Ensure Security of Indian Students in the USA

In recent weeks, the United States has witnessed a concerning spike in the deaths of Indian or Indian-origin students under suspicious circumstances. This alarming trend suggests that the Joe Biden administration is not taking sufficient measures to address these attacks. Just recently, Mohammed Abdul Arfath, a 25-year-old student from Hyderabad, was found dead in Cleveland after being missing for several weeks. His family had even received a ransom call on March 17. Tragically, similar incidents have occurred, including the death of Uma Satya Sai Gadde in Ohio last week and the shooting of Amarnath Ghosh, a trained classical dancer, in St. Louis, Missouri, in March.

 

 

 

 

The series of unnatural deaths in January and February prompted John Kirby, a White House communications officer, to emphasize that there is no excuse for violence based on race, gender, religion, or any other factor. He assured the Indian diaspora that the Biden administration was working diligently to prevent such attacks. Similarly, US Ambassador to India . However, the situation on the ground appears to be worsening.

 

The Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies, based in the US, has identified the main causes behind these incidents, which include violent crimes, suspicious accidents, and mental health issues leading to suicide. The foundation has urged authorities to raise awareness about the various risks and provide mental health support. There are speculations that negative propaganda against the Indian community is fuelling hate crimes.

 

Indians comprise approximately 25 percent of foreign students in the US. It is imperative for America to prioritize their safety and take strong action against the perpetrators of hate crimes.

 

By taking proactive steps to safeguard Indian students and cracking down on hate-mongers, the United States can uphold its commitment to inclusivity, protect its reputation, and foster a safe and welcoming environment for all students.

 

 

Indian Military Diplomatic Outreach: Plans To Dispatch Defence Attachés To Key African Regions

 

 

India is amplifying its military diplomacy endeavors, with a keen focus on bolstering engagement in Africa and other vital regions worldwide.

 

"India's decision to deploy defence attachés in Mozambique, the Ivory Coast, and the Philippines marks a pivotal step in enhancing our defence cooperation with these nations.

 

India will also post defence attachés for the first time to Poland, and to Armenia, with which the Indian side recently concluded a big-ticket arms deal.

 

These postings will reinforce India's presence in key regions and pave the way for greater military collaboration.

 

India plans to appoint a defence attaché in Ethiopia after several decades, along with the deployment of a new military attaché to Djibouti.

 

"These postings signify India's keen interest in strengthening defence ties with countries aiming to modernize their armed forces," emphasized the official.

 

In tandem with its African outreach, India is establishing 18 new missions on the continent as part of the external affairs ministry's broader strategy.

 

"These developments underscore India's commitment to fostering robust security partnerships and advancing its national interests on the global stage.

 

India is also streamlining its military presence in countries like Russia and the UK, reallocating resources to nations witnessing increased defence cooperation.

 

 

Countering Internal & External Security Challenges

Security Forces Neutralize 29 Naxals in Chhattisgarh Jungles

 In a significant blow to Naxal insurgents, security forces executed a major operation resulting in the elimination of 29 extremists in the dense forests of Kanker, Chhattisgarh. Among the casualties was senior commander Shankar Rao, who carried a bounty of Rs 25 lakh. A substantial cache of weapons and ammunition was seized during the operation.

 

 

 

 

 

The security forces received intelligence pinpointing the presence of high-ranking cadres like Lalita, Shankar Rao, and Raju in the region spanning between Abujhmad, Gadchiroli district in Maharashtra, and north Bastar. Acting swiftly, a joint team comprising District Reserve Guards (DRG) and Border Security Force (BSF) was deployed to the area.

 

Following the intense two-hour confrontation, confirmed the demise of 29 Naxals, including high-profile figures like Shankar Rao and Lalita. Three security personnel sustained injuries during the engagement and were promptly airlifted to Raipur for medical attention.

 

 

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai applauded the joint efforts of the DRG and BSF, highlighting the operation's pivotal role in ensuring security ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. He reiterated the government's commitment to curbing Naxalism and fostering development in affected regions.

 

 

The Way Forward

 

 

Government data underscores a concerted push towards eradicating the Naxal menace, coupled with initiatives aimed at socio-economic development in affected areas. Analysts attribute the decline in Naxal-related incidents to the combined effect of strategic actions by the state and the waning influence of Naxal ideology.

