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The year, between covers

As "South Asia Defence and Strategic Year Book 2007" hits the stands, editor Harjeet Singh tells ANUJ KUMAR what makes it special

FIRE AND FORGET The supersonic cruise missile Brahmos is an asset for the defence forces

If it's a yearbook, it has to be reams of statistics interspersed with some drab essays reeking of a babu's intent to please the powers that be. That at least is the impression of a yearbook one has. But turn the pages of "South Asia Defence and Strategic Year Book" and you will be pleasantly surprised. Brought out by Panchsheel, an imprint of Bhavana Books and Prints, the yearbook, for once, is based on the idea of addressing the reader rather than being a number in a library.

Evaluating situations

Says Colonel (Retd.) Harjeet Singh who has edited the book, "Over the years defence yearbooks in India have been replete with statistics without any views. Considering South Asia has become a global defence and strategic hot spot in terms of nuclear issues, low intensity warfare and of course terrorism, there was a need to put issues into the right perspective. Like the U.S. has engaged the region for the rise of India and China as economic engines of future and being central to its plans of global war on terrorism. Here, we asked not only Defence people to contribute but also included the views of journalists and academics. We have not been judgemental but have put forward the pros and cons to inform the decision makers."

Elaborating, Harjeet says, "For instance, the train has come up to Lhasa. Now the Government is free to believe that it's the internal matter of a sovereign country, but the move has its strategic implications."

Colonel (Retd.) Harjeet Singh.

The book uses a diffused definition of South Asia treating China, and some countries of South East Asia as part of it. "Traditionally and geographically, countries to the south of Hindukush mountains are treated as part of South Asia. But for a defence journal it's imperative to include China, Myanmar and Afghanistan as part of South Asia to bring out a clear picture. Even otherwise, China has got an observer status at SAARC and Afghanistan is an associate member."

The focus is not only on neighbouring threats, but on internal matters like the rise of left wing terrorism as well. "The Maoist groups are operating from Pashupatinath to Tirupati and are emerging as a real menace." Another threat that he warns of is the rise of terror groups in Bangladesh. "It is more dangerous than Pakistan for the country is in a state of flux and the economic backwardness make it a even more potent threat."

In the wake of the failure of US forces in diffusing tension after the Iraq war, Harjeet points out the success of Indian forces in such situations. "I believe it's the pluralistic character of the country that makes our forces humane and credible. That's why Indian forces are much sought after in the UN peacekeeping missions."

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