The air in New Delhi had become more tense with each passing day.
The preparations for an inevitable conflict with Pakistan were well underway.
Rohan Varma, India's Prime Minister, had spent weeks with his key advisors, outlining strategies for the upcoming conflict, and the military had been preparing intensively.
Now, as reports of Pakistan's increased troop deployments continued to come in, it was clear that the tipping point was close.
They had grown from an initial 50,000 to nearly 100,000 troops along the border showing clear signs of an aggressive buildup.
Rohan sat in his office, reviewing the latest intelligence reports.
The figures were clear: Pakistan was readying for war.
Rohan's plan for a surprise offensive via Rajasthan and Punjab, once discussed quietly among his inner circle, was now being activated.
His goal was not just to defend Kashmir, but to push deep into Pakistan and claim Gilgit-Baltistan.
At noon, Rohan convened his top advisors. General Singh, Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, Harish Patel, the Finance Minister, and Neeraj Kumar, his closest advisor, gathered in his office.
The room was silent
Rohan spoke first, his tone measured but firm. "We're at the brink now. Pakistan has escalated its troop numbers, and they're preparing for a full-scale attack. General, where do we stand in terms of readiness?"
General Singh, always direct, laid out the situation. "Prime Minister, we've increased our troop numbers in the region to over 120,000. We've also fortified key positions along the Border and established strategic supply chains to ensure continuous support. Our logistics teams are working at full capacity, readying for what will likely be a multi-front war."
Rohan nodded, his face set in determination. "Good. We've anticipated this, and we've planned for it. I want to make sure our forces are prepared to execute the strategy we discussed. If Pakistan moves on Kashmir, we initiate the plan to strike through Rajasthan and Punjab. Their forces are stretched thin. We can catch them off guard and move decisively toward Lahore. But remember, our ultimate objective is Gilgit-Baltistan."
General Singh responded with conviction. "Yes, Prime Minister. We've been finalizing preparations for the offensive in Rajasthan. Our forces there will move swiftly once we have confirmation of Pakistan's initial attack. We have the element of surprise, and that will be key to overwhelming their defenses."
Rohan looked to Neeraj. "What's the status on logistics? Are we confident that we can maintain supplies on both fronts if this turns into a prolonged engagement?"
Neeraj, always detail-oriented, had the numbers ready. "Prime Minister, our logistics chains have been strengthened significantly over the past few weeks. We've secured transport routes for both Kashmir and Rajasthan. Supplies, fuel, and ammunition are being stockpiled in key locations to ensure that we can maintain the offensive for as long as necessary. Our coordination between the air force and ground units is also improving. We're ready."
Rohan leaned back in his chair, contemplating the next steps. "Our goal is clear. We cannot afford to be drawn into a long, defensive war over Kashmir. If we want to shift the balance in our favor, we need to go on the offensive and hit Pakistan where they least expect it. Once we have a foothold in their territory, we can use that leverage in negotiations. Gilgit-Baltistan must be our priority."
Harish, who had been quiet until now, spoke up. "Sir, while we're focused on the military side of things, we need to be mindful of the economic impact this could have. The longer the conflict lasts, the more strain it will put on our resources. We need to ensure that our financial system can handle the pressure."
Rohan nodded in agreement. "That's why it's crucial we strike quickly and decisively. We need this to be a short conflict. The longer we draw it out, the more vulnerable we become both economically and diplomatically. Harish, I want you to work closely with the Finance Ministry to make sure we're prepared for any eventualities. Prioritize securing our reserves and maintaining stability in the markets. Investors are already nervous; we need to reassure them that India remains a safe place for investment."
Harish took notes, acknowledging the task at hand. "I'll begin coordinating with our economic advisors immediately. We'll ensure that the financial impact is managed effectively."
General Singh cleared his throat, drawing attention back to the military front. "Prime Minister, once Pakistan makes their move on Kashmir, we'll respond swiftly. Our forces in Rajasthan are ready, and the offensive will begin within hours of any aggression. But we also need to keep in mind that while our strategy is strong, we must remain adaptable. War is unpredictable."
Rohan leaned forward, his gaze intense. "Adaptability is key, General. But we also need to make sure that the objectives remain clear. The moment we strike, the world will be watching. We need to be ready for the diplomatic fallout. We have to frame this as a defensive action Pakistan is the aggressor, and we are responding to protect our sovereignty."
Neeraj added, "I've already briefed our diplomatic teams. They're preparing statements and talking points to ensure that our narrative is clear. Once the conflict begins, we'll immediately engage with the international media to frame the situation in our favor."
Rohan nodded "Good. This isn't just a military conflict. It's a battle for public perception as well. We need the world to see that we are acting in self-defense, that we are the ones seeking peace."
The meeting continued with discussions on troop deployments, air support, and contingency plans.
The logistics teams were already hard at work, ensuring that everything was in place for a swift, decisive campaign.
As the meeting wrapped up, Rohan turned to General Singh with one final instruction. "General, ensure that every commander on the ground understands the stakes. We are not just fighting for territory; we are fighting for the future of India. Our goal is to secure Gilgit-Baltistan, and we will not stop until that is achieved. This war, if it comes, must end on our terms."
General Singh saluted, his expression resolute. "Understood, Prime Minister. We will be ready."
After the meeting, Rohan sat alone in his office, staring out the window at the cold November sky.
The city below was calm, unaware of the storm that was brewing on the borders.
He knew that in the coming days, the decisions he made would shape the future of the nation.
If they succeeded, India would not only defend Kashmir but would emerge stronger, more united, and in control of critical territories like Gilgit-Baltistan.
But if they failed, the consequences would be devastating.
As the sun began to set, casting long shadows over the city, Rohan stood up from his desk, War was never the goal, but if it came, India would be ready.
And they would fight not just for today, but for the generations to come.