 

 

India's Strategic Move: Partnering with NVIDIA to Bolster AI Capabilities

 

 

The Indian government is taking decisive steps towards enhancing the nation's AI infrastructure by contemplating a groundbreaking deal with NVIDIA, a leading chip-making giant. Valued at Rs 10,000 crore, this prospective collaboration aims to provide access to NVIDIA's cutting-edge GPUs and Neural Processing Units (NPUs) to Indian startups, research institutions, and academic bodies at subsidized rates, thereby fueling innovation in the AI sector.

 

 

Exploring Models for Acquisition

 

 

India is exploring two primary models for the acquisition and distribution of AI-capable NPUs and GPUs: a "rent-and-sublet" model and a marketplace model. Under the former, qualifying entities would receive GPUs on concessional terms directly from the government. Alternatively, the marketplace model encourages direct negotiations between companies and NVIDIA, with incentives tied to performance gains, akin to India's Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.

 

 

Addressing the Challenge of Scarcity and Cost

 

 

The scarcity and exorbitant cost of GPUs pose significant hurdles, particularly for startups. NVIDIA's top-tier H100 GPUs, priced at $50,000 each, and the Blackwell cards, priced at $40,000, underscore the financial barriers hindering access to essential computing resources. To put this into perspective, developing and training large AI models may require thousands of GPUs, a substantial investment for any organization.

 

 

Striving for Competitiveness

 

 

India's aspiration to remain competitive in AI research and development is evident through initiatives like the AI Mission, backed by a substantial allocation of Rs 10,372 crore. With plans to deploy 10,000 GPUs through public-private partnerships, India aims to bridge the gap in computing capabilities compared to global leaders in the AI space.

 

 

Navigating Global Dynamics

 

 

Navigating global dynamics in GPU acquisition requires strategic engagement with stakeholders and optimized approaches. While GPUs are acquired by both companies and government agencies globally, India's federal structure necessitates innovative solutions to secure access to these critical resources.

 

 

Driving Innovation and Sovereignty

 

 

The burgeoning demand for GPUs underscores their pivotal role in driving innovation and safeguarding the sovereignty of Indian data. Collaborations between Indian conglomerates and NVIDIA signify a collective effort to harness AI capabilities domestically, reducing reliance on foreign cloud resources and bolstering India's standing in the global AI landscape.

 

India's potential partnership with NVIDIA represents a seminal moment in its quest to bolster AI capabilities domestically. By fostering accessibility to advanced computing resources, India aims to unleash the full potential of its burgeoning AI ecosystem, driving innovation, competitiveness, and sovereignty in the digital age.

 

#SecurityScan 82: Chinese involvement in Iranian Missile, Drone Assault on Israel & much more

 Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai applauded the joint efforts of the DRG and BSF, highlighting the operation"s pivotal role in ensuring security ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

This article is a summary of important events that have taken place in last one week affecting, India's national security .

 

#COUNTERING CHINESE MULTI DOMAIN , GREYZONE, HIGH BREED WARFARE

 

 

Chinese Hand Evident in Iranian Missile and Drone Assault on Israel

 

 

Iran's recent attack on Israel, utilizing missiles and drones, showcased a significant Chinese influence in its weaponry. This assault, however, was effectively countered by a joint effort from Israel, the US, and the UK, resulting in the interception of 99 percent of the 300 projectiles launched.

 

 

 

 

The response to Iran's attack was facilitated by long-standing surveillance efforts by the US and UK, who have meticulously monitored China's military advancements over the years. This vigilance enabled them to anticipate the capabilities of the "kamikaze" drones employed by Iran and predict the trajectories of the ballistic missiles.(Lessons for India)

 

 

Key Indicators of Chinese Involvement:

 

 

China has been a prominent supplier of military equipment to Iran, including anti-ship missiles, cruise missiles, fighter jets, tanks, and anti-tank guns.

 

It played a pivotal role in bolstering Iran's missile technology following the Islamic Revolution in 1979, transferring crucial guidance systems and providing technological support.

 

The "Shahed" armed drone, utilized in the recent attack, features an engine manufactured by Beijing Micropilot UAV Flight Control Systems, a clear indication of Chinese involvement.

 

Furthermore, Iran's largest missile production facility near Esfahan owes its existence to China's assistance, highlighting a longstanding collaboration in missile development.

