states being part of colonial Assam (Arunachal …

The Role of Indian Air Force in the 1971 War

The 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, also known as the Bangladesh Liberation War, was a pivotal conflict in South Asian history that resulted in the creation of the independent nation of Bangladesh. One of the key factors in India's victory in the war was the pivotal role played by the Indian …

Role of IAF in the Kashmir Conflict of 1947

The Kashmir conflict of 1947 remains one of the most significant military conflicts in the Indian subcontinent's history. As the newly independent nation of India and Pakistan emerged from the colonial rule of the British Empire, a territorial dispute over the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir erupted into …

Role of the IAF in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1965

The Indo-Pakistan War of 1965 was a defining moment in the history of the Indian Air Force (IAF). It marked a turning point in the country's defence capabilities and established the IAF as a force to be reckoned with in the region. Read on to find out what role …

The Rich History and Heritage of the Indian Navy

The Indian Navy is one of the largest and most powerful naval forces in the world, with a rich history and heritage. From its humble beginnings as a small coastal defense force, the Indian Navy has evolved into a formidable maritime power with a global reach.

History of the Indian Navy

The Indian Navy has a rich history that spans centuries. From its humble beginnings as a small naval force during the British Raj to becoming a modern and sophisticated naval force, the Indian Navy has come a long way. In this article, we will delve into the history of …

Role of the Indian Navy in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1965

The Indo-Pakistan War of 1965 was a major conflict between India and Pakistan that lasted for almost a month. Pakistan started the war on 6th September 1965 by launching a surprise attack on India after crossing the international border in Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian Navy played a crucial …

Military Tactics that Alexander the Great Utilised

Alexander the Great became king after his father, Phillip II, was assassinated. He took control of Macedonia, suppressed a rebellion in Greece, and then focused on leading campaigns in Egypt, India, and Persia. Despite facing challenges inherited from his father, Alexander was determined to succeed and used various strategies …

Seven Interesting Facts about the Indian Army

Our profound appreciation for the Indian Armed Forces, particularly the Indian Army, is rooted in the safety and privileges we enjoy as citizens. Their unwavering dedication to maintaining national security and safeguarding the nation from both external and internal threats exemplifies the epitome of patriotism. Let's delve into …

Beyond the Button: The Nerve-Wracking Reality of Oppenheimer's Atomic Experiment

Contrary to the belief that fears of the first atomic bomb destroying the world were fabricated for cinematic tension, some scientists involved in its development genuinely harboured concerns.

To Learn from Our Mistakes—Lessons from the 2025 Indo-Pakistan Conflict

As our forces draw down their activities along the International Border and the Line of Control after the declaration of the ceasefire between India and Pakistan, supposedly under the auspices of America, objectively speaking, one cannot help but realise that geopolitically, we did not end up gaining the way …

The Indian Air Force: A Brief History and its Glorious Journey

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is the aerial warfare branch of the Indian Armed Forces. With its motto “Touch the Sky with Glory,” the IAF has been serving the nation with distinction and bravery since its inception in 1932. This article provides an in-depth look into the rich history …

Explained: Unrest in Assam and Signing of the ULFA Pact

On December 29, 2023, the pro-dialogue faction of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) finalized a three-party peace agreement with the Centre and the Assam government. The memorandum of settlement comprises clauses aimed at accelerating the state's development and safeguarding the land and political rights of indigenous communities. …

Myanmar's Ongoing Civil Conflict and Its Impact on India's Interests

Situated on the western border, Paletwa serves as a strategic base for the Arakan Army to carry out military operations.

Explained: How are Tableaux for Republic Day Parade Selected?

Guardians of the Nation: The K9 Army

When we think of the Indian Army, images of soldiers who sacrifice their comfort for the protection of the country strike our minds. Surprisingly, there is another group of silent heroes who contribute effectively to our nation's security.

Role of the Indian Army in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965

The Indo-Pakistani war of 1965 was a significant event in the history of the Indian subcontinent, and the Indian Army played a crucial role in the conflict. The war lasted for 17 days and ended with a ceasefire on September 23, 1965.

