Column
Compass | Cooperate, or Suffer
War in West Asia and its impact on South Asia
False Narratives
Feminists have seldom condemned the fact that nations have used women’s rights to justify wars
The Grey Zone
Lt Samuel Kamalesan’s dismissal from the Indian Army has raised many questions
The Deception of Dialogue
Any conversation on Kashmir must be grounded in facts, not propagandist spins
Compass | The Bangladesh Reboot
Hasina lies is the past, India needs to do business with those who count in the future
All Guests Are Not Welcome
India needs to implement a strong domestic law for refugee protection
Likes over Legacy
Performative content posted by veterans on social media risks commodifying the uniform
In a Gilded Cage
India-US trade framework and alignments portend unravelling of its strategic autonomy
Dangerous Opportunism
How Sri Lanka’s populist politics replaced race with class
Being Proactive
Digital regulation is no longer optional, it is a necessity in 2026
Bottomline | Wrong Side of History
Indian foreign policy not in step with the new realities of the multipolar world
First Person | New Year, Old Challenges
2026 is weighed down by the burden of earlier years
Compass | India, Bangladesh, & ‘New Beginnings’
A lot will depend on how wisely India handles the bilateral relations
Catalyst for Chaos
Russia’s nuclear-powered missile and the next deterrence frontier calls for scrutiny and discussions
Focused and Lethal
The BSF should train for conventional warfighting given the situation in Bangladesh
Compass | The Sour Note
The geostrategic powerplay in Nepal between India and China
Widen the River
Why India needs air power before theatre commands
Address the Roots
Urban radicalisation is a serious concern and can be controlled through a focussed approach
Bottomline | Bluff and Bluster
Trump’s statement on nuclear weapons is display of poor understanding and bravado
First Person | Lovefest with the Taliban
Many reasons to build ties with Afghanistan, but most of all, for peace
Corporatised Conflict Management
In the deadline of the Maoist elimination lies the seeds of future resistance
Brotherhood of Interests
The Saudi Arabia-Pakistan Pact is not a cause for concern for India
Towards Trust
With PM Starmer’s visit, UK & India launch new era of defence co-creation
First Person | A Just Peace Plan
The idea of the United States of Israel and Palestine is worth fantasising about
Prioritise People
Troubles in the India-Bangladesh-Myanmar trijunction need sensitive handling
Shipbuilding Sunrise
Time India turns maritime ambition into an industrial reality
End-State Wins Wars
True victory demands securing favourable political arrangements
First Person | National Desire Vs National Interest
Indian foreign policy is hostage to desperation for closer ties with the US
Smart Borders
A focused plan is required to make CIBMS a reality on ground
The Right Move
Replacing the Rashtriya Rifles with Central Armed Forces in J&K will help to strengthen internal security
Time to Rise Up
Integrated airpower is pivotal in future wars
The Peacemaker
Will the US President be successful in stopping the Russia-Ukraine war?
Guest Column | Strive for Win Win
India’s China strategy needs a serious rethink
Stuck in a Time Loop
Ten years after the Naga Framework Agreement, what remain are optics and illusions
Teeing off or Showing off?
Let golf be treated as a fun game, not an exclusive performance
Silent Strength
SSN capability is essential for being counted as a maritime power
Bite the Bullet
Career stagnation, poor housing, lack of modernisation plague paramilitary forces
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First Person | Modi’s Choice
Cling to the ideology he grew up with, or turn the geopolitical opportunity to his advantage.
Start at the Top
BSF battalion command hierarchy needs to be revitalised
The Right Solution
Deploying CAPFs in J&K will be more effective and impactful
Seize the Moment
India’s shipbuilders must look at establishing engineering and services hub to emerge as global hub for warship and submarine construction
View from China | Long-Term Vision
India must rethink its relationship with China
View from Sri Lanka | Walking the Tight Rope
It will be in Colombo’s interest to keep India happy while not antagonising China
Robotics in Warfare
More lethal and precise wars with software wizards as soldier
AI in Defence: A New Paradigm
Collaboration of different agencies in utilising the full potential of AI and machine learning will help modernise the defence forces
Collaborate and Grow
A perfect synergy is needed between various government departments to transform India into a major and reliable defence exporter
The Foreign Hand
US Strykers for the Indian Army will be a setback to the government’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat
View from Sri Lanka | Action in the Bay
Maritime security is a growing concern for the island nation
View From Sri Lanka | A Murder at the White House
The Trump and Zelensky face off has reset power equations between Europe and the US, at least for now
An Internal Matter
A focused and effective response is the way forward to tackle new internal security challenges
Shifting Sands
India stands to gain if it plays its diplomatic cards well in the changing geopolitics of West Asia
The Great MRFA Hunt. Again
Instead of wasting time and resources, India needs to develop indigenous capabilities for its long-term defence needs
Bottomline | Adrift Again
Shortchanging Russia for Europe shows that Indian foreign policy it yet to recover from Trump’s shock
First Person | The Real Story
Home minister's promise to wipe out Naxalism by 2026 is to benefit corporates more than the people
View from Sri Lanka | Cost of Peace
Forcing Ukraine to cede its territories will set a dangerous precedent
Time to Heal
The government has no time to waste to bring back normalcy in Manipur
A Call for a Fair Pay
The 8th Central Pay Commission should not overlook the welfare of the soldiers
Profitable Policy
Indian defence offset policy has played a major role in the growth of the defence industry
Bottomline | Military Reforms
The Indian armed forces first need a technology acquisition roadmap before seeking more allocations
First Person | One Nation, Many Challenges
The manufactured glorious maritime history does not strengthen India
The Changing Guard
The modern soldier must characterise intellectual agility, ethical clarity, and a strong sense of purpose
The Balancing Act
The new Sri Lankan government must do the tightrope walk between China and India
Experiments with Frankenstein
Security implications of the jihadist victory in Syria for the South Asian region
Leaner, Smarter and Dynamic
The Border Security Force needs role-oriented restructuring
Out of the Box
New ideas needed for military human resource management, instead of Agnipath
Lessons Galore
Development of an Indian military industrial complex needs a whole of nation approach
No Tango With the US
The biggest lesson of the Ukraine war for India is the importance of self-reliance in military capabilities
Peace is Possible
If India accepts the truth about the 1962 war, it can move forward on border resolution with China
First Person | Dirty Games
Petty politicking in Ladakh will have terrible consequences
Sense and Sensitivity
Positive engagement with the border population will enhance security
Masterclass in Self-Harm
The Agnipath scheme is against all democratic tenets; reduces soldiers to mercenaries
Pride and Accountability
The military needs to realise that courage lies in confronting one’s shortcomings and overcoming them
Shed the Historic Baggage
India and China need to work together in the spirit of mutual trust
Bottomline | Frosty Meeting
The Modi-Xi meeting in Kazan is unlikely to improve India-China relations
The Fractured World
India belongs to Global South, and that is where it should be
First Person | The Easy Way
If veterans only talk about geopolitics, who will talk about the military
Men Over Machines
Enhanced training and professionalism can mitigate stress among CAPF personnel
First Person | Memoirs of Our Times
Nandita Haksar’s autobiography is the story of India and the loss of a dream
History and Hubris
As Europe declines, Global South rises
Work in Progress By B.L. Poonia
The government needs a multi-prong approach to bring peace to Kashmir
A Clear Choice
Between politicisation and neutrality of armed forces in a democracy
Bottomline | Wrong Side of Geopolitics
Unmindful of realities, Indian foreign policy is not benefitting the common people
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The Flaw in Our Thinking
Technology complements manpower, doesn’t replace it
The Dividing Line
We need a more integrated approach towards border security and management
All-Encompassing Hug
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Russia yields unseen benefits
Dual Control Plagues Assam Rifles
Technology complements manpower, doesn’t replace it
Stand Up, Be Counted
The armed forces have a unique opportunity to revise and transform the Agnipath Scheme
The Right Approach
A blueprint for making ‘Make-in-India’ in defence work
The Eyes Have It
How AI can be effectively used to analyse satellite imagery
New Frontier
Militarisation of the deep sea will impact common resources, harm humanity
Conflict and Confusion
The idea of Theatre Commands still needs to be fine-tuned
From Learning to Unlearning
The biggest lesson from the Kargil victory is to prepare for the future
The New Contestation
The Arctic region is emerging as the site for another Great Game
Lean and Agile
Need to reorganise border guarding forces for better synergy
New Government, Old Issues
A wish-list to improve the efficiency of the central armed forces
Keep the Momentum
The evolving defence & security industrial ecosystem in India
Value Addition
Mere training is not enough NDA must impart ethics too during military training
Smart and Safe
Technology is a force multiplier, not replacement for soldiers on the border
Burden of History
It’s in India’s long-term strategic interest to settle the boundary dispute with China
A Matter of Military Honour
Being secular and apolitical is critical to the professionalism of our forces
In Memoriam
Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night...
