The East Pakistan Tragedy shows the pitfalls that Pakistan must avoid in civil-military relations, military decision-making in the politics, and ideas ofsuperiority that can only divide the nation.
Research paper, however, finds lowest indebtedness level among Muslims at 12.3% & highest among Hindus at 14.9%. Overall national financial inclusion level at 87.2%, indebtedness at 14.7%.
Fresh details of operation conducted by IAF, Army have come out in gazette notification giving citations of those who were awarded Vir Chakra for their bravery.
On 21 Oct, a buzz went up that the govt had released full list of gallantry award recipients along with Op Sindoor citations. I put an AI caddy on the job. It took me into a never-ending rabbit hole.
This article early on doubts the view given by westerners by putting the word “experts” in double inverted commas, suggesting them as therefore unreliable, while surprisingly certifying the narrative of Air Commodore M. Kaiser Tufail arguing that he had access to the Pakistani official records, implying that they are more valid, yet at the same time questioning the authenticity of the Indian records only because they are official. One cannot have two parameters to measure the same factor and doing this shows a bias.
This article early on doubts the view given by westerners by putting the word “experts” in double inverted commas, suggesting them as therefore unreliable, while surprisingly certifying the narrative of Air Commodore M. Kaiser Tufail arguing that he had access to the Pakistani official records, implying that they are more valid, yet at the same time questioning the authenticity of the Indian records only because they are official. One cannot have two parameters to measure the same factor and doing this shows a bias.
If the air power of Pakistan was as good as claimed, what explains its absence to counter air attacks by IAF hunters on its tanks at Longewala. There was virtually no air support to the pakistani tank regiment which was being decimated at will by IAF.
It can be said with fair amount of certainity that PAF was a crippled force within a few days after the war began on 3rd Dec 1971, their capability notwithstanding.
In 1971 PAF had gone into defensive mode to fight a 6 month war if required. It was again PAF which threatened to obliterate Trombey & Dimona nuclear reactors that deterred IAF & IDF from attacking Kahuta in 1980’s. PAF pilots have shot down Indian, Afghan, Russian, Israeli |(some say both Iraqi & Iranian pilots). Not many air forces have pilots like these !!!!
Defensive mode, or completely decimated? If they are so defensive then why Karachi port was Blasted like hell fire? Where was your PAF then? And IAF actually gained Air Superiority within few days.
You seem to forget pak was fighting 2 fronts with no shared land border you had soviet active help still in western front pak destroyed over 40 fighters of yours defended west paksitan azad kashmir gilgit baltistan even took chambh from your side of kashmir if you were that determined why didnt you try to use your air force and azad kashmir it was disputed territory
When can we expect to get a factual account of all battles fought by India post independence. All that we have at hand is those boring hagiographic and self exculpatory manuals from our senior defense personnel.
Being proud participant in both wars ,I am pained to go through the narrative by former. CNS .I was based at a strategic base in Punjab in 1965 , I concede we suffered considerable damage during night operations by enemy aircraft mission . but later we had rather mediocre threat or hostility until the ceasefire .In 1971 war , I am proud to recount the martyred sacrifice of Flt Lt Konde of my hunter squadron on first day of hostilities in the eastern theatre . Much to chagrin , Tufail’s account is projected as more authentic and realistic at the cost realities . Agreed , war fought fiercely has to have repercussions on both sides ; but to declare that we did not win is an outrageous and insulting to veterans least being impartial judgement . Yes none wants to accept the follies and shortcomings but objective chronology sans glorification of one group vis-a-vis another will clear the historical clouds .
It has unfortunately become a trend to appear more fashionable, objective and true by going against the grain. As soon as you do that, it appears you are unbiased and probably true because it is natural to have a bias and affinity. I think the writer just wanted to create a flutter and grab headlines.
Just like how difficult it is for me to beleive Roman or Mughal historians on topic related to their kings, it is hard to trust what a Pakistani ex military man writes after losing a war.
There has to be an independent assessment and definitely not a Pak blowing Paki trumpet or an Indian helping him in it.