75 Years of NDA: Integrating Forces, Shaping Leaders for India's Defence

In May 1945, as the dust settled from World War II, the world faced a transformative period after six years of conflict. Amidst this global transition, colonial India, on the brink of independence, confronted a distinct challenge – the establishment and fortification of its budding defence forces, along with …

In 1971, India's paratroopers outwitted Pakistan, sealing Dhaka's fate with swift precision.

Fifty-two years ago today, the Indian Army's 2 and 33 Corps in the west of the Jamna-Padma river crossed the Meghna and finally entered Dhaka.

Role of IAF in Operation Meghdoot of 1984

The Indian Air Force’s role in Operation Meghdoot in 1984, which was one of the most daring military operations in the history of the Indian Armed Forces, was also a crucial one. This operation was launched to capture the Siachen Glacier, a strategic location in the Himalayas that had …

What is at Stake as Tensions Rise Between India and Maldives?

Role of the Indian Navy in World War II

World War II brought with it a pivotal role for the Indian Navy where it contributed significantly to the Allied victory. Despite being a relatively small force at the start of the war, the Navy quickly grew in size and capability, eventually becoming the largest naval force in the …

MARCOS in the Indian Navy

The Marine Commandos, commonly known as MARCOS, are a special operations unit of the Indian Navy. They are one of the most elite and highly trained units in the Indian military, and they play a crucial role in protecting India's maritime interests.

Origin of the Motto of the Indian Navy

The motto of the Indian Navy, “Sham No Varunah,” is a Sanskrit phrase that translates to “May Varuna, the God of the Oceans, be auspicious unto us.” The motto encapsulates the ethos and spirit of the Indian Navy and reflects its role as a maritime force committed to safeguarding …

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in the Indian Military

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, are unmanned aircraft that are controlled remotely or autonomously. UAVs have gained immense popularity in recent years, with the advent of affordable and advanced technologies that have made them more accessible to businesses and consumers alike. UAVs are revolutionising many industries …

The Khaki Revolution: From Dust to Military Style

—Lieutenant General NS Brar

The history of khaki is deeply intertwined with the military, its evolution from a practical uniform choice to a global fashion trend. Originating from the Persian word "khak," meaning dust, khaki has a fascinating journey that began during the Anglo-Sikh Wars and eventually spread across …

Everything you need to know about the Indian Navy

The Indian Navy is a critical component of India's national security and is responsible for safeguarding the country's maritime interests. With its modern ships, submarines, and aircraft, the Indian Navy is capable of responding to a wide range of threats, from piracy and terrorism to natural disasters and territorial …

Mental Health and the Indian Armed Forces

It’s no news that the Indian armed forces have defended our country in gruesome wars and dangerous situations such as terrorist attacks more times than we can imagine. Often, we might not even know when a terrible threat has been dealt with while we keep living our lives …

13 April 1919 - The Red Letter Day

Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, also known as Amritsar Massacre, is an important event in India's freedom struggle. On 13 April 1919, British troops fired on a peaceful crowd of unarmed Indians at the Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar, Punjab, killing several hundred people and wounding many more. The people had gathered …

Unforgettable Rescue Operations By Indian Armed Forces

The Indian Armed Forces have a long and proud history of carrying out successful rescue operations in the face of daunting challenges. Whether it is evacuating citizens from war-torn countries, rescuing mountaineers from treacherous peaks, or saving people from natural disasters, the Indian Armed Forces have always been there …

Putting the Spy in Espionage

Do you think Scarlett Johansson in Black Widow or Kristen Stewart in Charlie’s Angels were mind-blowing? What if we tell you there were women like them in real? Women have been spies for centuries—witty, charming, and intelligent, female spies have gathered crucial information and carried out covert operations throughout …

India’s First Republic Day Brought Major Revamps in Military Protocol and Recognition

In Bid to Improve Border Infra, India Builds New Road to LAC

Decimation means the killing of every tenth person...