The Russian March
Two years of Ukraine war, the West is losing the war and the narrative
The Commander’s Way
A deep-dive into a CO’s life during counter insurgency operations
Force Multipliers
Important to integrate technology for border guarding for better efficiencies
The Final Frontier
Militarisation of the deep seas was inevitable, but efforts must be made to protect the marine environment
Eyes Strike
AWACS and AEW&C aircraft can make the difference between victory and defeat
Bridges on the Borders
Fencing of Indo-Myanmar border is not the solution to the problems in Manipur
Action to Activism
Veterans engaging in political advocacy has its own perils
Down Memory Lane
A personal tribute to NDA on the completion of 75 years of its existence
Mind Over Body
Tackling suicides and fratricides in army and CAPF need joint efforts
Data Protection Policy | Safe Online
The impact of the Data Protection Policy-2023 on national security
Maintain in India
With growth in aviation industry, government must facilitate the MRO sector
First Person | The Big Slide
Why the Indian Army is no longer a professional fighting force
Secure Borders
Cooperation and coordination necessary for effective security management
Bottomline | Back to the Drawing Board
The idea of Integrated Theatre Commands has again run into problems
Support, Conditional
India should not allow its foreign policy to be dictated by the Israeli government
In Deep Sea
The election result in Maldives have brought uncertainty to its ties with India
Training Not Enough
There is need to impart professional education to CPMF personnel
A Matter of Humanity
India needs a new criminal justice system
The Elusive Peace
The spiralling conflict in West Asia shows how unresolved political problems can go out of hand
Bottomline | Tragedy in Waiting
With CT Ops as its primary role now, Indian Army’s capabilities for conventional conflict are getting hollowed out
First Person | Limits of Democracy
Elections do not guarantee security and justice if the majority is radicalise
Stick to ‘Multi-Alignment’
Totally embracing the US or the West will not be in India’s interests
Dying with dignity
Private hospitals emplaned with ECHS /CGHS/ESIC exploiting loophole to further their business
Don’t Fear the Immigrants
Recent French riots put spotlight on migration, ghettoisation, effective criminal justice system
Lease or perish
With no replacement in sight for ageing Chetak/Cheetah helicopters, leasing seems to be only way out
It’s All in the Network
Technological advancements have changed face of warfare through battlefield networks but have also introduced vulnerabilities
First Person | Military Power Not Built on Slogans
Aatmanirbharta will remain pipedream as long as domestic defence industry takes shortcuts
Bottomline | Shakti Weakened India
The 1998 nuclear tests didn’t achieve stated purpose as they brought China, Pakistan closer
Stop Identity Politics
Manipur violence is rooted in each community’s narrative and perception of their past
Different Standards
Disabled soldiers are being denied their basic rights under UN convention and Disabilities Act
First Person | Intellectual Deficit
When the going gets tough, draw a comparison with Pakistan and feel good
Repeating Pulwama’s Mistakes
Road opening parties failed to do their job, leading to Bhimber Gali, Dantewada attacks
Stuck at Aatmanirbharta
With China not backing down from aggressive action on the border, modern guns are urgently required
View from Pakistan | Tight rope walk
Pakistan’s attempts to reset ties with China, US faces uncertainty
The Importance of Bearing Witness
Opportunistic politics is creating a serious internal security challenge for the nation
The Humourless Science
Proper logistics, supply chain management essential to maintain morale of troops in remote areas
Virtual World, Real Threats
Cyber warfare is capable of upending military operations, negating advantages of massed weapons
First Person | Three Days in Dhaka
Receding democracy, growing cult and a nation on the move
Get Off The Pedestal
Military enjoys people’s trust but it must give up its sense of exceptionalism, infallibility
Change Must Be Constant
BSF should move away from human intensive border guarding practices to technology-intensive means
Diplomatic Overdrive
Japan trying to upgrade relations with nations without providing space for equal partnerships
The Challengers
Russia-China are reshaping the world order, giving primacy to the UN instead of the US
Price of Peace
Cattle trade with Bangladesh will earn goodwill, check smuggling and curb border violence
The Soldier’s Dilemma | Leadership Key to CI Success
Only finding faults after an incident is not enough, field commanders must find ways to accomplish tasks
In Human Interest | February 2023
Democracy is threatened when refugees are targeted by right wing political agenda
Bottomline | On the precipice
Military conflict with China is no longer a question of if, but when
First Person | A Request to Veterans
Writing on China or criticising the government is not an anti-national activity
Guts, Grit and Glory | Cadets first, Women Later
Entry of women in NDA can be the first step towards gender agnosticism in the defence services
Reform or Perish
Both military and border guarding forces should be taken out of internal security duties
Primary Role
Army must withdraw from CI ops in a phased manner; CRPF, state police must beef up capabilities for the role
First Person | Premium on Citizenship
This is leading to denial of government largesse to a section, ghettoisation and insecurity
Reform the Police
Make police accountable if bulldozer justice is not to become the norm
Guts, Grit and Glory | Task Cut Out For CDS
General Chauhan has erudition, orientation, exposure to deliver a national war effort
The Soldier’s Dilemma | Go The Extra Mile
Clear cut aim, tactical organisation, winning over locals must drive CI operations
Reform & Restructure
CAPFs need to be downsized and their training and equipment should be compatible with infantry
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Counter insurgency needs tweaks in organisation and command structure depending on task
Shadow-Boxing on Taiwan
War will inflict huge cost on Taipei, US, but China won’t have it easy either
Back to the Basic
Agneepath scheme reveals soldiers have little faith in men, women who lead them
First Person | A Nobel for Mr Modi
With its aim of ensuring a saffron CM in J&K, BJP blunders on
First Person | Ruse of the Reforms
Driven by compulsions, the Agnipath scheme will militarise the unemployed
You Don’t See It
The stealth feature in the fighters comes at a huge, often unaffordable, cost
Man Over Machine
Tactical needs of UGVs including tactical concepts for their employment need to be worked out
First Person | A Shadow in the Dark
India has never been so vulnerable internally and externally as it is today
Untouched by Sanctions
West’s vested interests provided an escape route to Russian Rare Earth elements
Reform Now
Recruitment and training of CAPF officers need modernisation
The Soldier’s Dilemma | Needle in the Haystack
Actionable intelligence is the key to successful CI operations
First Person | The Art of Making Heroes
The government has reasons to seek momentary calm in Kashmir
Guts, Grit and Glory | Stories Museums Tell
It’s a shame that the 1.3 million strong Indian armed forces have only 250-odd museums
From Imports to Exports
The DARPA model of R&D can transform Indian defence industrial complex
The Long Road
Faulty policies and systemic problems come in the way of self-reliance in defence
First Person | The Art of Illusionism
Raisina Dialogue versus Alternative Dialogue
The Soldier’s Dilemma||May 2022
With this month, FORCE starts bimonthly series on counter-insurgency operations in India
Game Changers
AUVs are the next revolution in maritime warfare
Secure the Border
Border management needs both technological and HR reforms
Everything Under Heaven is in Utter Chaos
How the Russia-Ukraine conflict is pushing the boundaries and creating a new world order
First Person | De-Radicalise, Now
The Kashmir Files film has nothing to do with either Kashmir or the tragedy of the Pandits
First Person | A Matter of No Choice
The Russia-Ukraine war has thrown Indian diplomatic calisthenics off-balance
View from Pakistan | Thicker Than Blood
China-Pakistan ties are getting more broad-based
Before Memory Fades
How the forgotten battle of Sangshak turned the tide during World War II
Privacy No Bar
The business of intelligence gathering cannot be viewed through the lens of ethicality
First Person | The Tale of Two Books
From conundrum to crossroads, how Kashmir continues to exercise hearts and minds
Regional Watch
Internal and external churning in the neighbourhood may pose problems for India’s security
Line of Defence
The government should delink the border guarding forces from the generic CAPFs
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Who Watches the Watchers
A blueprint for improving police and policing in India
View from Pakistan | Bound by Geography
Impact of strategic competition in the Asia-Pacific for Pakistan
From J&K | On the Wings of Prayer
Dispossessed and disheartened Kashmiri people continue to hope for divine intervention
Guts, Grit and Glory | Women Are Here
Uniformed women across ranks have quality skill sets, the willpower and fortitude to face adversity with peerless heroism
A Surveillance State
Facial recognition technology’s risks outweigh benefits
Bottomline | The Chinese Hand
How Pakistan military is now an overmatch for the Indian armed forces
Guts, Grit and Glory | The Indian Schindler of Jamnagar
How the ‘Good Maharaja’ sheltered 2,000 Polish children orphaned by the Nazis
From Skipping Stones to Raining Terror
Hypersonic glide vehicle versus conventional ballistic missiles
Speed of Operations
On the modern battlefield, mobility is as critical as firepower
Interview | Special Director General, Border Security Force, Dr S.L. Thaosen
We Have Been Given a Green Light to Acquire The Best (counter-drone) Technology Available Internationally, to Counter This Menace