The important fact was that PAF was completely destroyed in the Eastern Sector very early on and the IAF could bomb at will. This was a major advantage for the Indian Army and Mukti Bahini in bringing about the surrender. Naval Aircraft only had ground fire to contend with at Cox’s Bazar and elsewhere. IAF really needs upgradation for MiG 21. Even second hand aircraft should be looked at. Gripen or F16.
Though war is the least wanted event in any country’s history, accurate events serve in telling the true facts of the events. Hats off to the author on being candid.
Very well written sir!!
As an Indian, It’s so difficult to find any material that tells us about our own wars or as to how war on our side progressed or the glory that our defence forces brought or the hard lessons we learnt. On the other hand the tales of yom-kippur war, falklands etc are so readily available.
Why not ask our own armed forces scholars to release authentic books that can be available to any military history enthusiast in the country!
Please read ‘India’s Wars: A Military History 1947-1971 by me with comments from Admiral Arun Prakash in it. He mentored me through the book.
I believe that Admiral Arun Prakash has been balanced in his analysis. Luckily the Sidewinder AAM may not have been as effective as Brig Yeager imagined. The point is there are lessons to be learnt from every war especially the ones you fought. We need to put it on record and in public domain. Lessons from military history simply cannot be ignored by either the Govt, the citizen or the soldier.
Flying officer K.P.Muralidharan MIA heroic and gallantry exhibited in 1971 and also eloquently praised by enemy pilot wing comdr Salim Mirza Baig bilatedly is in vain.The IAF recommended bilatedly Maha Vir Chakra three times but the UPA govt in 2010,2012 2014 didn’t consider.They say it is time bar for bravery.It is so absurd and radicouls to a patriotic soldier who sacrificed his life for his mother land.Repeated letter to the President,Prime minister Narendra modi Defence minister in this NDA govt is in vain.They are not interested to give the award posthumously as recommended by the IAF.How can youngster will join the Defence force if the govt attitudes towards our brave soldiers.They are not bothered of the lives lots by the soldiers.Omly we can see crocodile tears rolling.IAF is. Convinced the heroic air battle took over Peshwar air base by Fg.offr K.P.MuralidharanMIA of 20 lightning sqn.It is shame ,shame,shame by the govt of india Hope the new Defence minister will look into this matter and revoke the bad decision taken.The people of this country is hoping for a good news to hear.
Good comment. India’s neta-Babus dislike History because they might then have to face the truth and learn. For example by expurgating “inequality under law” from India’s Social Engineering and Minority pampering Constitution and laws.
India has very little idea of either air power or naval power and has, therefore, never had a strategy beyond “making do” with what we have like a poor cousin rather than arming and training to purpose which would actually be more economical and deliver more power at less cost. They do believe they understand the Army because they seem to resemble to Police with whom every Neta-Babu has reason to be very familiar, and so create polices to turn the Army into another corrupt, incompetent Government Department of Scarecrows good for RD and funeral Parades in the hope of frightening away the neighbours.
Military strategy demands the ability of adequate force to be present wherever threats emerge in quick time with minimal cost and investment.
For example, ACM PC Lal, then a Group Captain was the Technical Advisor on a trip to the US with Jabberlal and Pimp Menon. The US had aircraft parked around the base at Texas and the trio were taken on a circle around the base and asked which lot would India like to buy. Lal wanted to inspect every aircraft first. Jabber and Pimp were aghast and in the inerests of “diplomacy” over ruled Lal and picked a bunch of Dakotas (rather like Maun Mohan Singh and the Faux Art Salesman Honest Antony buying C-130s). An honourable King’s Commissioned Officer by spine and training, Lal resigned. Thanks to his family connections (DCM Bharath Ram and Charath Ram) Lal was brought back via HAL. And luckily for him, my uncle died of Leukemia a week before he could take over as Air Chief so, Lal made it by the skin of his teeth. He deserved it.