Excerpt from the book We Wish to Inform You That Tomorrow We Will be Killed with Our Families by Philip Gourevitch

Of Fauji Days on the Battlefront: Love, Letters & Soldiers

Dear Selma, he wrote; Dear John, she wrote — Chronicling Love in War & Peace via Mail

-SP Singh

In the Shadows of War: Shakespeare and Company's Brave Stance Against the Nazis

In the enchanting streets of Paris, where whispers of literary history linger in the air, the Shakespeare and Company bookstore stands as an enduring testament to the resilience of literature. Founded by Sylvia Beach in 1919, this legendary establishment originally hosted luminaries of the Lost Generation, including Ernest Hemingway …

Summer of '99

This personal essay was first published on Kitaab International on 26 July, 2024 to mark 25 glorious years of Vijay Diwas, the Kargil victory.

Kargil War: The Events of 1999

During the harsh winter weather in Kashmir, both the Indian and Pakistani armies would typically abandon forward posts and reclaim them in the spring. However, in the spring of 1999, the Pakistan Army unexpectedly reoccupied the forward posts.

Explained: The Houthis, Troubled Waters of the Red Sea, and the Indian Navy

To counter piracy threats in the Red Sea, India has increased deployment around the Red Sea.

Ladakh’s Historic Ties with Gilgit-Baltistan and Demand for Extension of Territory

Prior to 1947, the Ladakh district encompassed the Gilgit-Baltistan area, currently under Pakistan's control.

A Soldier's Odyssey: From Battlefields to Books, Major General Ian Cardozo's Remarkable Journey

The account of Ian Cardozo, who stepped on a landmine during the final days of the Indo-Pak War of 1971, leading to the liberation of East Pakistan and the creation of Bangladesh, has become part of the records of Indian military history.

Unravelling the Complexities of Conflict Between DR Congo and Rwanda

For some, it is a battle for the very survival of nations, while for others, it represents the pursuit of immense wealth.

Why Does India Celebrate Republic Day with a Military Parade?

Arming Cyberspace: Challenges in Militarizing a Virtual Realm

The connection between information technology and national security was firmly established in military writings post-World War II. However, it was the Second Persian Gulf War of 1991 that marked a pivotal moment in US military thinking about cyber warfare.

War Is a Racket

by Smedley D Butler

[In Photos] Republic @ 75: A Look at Celebrations Through the Years

From Balfour to Today: Exploring the Origins of the Israel-Palestine Conflict

Despite decades of characterization by Western media, academics, military experts, and world leaders as an intractable, complicated, and deadlocked conflict, here is a straightforward guide to understanding one of the world's longest-running conflicts.

Elections and Beyond: Navigating India's Security Concerns Amidst Pakistan's Political Turmoil

The military's influence has been a significant factor preventing any prime minister from serving a full five-year term, with three coups reinforcing the generals as powerful political players.

Use of ChatGPT in the Military: A Gamechanger?

OpenAI has silently removed language explicitly prohibiting the use of its technology for military purposes from its usage policy, which governs the use of powerful tools like ChatGPT.

Arms and the Man

by George Bernard Shaw

You can always tell an old soldier by the inside of his holsters and cartridge boxes. The young ones carry pistols and cartridges; the old ones, grub.

Gone with the Wind

(Excerpt from Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell)

She sighed with relief and irritation. Why did he joke at this time of all times? Rhett in the army! After all he'd said about stupid fools who were enticed into losing their lives by a roll of drums and …

All My Sons

Excerpt from All My Sons by Arthur Miller

Role of the Indian Navy in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971

The Indo-Pakistan War of 1971 was a landmark conflict between the two neighbouring countries, which resulted in the formation of the independent state of Bangladesh. While the Indian Army played a significant role in the war, the Indian Navy also had a crucial part.

NATO Principles and the Ethical Landscape of Autonomous Weapons

A central debate revolves around whether the current form of international humanitarian law (IHL), as the most pertinent body of law governing warfare, adequately addresses the challenges posed by lethal autonomous weapon systems (LAWS).