 

The interception of Iranian missiles and drones involved a sophisticated defense network deployed by Israel, supported by US ground stations in West Asia, fighter jets, and naval vessels stationed in the Mediterranean Sea. The precision-guided weaponry utilized by Iran bore the mark of Chinese technology, with components sourced from leading Chinese manufacturers.

 

 

Learning from the Gray: China's Gray Zone Warfare and its Implications for India

China's use of gray zone warfare against Taiwan serves as a valuable case study for India, which faces similar challenges on its borders with China. Here's how India can learn and adapt:

Understanding Gray Zone Warfare:

• Blurring the Lines: Gray zone tactics operate below the threshold of open conflict, employing actions like frequent military drills, incursions into disputed territory, and economic coercion. They aim to achieve strategic objectives without triggering a full-scale war.
• Adapting to the Strategy: China's approach against Taiwan involves:
• Military Intimidation: Frequent incursions into Taiwan's Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) and maritime exercises signal China's military might and challenge Taiwan's control.
• Economic Pressure: China leverages its economic clout to influence Taiwan's behavior.
• Information Operations: Disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks aim to sow discord within Taiwan and manipulate public opinion.

Lessons for India:

• Recognizing the Threat: India must acknowledge the potential for China to employ similar tactics on the Indo-Chinese border. This includes analyzing past patterns of Chinese incursions and information operations.
• Strengthening Deterrence: A robust military presence along the border, coupled with regular exercises and improved infrastructure, deters Chinese aggression. Modernizing its military capabilities and forging closer defense partnerships with other regional powers are crucial.
• Information Warfare Preparedness: India needs a robust counter-propaganda strategy to counter Chinese disinformation campaigns and strengthen domestic resilience.
• Economic Diversification: Reducing dependence on China for trade lessens vulnerability to economic pressure tactics. Diversifying trade partnerships and developing domestic manufacturing capabilities are key.
• International Cooperation: Building strong relationships with like-minded countries allows India to present a united front against Chinese assertiveness. Collaborating on regional security initiatives and maritime domain awareness strengthens regional stability.

Challenges and Considerations:

• Managing Escalation: Responding to gray zone tactics requires careful calibration to avoid unintended escalation. Clear communication of red lines and proportionate responses are essential.
• Domestic Consensus: Building a national consensus on security issues and resource allocation for defense spending is crucial for a unified response.

Conclusion:

By learning from China's gray zone tactics against Taiwan, India can develop a comprehensive strategy to safeguard its territorial integrity and national interests. A proactive approach that combines military deterrence, economic resilience, information warfare preparedness, and international cooperation will be critical in navigating the complexities of China's gray zone strategy

Unification of Taiwan by China by using grey zone Warfare strategies

Grey zone warfare refers to tactics employed by states to achieve their strategic objectives without resorting to direct military confrontation. China has indeed been employing various grey zone strategies in its efforts to achieve the unification of Taiwan. Some of the key strategies being used include:

1. Economic coercion: China utilizes its economic leverage to isolate Taiwan diplomatically and economically. This involves pressuring countries and international organizations to limit their engagement with Taiwan, thereby undermining its sovereignty.

2. Political influence operations: China engages in propaganda campaigns and political influence operations to shape international perception and support for its stance on Taiwan. This includes exerting pressure on multinational corporations to adhere to the "One China" policy and discouraging political recognition of Taiwan.

3. Cyber operations: China conducts cyber operations aimed at espionage, disruption, and influence targeting Taiwan's government, military, and civil society. These operations seek to gather intelligence, sow discord, and undermine Taiwan's capabilities.

4. Military intimidation: China regularly conducts military exercises and patrols near Taiwan to intimidate and coerce Taipei. These actions serve to demonstrate China's military prowess and readiness to use force if necessary.

5. Legal warfare (lawfare): China employs legal tactics and international law interpretations to challenge Taiwan's sovereignty and legitimacy on the global stage. This includes blocking Taiwan's participation in international organizations and legal proceedings.

6. Proxy operations: China supports and exploits proxies, such as cybercriminals and disinformation networks, to conduct operations against Taiwan's interests covertly.

The success of these strategies varies depending on factors such as international response, Taiwan's resilience, and China's capabilities. While China has achieved some diplomatic victories in isolating Taiwan and increasing pressure on its government, Taiwan has also managed to maintain a degree of international recognition and support.

In the coming days, China may intensify its grey zone warfare efforts by:

• Increasing cyber operations targeting critical infrastructure and information systems in Taiwan.

