In an odd but fundamental way, most Indians love the Indian Army, but refuse to analyse it. We adhere to the separation of civil society and army so strictly that we do not look at the strains, tensions and challenges our army is facing. The army is a value creating institution. The old ideal of unity and diversity was achieved only by one institution -- the army. It used ethnicity and tradition to create a national unity. Where else can you summon Sikhs, Gurkhas Jats, Rajasthanis, Marathas and use their different traditions and create an elaborate unity.

As a literacy creation machine, it success went further than any technology mission dreamt by Sam Pitroda. The army is the foremost disaster rescue and management system today. Its ability to enter any area devastated by cyclone, earthquake, flood or riots is immaculate. It combines discipline and care to rescue our people and leaves the moment civilian authority is restored.

Harshit Shah
BE INFT