Nuclear Assurance
Why France and UK continue to rely on Continuous At Sea Deterrence
Breach in the Citadel
Opportunist politics must not be allowed to undermine Indian Army’s core values
Towards Bi-Multipolarity
Russia-India partnership has the potential to shape geopolitics of the Eurasian region
First Person | The Fine Line
The importance of preventing history from becoming a propagandist’s tool
Guest Column | All Fired Up
Unless the government addresses certain key roadblocks, the artillery modernisation programme will lose momentum
Guts, Grit and Glory | The Ranjit Singh Way
India needs strategic patience and regular situational awareness to address its Afghan dilemma
A Global Collective
Maritime safety and security demand multinational cooperation
First Person | Leave Afghanistan Alone
We need to focus on our own internal and external problems
The War is On
Being a victim of state sponsored cyberattacks, India needs to invest in cyberwarfare
The Return of the Taliban
Despite limited options, India must work with other nations for stability in Afghanistan
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The Anatomy of an Insurgency
What the US withdrawal from Afghanistan say about counter insurgency
Much Talk About Nothing
PM Modi’s meeting with Kashmiri politicians and Stockholm syndrome
The Jinx Continues
Indian military’s helicopter replacement programmes remain stuck in bureaucratic apathy
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Such a Long Journey
For defence exports, India needs to first create the right perception
The Coast is Clear
As security is work in progress, it must be treated as a collective responsibility
To Control the Crowd
Both quick wit and less lethal equipment are necessary to ensure that protests don’t turn violent
Body and Mind
Battle ready is not just the state of equipment, but training too
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In Human Interest|| May 2021
Given the soft power value of humanitarian assistance, government needs to institutionalise the mechanism
New Delhi’s Choice
As the US withdraws from Afghanistan, India needs to brace for new realities
First Person | Business of Talks
Too much craft and prejudice has dictated government approach to Kashmir; needed now is far-sightedness
Refugees Are Not Illegal
The people of Myanmar need India’s help as they escape a brutal military rule
An Encounter Like No Other
How Indian Army exemplified the best military traditions in its engagement with Pakistani PoW after the 1971 war
Towards a Common Future
Only win-win cooperation among nations and people can lead to a new type of global development with shared benefits
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A Tankful of Promise
Why MBT Arjun should be embraced whole-heartedly by the army
Coming of Age|| April 2021
The alliance of four countries could become an enabler of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific
Bottomline | Standing on Lost Ground
India’s handling of the Ladakh situation has exposed its short-sightedness
First Person | A Cause Lost to Time
How China, India and Tibetans defeated the idea of Tibet
A Battle Lost
The ISI may have lost the plot in its war for Kashmir
he Debate Continues
How necessary is an integrated tri-service command
Future is Unmanned
India needs to invest much more in autonomous and unmanned technologies
First Person | While We Slept
How India became a majoritarian State and we didn’t get to know
Guts, Grit and Glory | The Chinese Challenge
With the crisis in Ladakh, the armed forces need to snap out of Pakistan-centric proxy war mindset and look at China
First Person | Two Books and a New Year
National security, nationalism and the idea of India
Bottomline | Old Story
It’s time India moves beyond the so-called ‘surgical strikes’
Frozen in Time
The concept of theatre commands does not meet the challenge of future multidomain warfare
Bottomline | Men Vs Machine
The first step towards preparing for a future war with China is to understand what war it would be
What Lies Ahead | December 2020
US President elect Joe Biden signals hope for both fellow Americans and the world
Bottomline | Camp Has Been Chosen
The cost of signing BECA will be huge and not in India’s long term interest
Reality Check
The government should act fast to provide CAPFs personnel better service conditions and other basic facilities
Divide and Diminish
Joint Air Defence Command is an operationally unviable idea
Embrace the Idea
India should take lead in developing Quad as an entity to secure the region
First Person | Veil of Terror
The government redefines its focus on terrorism for convenience sake
Bottomline | Game of Thrones || October 2020
India should accept the fact the Chinese threat is permanent and work towards addressing that
Bottomline | The Spirit of Wuhan
Government needs to engage China at the highest political level
The Jury is Still Out
Only time will tell whether the Balakot air strikes were a gamechanger or not
Guest Column | A Close Encounter
An experienced border guarding force is a blessing for any nation
View from Pakistan | Rise of Digital Sovereignty
This move by some countries poses a threat to inclusive global technological development
Guest Column | The Search for A Light Tank
The government should consider producing its own light tanks to meet the critical demand
Guest Column | Fearless Fighters
Better measures should be taken to induct women in combat roles
Guest Column | Answer Lies Within
The limitations of the Air Defence system can be handled by correcting the C&R network
Guest Column | Road to Peace Gets Longer
An attractive economic package can achieve what the Indo-Naga peace process couldn’t
First Person | The Quicksand of Kashmir
A year after the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, the situation remains dire
Time to Change
Government should implement capacity building measures to make CAPFs fighting fit
Guest Column | What History Records
The UN may have failed on the Kashmir issue, but it was not for want of trying
Guest Column | The Road Ahead from Galwan
How India deals with China will determine how the rest of the world perceives it
Guest Column | Change the Mindset
There is a serious need to prepare the BSF and ITBP for wartime roles
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Guest Column | Win Back Old Allies
India needs a dynamic diplomatic policy to prevent future Chinese aggression at the LAC
Guts, Grit and Glory | Army Deserves the Best
The Tour of Duty proposal should be re-looked at again to ensure that quality is not compromised
First Person | Uncivilised War
To end the current bickering between cadre and IPS officers, government must give former its due
Guest Column | Let them Know You Care
With a few corrective measures, the government can control the growing rate of attrition and cases of suicides in CAPFs
Guest Column | Huddle Together
In a Network Centric Warfare era, the army and air force should integrate
Guest Column | Future of Tank Warfare
Emerging technologies will change the way tanks are designed and perceived
Guest Column | Evolving Domains of Warfare
Cyberspace and Artificial Intelligence will define future wars
Guest Column | Transform and Triumph
The IAF is still miles away from being a truly networked force
Mind Over Matter | Battling the Forbidding Water Woes
Two 600 feet deep shafts, dug in 1981-82 by 113 Engineer Regiment, made Pokhran II possible in 1998
First Person | The Uncomfortable Question
The Indian veterans must do more than raising nationalistic slogan
Guest Column | Long Shadow of the Virus
China’s dreams of becoming a global power may be hit by economic and political repercussions of Covid-19
Guest Column | Gatekeepers of Society
The role of private security in current pandemic situation is critical
Guest Column | Vision 2050
The IAF needs to re-work its force structure with the right combination of platforms and technologies for greater effect
Guest Column | The Jury is Still Out
Only time will tell whether the Balakot air strikes were a gamechanger or not
Guest Column | Recalling Operation Meghdoot
13 April 1984 launched India’s longest and unforgiving war ever on the glacial heights of Siachen
Guest Column | Tough Times Ahead
The current pandemic has brought to the fore administrative and operational implications for border guarding forces
Guest Column | Time to Get Real
The Indian Navy should be more realistic about its plan to build nuclear attack submarines
First Person | Closer to Precipice
The new law on domicile status will only further the separatist sentiment in Kashmir
Stay Connected
Social media is the new weapon in the war of perceptions
Guest Column | Strengthen the Backbone
The Indian armed forces should focus on getting new defence technologies rather than upgrading older ones
Guest Column | Back to the Drawing Board
The navy needs to revive the 30-year submarine building plan
Guest Column | Balakot and Beyond
UAVs are an ideal choice for retaliatory strike and should be considered for a hard-hitting action against enemy state
Small but Lethal
Personal weapon for infantry/CAPFS need urgent upgradation
Guest Column | Focus on Naval Power
A long-term vision is needed to build a capable navy that can compete with the best in the world
Guest Column | Deadlines and Delays
The 30-year submarine building plan remains a pipedream
Tasked to Deliver
A well-knit logistics framework is crucial to improve operational readiness
Finally, All Fired Up
With the induction of M777 A2 ULH and K9 Vajra Tracked SP Gun System, Indian Artillery is on the path of the much delayed modernisation
Integrated Approach | March 2020
The new Department of Military Affairs must take cognisance of C4ISR, which will directly affect success or failure of future military activities
Underwater Predators
Submarine and anti-submarine warfare remain areas of concern; needs prioritisation
Owner’s Pride, Neighbour’s Envy
As China builds aircraft carriers in shorter periods, India has a lot of catching up to do
