Shiv Kunal Verma

1962: The War That Wasn't

1. IDEA 1

   India entered an unready war

   Verma describes the 1962 war between India and China as a conflict India entered without proper preparation. He argues that soldiers were sent into high mountains without enough equipment, supplies or planning.

2. IDEA 2

   Forward Policy raised tensions

   Verma explains the Forward Policy, under which Indian posts were set up in disputed areas along the border. He argues this policy was poorly thought through and provoked China without giving troops the means to defend themselves.

3. IDEA 3

   Leaders misjudged the danger

   Verma criticises political leaders and senior officers who believed China would not attack. He argues that poor intelligence, wishful thinking and interference in military matters led to disaster. Warnings from the field were ignored.

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