In 1962 Nehru grounded the Air force on US advise and my Dad’s eldest brother’s (Air Commodore R. Sitaram) career came to an end because of his vigorously championing the commitment of Air Power against China. In 1965 my Dad’s second eldest brother (Air Marshal Rajaram DFC) (then AOC in C Western Command) was sacked by Shastri for smashing Pakistan’s reserves (both men and materials) at Peshawar by surprise and bringing the war to a quick and abrupt conclusion. Peshawar was almost out of range for the bombers and there were no long range fighters to provide escort, so he called for volunteers when the met report was favourable. He did not inform Air HQ or MoD of the plan as this would have immediately leaked to Pakistan and doomed the mission. (He was reinstated by Indira Gandhi). After the Peshawar bombing the then Chief of Air Staff (ACM Arjun Singh) was summoned and admonished by Shastri. The exact words used were “Aisa kabhi nahi hona tha”, to which the COAS replied “Phir kabhi naheen ho saktha hai” as the element of surprise was not replicatable. I heard this tale from FM Manekshaw and this was corroborated by Air Commodore Sitaram. (The Air Marshal had passed on from Leukemia a few days before he could take over as COAS long before I got to hear this story) Air Marshal Rajaram, DFC, was given a Padma Bhushan along side Vijayanthimala with Indira Gandhi, as Prime Minister, in attendance at Rashtrapathi Bhavan. He was always embarassed by the Padma Bhushan which pulled an Air Officer down to the level of politicians and entertainers.
I have maintained since the 1970s, for example, that India does not need Aircraft Carriers. It is a doctrine and expense entirely unsuited to India’s military requirements and is simply a “me too” method resulting from the absence of original and purpose made, fit for purpose strategic and tactical thinking on India’s part. What India needs is several nuclear armed nuclear submarines for deterrence, and tiny bases all over the Lakshadweep, Minicoy and Andamans among which attack submarines, helicopters, multi-role fighters, missiles, reconnaissance come depth charge/torpedo amphibian aircraft, long range torpedo boats, and long range light destroyers can be deployed, moved around and concentrated at will. Backed up with a strong Coast Guard and a distributed fast destroyer and attack submarine home fleet..
Please mind your language while referring to a former Prime Minister and a Defence Minister. It is the acquisition by IAF during that period that paid dividends in 1965 and 1971. As far as 1962 is concerned, military leadership is as responsible for the debacle as the political leadership. We had everything to give a good response to the Chinese, but we failed militarily and politically.
Objective & thoughtful! Our recording of mil history at formations/unit lvl needs improvement!
This article early on doubts the view given by westerners by putting the word “experts” in double inverted commas, suggesting them as therefore unreliable, while surprisingly certifying the narrative of Air Commodore M. Kaiser Tufail arguing that he had access to the Pakistani official records, implying that they are more valid, yet at the same time questioning the authenticity of the Indian records only because they are official. One cannot have two parameters to measure the same factor and doing this shows a bias.
This article early on doubts the view given by westerners by putting the word “experts” in double inverted commas, suggesting them as therefore unreliable, while surprisingly certifying the narrative of Air Commodore M. Kaiser Tufail arguing that he had access to the Pakistani official records, implying that they are more valid, yet at the same time questioning the authenticity of the Indian records only because they are official. One cannot have two parameters to measure the same factor and doing this shows a bias.
If the air power of Pakistan was as good as claimed, what explains its absence to counter air attacks by IAF hunters on its tanks at Longewala. There was virtually no air support to the pakistani tank regiment which was being decimated at will by IAF.
It can be said with fair amount of certainity that PAF was a crippled force within a few days after the war began on 3rd Dec 1971, their capability notwithstanding.
In 1971 PAF had gone into defensive mode to fight a 6 month war if required. It was again PAF which threatened to obliterate Trombey & Dimona nuclear reactors that deterred IAF & IDF from attacking Kahuta in 1980’s. PAF pilots have shot down Indian, Afghan, Russian, Israeli |(some say both Iraqi & Iranian pilots). Not many air forces have pilots like these !!!!
Defensive mode, or completely decimated? If they are so defensive then why Karachi port was Blasted like hell fire? Where was your PAF then? And IAF actually gained Air Superiority within few days.
