India Foundation, in collaboration with the India Habitat Centre, organised a book discussion on the book ‘Alone in the Ring: Decision-Making in Critical Times’, authored by General N.C. Vij, Former Chief of Army Staff on 24 June 2025 at India Habitat Centre.
Amb Yash Sinha, Former High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom, Vice Admiral Anil Chopra (Retd.), PVSM, AVSM & Lt Gen Raj Shukla (Retd.), Member, Union Public Service Commission discussed the book with the author. The session was moderated by Capt. Alok Bansal, Director, India Foundation.
The panelists mentioned that the book is an engaging narrative that provides an insider’s viewpoint on significant events in India’s military history. General Vij, as the former Chief of Army Staff (2003–2005), reflects on pivotal decisions, such as the establishment of the 740-km Line of Control fence, which altered the security dynamics of Jammu and Kashmir, and the formulation of the Cold Start doctrine, which addressed strategic deficiencies exposed during Operation Parakram. His detailed narrative of Operation Khukri, which involved the rescue of 222 Indian forces in Sierra Leone, exemplifies tactical brilliance.
It was argued that General Vij’s account adeptly integrates personal thoughts with strategic analysis, providing insights into the Kargil War, during which he served as DGMO, and the political-military disjunction of Operation Parakram. He challenges the lack of a National Security Strategy and emphasises changes such as the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme, demonstrating his administrative expertise. The book, composed in an approachable manner, attracts both military historians and general readers, although it sometimes falls short in its examination of bureaucratic resistance. Panelists highlighted that the memoir’s strength resides in its forthright analysis of leadership in high-pressure situations, highlighting collaboration and theaterization—relevant subjects in contemporary conflict. Some readers may seek additional personal anecdotes to enhance the strategic emphasis. It was concluded that Alone in the Ring is an essential addition to India’s military literature, providing insights for policymakers and academics and that the book contain a wealth of historical and strategic insights.