• Expanding economic coercion through trade restrictions and investment manipulation.

• Heightening military maneuvers and exercises near Taiwan to test its defenses and gauge international reactions.

• Enhancing political influence campaigns to undermine Taiwan's democratic institutions and sow internal divisions.

To counter China's grey zone warfare tactics, Taiwan and its allies, particularly the United States, may adopt the following strategies:

1. Diplomatic outreach: Taiwan can strengthen diplomatic ties with like-minded countries and international organizations to counter China's isolation efforts and garner support for its sovereignty.

2. Enhanced defense capabilities: Taiwan should invest in its defense capabilities, including cybersecurity, intelligence, and asymmetric warfare capabilities, to deter aggression and mitigate the effectiveness of Chinese coercion.

3. Information operations: Taiwan and its allies can conduct counter-propaganda and information campaigns to expose China's malign activities and defend against disinformation and psychological operations.

4. Legal and diplomatic advocacy: Taiwan can leverage international law and diplomatic channels to challenge China's attempts to undermine its sovereignty and legitimacy, seeking legal remedies and support from the international community.

5. Economic resilience: Taiwan should diversify its economy and reduce dependence on China, thereby minimizing the impact of Chinese economic coercion and creating leverage in negotiations.

6. Military cooperation: The United States and other allies can enhance military cooperation with Taiwan through arms sales, joint exercises, and defense agreements to bolster Taiwan's defense capabilities and deter Chinese aggression.

Overall, effectively countering China's grey zone warfare requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach that combines diplomatic, economic, military, and informational elements to defend Taiwan's sovereignty and deter Chinese coercion

एक ऐतिहासिक उपलब्धी बुद्धिबळ विश्वातील अत्यंत प्रतिष्ठेची खडतर स्पर्धा जिंकण्याचा चमत्कार गुकेश ठरला विजयी

https://youtube.com/shorts/ObCwifOJsHk?si=u867KQwG5ZdITfpV 

भारताच्या दोम्माराजू गुकेशने वयाच्या अवघ्या १७व्या वर्षी कँडिडेट्स ही बुद्धिबळ विश्वातील अत्यंत प्रतिष्ठेची आणि खडतर स्पर्धा जिंकण्याचा चमत्कार केला. या विजयामुळे बुद्धिबळ जगज्जेतेपदाच्या लढतीमध्ये विद्यमान जेता चीनचा डिंग लिरेनशी टक्कर घेण्याचा त्याचा मार्ग मोकळा झाला. गुकेश हा आजवरचा सर्वांत युवा कँडिडेट्स जेता ठरला. डिंग लिरेनशी सरशी झाल्यास तो बुद्धिबळाच्या इतिहासातील सर्वांत युवा जगज्जेताही बनू शकेल. त्याच्या या अविस्मरणीय कामगिरीविषयी…

सुरुवातीची आव्हाने…

स्पर्धा सुरू होण्याच्या आधी दोन घटक गुकेशच्या दृष्टीने प्रतिकूल होते. तो या स्पर्धेत सर्वांत लहान (१७ वर्षे) होता. कँडिडेट्ससारख्या महत्त्वाच्या स्पर्धेमध्ये अनुभव हा घटक अनेकदा निर्णायक ठरतो. निव्वळ युवा ऊर्जा एका टप्प्यापर्यंत साथ देऊ शकते. ती महत्त्वाची असतेच. पण स्पर्धेच्या अंतिम टप्प्यात इतर घटकांचा विचार करण्याची परिपक्वता आवश्यक असते. ती वयानुरूप वाढते. दुसरा प्रतिकूल घटक होता रँकिंगचा. एकूण आठ बुद्धिबळपटूंमध्ये गुकेश २७४३ एलो गुणांसह सहावा होता. त्याच्यापेक्षा अमेरिकेचे फॅबियानो करुआना (२८०३) आणि हिकारू नाकामुरा (२७८९), रशियाचा इयान नेपोम्नियाशी (२७५८) या तीन खेळाडूंकडे संभाव्य विजेते म्हणून पाहिले जात होते. नेपोम्नियाशी हा दोन वेळचा कँडिडेट्स जेता आहे. हे तिघे आणि गुकेश अशा चौघांनाही १४व्या म्हणजे अंतिम फेरीत जेतेपदाची संधी होती. त्यात गुकेशने बाजी मारली हे विलक्षण आहे. अंतिम फेरीत गुकेशने नाकामुराला बरोबरीत रोखून ९ गुणांपर्यंत मजल मारली. दुसरीकडे नेमोप्नियाशीविरुद्ध विजयाची संधी करुआनाने दवडली आणि त्यांचा डावही बरोबरीत सुटला. त्यामुळे करुआना, नाकामुरा आणि नेपोम्नियाशी यांना प्रत्येकी ८.५ गुणांपर्यंतच मजल मारता आली आणि गुकेश विजेता ठरला.

