The Sino-Indian War of 1962 is a significant event in the history of modern India. It was a war that caught the Indian army off guard, resulting in a humiliating defeat at the hands of the Chinese. The war was fought in the rugged and remote terrain of the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA) region, where the Indian army faced not only the Chinese army but also harsh living conditions and logistical challenges. Lieut Mohan Singh Bath’s memoir, “NEFA-1962- A Subaltern’s Experience,” provides a unique and personal perspective on the war. Bath, who was a junior officer with only a year of service at the time, gives a firsthand account of the military operations, as well as the living conditions and logistical challenges faced by the Indian army in NEFA.
The book, coming as the voice of the insider, someone who was present in the action provides an insider’s viewpoint and hence presents the story from the unheard and from another perspective. “NEFA-1962- A Subaltern’s Experience” is a candid and insightful memoir by Lieut Mohan Singh Bath, detailing his experiences as a junior officer during the 1962 Sino-Indian War in the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA) region. Bath, who was only a year into his service at the time, provides a firsthand account of the military operations, as well as the harsh living conditions and logistical challenges faced by the Indian army in the remote and rugged terrain of NEFA. While the book is more of a look back, it is also a personalized experience that is real and from the words of Bath as a part of it as well as its witness. Bath’s style of writing in the first person gives the book the required depth which make it relatable for every person who reads it. In that sense, the book crosses the boundaries of borders that divide countries and raises the book to a pedestal of being an incarnation of human experience instead of two opposing forces posing against each other.
“NEFA-1962- A Subaltern’s Experience” is written in a simple and straightforward style, and the author’s sincerity and honesty in recounting his experiences are evident throughout. Bath does not shy away from describing the fear, confusion, and disarray that characterized the Indian army’s retreat in NEFA, which ultimately led to a humiliating defeat at the hands of the Chinese. He also gives a vivid description of the harsh living conditions in the mountains, which included extreme weather, scarce supplies, and poor sanitation. “NEFA-1962- A Subaltern’s Experience” provides a rare glimpse into the experiences of a subaltern who was at the frontline of the war and witnessed its unfolding. Bath’s frank assessment of the Indian army’s preparedness and leadership during the war is a sobering reminder of the importance of learning from past mistakes to build a stronger and more capable military.
One of the most striking aspects of “NEFA-1962- A Subaltern’s Experience” is the author’s frank assessment of the Indian army’s preparedness and leadership during the war. He is also scathing in his portrayal of the senior officers’ incompetence and inability to inspire confidence in their subordinates. Being inspired by true events in text form only gives more depth to the events that happened and the written record ensures enough perspective available for the generations who would be diving into history to learn more about the 1962 life.
Overall, “NEFA-1962- A Subaltern’s Experience” is a valuable addition to the literature on the Sino-Indian War, providing a unique and personal perspective on one of the most traumatic episodes in Indian military history. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of modern India, as well as for those interested in military history more broadly. Bath’s account is a reminder of the sacrifices and hardships endured by Indian soldiers in the line of duty and underscores the importance of learning from past mistakes to build a stronger and more capable military. By giving voice to the unheard, Bath crosses the lines of being only a soldier who served during the war and becomes a representative of the many who fights wars and remains unsung heroes.
Bath’s “NEFA-1962- A Subaltern’s Experience” is a memoir that provides a unique perspective on the war, as it is written from the viewpoint of a Sikh soldier. The book provides an important perspective on the impact of war on soldiers’ mental health. Bath describes the trauma and stress experienced by soldiers and how it affected their morale and ability to fight. Bath’s memoir is a timely reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families. It is a tribute to the brave men and women who serve their country and a reminder of the importance of honoring their service and sacrifice. Hence, this book is recommended to all people, irrespective of their age groups.
