Mine Laying & Demining

Mine Laying operations lasted only 3 days but it was the only war-time experience in my military career. I was recalled from leave and directly joined my unit already laying minefields. It was a harsh December (we work only at night). For three gruelling nights we (I led a sub-task force) went on and on. Our team finished its task on time. We laid the minefields as per pre-decided plans. Others parties were forced to orient accordingly, wasting resources at crunch time. Lesson learnt was that often seemingly well-laid plans do not automatically translate into perfect execution. Also, we had laid mines exactly as per teachings, which had implications later. I learnt the importance of "Keep it Simple".

After more than a year, we started demining. It was a significant challenge for us as some fatalities had taken place. Besides, there were a plethora of social and technical issues. It was a great opportunity to show my skills. After days of gruelling operations, I suffered an Injury in the line of duty. As challenging was the job itself, so was bouncing back from the lows of hospitalisation. I took all of this in my stride.

Command

Throughout my career I was fortunate to have relatively independent command opportunities, initially as a platoon commander, then as a company commander and finally as the officiating officer commanding of my present unit. Few officers have such luck. Command is always challenging, be it leading in war-like situations, managing resources, handling HR issues or leading on the sports field. It brings out one's best in leadership and management. I found the overall experience extremely satisfying, in that, not only I achieved and set high benchmarks, but even if there were a 360 degree performance review, I would, unlike some of my compatriots, be confident.

In the Army it is a said that "The Plan" is always the first casualty. However, who fail to plan- plan to fail. With this as the backdrop I shall embark upon a journey approx four years into the future.