This is an encyclopaedic work which provides descriptive accounts of nearly 200 important battles fought by the Indian Army, starting with the battle in Egypt in 1801 against Napoleon’s Army and till the 1971 war with Pakistan which led to the formation of Bangladesh.

The book starts with a brief account of the military history of India generally considered to have begun from about 2000 bc when the Aryans entered and invaded the sub-continent. It then describes the evolution of the Indian Army during the last three hundred years, commencing with the enrolment of Indians by the East India Company in 1640 for the protection of its factories. Ample mention is made of the erstwhile Indian State Forces whose origins date back to much before the advent of the East India Company.

The author then covers in detail the important actions and deeds of valour during the last two centuries which he refers to as Indian Army’s hours of glory. These inspiring acts of most conspicuous gallantry and sacrifice by the various units and individuals have enriched the great traditions of the Indian Army over the years. The author highlights that not just physical but moral courage is essential to achieve victory and glory in any war or conflict.

The battles have largely been selected on the basis of their historical or decisive importance. The author has also included some lesser-known battles which witnessed conspicuous gallantry and extraordinary sacrifice. Description of each action is accompanied by a map or sketch of the battle area and pictures of the battle scenes and the men who won ever-lasting glory. These true accounts describe not only the conditions under which such great deeds were performed but also the sustained efforts and courage that made them possible. The battles are arranged by Regiment for ease of study and reference.

A complete list of Battle Honours won by the Indian Army completes the book.

In this exhaustive account of historic battles and campaigns of the Indian Army since 1801, Major General Chand N Das has restored their shine and lustre, including recording the distinguished service of Indian soldiers in foreign lands, like Korea, Indo-China, Egypt, Lebanon and Congo not only as fighters but also as peace-keepers under the aegis of the United Nations. Like the author’s earlier highly acclaimed work, Traditions and Customs of the Indian Armed Forces, this is a book of undying reference value not just for the Indian Army but also for historians.