Guest Column | Organic Necessity
State-of-the-art UAVs are the future game changers and force multipliers
Guest Column | The Building Blocks
At long last, India gets the much awaited Chief of Defence Staff
Bottomline | Too Little Too Late
For all its hype, the office of the CDS approved by the government is not what it was meant to be
View from Pakistan | Serious Concern|2020
In the present geo-political environment, conventional nuclear deterrence is crucial
Money Over Matter | Cost Consciousness
Defence economics is important for any armed forces, and India can no longer ignore it
Guest Column | Era of Intelligent Machines
Artificial Intelligence is evolving as an important constituent of air power
No Place for Outsiders
CAPFs should be led by officers from its own ranks
Guest Column | Focus on Fifth Domain
Cyber space operations should become an integral part of the IAF
Lessons from Balakot
Electronic and information warfare can be game changers
Guest Column | Towards a Brighter Future
Private enterprises can be involved more in contributing to India’s space technology
Guts, Grit and Glory | Past and Present Connection
Gujarat’s contribution to India’s defence forces continues to be noteworthy
First Person | The Outsider’s Insight
Why sometimes it is more useful to have an outsider’s perspective
Guest Column | Leadership Dilemma
CAPFs have to be led by effective leaders who are insiders, and not outsiders
Bottomline | The Game-Changers
China introduces Hypersonic Cruise Missile and Hypersonic Glide Vehicle at its National Day Parade
Bottomline | Game of Thrones
India should accept the fact the Chinese threat is permanent and work towards addressing that
Money Over Matter | Modernisation Travails
Mired by systemic and policy issues, the IAF continues to struggle
Limitless Opportunities
India’s next space ventures should be strategically thought through
Death in the Mountains
A day in the life of ITBP troops and animal transport
Fire Play
With patience and sagacity local commanders can often help reduce ceasefire violations
A Meeting of Interests
Emerging regional dynamics require India to transform its relations with Bhutan
Money Over Matter | One Block at a Time
Defence industrial corridors have a huge potential if implemented well
Bottomline | Face the Reality
India needs to take China’s recent White Paper on national defence seriously
First Person | No Time for Games
Kashmir is too serious an issue for opportunistic politicking
Money Over Matter | More the Merrier
Absence of competition has been the bane of the Indian defence industry
Guest Column | Reform and Revive
The BSF may lose its edge if policymakers don’t address the problems plaguing it
Guest Column | Reason to Cheer
The new AK-203 will meet the army’s need and give a fillip to ‘Make in India’ policy
First Person | Two Shots in One
For the government of India, casting terrorism as the main threat serves more than one purpose
Bottomline | Money For Nothing
Without proper appreciation of threats, defence budget will not help in defence preparedness
Mind Over Matter | Better be Prepared
A risk mitigation plan for potential hitches can help in defence acquisitions
Guest Column | The Miracle and the Clerical Error
How I brought Begum and Bindu back to life during my short stay in Bhanu
Guest Column | Look Beyond Differences
Respect for each other’s strategic choices is much needed in the Indo-US bilateral relationship
Guest Column | Balance of Life and Work
By simplifying policies, the army can save unnecessary workload of officers
Mind Over Matter | Technology is King
Self-sufficiency in defence production can be achieved by mastering cutting-edge technology
Guest Column | Game Changer or One-Off?
Time will tell what the Balakot air strikes actually achieved in the end
View from Pakistan | Walk the Talk
A meaningful dialogue between India and Pakistan is the way forward to break the present impasse
Mind Over Matter | Stalemate Once Again
Strategic Partnership scheme has lost steam as government succumbs to public sector lobbying
Bottomline | The Spirit Haunts
A year after the Wuhan summit, it is becoming clear that China bested India
Guest Column | Our Very Own Firepower
The made in India Dhanush is a step forward in achieving self-sufficiency
First Person | Let Actions Talk
Helping martyrs’ families is good, but let’s help the living too
Guest Column | Beyond Revenge and Rhetoric
Time for CAPFs to be engaged in internal security and be treated at par with other forces
Guest Column | A Game Changer
Air power will emerge as a powerful key element in counter-terror operations
Guest Column | Internal Matters
Post Pulwama, focus should be hitherto neglected CPMFs and internal security
Long Way to Go
Dilip Trivedi looks back at his eventful tenure as director general, CRPF
First Person | Price of Peace
By choosing violence over talks we are closing all windows for ourselves
Guts, Grit and Glory | Braveheart’s Victory
How Major Ranbir Singh won the landmark Battle of Burj, 1971
Nothing is a Secret
India should address the serious issue of stealth aircraft detection
Guest Column | Big Leap Forward
Self Reliance in defence manufacturing can be achieved by involving the private sector
Guest Column | Think and Act Ahead
Naval aviation should stay in tune with the future
First Person | Public Knowledge
With mere license production, we cannot attain the goal of self-reliance
Guest Column | More Power to Fire
Indian artillery will finally be modernised with the acquisition of 3,000 modern howitzers
Bottomline | No More Lip Service
Future and new domains of warfare demand real jointmanship at all levels
Guest Column | Long Way to Go
Women in combat is not a practical idea
Guest Column | Forward Thinking
Time for all Infantry to have mechanised skills
Guest Column | Lethal Weapon
The induction of Apache AH in the Indian Army will provide teeth to its offensive content
Guest Column | A Serious Concern || February 2019
The IAF faces a critical shortage of combat aircraft
Guest Column | The Right Direction
It is the military power or ‘stick’ which provides the leverage to influence the behaviour of adversaries
Mind Over Matter | The Rafale Riddle
The fighter contract represents making good of a bad situation
Bottomline | Chasing the Tail
Instead of cosmetic tweaking, Indian Army needs to be part of overall military reforms
First Person | A Tale of Two Chiefs
The army chief could have offered better reasons for resisting women in combat
Guest Column | Credible Threat
The recently conducted canister launched test on Agni-V strengthens nuclear deterrence
Guest Column | Powerful Punch
A restructured Special Operations Force can be a game changer in India’s security landscape
Guest Column | In Our Own Interest
Changing paradigms in the IOR present new challenges to the Indian Navy
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Guest Column | A Serious Concern
Plan in advance to tame Naxalism
Guest Column | Safe at Sea
India needs to put in more security measures to emerge as a maritime power
Bottomline | Hand of Peace
Pakistan’s overtures to India stem not from weakness but realisation of changing geopolitics
First Person | MeToo for the Military
Women in uniform need a voice too
A Matter of Honour
It is ironical that this article, first published in the January-March 1999 issue of the USI Journal
Money Over Matter | Illusionary Gains
Offsets are the Achilles Heel of defence procurements and should be done away with
Gaping Holes
Effective border guarding is essential to stop illegal immigration from Bangladesh
A Matter of National Interest
Without cutting-edge defence technology, India cannot boast of a powerful military
Show and Learn
Mast Conference and Exhibition will be held in India from 28-30 November 2018
Bottomline | Soldiers As Pawns
When the army leadership supports what the ruling political party wants, its missions make less sense, militarily
First Person | The Fist is Bare
The army’s tough-guy act in Kashmir is reflective of the situation not being in its control
Money Over Matter | The Challenge of Sinking Shafts
A first-hand account of 113 Engineer Regiment’s indomitable spirit, determination and ingenuity in digging two 600 feet deep shafts in 1981-82 which made Pokhran II possible in 1998
Guest Column | Writing on the Wall
IAF should up its depleted fighter squadron strength for better security
Research and Develop
A culture of technology innovation is a pre-requisite for the success of ‘Make in India’
First Person | In the Garb of AFSPA
Litigating men in uniform portends ill for the institution
Guest Column | Good News
After years of delay, Indian Artillery modernisation programme gets underway
Empower the Infantry
Latest technology should aid the infantry for smooth mobility especially in tough terrains
Long-term Planning
Counter-terrorism needs a holistic approach rather than a lop-sided one
All That is Not a Crime
There is no law against sympathising with an ideology, even Maoist
Guts, Grit and Glory | Quietly Aggressive
The Doklam crisis of last year holds the key to peaceful resolution of conflicts
Bottomline | Military Coup by Other Means
With a rubber-stamp government in Pakistan now, India has a lot to worry
Money Over Matter | Make it Brief
It’s time to unshackle the defence acquisition regime
First Things First
India must secure its stronghold in the IOR to have primacy in the larger Indo-Pacific region
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Being Tech-Savvy
Cutting edge technology and private players are key to achieving self-sufficiency in defence production
Virtual Reality
Cyberspace threats are serious and much more needs to be done to address them
First Person | Humans of Kashmir
A change in perspective is needed for peace
Bottomline | A Lot at Stake
Army’s professionalism is under the scanner post the video release of the 2016 surgical strikes
Guts, Grit and Glory | Lessons to Learn
Public-private partnership can be a way forward to military education and filling up officer shortage
Money Over Matter | White Elephant
