General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army, was recently presented with a remarkable collection of books that reflect the spirit of military courage, leadership, and sacrifice. The presentation, held in a ceremonial setting, featured contributions from retired officers and a war widow, highlighting personal and professional journeys in service to the nation.
Among the notable titles was The Saga of Sierra Leone by Lt Gen (Retd) Vijay Kumar Jetley, which documents his command during the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) from 1999–2000. The book provides a detailed narrative of Operation Khukri, a high-risk rescue mission in which Indian troops successfully freed 223 peacekeepers from RUF rebel captivity—an operation often hailed as a rare multinational military success under extreme conditions.
Another deeply moving addition was Nation First by Mrs. Shikha Akhilesh Saxena, the widow of Capt Akhilesh Saxena, a Kargil War hero. Her book offers an emotional window into the life of military families during times of war, focusing on the psychological toll faced by those left behind. Also available in Hindi as कारगिल युद्ध, the book stands as a tribute to the resilience of war widows and the human cost of military service.
All Eyes on Tiger, authored by Col Saurabh Sharma, presents a reflective examination of the challenges and responsibilities borne by commanding officers in active duty. Through personal insights and case studies, the book explores the emotional and strategic burdens of command, bringing attention to the unseen mental pressures of military leadership.
Rounding out the collection was Shoorveer, the autobiography of Col (Retd) Rajinder Kumar Sharma. The book traces his transformation from a young recruit to one of the Indian Army’s most decorated officers, offering readers an inspiring story of determination, courage, and legacy.
The books were handed over to General Dwivedi in the presence of military personnel and family members. The event took place in a venue decorated with military portraits and memorabilia, including the symbolic painting Field of Deeds, honoring the enduring legacy of Indian soldiers.
This literary gesture not only pays tribute to the lives of those in uniform but also strengthens the Indian Army’s efforts to preserve and share its rich heritage through personal narratives and documented history.