आनंदचा वारसदार…

कँडिडेट्स स्पर्धा ही गेल्या काही वर्षांमध्ये महत्त्वाची ठरू लागली, कारण या स्पर्धेत विजेता ठरणारा आणि ठरणारी बुद्धिबळपटू विद्यमान जगज्जेत्यांचे आव्हानवीर बनतात. भारताचा महान बुद्धिबळपटू विश्वनाथन आनंद यालाच आतापर्यंत ही स्पर्धा जिंकता आली होती. आनंदने अर्थातच पुढे जाऊन अनेकदा जगज्जेतेपदही मिळवले. त्याने यापूर्वी २०१४मध्ये कँडिडेट्स स्पर्धा जिंकली आणि तो त्या वेळच्या जगज्जेत्या नॉर्वेच्या मॅग्नस कार्लसनसमोर आव्हानवीर बनला. दरम्यानच्या काळात भारतीय बुद्धिबळपटूंनी बुद्धिबळ विश्वात लक्षवेधक कामगिरी करण्यास सुरुवात केली होती. आनंदपासून प्रेरणा घेऊन भारत बुद्धिबळातील महासत्ता बनेल, असे गेली अनेक वर्षे बोलले जात आहे. पण आनंदनंतर कोण, या प्रश्नाचे उत्तर चटकन देता येत नव्हते. कारण अनेक गुणवान बुद्धिबळपटू उदयाला आले, तरी त्यांच्यापैकी आनंदप्रमाणे जगज्जेता कोण बनेल, या उत्तराची प्रतीक्षा होती. अवघ्या दहा वर्षांत एखादा बुद्धिबळपटू कँडिडेट्स जिंकून जगज्जेतेपदापासून एका पावलावर येईल, असे नक्कीच वाटले नव्हते. गुकेशने ती प्रतीक्षा संपवली.

INDIAN DEMOCRACY IS THRIVING AND KICKING

What often eludes global media's grasp when it comes to understanding India's democracy is its robustness amidst its scale and complexity. The Indian state has admirably upheld the rule of law while steadfastly maintaining constitutional values. Those quick to prophesy the demise of Indian democracy often find themselves unwittingly entangled in partisan agendas.

India's independent institutions, spanning from the judiciary to the Election Commission, stand as bastions of integrity, transcending the daily din of political rhetoric. Presently, as the world witnesses the spectacle of the world's largest democratic exercise, it's essential to comprehend its magnitude. With a staggering 969 million voters, exceeding the combined electorates of several prominent nations, including the United States and Russia, India's democratic machinery dwarfs even the most technologically adept Western democracies. Deploying over 5.5 million electronic voting machines across 1.05 million polling stations, India's electoral process is a testament to the resilience required to navigate through its vast geographical and socio-economic diversity.

Unfortunately, the global media often fails to grasp the intricacies of Indian democracy, leading to flawed assessments. A glaring example is the disproportionate scrutiny applied to India compared to nations facing graver democratic challenges. Mexico, for instance, ranks higher on democracy indices despite rampant political violence, including the targeted killings of mayoral candidates. Similarly, Mexico's Press Freedom Index surpasses India's despite being one of the most perilous countries for journalists.

Commonly employed phrases like "democratic backsliding" and assertions of "shrinking freedom of expression" seem misplaced in the Indian context. India's electoral landscape remains dynamic, with both ruling and opposition parties experiencing victories and defeats in state elections regularly. Moreover, claims of dwindling freedom of expression ignore the cacophony of diverse opinions prevalent in traditional and digital media, as well as the lively discourse on social platforms.

India's independent institutions, exemplified by the judiciary and the Election Commission, continue to operate with integrity, as demonstrated by recent rulings and impartial enforcement of electoral conduct standards. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's inclusive approach, extending honors to leaders across the political spectrum, reflects a commitment to transcending partisan divides. His government's recognition of figures from diverse ideological backgrounds underscores a broader ethos of national unity.

