Abstract

The Indian Armed Forces, comprising over 1.4 million active personnel, stand as the world’s fourth-largest military. Post-independence, India’s defence framework has significantly evolved manpower, operational readiness, procurement, and domestic production capabilities. This paper delves into the historical context and significance of military development in safeguarding national security focusing on the post-independence era. It explores the formation and organizational structure of the Indian Armed Forces comprehensively, the integration and joint operation of tri-forces, and the country’s contribution to UN Peacekeeping. This paper also examines India’s defence approach across distinct phases, from 1947 till the present, analyzing the shifts in policy, strategy, and military engagements. Furthermore, the paper provides a comparative analysis of defence policies under the UPA and NDA governments, focusing on budget allocation, indigenization efforts, and geopolitical alliances and strategic partnerships with various countries.

2. Introduction to the post-Independence Era

Historical Context: 

Rooted in ancient civilizations, India’s defence system has undergone significant transformations influenced by colonial rule and global conflicts, ultimately emerging as a contemporary structure post-independence. The World Wars, especially, marked a turning point in global politics, weakening colonial powers like Britain and reshaping historical trajectories, particularly in Asia.

During World War II, the British extracted an enormous price from India and mobilized the resources extensively, with the army extending up to 2,065,554. However, this rapid militarization of inexperienced troops led to early setbacks. Indian forces were deployed across diverse battlegrounds, including North Africa, the Middle East, and Persia. Despite initial challenges, their perseverance turned the tide in critical battles, particularly in North Africa, Sicily, and Italy, solidifying their role in the Allied victory and instilling a sense of pride and competence within Indian military ranks.

In the early years of the 1940s, India was on the edge of a dominant political shift, with many eminent nationalist leaders either imprisoned or in exile due to British suppression. Amid these circumstances, the Indian National Army (INA) was formed in 1942 under Captain Mohan Singh to fight for India’s independence from British rule.

In 1943, Subhash Chandra Bose, also called Netaji, revitalized the INA by taking the army’s leadership. Although the army lost most of the battles against British forces at Imphal and Kohima, their bravery and dedication inspired many Indians and made them realize the potential and capabilities of their military. 

These key phases along with India’s extensive military experience from past conflicts such as the Third-Anglo-Afghan War (1919), the Waziristan campaign that the British Indian Army conducted during (1936-1939), and World Wars I and II laid the foundation for a well trained and, somewhat, professional defence force for India post-1947 which became pivotal in shaping India’s identity as a sovereign nation and helped unify the country.

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