The United Service Institution of India was founded in 1870 by a soldier scholar, Colonel (later Major General) Sir Charles MacGregor. The story of its growth is the story of the growth of the Indian Armed Forces. It was founded for ‘furtherance of interest and knowledge in the art, science and literature of the Defence Services.’
Report on Col. Harpal Singh’s First Scholar’s Presentation
The Centre for Strategic Studies and Simulation (CS3), United Service Intuition of India (USI) organized Col Harpal Singh's first Scholar’s Presentation on 06th March 2023 from 1100 to 1300 hours. The presentation was on the topic "Afghanistan Crisis: India's Conundrum".
Maj. Gen. RPS Bhadauria, VSM (Retd), Director CS3, gave the Welcome Remarks. This was followed by comments given by his guide Maj Gen R S Yadav, VSM (Retd), Distinguished Fellow, CS3. After the guide’s comments, the researcher gave his presentation where he covered two chapters namely the “Geo-Strategic Importance of Afghanistan” and “Stakeholders in Afghanistan and their Interests”. During his presentation he highlighted Afghanistan's geopolitical and strategic importance for its neighbouring counties as also the role played by the great powers. He further pointed out that China is constructing a Chinese township in the suburbs of Kabul, which will give the Chinese an added advantage over India. Post his presentation Lt Gen GS Katoch, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd), the External Discussant, in his remarks highlighted that the researcher needs to focus more on the role played by the US-led IASF as also failure of US and its allies in dealing with Afghanistan. He also emphasised that the current situation in Afghanistan especially, the terror activities may be incorporated. This was followed by Q&A session.
Research Scholar’s Presentation
The Audience
Report made by Dr Madhukar Shyam, Research Assistant at USI