Operational research and other analytical techniques have become a part of the academic scene in most western countries. Their utility even in the Indian context is fast gaining appreciation. Indian defence-whether it be mere analysis or policy-making - is a highly intricate and sophisticated subject calling for equally sophisticated methods of study. The author had the advantage of being actively involved in the problems of Indian defence while working with the government. Added to this, his first hand experience of the situation obtaining in Canada, West Germany, France, the U.K. and the U.S.A. gives him a decided advantage in the introduction of operational research in defence management in India. Certain political and strategic imperatives are also surveyed in the Indian context as a setting to the defence plans against external threats. In addition, the internal insurgency attempts are noted with regard to their threat and future potential. Some analytical models have been presented and case studies have been made with these models and with the aid of computers. The programming approach which is applied to the whole study makes this unique in many ways. Although most of the data was collected in the late 60's through the 70's. the study has been revised completely and updated, mindful of the political changes that have rocked the sub-continent since. Of immense value to defence planners, programmers and of course, the defence personnel, apart from the general readers with interest in defence management of a developing countrv country.