Offsets should be made redundant in ‘Buy and Make’ cases
Paths of Doom
India should build modern MCMVs that remain relevant even in the future
On the Radar
Of new radar technologies and their future applications
A Long Way to Go
Much more needs to be done by the government to reduce Maoist violence
Victory in Sight
Technology upgrade of NVDs is the need of the hour
First Person | Hope in Times of Fear
On the escalatory ladder of violence, suppression is met with defiance
Money Over Matter | Bring in Performance Matrix
New procurement procedure has muddled the policy further
Bottomline | A Wound Too Deep
Major Gogoi’s incident is a proof of the erosion of value system in the army
Force Protection
Indian soldiers will soon get made in India bullet-proof jackets
Stay Closer Home
Opting for indigenous methods is the way forward for the Indian Navy
Battle to be Won
Large scale investment in infrastructure and job opportunities are some options to fight insurgency in the Northeast
Guts, Grit and Glory | The TNW Conundrum
India should take Pakistan’s threat of TNWs with more than a pinch of salt
First Person | Defence Carnival
A defence trade show’s primary purpose cannot be public entertainment
Money Over Matter | Old Hopes Repackaged
Like its predecessor, draft DPrP-2018 offers nothing new
Guest Column | A Match Made in Sky
The IAF has a long way to go still vis a vis PLAAF which has rapidly modernised its inventory
Guest Column | Focus on the Real Issues
The new defence production policy should focus on technology for it to be effective
Guest Column | Road to Power
The Border Roads Organisation needs to pull up its socks in the interest of national security
Money Over Matter | Rethink and Reorganise
Bhamre report is scathing in its attack on the MoD for the sorry state of affairs in defence procurement
Guest Column | Advantage Subs
The government needs to accept that submarines are the most-effective part of undersea warfare
Guest Column | Going Hi-Tech
Military helicopters in India need a technological upgrade to meet future challenges
Guest Column | Cry of Help
Modernisation of the infantry is being delayed by serious flaws in the procurement procedure
Media has been Managed
Now they represent the powerful, not the powerless
Think Big and Clear
The Centre should focus on reorganising border security
Bottomline | Politically Correct
The lowest-ever allocation for defence in this year’s Union budget makes one thing clear — the government has no intention of starting a war
First Person | Soul of the Nation
India is one of those rare countries which loses so many of its soldiers without a war
The IPKF Misadventure
Thirty years is not too late to honour the sacrifices and heroism of those who fought on ground the LTTE in Sri Lanka
Ready for Future
Defence planning should be rooted in the present
Cost of Indecision
Slow moving procurement process in the armed forces makes it difficult to have latest IT systems
Friend in Need
India’s decades old relationship with Russia should keep up with the times
Bottomline | Hostage to Numbers
China’s increasing assertiveness on LAC will impact Indian Army’s modernisation
Money Over Matter | In Bureaucratic Maze
Strategic Partnership scheme is going the RUR way
Guest Column | Too Little Too Late
Indian armed forces urgently need to include joint-ness as part of military reforms
Guest Column | Pressure Tactics
Pakistan must be persuaded to eradicate TNWs for its larger good
First Person | Read. Reflect. Repeat
Lack of reading in the new generation of officers is a serious malaise
Bottomline | Keep the Bluster Aside
Talks are the only way to move ahead with Pakistan
Bottomline | Hafiz Saeed walks free
India’s energies should now be spent on dealing with the real bogey, the Pakistan Army
First Person | A Truth Too Many
Lies and illogic have to be countered openly and publicly
First Person | Hit and Run
Raising the bar for what is acceptable as a secular democracy
Guts, Grit and Glory | Last Man Standing
The story of a brave-heart officer, Captain M.N. Mulla MVC, who chose death over dishonour
Future Tech | Decemaber 2017
Disruptive technologies will revolutionise maritime operations
Win-Win Strategy | December 2017
A credible amphibious warfare capability is essential for India’s superpower dreams
Guest Column | Serious Concerns
It’s high time India worked towards building a viable naval aviation force
Beginning of a New Era
The story behind India’s first nuclear submarine INS Chakra
Bottomline | Choose Wisely
That’s what the IAF should do before selecting a single-engine fighter aircraft
First Person | Public Display of Patriotism
Forced sense of nationalism doesn’t help anyone
Last of the Rebels
Naxal insurgency may be on a downward spiral, but it’s not out yet
Bottomline | No Shortcuts
Capability development needs investment of resources, time and genuine hand-holding
Money Over Matter | Toothless Watchdogs
Independent Monitors don’t have the powers to deal with violations in arms procurement deals
Guest Column | Training Tools
Simulators are both cost and time efficient
Guest Column | A Tall Order
The IAF has adapted well to latest technology for high altitude operations
First Person | No Global Terrorism
The sooner we realise this, faster we will be able to address our problems
Guest Column | More Power to Fire | October 2017
Artillery upgradation finally gets a boost as first two M777 ULH come to India
Guts, Grit and Glory | A Soldier Like No Other
Blinded by Cobra missile splinters sustained during the 1965 Indo-Pak War, the unassuming Cavalry officer, Jojo, devoted his life to empowering the disabled
Money Over Matter | Road to Nowhere
Tardy progress by BRO is a cause for concern especially on Indo-China Border Roads
Guest Column | Beyond Surgical Strikes
Special Operation Forces should be utilised to its full potential
Bottomline | Lessons From Doklam
Serious issues deserve political and military gravitas not rhetoric
Money Over Matter | Indian Trojan Horse
The biggest obstacle in ‘Make in India’ programme is the MoD’s Department of Defence Production
Guest Column | Lessons from the Past
China’s BRI and MSR may be well-intentioned projects but India should not forget history
First Person | National Pride
When love for the country means being a card-carrying nationalist
Guts, Grit and Glory | Military Selection Conundrum
A complete overhaul is required in the selection process of armed forces officers
First Person | Different Voices
Sectarian violence should be counted as one of the risks to businesses
Bottomline | Modi Meets Trump
India should review its relationship with the US on the lines of NSSP
Guest Column | New Beginnings
Time to reassess Indo-Israeli defence relationship
Money Over Matter | In Defence of Economics
Financial prudence in defence spending is essential
First Person | No End in Sight
The State needs an empathetic outlook towards the people caught between the Maoists and the security forces
Guts, Grit and Glory | Dreams of a Paradise
A positive approach and a managed perception can help in restoring normalcy in Kashmir
Money Over Matter | Dynamic Move
Strategic partnership in defence production has the potential to spawn an indigenous defence industry
Guest Column | Pride of the Nation
Indian air power is world class but it needs to be constantly upgraded to match the best
Guest Column | Army’s Mini Air Force
Even 30 years later, Army Aviation Corps has a long way to becoming world class
First Person | More Deaths in the Jungle
Without an effective policy, the war against the Maoists cannot be won
Bottomline | Two’s a Company
Between India and Pakistan, there is no room for a third party
Bottomline | No Child’s Play
Talking casually about nuclear weapons is both irresponsible and dangerous
First Person | A Moment for Modi
Dreams of a chronic optimist
Guts, Grit and Glory | A Real Life Hero
Brig N.S. Sandhu believes in looking adversity in the face, and moving on
Guest Column | Seriously Lacking
Indian Navy is operating many of its warships without helicopters on board
First Person | The Road Less Travelled
Comparison of the Indian Army with others reduces its accomplishments
Money Over Matter | Coming of Age
DRDO takes baby steps towards adulthood and higher challenges
Bottomline | The Big Picture in the East
Prime Minister Modi’s participation in the OBOR Summit can only have positive spin-offs
Bottomline | Sea, the Challenge
The second edition of Raisina Dialogue created space for the Indian perspective
Guest Column | Choking the Choke Points
To counter Chinese dominance in the IOR, India should develop the Andaman Nicobar Command into a potent base
First Person | War Got Dirtier
By increasing the role of the IAF in counter-Maoist operations, government is sending the wrong message
Guest Column | Shared Interests
India-Israel ties are going from strength to strength
Add to the Punch
Force multipliers for the IAF are a necessity that the government can no longer drag its feet on
Guest Column | The New Flying Coffins
The government has to take up on priority the maintenance of the obsolete Cheetah/Chetak fleet
Money Over Matter | Shroud of Secrecy
It’s an open secret that defence procurements have become opportunities for corrupt gains
First Person | The Balance Sheet
The out-going chief of air staff ACM Arup Raha sums up his tenure in a press meet
Guest Column | Past Perfect, Future Tense
Political leadership should ensure that India’s defence becomes a force to be reckoned with on the global platform
Bottomline | Dangerous Game
By even talking about Agni-6, India may start a race it cannot win
Bottomline | Change in Guard
Agreeing to unconditional talks with Pakistan will be in India’s interest
First Person | The Idea of Secularism
The Supreme Court’s review of the Hindutva judgment raises hope for maintaining India’s diversity
Nation’s Lifeline
A review of IAF’s rotary wing fleet
Guest Column | Revisiting Old Ties
Vietnam-India cooperation in defence and security is crucial in the new world order
First Person | Spot the Terrorist