Critiques alleging a stifling of political opposition overlook the competitive nature of India's political arena. Accountability measures targeting corruption and tax evasion are not indicative of democratic erosion but rather a commitment to upholding the rule of law. Unlike some Western democracies, where politicians face legal consequences for wrongdoing, India's judiciary remains vigilant in maintaining constitutional principles.

In essence, Indian democracy thrives amidst its challenges, buoyed by a steadfast adherence to the rule of law and constitutional values. Those prematurely lamenting its demise inadvertently serve partisan agendas rather than engaging with the nuanced realities of Indian democracy

Gukesh Secures Victory in Candidates: Rising Star Emerges Without Reliance on Chess Engines to Challenge Ding Liren at World Championships

Hailing from Chennai, 17-year-old Gukesh has etched his name in the annals of chess history by clinching victory in the Candidates tournament, thus earning the distinction of being the youngest contender ever at the World Chess Championship. Yet, what sets him apart from other teenage prodigies worldwide?

If there lingered any skepticism, the emergence of Indian teenage prodigies stands undeniable in the present era. D. Gukesh, aged 17 and hailing from Chennai, not only became the second youngest player ever to grace the esteemed Candidates tournament but also scripted history as the youngest victor of the event. This triumph also secures his position as the youngest participant in the upcoming World Chess Championship. His pivotal draw against Hikaru Nakamura in the final round sealed this remarkable feat, albeit fortune smiled upon him with a last-minute draw between Ian Nepomniachtchi and Fabiano Caruana, propelling him to the title.

 Throughout his nascent career, Gukesh has consistently courted historic achievements. He attained the title of India's youngest grandmaster at a mere 12 years, seven months, and 17 days, falling short of the world's youngest by a scant 17 days. Last year, he ascended past the five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand to claim the apex position in India's chess rankings after a hiatus of 36 years. Now, he adds another illustrious accolade to his burgeoning list of accomplishments.

 Amidst the frequent emergence of teenage prodigies from India, Gukesh's journey in the sport deviates slightly from the norm. Deliberately sheltered from the influence of chess engines until surpassing a rating of 2500, his upbringing stands as a departure from conventional methods. In an era where engines redefine players' preparation strategies, Gukesh's approach embodies a unique, albeit risky, departure from the norm.

 Vishnu Prasanna, the architect behind Gukesh's unconventional training regimen, acknowledges the gamble inherent in their decision. Their strategy aimed to refine Gukesh's calculation precision, intuition, and assessment skills, eschewing the reliance on engines to foster a clearer understanding of the game. Despite uncertainties, their experiment bore fruit, evident in Gukesh's proximity to claiming the title of the world's youngest grandmaster.

 Beyond methodology, Gukesh's unparalleled drive and unwavering dedication set him apart. His unwavering commitment to his craft, evident from a tender age, manifests in an unyielding pursuit of excellence. Collaborating with Vishnu since the age of 11, Gukesh harbored ambitions of ascending to the pinnacle of chess, envisioning himself as a future World Champion and world number one.

 Moreover, Gukesh's readiness to embrace discomfort underscores his single-minded pursuit of success. Eschewing formats like blitz and rapid, he prioritizes classical chess and over-the-board events, demonstrating a willingness to undertake arduous tasks such as physical conditioning and early mornings. His relentless pursuit of improvement underscores an obsession with mastering the game, epitomizing his unrelenting quest for greatness.

1965 - An Inside Story -from a book by RD Pradhan, Former Home Secretary ,*Why India Quit When it Was Winning the 1965 War?*PART 2

 

*Road to Tashkent*

With the US disinterested in the conflict and the UK showing its true anti-India and pro-Pakistan colours, it was left to Russia to play honest broker.

It was after some initial hesitation that both India and Pakistan accepted the Russian offer. Ayub Khan later said that Pakistan went to Tashkent as it did not want to risk a veto by Moscow.

There was another reason for Pakistan’s eagerness for talks. According to Pradhan, “The continued presence of Indian troops on the east side of the Ichhogil canal, facing Lahore city, was hurting Pakistan’s pride.” The heat was clearly on Islamabad.