War and Peace

Excerpt from War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

I Accuse…

I Accuse… The Anti Sikh Violence Of 1984 by Jarnail Singh

We Were Soldiers Once… and Young

Excerpt from We Were Soldiers Once… and Young by Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore (Ret.) and Joseph L. Galloway

What It Is Like to Go to War

Excerpt from What It Is Like to Go to War by Karl Marlantes

The Briefest History of the Indian Army

The Indian Army has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. The army has played a crucial role in shaping the country's history and defending its borders. From the early days of the Indian subcontinent to modern times, the Indian Army has undergone significant changes …

Interesting Trivia on the Indian Army

The Indian Army is one of the largest and strongest armed forces in the world, with a rich history of valour, bravery, and sacrifices. Founded in 1895, the Indian Army has played a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's borders and maintaining peace and security. With its modern equipment …

Life in the Indian Army

India has one of the largest armies in the world, with over 1.4 million active soldiers and more than 1.1 million reserve troops. Life in the Indian Army is an experience unlike any other. From the rigorous training to the camaraderie amongst soldiers, there is no shortage of stories …

Role of the Indian Army in the Indian Rebellion of 1857

The Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the Indian Mutiny or the First War of Indian Independence, was a defining moment in the history of India. The rebellion was a result of various factors, including the social, economic, and political grievances of the Indian people against the British …

Role of the Indian Army in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947

The Partition marked the creation of Pakistan as a separate nation and resulted in the displacement of millions of people. The Indo-Pakistani War of 1947–1948, or the First Kashmir War. was a war fought between India and Pakistan over the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir from 1947 to …

Indian Army and Sports

The Indian Army has a long-standing tradition of promoting sports among its personnel. In fact, sports have been an integral part of the Army's training curriculum for over a century. The force has consistently produced some of the finest athletes in the country, who have brought glory to both …

Forever in Operations: The Saga of 8 Mountain Division

In the annals of military history, there exist formations that transcend mere existence, embodying resilience, adaptability, and unwavering courage. Among these, the 8 Mountain Division of the Indian Army stands tall, etching its legacy as the epitome of endurance and valour. From its inception to the icy heights …

Indian Navy Rises Against Piracy

Last December, Somali pirates hijacked the Bulgarian commercial ship, MV Ruen, with a crew comprising 17 members from Angola, Bulgaria, and Myanmar, marking the first commercial ship hijacking by Somali pirates since 2017. This year, in March 2024, the Indian Navy successfully rescued all 17 crew members and apprehended …

Frozen Victory: 40 Years of Operation Meghdoot in Siachen

Quartered in snow, silent to remain.

When the bugle calls, they shall rise and march again.

--The Scroll of Honour at the Siachen Base Camp

On 13 April 1984, Operation Meghdoot was executed on the world's highest battlefield, preempting Pakistan's Operation Ababeel and enabling the Indian Army to gain …

The Stirring Melodies of India's Military

Did you know that soldiers spanning from the icy heights of the Siachen Glacier to the sandy tracks of Rajasthan include musicians? These individuals, part of brass, pipe, or jazz bands, wield a diverse array of instruments—from trumpets and brass drums to synthesisers, USB guitars, LED violins, and electronic …

Colours of Indian Military Uniforms

‘The Persian khak or dust gave birth to the word khaki–the colour of dust. Khaki became a universal form of military dress, and later on, a casual style of trousers.’
- extract from ‘Khaki’, Drummers Call by Lieutenant General NS Brar.
’The uniform, originating from the Anglo-Sikh Wars, …

Self-Reliance in Defence Production

The idea of self-reliance is gaining momentum, especially in the realm of defence. For nations like India, it's not just about being self-sufficient but also about fostering indigenous capabilities to safeguard their sovereignty and propel economic growth.

Changing Role of Women in the Armed Forces

The journey of women in the military is steeped in history, and from the valourous Rani Lakshmibai to the trailblazing Captain Laxmi Sehgal, women have played pivotal roles in battles.

Soft Skills in Military Operations

Working in the military comes with a big challenge – dealing with complex operations in various cultural settings. Sometimes, you’re in a totally foreign place where you need to understand the local customs. So, being in the military isn’t just about knowing tactics; you have to be socially aware …

Indian Military in Disaster Response

"The Indian Army Rescues Over 500 Stranded Tourists Amid Snowfall Crisis in Sikkim:

In a swift response to the crisis triggered by heavy snowfall, the Indian Army heroically rescued over 500 stranded tourists at Nathula, Sikkim. Their decisive action underscores their unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives, showcasing the Army's …