While India laments international terrorism, the home-grown ones flourish
Guest Column | Through the Looking Glass
A walk through the history of Indian Navy’s maritime air power
Guest Column | Combat Multiplier
UAVs are becoming an organic necessity for all modern armies
First Person | Self-Inflicted Wounds
Saeed Naqvi’s bold book could have been better had he touched upon the importance of reforms among the Muslims
More than Friends
India-Russia need to relook their defence cooperation to sustain the historic relationship
Bottomline | Reality Check
Opening multiple fronts exposes India to grave danger
Guest Column | Healing Touch
A multi-prong, concerted effort is needed to restore normalcy in Kashmir
Power of an Air Show
A single air show speaks of the synergy in the aviation environment of a country
First Person | Small Men, Big Claims
The recent Pampore tragedy exposed much more than our ill-preparedness
Guest Column | Swan Song
Indian Navy decommissions Sea Harrier VSTOL fighters
Guest Column | The Elephant Strikes Back
India’s surgical strikes on terrorist launchpads were the much needed response to Pakistan’s proxy war
Bottomline | Diffident Dialogue
At its own party, India found itself alone and defensive
Guest Column | Give them Arms
To avoid large number of soldier casualties, modernisation of infantry has to be the top priority of the government
Importance of Defence Shows
Contrary to what is believed, defence exhibitions are vital for the industry
First Person | Public Work
Let this be the domain of public servants, not government officers
First Person | No One Size Fits All
The UN moves towards evolving a framework for global terrorism
Guest Column | French Embrace
It is in India’s interest to improve its ties with France to strengthen the strategic relationship
Guest Column | Multiple Battlefronts
The government should not neglect the needs of the Indian Army
Guest Column | Right Steps
Timely and concerted effort has to be made to curb the menace of radicalisation
Guest Column | Kremlin Connect
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Russia puts all doubts to rest about a cooling of the bilateral relationship
Bottomline | Slogans Are Not Enough
India needs a cogent plan to tackle China at various levels
First Person | Talk, Not Hector
Threats don’t work, nor does silence
Guest Column | Horns of a Dilemma
India faces a tough choice, whether or not to join the OBOR
Bottomline | China’s Military Diplomacy
With the 6th Xiangshan Forum, Beijing reaches out to the Asian countries
Guest Column | The Game Changer
A look at DTTI, an important element in building deeper Indo-US defence ties
The Road Ahead
Multiple challenges continue to face the IAF, particularly its fighter fleet
First Person | Prejudice-Train
The enemy may be invisible but we know what he/she wears
Bottomline | Folklore, Not Fact
Instead of a great victory, 1965 war should be remembered for lessons not learnt
Guest Column | Crossing the Rubicon
The least the government can do to honour those who have served the nation is to implement the OROP
Guest Column | Arming the Army
The armed forces urgently need to modernise the weaponry
Guest Column | Right at the Centre
India has made a diplomatic entry into Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
Guest Column | Saluting the Brave
Punjab Police displayed exceptional presence of mind in thwarting the terrorist attack in Gurdaspur
First Person | Let’s Grow Apples
Settling ex-servicemen in Kashmir would endanger their lives instead of honouring it
Bottomline | Return to the Core
Back to basics should be the Indian Army’s mantra now
First Person | The Roadmap Please
The Modi government needs to overhaul its approach to Kashmir
Bottomline | Face the Reality
Time India accepts that the Kargil conflict was an aberration and resulted in a pyrrhic victory
Bottomline | Ambitious Over-Reach
India’s new policy of being a global player is simply unrealistic
First Person | Image Management
The Prime Minister has been too busy cultivating his own image abroad to seriously look into internal challenges
Guest Column | Bold, But Half Moves
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to China could change the dynamics in bilateral ties
Guest Column | Facing the Dragon
An analytical perspective post PM Narendra Modi’s China visit
First Person | Invest in the Khaki
As first responders to internal security, police must be professional and honourable
Bottomline | Common Interests
India needs to invest in strategic ties with the US for its own good
Bottomline | Sleeping With the Enemy
Allowing Chinese military officers at our military academies would have serious ramifications
First Person | Old Threats, New Force
With multiple insurgencies in various stages of brewing, we need a new CI force
Seat of Knowledge
The soon-to-be-opened Indian National Defence University aims to create a synergy between the academic community and the government
Bottomline | Horse Before the Cart
Only a strategic defence review will put the needs of the military in perspective
First Person | Winter Lingers On
The PDP-BJP alliance may have possibilities, but at the moment they look bleak
Guest Column | Down, But Not Out
IAF’s fighter fleet over the next two decades
Bottomline | Friends, Not Partners
India needs to sign the long-pending bilateral agreements with the US
First Person | On the Same Side
Unless the army realises that the media is not an antagonist it will continue to miss the point about communication
Guest Column | Invisible Cogs
IAF force multipliers of the unglamorous kind are equally important for the smooth functioning of the armed forces
First Person | Halved by Religion
The J&K elections have brought to life the once buried two-nation theory
Bottomline | No Line of Defence
Will the forthcoming visit of the PM to China change the ground reality in Indo-China relations?
The Dragon’s Fangs
China showcased its best at the 10th Zhuhai Air Show 2014
Guest Column | And Happily Ever After
A transparent promotion system and opportunities for re-employment after retirement are the need of the hour
Guest Column | Marching into the future
As yet another Army Day is celebrated, here’s an assessment of the Indian Army
First Person | Media Management
Intolerance of criticism is a major reason behind blacklisting some journalists who try to do their job objectively
Bottomline | The Old Fallacy
Ram Madhav’s book on Indo-China relations fails to provide a viable national security roadmap
Guest Column | Nuclear No First Use Policy
A time for appraisal
First Person | Road to the Right
Indiscipline is never restricted to one part; it spills over in all aspects of one’s life
Bottomline | The Horse Before the Cart
The government’s approach to national security is high on show, low on substance
First Person | Conditions Apply
While Indian generosity was at its peaks during J&K flood relief, jingoism also raised its ugly head
Guest Column | Perception and Reality
An indepth analysis of India’s Credible Minimum Deterrent doctrine
Bottomline | Advantage China
Psychological victory means much more to the Chinese than military gains
First Person | Toilet Talk
If we haven’t lost the ancient learning of Ayurveda or yoga, how did we lose engineering skills?
Bottomline | Misplaced Bravado
PM Narendra Modi should uphold the spirit of the Simla agreement for better Indo-Pak ties
First Person | Our Own Battles
Indians fighting in Iraq should be a wake-up call to the government
Bottomline | Mind Your Own Business
The army must focus on its primary task
Guest Column | Arms and the Men
Instead of an arms race, India should focus on strategic and nuclear force restructuring
First Person | Engage, Not Alienate
If you don’t get the ideas right, you will get the policies wrong
Bottomline | Balance of Powers
The ratification of AP is a win-win deal for India in the long run
First Person | Much Ado About Nothing
Article 370 is a non-issue and has nothing to do with the resolution of Kashmir issue
Bottomline | A Window Has Opened
The new government has a chance to strengthen ties with both Pakistan and Afghanistan
Guest Column | Checks and Balances
A regular review and appraisal of the nuclear doctrine would help to fine tune it as per strategic requirements
First Person | For India’s Sake
For a nation as vast as India, we need a leader who takes pride in its diversity
Bottomline | Prime Minister’s Men
The government must hand-pick service chiefs, instead of opting for the senior-most officer
Time for Action
The new government can no longer ignore the issues faced by the defence forces
First Person | While We Were Busy
Maoists are now exploiting the virgin territories of Northeast India
Bottomline | No Party Politics
National security should be a bipartisan issue
Bottomline | Ambiguous Ambitions
By redefining India’s minimum deterrence, the government is going down a dangerous spiral
First Person | Age of Mediocrity
Mediocre people support and promote other mediocre people so that they can all co-exist
Bottomline | The Lost Years
Defence minister A.K. Antony never took ownership of his work
The Game Changer
The Avro replacement procurement plan can boost India’s indigenous industries
First Person | No Room for Nostalgia
The reality of Kashmir is so harsh today that romanticism only makes it worse
Bottomline | Highs and Lows
What prompted PM Manmohan Singh to sign the India-US civil nuclear deal which he calls a high point of his career?
First Person | It’s Only Words
In his second press meet as CNS, Admiral Joshi played it extremely safe
Bottomline | General Talk
Pakistan’s new COAS Gen. Raheel Sharif will have the last word on bilateral relations
First Person | The Weak Links
Human resource is an important element for national security
First Person | Warts Within
If Muslims continue to wait for the government to do something for them, they will remain victims
Bottomline | Smart Move
The Border Defence Cooperation agreement is a win-win for China than India
First Person | Honour and Honesty
Among his various loose comments, has Gen. V.K. Singh also admitted to perjury?
