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Reflections on Geopolitical Challenges: A Tale of Two Approaches

 The global geopolitical landscape has been shaped by historical events and conflicts, some of which continue to reverberate through the corridors of power. Two regions that starkly highlight contrasting responses to prolonged hostilities are Israel and India. Both nations have faced existential threats and hostile neighbors, yet their strategies and outcomes provide intriguing lessons for the world. The Creation of Israel: A Historical Perspective The establishment of Israel in the aftermath of World War II stands as one of the most significant geopolitical decisions of the 20th century. Following the Holocaust, where millions of Jews faced unimaginable atrocities under the Nazi regime, the world, led by the NATO powers, sought to provide a homeland for the Jewish people. Israel was carved out of what was then a British colony, in a region with a predominantly Muslim Arab population. This decision sowed the seeds of conflict, as Israel’s emergence disrupted the existing demographi...

In Search of True Brotherhood: A Soldier’s Reflection

  After serving nearly three decades in the Indian Army, I retired as a Colonel, though I carry with me a deep sense of pride and gratitude for the institution that shaped my character and taught me many of life’s most important lessons. The Army remains one of the finest organisations in the country, built on principles of discipline, leadership, and service. Yet, as life often does, it has also led me to question some of the ideals I once held unquestioningly. Last December, our family faced a profound tragedy; the sudden and untimely and tragic loss and passing of my younger cousin,  Prof. Sameer Khandekar , at the age of 50. His loss was not only a devastating personal blow to our family but also a great loss to the nation. As a Senior Professor at IIT Kanpur, his contributions to academia, research, and community welfare were unparalleled. Amidst the grief of those two days in Kanpur, I also happened to witness something extraordinary—the sheer depth of camaraderie and co...