Terrorism has become the preferred way of the weak to challenge the established authority of a state or to coerce a state to bring about a socio-political change in the society. It is not confined to state boundaries and operates as a phenomenon which can draw into its fold people with diverse ideologies and objectives. It has also been termed as asymmetric warfare and has added a new dimension to the nature of conflict, and has emerged as a major challenge for the international community and the armed forces; especially so, during the last decade or so.

      The Sri Lankan insurgency was essentially an ethnic conflict which after ups and downs of over two decades was eventually tackled headlong by the Sri Lankan Armed Forces resulting in a total military defeat for LTTE. On the other hand, the Israel-Palestinian problem is a conflict between two state parties, which has its origins in the very creation of the State of Israel from Palestinian lands in 1948. In spite of three major Arab-Israel Wars (1956,1967 and 1973) and a number of military campaigns undertaken by Israeli Defence Forces against Palestinians and Lebanon, the Hamas and Hezbollah continue to challenge the Israeli State. The recent military campaigns undertaken by the Israeli Defence Forces against Hamas and Hezbollah in 2006 make interesting case studies in application of military power against terrorist organisations under conditions of asymmetry.
 

      The American experience in Afghanistan and Iraq has been quite unique. They have brought to bear their comprehensive Military Power against the insurgents, first in Iraq and now in the Af-Pak Region. The end is not yet in sight. It would also appear that over reliance on technical means for gathering intelligence while relegating human intelligence and not having adequate ‘boats on the ground’ can be counter productive. What lessons can be drawn from the American experience in the global war on terror, particularly in Afghanistan ?
 

      Then we have the case of Pakistan who have followed sponsoring and abetting terrorism in neighbouring countries as a state policy. It is ironic that the same terrorism has turned on the host state itself. Pakistan Army too has brought to bear its full might against the insurgents in the operations conducted by them in Lal Masjid, Swat Valley and recently in South Waziristan. Yet, it is doubtful whether terrorism has been brought under control in Pakistan. The Pakistani experience also requires study.
 

      Keeping the above in view, carry out an in depth analysis of military actions against terrorist organisations by Sri Lanka, Israel, Pakistan and the USA. What are the limitations of military power in tackling terrorist organisations which know no boundaries ? The impact of socio-political considerations at macro level on military operations where relevant, should also be analysed. Are there any lessons for India ?
 

      It is a truism that there is no prize for runners up in war. A nation has the right to expect that its military leaders would not fail or be found wanting in times of crisis. It is the officer cadre which provides the kind of leadership that in turn builds the most important component of national power, the armed forces of a country. Traditionally, an officer has been seen as a gentleman who would be chivalrous at all times and would provide resolute leadership in times of war. In times of crisis, he would not hesitate to put himself at the most dangerous spot in battle and would lead his men by example, even to certain death. At the same time, he would also stand up for what is right, even at the cost of his career. However, of late some doubts have arisen on the value system of the officer cadre as a whole. Media reports have served to bring such misdemeanours into public domain which has further dented the image of the armed forces in society.
 

      The changing battlefield environment due to developments in technology and the changing nature of conflict have brought about a major transformation in the manner in which armed forces have been employed; especially during the last decade or so.  To this must be added the changing socio-economic environment that has thrown up fresh leadership challenges for the officer cadre.  After all, armed forces come from within the society and social trends would, including some negative aspects, may come to be reflected in the forces as well. Civil-military relations are yet another dimension which military leaders have to contend with, especially in democratic societies. In spite of all these changes, the essential character qualities required in a military leader for success in battle remain the same. His personal traits, the way he conducts himself and requirements of professional competence have not changed in any substantial manner over the last few centuries.  He has to still appear above normal human failings and frailties.
 

      It takes a long time to build the reputation of an armed force but it can be dented by adversities quickly. A war or a crisis situation can arise suddenly and it is not possible to forge this instrument of national power (the military) in times of crisis. It is, therefore, important that the Indian Armed Forces are maintained not only in a high state of operational preparedness at all times, but their foundation is built on the highest standards of moral values, military ethics and culture. Their code of conduct has to be exemplary; be it in peace, counter insurgency operations or in war.
 

      In view of the foregoing, carry out a holistic appraisal of the value system and a code of conduct for military officers. Where do we stand today ? What are the values that need to be inculcated in the military leaders to make them role models for their subordinates as well as uphold their image in the society? Does national support play a role in upholding the value system in the Armed Forces and if so, how ? Also suggest measures to instill and maintain high standards of military ethics that would withstand the lucre of peacetime and rigors of war/conflict situations. Is there a case for introspection at different levels and apply correctives from time to time and if so, how can such a process be institutionalised ?