Bottomline | Moving Forward
The agreement on India-Pakistan DGMOs meeting is a breakthrough
First Person | Cost of Conflict
Vested interests across political-bureaucratic divide prevent resolution
Bottomline | Lessons in Leadership
General Stanley McChrystal’s memoirs My Share of the Task is a must read for those interested in security and defence
Bottomline | Pleasing China
Beijing has successfully tested coercive diplomacy against India
First Person | The Right Lessons
Inter-uniform rivalry is alright, derision is not
First Person | United Effort
Each state cannot fight and win the war against Left-Wing Extremism
Bottomline | Aimless Arming
Modernisation is not defence minister’s only job
Bottomline | Too Much at Stake
India should not kowtow to China
First Person | Innocence at a Loss
Juvenile delinquents need a State that can adopt and mould them, not punish them
Bottomline | Neighbour’s Interest
China’s desire for enhanced bilateral military cooperation should be taken seriously
First Person | Collective Complicity
The government killed a terrorist but resurrected a martyr
Bottomline | Hanging by a Thread
Afzal Guru’s execution has rendered Indian national security more vulnerable
Layers upon Layers
PLA Navy submarines in the Indian Ocean Region has far-reaching implications
Bottomline | The Big Deal
Deconstructing the MMRCA and its strategic implications
First Person | Show Management
For the Aero India to be successful, private sector will have to play a bigger role
First Person | Young Force
Indian Army can engage with the Kashmiri youth, but only in a limited way
Bottomline | 2013 Wish List
Even one step by each stake-holder will make a big difference
First Person | Days of Yore
Once there was a media policy, now there is fire-fighting
Bottomline | Dragon Moves
With growing Chinese belligerence, India should reassess its relations with the US
First Person | The Demon Within
Stealthily, the communal virus seems to have crept into the military blood stream
Bottomline | Domestic Disorder
It’s time the army accepted the need for transparency and restored human dignity in its ranks
First Person | No Offence Please
Offended mobs are not as spontaneous as they look
Bottomline | The Strategist
Brajesh Mishra made national security a government priority
First Person | Justice, it is
The Naroda Patiya verdict shows that certain things do work
First Person | Proud to be Secular
In India, the alternative is not only scary but destructive for nation-building
Bottomline | Officer-Like-Qualities
The Indian Army is its own worst enemy
Bottomline | Learning Wrong Lessons
Longer the army remains enmeshed in CI ops, faster it’ll lose its conventional edge
Bottomline | Long Road Ahead
General Bikram Singh should take the middle path
First Person | Enemy Within
Zabiuddin Ansari’s arrest should be used to understand why he went the other side
First Person | Resolve Now
The government should not let absence of violence lull it into complacency
Bottomline | Military-Politico Disconnect
Let’s start by educating our MPs on defence matters
Guest Column | Downward Spiral
Chicago Conference once again puts focus on Pakistan for Afghanistan resolution
First Person | Rule of Heart
Policing and development combination is not enough to defeat the Maoists
Bottomline | Kargil Legacy
Even as India evicted the intruders, Pakistan Army had the last laugh
Guest Column | All Saeed and Done
Bounty of USD 10 million on Hafiz Sayeed has implications
Guest Column | Wait’s Got Longer
By not taking any action on interlocutors’ report, government betrays its insincerity
First Person | Summer’s Hope
Why some of the threats of Islamic terrorism are fantastical
Bottomline | Coup That Never Was
The fantastical story that has set back defence reforms
Bottomline | Whose Honour is It?
General Bikram Singh will need a lot of help from the government
Guest Column | Judges Rule
Pakistan Supreme Court’s activism unnerves both the government and the army
First Person | Heading for Disaster
Government needs to save the CAPFs from the clutches of vested interests
Guest Column | Too Little Too Late (February 2012)
A cautious government has watered down the NCTC concept
Bottomline | Self Service
There is no honour at the cost of the institution
Guest Column | Trump Card
Pakistan wants new rules of engagement with the Americans in the war on terror
First Person | The End is Nigh
Why some of the threats of Islamic terrorism are fantastical
Bottomline | War and Peace
India and Pakistan need to pursue realistic confidence building measures which help contain crisis
Guest Column | Fighting Together
India-US have several areas of cooperation against terrorism
First Person | Mission Youth
Kashmir University has a new man in charge
Bottomline | Clash of Interests
The army has no case for continuation of AFSPA in J&K
Guest Column | Double Deal
Can India and Pakistan work together in Afghanistan?
First Person | Fatal Flaw
Police modernisation has to move beyond tokenism
Bottomline | Kabul Express
The road to Afghanistan runs not just through Pakistan
First Person | Making Over Modi
The weight of 2002 is not the only thing that goes against the Gujarat CM
Guest Column | In Circles
The Afghanistan drama, different actors and India
Bottomline | Age No Bar
Gen. V.K. Singh should ensure that he is remembered for things other than his age
Guest Column | Anna’s Axe
Corruption begets Corruption
First Person | Soldiers All
We also need to remember the unsung heroes of the CRPF
Bottomline | A Case for CDS
The government needs to push for this for its own sake
Guest Column | Chinks in the Armour
India remains vulnerable to Jihadi brand of terror
First Person | Matter of Choice
In the end, we are all cogs in the wheels of nation-building
Bottomline | Monsoon Musings
Foreign policy without credible military capabilities is baloney
First Person | Life and Honour
We need the quick rethink on our counter-Maoist strategy
Curtain Call
Damocles’ sword hangs over the fate of Afghanistan
First Person | More Deaths in Vain
The government continues to repeat the same mistakes against the Maoists
Bottomline | Bluff Masters
Pakistan’s nuclear spectre is a bargaining chip
Obama’s Operation
A calculated risk finally pays off
Bottomline | Red Wall
Chinese presence in POK further limits India’s options in Kashmir
First Person | Blood Stains
No matter how much Gujarat progresses, 2002 will continue to haunt Modi
Double Deal
There is a need of an investigative process to arrest the fake currency trail
First Person | In Gaddafi’s Land
The supreme commander controls even the thoughts of the people
Bottomline | Dangerous Game
The US needs to worry more about Pakistan’s penchant for proliferation
First Person | Embrace the Change
Churning in the Middle East is good for the world
Bottomline | More of the Same
Instead of bureaucratic parleys, India should talk to the Pakistan Army
First Person | Majority Rule
The Dara Singh verdict shows that even judiciary is not impervious to propaganda
Bottomline | Master Bluff
By conducting diplomacy on the crest of our economic well being alone, we are bluffing ourselves
First Person | Rule of the Khaki
When security overrules governance, calls for justice will have to be silenced
Bottomline | Fears and Failings
Two thoughts to reflect
First Person | NHRC’s Job
Discuss human rights, instead of turning it into a competition
First Person | Reign of Triviality
Opportunistic politics compromises India’s national interests
Bottomline | Matter of Honour
The malaise has penetrated so deep that it is difficult to discern the fair from the unfair at times
Bottomline | Afghan Chessboard
Instead of waiting and watching, India has to start making its moves
First Person | Lull, Not Peace
We needs both imagination and large-heartedness to resolve Kashmir
First Person | Shades of Azadi
Address the rage and frustration of the youth and everything else will follow
First Person | In Praise of Intolerance
Certain customs and practices deserve not to be tolerated
Bottomline | Musings on 7th Anniversary
Bureaucratic vacancies in the MoD ought to be filled with military officers
First Person | Link to the Land
Unless people are made stake-holders, they will not understand development
Bottomline | India’s Wild West (July 2010)
Time for President Obama to put Pakistan Army Chief on notice on bin Laden
First Person | Theatre of the Absurd
Media must desist from playing up the fatwa racket
Bottomline | Another Visit, Another Compromise
President Pratibha Patil plays into Chinese hands
First Person | Anatomy of Loss
Prejudice, delayed justice and a family in ruins
Bottomline | Will Peace End?
Indian Army is bracing for actively violent summer on the Line of Control
First Person | Lies, Damned Lies
As a nation, we prefer to turn our back to truth
Bottomline | All Eyes on the Chief
General V.K. Singh has onerous tasks ahead
First Person | Such a Long Journey
Omar Abdullah needs one moment of boldness to silence his critics
Bottomline | The Lost Plot
Diplomacy Without Tangible Military Muscle is nothing more than appeasement
First Person | Peace and Poetry
India-Pakistan need more than that for a lasting resolution of outstanding issues
Bottomline | National (in)Security Grows
Government should appoint a military officer as deputy National Security Advisor
First Person | Home Affairs
Chidambaram has offered a perfect remedy for internal security. But will politics let it happen?
