Strategic Ladakh A Historical Narrative 1951-53 and a Military Perspective

by Nath, Rajendra

• ISBN13: 9789385563492
• ISBN10: 9385563491
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2017-01-03
• Publisher: Vij Books India

Summary

The book is an account of the First Indian reconnaissance to Aksai Chin in 1952, though officially the first reconnaissance report reported as per Government records is that of 1956. This report of 1952 by the author brings out the developments that the Chinese had undertaken at that time.

While bringing out the historical, social and cultural aspects of Ladakhi people, the book also delves on the Military and Strategic importance of this region. A brief account of the operations undertaken during 1947-48 war and 1962 war in this region as well as the Strategic Importance of Siachen Glacier (world's highest battleground) has also been covered by the author.

Author Biography

Major General Rajendra Nath, PVSM (Retd). was commissioned in the 11 Gorkha Rifles of the Indian Army in 1947. During his illustrious career in the Army he served in Ladakh, counterinsurgency areas in Nagaland, commanded a brigade during 1971 in Bangladesh in the famous Madhumati battle, commanded a Division in J & K sector and was later Commandant of the prestigious Indian Military Academy from 1979-1980.

He was the first army officer along with Captain Suri to reconnaissance the Aksai Chin area in Ladakh in 1950-51 and submit his report to the Army Headquarters regarding Chinese threat in the area.

After retirement he was active member and contributor of a Strategic Research Centre - at Chandigarh. He has edited a book titled ‘Musharraf's War'.

Table of Contents

Introduction; Chapter I Historical Background; Chapter II Geographical and Economic Survey; Chapter III Social Customs and Manners; Chapter IV Health and Hygiene; Chapter V Economic Conditions and Infrastructure; Chapter VI Religion; Chapter VII Political Scenario ; Chapter VIII Military Importance ; Chapter IX Some Personal Recollections ; Chapter X Indo Pak War 1947-1948 Operations in Ladakh; Chapter XI 1962 India – China War in Ladakh – Some Background Information ; Chapter XII 1962 - India China War – Focus on Ladakh ; Chapter XIII Siachen Glacier and Ladakh ; Chapter XIV China's Future Strategy - It's Impact on Indian Security ; Index