A Soldier's General-An Autobiography

Book excerpt: In this engrossing book, General Singh gives us insights into how decisions about the nation's security are taken at the highest levels of government, whether it is Siachen, the conduct of war (Kargil) or the massing of troops on the border (Operation Parakaram). General Singh also addresses some controversial issues, including the irresponsible 'communal spin' given to a case linked to the 'age issue' of the last army chief, which had the potential to rupture the secular and apolitical fabric of the armed forces. Bringing alive the charm and adventure of an army life lived to the full, General Singh also gives us astute analysis of many critical issues: the challenges from Pakistan and China, the threats of terrorism, insurgency and Naxalism, the importance of military diplomacy, and the way forward for the armed forces in a rapidly changing world.