The Indian Army (Its Contribution to the Development of a Nation)

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Professor Cohen offers the first modern analysis of the British success in harnessing and directing Indian manpower through the medium of the Indian army. Great Britain used this army not only to conquer and rule India but also as an imperial expeditionary force in East and West Asia, and Europe. He describes the organizational and doctrinal innovations instituted by the British that enabled them to count on both obedience and loyalty on the part of their Indian troops.

Professor Cohen explores the origins of the Indian army from its early exploitative role to its extraordinary performance in world war II. He examines the doctrine of civilian control in India, the evolution of the theory of so-called martial races, the relationship between the British officer and Indian sepoy, and ultimately, the Indianization of the officer corps that led to the formation of the Indian National Army. The updated edition of this classic book is essential reading for students of defence studies, service officers, and defence policy-makers.

About the Author

Stephen P. Cohen is Senior Scholar in the foreign Policy Studies Programme of the Brookings Institution, Washington, D.C. and Director of its India/South Asia project. He is the author of the Pakistan Army (1984), and India, Emerging Power (2001)

Excerpts from Reviews

This book is very good value and …required reading for every service officer, and all involved in defence studies or policy-making.'

The author has done an accurate assessment of the Indian Army's capabilities and professional competence to meet the situation.

'… Cohen's updated book is an important contribution. The Indian Army is an essential reading in this drought on an important subject.'