You seem to forget pak was fighting 2 fronts with no shared land border you had soviet active help still in western front pak destroyed over 40 fighters of yours defended west paksitan azad kashmir gilgit baltistan even took chambh from your side of kashmir if you were that determined why didnt you try to use your air force and azad kashmir it was disputed territory
When can we expect to get a factual account of all battles fought by India post independence. All that we have at hand is those boring hagiographic and self exculpatory manuals from our senior defense personnel.
Being proud participant in both wars ,I am pained to go through the narrative by former. CNS .I was based at a strategic base in Punjab in 1965 , I concede we suffered considerable damage during night operations by enemy aircraft mission . but later we had rather mediocre threat or hostility until the ceasefire .In 1971 war , I am proud to recount the martyred sacrifice of Flt Lt Konde of my hunter squadron on first day of hostilities in the eastern theatre . Much to chagrin , Tufail’s account is projected as more authentic and realistic at the cost realities . Agreed , war fought fiercely has to have repercussions on both sides ; but to declare that we did not win is an outrageous and insulting to veterans least being impartial judgement . Yes none wants to accept the follies and shortcomings but objective chronology sans glorification of one group vis-a-vis another will clear the historical clouds .
It has unfortunately become a trend to appear more fashionable, objective and true by going against the grain. As soon as you do that, it appears you are unbiased and probably true because it is natural to have a bias and affinity. I think the writer just wanted to create a flutter and grab headlines.
Just like how difficult it is for me to beleive Roman or Mughal historians on topic related to their kings, it is hard to trust what a Pakistani ex military man writes after losing a war.
There has to be an independent assessment and definitely not a Pak blowing Paki trumpet or an Indian helping him in it.
Admiral Arun Prakash”s analysis is spot on
The important fact was that PAF was completely destroyed in the Eastern Sector very early on and the IAF could bomb at will. This was a major advantage for the Indian Army and Mukti Bahini in bringing about the surrender. Naval Aircraft only had ground fire to contend with at Cox’s Bazar and elsewhere. IAF really needs upgradation for MiG 21. Even second hand aircraft should be looked at. Gripen or F16.
Confirm AJ 34 G?
Though war is the least wanted event in any country’s history, accurate events serve in telling the true facts of the events. Hats off to the author on being candid.
Very well written sir!!
As an Indian, It’s so difficult to find any material that tells us about our own wars or as to how war on our side progressed or the glory that our defence forces brought or the hard lessons we learnt. On the other hand the tales of yom-kippur war, falklands etc are so readily available.
Why not ask our own armed forces scholars to release authentic books that can be available to any military history enthusiast in the country!
Please read ‘India’s Wars: A Military History 1947-1971 by me with comments from Admiral Arun Prakash in it. He mentored me through the book.
I believe that Admiral Arun Prakash has been balanced in his analysis. Luckily the Sidewinder AAM may not have been as effective as Brig Yeager imagined. The point is there are lessons to be learnt from every war especially the ones you fought. We need to put it on record and in public domain. Lessons from military history simply cannot be ignored by either the Govt, the citizen or the soldier.
Flying officer K.P.Muralidharan MIA heroic and gallantry exhibited in 1971 and also eloquently praised by enemy pilot wing comdr Salim Mirza Baig bilatedly is in vain.The IAF recommended bilatedly Maha Vir Chakra three times but the UPA govt in 2010,2012 2014 didn’t consider.They say it is time bar for bravery.It is so absurd and radicouls to a patriotic soldier who sacrificed his life for his mother land.Repeated letter to the President,Prime minister Narendra modi Defence minister in this NDA govt is in vain.They are not interested to give the award posthumously as recommended by the IAF.How can youngster will join the Defence force if the govt attitudes towards our brave soldiers.They are not bothered of the lives lots by the soldiers.Omly we can see crocodile tears rolling.IAF is. Convinced the heroic air battle took over Peshwar air base by Fg.offr K.P.MuralidharanMIA of 20 lightning sqn.It is shame ,shame,shame by the govt of india Hope the new Defence minister will look into this matter and revoke the bad decision taken.The people of this country is hoping for a good news to hear.