Before leaving for Tashkent, Shastri – who was hero-worshiped by Indian soldiers – had promised his victorious troops that he would not return the land captured from the enemy after so many sacrifices. But after six days of talks, Shastri proved once again that Indians are bad negotiators.He gave away everything.

Was Shastri feeling the pressure from the international community? Most likely not, but perhaps he felt – like his successor Indira Gandhi after the 1971 war – that showing leniency towards Pakistan would buy its goodwill.

*Mystery of Shastri’s Death*

If you were Shastri, you would dread having to face the Indian soldier back home. Hundreds of them had died while capturing the strategic Haji Pir pass, which if India had kept, would have forever nullified Pakistan’s advantage in Kashmir.

On the night of January 10, 1966, the diminutive Prime Minister but a giant among men died of a heart attack. It was his fourth cardiac seizure and was likely triggered by his anxiety at having to face an irate public and having to look into the eyes of his jawans – soldiers – whose hopes he had dashed.

There have been all sorts of conspiracy theories but the reality is that none of the major countries benefitted from his death. Russia had scored a spectacular diplomatic coup, America fully supported the Tashkent Agreement, and Pakistan was happy to get its land back.

That the Indian Prime Minister died of a heart attack comes from a most unlikely source. Shortly after Mikhail Gorbachev’s liberalisation policies in 1991, Soviet Land magazine in India published an account by an ex-KGB officer.

According to the former intelligence agent, the KGB was spying on both the Indian and Pakistani delegations in order to find out how much each country was willing to yield during the negotiations. When Shastri started getting a seizure, the KGB was listening but decided not to alert his aides because that would give away their game and lead to a diplomatic showdown with India.

*Prelude to Tashkent*

Having dissected what transpired at the negotiating table, we need to discuss the prelude to Tashkent.

Although Pakistan was on the verge of being trounced – unlike in 1971 and 1999 when it really got hammered – India generously agreed to a ceasefire after repeated pleas from the major powers.

Why did India stop fighting when it had Pakistan reeling? Why did Chavan and Shastri, who swatted away western pressure and gave a free hand to the Indian military, cave in?

The problem was army chief Jayanto Nath Chaudhuri. The Kolkata-born general came from an affluent background and had become army chief purely on the back of family connections and pure luck. He was elevated following the resignation of another Sandhurst-educated general, Pran Nath Thapar, the army chief of the 1962 War.

Chaudhuri’s mentors were the Sandhurst educated British generals – who had utterly failed before the Germans and Japanese during World War II – and predictably he also lacked war fighting qualities. “He was so good on paper that Chavan often wondered how good he would be in warfare,” writes Pradhan.

Chavan mentions in his war diary that Chaudhuri would frequently lapse into depression. Each time the Indian army suffered a setback, the general would walk into the Defence Minister’s room, and Chavan had to give him a pep talk. Chaudhuri so completely lacked courage that Chavan often forced him to visit the front and personally take stock.

Pradhan writes, “On September 20 when the Prime Minister asked Chaudhuri whether India could expect to gain if the war continued for a few days more, he informed the PM that the army was coming to an end of its ammunition holdings and could not sustain fighting for much longer. Chaudhuri advised acceptance of the ceasefire proposal. It was later discovered in overall terms only 14-20 per cent of the Indian Army’s ammunition stock had been used up. At the moment of our greatest advantage the army chief’s non-comprehension of the intricacies of the long-range logistics deprived India of a decisive victory.”

In contrast, Pakistan had expended 80 per cent of its ammo. It had also lost 250 of its latest US-supplied tanks.

Chaudhuri was also criticised for his lack of daring. When the Pakistani cities of Sialkot and Lahore could have been easily taken after the dash and bravery shown by Indian troops, Chaudhuri told Shastri: “We must move with the caution and wisdom of an elephant. We will take them in God’s good time.”

In fact, when the Pakistan Army attacked in the Khem Kharan sector in Punjab, Chaudhuri ordered the Army Commander Harbaksh Singh to withdraw to a safer position.The commander refused, and what followed was the Battle of Assal Uttar – the greatest tank battle since Kursk in 1943. The Indian counter attack on the night of September 10 was so ferocious that by the morning they had knocked out 70 Pakistani tanks.

But what the Battle of Assal Uttar will be memorable for are the 25 enemy tanks found abandoned with their engines running and wireless sets on. It was the perfect metaphor for the plight of the Pakistan Army.

Had India kept its head, today we’d have a lot more to celebrate.