Bottomline | Fair Game
Merit alone should decide MMRCA, not political concerns
First Person | The Babri Monster
Let’s just bury it and move on
Bottomline | Ring in the New
India needs a fresh approach towards national security
First Person | The Good Muslim
The ulemas should help remove prejudices about Islam
Bottomline | Kayani Holds the Key
Peace with Pakistan can only be achieved through its army
First Person | Winds of Change
Centre’s decision to engage with Kashmiri Separatists was long overdue
Bottomline | Spectre of the Stone Age
US needs to pressurise Pak Army to seriously act against the terrorists
Bottomline | Three Headline Makers
The government unnecessarily plays up action against the Naxals
First Person | Push against the Wall
A case for the CRPF cadre officers
First Person | Baptism by Fire
Lessons from the Kashmiri streets
First Person | Deadly Cocktail
Dangers of playing politics with religion
Bottomline | Wasting a Force
In the fight against Maoists, the CRPF should have a greater say
Bottomline | Old Technology, New Hype
India needs to put its nuclear-powered submarine in perspective
First Person | Defeating Taliban
Take the war to the next generation
First Person | Assuming Victimhood
Pakistan has built Taliban as a monster to highlight its helplessness
Bottomline | Major Years
The air force chief leaves behind a rich legacy
Bottomline | Rhetoric is not Security
Let soldiers be above politics and religion
First Person | Dangers of Law
Sometimes the saviours turn into villains
Bottomline | Times have Changed
Army needs to be more transparent and cooperative in J&K
First Person | Don’t Sweat over Swat
We need to focus on terrorist groups that are targeting India
Bottomline | Kayani’s Hand
US’ Af-Pak review will adversely impact India
First Person | Rule of the Mob
State must treat hooligans as criminals
Bottomline | Threats Within
India should watch out for more 26/11 attacks
First Person | Uncivil War
Pakistan military is emasculating the civil society
Bottomline | New Beginning
Give CRPF a chance to prove itself as a counter-insurgency force
First Person | Weep India Weep
At least now deny terrorism the cloak of religion
Bottomline | Buddies not Servants
While Sahayaks are integral to the service, only army can avoid their misuse
First Person | Mental Ghettos
Bad times can throw up good opportunities for Muslims
First Person | The Battle has Come Home
Madrassas cannot provide a balanced world-view
Bottomline | Sound of Silence
Government should not ignore the demands of the military
First Person | The Next Generation
The challenge is to prevent the alienation of the next generation of Kashmiris
Bottomline | Such a Long Journey
As details of the Indo-US nuclear deal appear, so does the devil
First Person | Importance of Being Iran
A strong, mainstream Iran will help stabilise the Middle East
Bottomline | All the President’s Men
The ISI is part of the Pakistan Army and cannot be undermined
First Person | What Terrorism?
First Person | What Terrorism?
Bottomline | The Nuclear Trap
From CTBT, the focus has now shifted to FMCT
First Person | Solitary Marcher
The indomitable spirit of the Indian soldier
Bottomline | Unity in Uniform
Unless that happens, the bureaucrats will continue to bypass the Services
A Matter of Izzat-O-Iqbal?
An apathetic State is robbing the soldier of his dignity
First Person | Action Time
The government needs to take definitive action on Naxalism
Bottomline | 2008 Olympics is the Deadline
China will make India pay for its neglect
First Person | A Poem for Fanatics
Use culture to fight terrorism
Bottomline | Army on the Back Foot
China believes in setting its own agenda
First Person | Don’t Count on Democracy
Fighting terrorism has nothing to do with democracy
Bottomline | In Defence of Musharraf
He remains a key player who knows the Pakistan Army
First Person | Let the Music Play
Don’t take fun out of faith
Bottomline | A Matter of Priorities
India needs ballistic missile more than anti-ballistic missile system
First Person | The Devil is Out
Religion brings out the saint or devil in the faithful, depending upon how it is used
First Person | War of Words
As Indian forces do internal security jobs, they should shun euphemistic war jargon
Bottomline | Partnership of Equals
Nuclear deal or not, India should forge closer military ties with the US
First Person | Appeasement? Really?
When on the defensive, the BJP and its cohorts raise the bogey
All ‘Chiefs’ and no ‘Indians’!
Yet another case for the Chief of Defence Staff
First Person | In the League of their Own
Soul searching in the month of Ramzan
Bottomline | Downplaying Intrusion
Government strangely downplays unabated Chinese intrusions into India
Bottomline | Misplaced Scepticism
Media and politicians doubts about joint military exercises are unwarranted
First Person | Justice for All
Fight against terrorism should take the causes into account
Bottomline | No Longer a Debate
CDS will be a strategic and not a military advisor
First Person | Men to Sacrifice
Replace mammoth CRPF with multiple highly-trained forces
Bottomline | Difficult Choices
The RFP is only the beginning of the tough road ahead
First Person | Remains of the Fire
Indians continue to remain oblivious to the Naxal problem
First Person | Fact and Fiction
The importance of perception management
Bottomline | Checking China
India needs to be careful about it military ties with Beijing
Aware and Secure
Surveillance and Networked Operations are the keys to Success
First Person | Kill Ratio
Should be made irrelevant to career growth
First Person | Left Scare
Even without the foreign hand, Naxalism has increased its reach in India
Bottomline | Holes in Indian Airspace
Terrorist threat from the air is a real danger
Bottomline | Half Steps
CDS and Aerospace Command are a must for modernisation
First Person | Heart of the Matter
On terrorism, India and Pakistan have different world views
First Person | Fighting a Ghost
When it comes to national security, who dare argue
Bottomline | End the Status Quo
Continuity may be good, but it is not in national interest
Bottomline | Battle is Won, the War Continues
Despite success against terrorism, media remains a challenge
First Person | In Defence
AF(SP)A is not the only act we need to worry about
First Person | Borderline People
Reservation is not the answer to bring Muslims in the mainstream
Bottomline | Rise and Rise
As Musharraf becomes more powerful, India’s options get limited
Force for the Future
The challenges before the Indian Navy in retrospect
First Person | Veiled Threat
Leave the women alone please
Bottomline | Man of Honour
There are high expectations from A.K. Antony
First Person | Killer Streak
Irrespective of religion, violence is intrinsic to human beings
Bottomline | Musharraf’s Volleys
Once again India responds with a knee-jerk reaction
Bottomline | Jaswant’s Bluster
On Operation Parakram, Singh has been stingy with truth
First Person | Another Chance
Terrorist violence is too cheap a price to squander peace
First Person | On Whose Side is God?
In an unjust war it is very difficult to tell
Bottomline | Gender Bender
The issue of women in the army should not be reduced to mere rhetoric
First Person | Age of Radicalism
The practice is more important than the text
Bottomline | Pay-Back Time
India needs to balance its vision with both a clear policy and capability
First Person | Fight Among Equals
The government must stop arming civilians to fight the terrorists
First Person | Need to Think Again
Presence of democracy is no guarantee against terrorism
Bottomline | Playing Games
Pakistan tries to extract benefits from the Indo-US agreement
First Person | For God’s Sake
You cannot make a point about peace through violence
Bottomline | Leave the Army Alone
Religious headcount can lead to dangerous conseqeunces
Bottomline | Seek and Hide
With drift and undue secrecy India’s strategic credibility remains in a limbo
First Person | Democracy’s Devastating Dance
Elections are no antidote for terrorism
Bottomline | Dirty Games
India should not comment on Pakistan’s internal matters
First Person | Issues of Image
Changes will have to come from within
Bottomline | Stillborn Agreement
The US is asking India much more than it is giving in return
First Person | Burden of Guilt
The motive of terrorists is always political than religious
First Person | Wahhabi, Deobandi or Barelvi?
In the age of global war on terror, get your religious nuances right
Bottomline | Peace at Stake
The terrorist attacks in Delhi were in response to change of government in J&K
Bottomline | Devil and Deep Sea
By voting against Iran, India has lowered its geo-strategic stature
Bottomline | Banquo’s Ghost
Musharraf weighs down Indian moves in Afghanistan
Bottomline | Unhindered friendship
Despite 7/7, Musharraf remains close to the United States
Bottomline | Blinded by Love
For better relations with the US, India is compromising on its interests
Bottomline | Castles in Air
The Standing Committee on Defence report exposes the fog of bureaucratic thinking
Bottomline | Sound and Fury
Once again India is ready to sacrifice substance for show
Bottomline | The Answer Lies in BrahMos
While India should remain engaged with US, it should forge deeper defence ties with Russia
Bottomline | Security at Stake
Will the NSA finally do his own job?
Bottomline | Out of the Bush
For a meaningful relationship, India should not hitch its security concerns on the US bandwagon
Bottomline | Step by Step
The ceasefire in Kashmir will hold until Gen. Musharraf is done with Afghanistan
Bottomline | Nuke of the Matter
India, Pakistan successfully cross the first hurdle
Guest Column | Dangers of Complacency
Policies are not etched on stones, but they are difficult to change
Guest Column | Through the Dusty Looking Glass
Unless India and Pakistan learn to look beyond their perceptions, peace will remain elusive
Guest Column | The Burden of Power
A dialogue on Kashmir can pave the way for a separate dialogue on restraint regime
Guest Column | The Peace Primer
Trust and Talk
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