Good comment. India’s neta-Babus dislike History because they might then have to face the truth and learn. For example by expurgating “inequality under law” from India’s Social Engineering and Minority pampering Constitution and laws.
India has very little idea of either air power or naval power and has, therefore, never had a strategy beyond “making do” with what we have like a poor cousin rather than arming and training to purpose which would actually be more economical and deliver more power at less cost. They do believe they understand the Army because they seem to resemble to Police with whom every Neta-Babu has reason to be very familiar, and so create polices to turn the Army into another corrupt, incompetent Government Department of Scarecrows good for RD and funeral Parades in the hope of frightening away the neighbours.
Military strategy demands the ability of adequate force to be present wherever threats emerge in quick time with minimal cost and investment.
For example, ACM PC Lal, then a Group Captain was the Technical Advisor on a trip to the US with Jabberlal and Pimp Menon. The US had aircraft parked around the base at Texas and the trio were taken on a circle around the base and asked which lot would India like to buy. Lal wanted to inspect every aircraft first. Jabber and Pimp were aghast and in the inerests of “diplomacy” over ruled Lal and picked a bunch of Dakotas (rather like Maun Mohan Singh and the Faux Art Salesman Honest Antony buying C-130s). An honourable King’s Commissioned Officer by spine and training, Lal resigned. Thanks to his family connections (DCM Bharath Ram and Charath Ram) Lal was brought back via HAL. And luckily for him, my uncle died of Leukemia a week before he could take over as Air Chief so, Lal made it by the skin of his teeth. He deserved it.
In 1962 Nehru grounded the Air force on US advise and my Dad’s eldest brother’s (Air Commodore R. Sitaram) career came to an end because of his vigorously championing the commitment of Air Power against China. In 1965 my Dad’s second eldest brother (Air Marshal Rajaram DFC) (then AOC in C Western Command) was sacked by Shastri for smashing Pakistan’s reserves (both men and materials) at Peshawar by surprise and bringing the war to a quick and abrupt conclusion. Peshawar was almost out of range for the bombers and there were no long range fighters to provide escort, so he called for volunteers when the met report was favourable. He did not inform Air HQ or MoD of the plan as this would have immediately leaked to Pakistan and doomed the mission. (He was reinstated by Indira Gandhi). After the Peshawar bombing the then Chief of Air Staff (ACM Arjun Singh) was summoned and admonished by Shastri. The exact words used were “Aisa kabhi nahi hona tha”, to which the COAS replied “Phir kabhi naheen ho saktha hai” as the element of surprise was not replicatable. I heard this tale from FM Manekshaw and this was corroborated by Air Commodore Sitaram. (The Air Marshal had passed on from Leukemia a few days before he could take over as COAS long before I got to hear this story) Air Marshal Rajaram, DFC, was given a Padma Bhushan along side Vijayanthimala with Indira Gandhi, as Prime Minister, in attendance at Rashtrapathi Bhavan. He was always embarassed by the Padma Bhushan which pulled an Air Officer down to the level of politicians and entertainers.
I have maintained since the 1970s, for example, that India does not need Aircraft Carriers. It is a doctrine and expense entirely unsuited to India’s military requirements and is simply a “me too” method resulting from the absence of original and purpose made, fit for purpose strategic and tactical thinking on India’s part. What India needs is several nuclear armed nuclear submarines for deterrence, and tiny bases all over the Lakshadweep, Minicoy and Andamans among which attack submarines, helicopters, multi-role fighters, missiles, reconnaissance come depth charge/torpedo amphibian aircraft, long range torpedo boats, and long range light destroyers can be deployed, moved around and concentrated at will. Backed up with a strong Coast Guard and a distributed fast destroyer and attack submarine home fleet..
Please mind your language while referring to a former Prime Minister and a Defence Minister. It is the acquisition by IAF during that period that paid dividends in 1965 and 1971. As far as 1962 is concerned, military leadership is as responsible for the debacle as the political leadership. We had everything to give a good response to the Chinese, but we failed militarily and politically.
Objective & thoughtful! Our recording of mil history at formations/unit lvl needs improvement!