The biting November air seeped through the cracks of New Delhi's South Block, but inside, Prime Minister Rohan Varma barely noticed the cold.
His office was cluttered with maps, intelligence briefs, and diplomatic cables.
The Korean War had taken a dangerous turn with the entry of Chinese forces, reversing months of hard-won UN gains.
Meanwhile, closer to home, troubling developments demanded Rohan's full attention.
The knock on the door was sharp and familiar. Neeraj Kumar stepped in, his face grim as he held a thick file marked Urgent.
"Prime Minister," Neeraj began, walking briskly to the desk, "we've got credible reports from the western border. Pakistan has started mobilizing troops near key points. There's significant activity in Sialkot and near the Sindh-Rajasthan border. Artillery units have been spotted moving closer to the line."
Rohan looked up from the map he'd been studying.
His eyes narrowed. "They're taking advantage of the global distraction. With the world fixated on Korea, this is their moment to test us. Do we have an idea of their objective?"
Neeraj handed him the file. "Not yet, but it doesn't look like posturing. Intelligence suggests they're prepared to escalate if they sense weakness on our part. Rajeev Sharma and K.N. Rao are assembling additional intelligence. General Negi and the service chiefs are waiting for your call to discuss readiness."
Rohan exhaled, pushing back his chair. "Fine. Set up an emergency meeting in the war room. Let's get everyone on the same page before we decide our next steps."
By evening, the war room was packed.
The walls were lined with maps of the western border, and a large table in the center displayed troop movement markers.
The air was heavy with the hum of urgency as the country's top military and intelligence officials settled into their chairs.
Rohan entered and took his place at the head of the table, flanked by Neeraj Kumar. "Gentlemen," he began, his voice calm but firm, "we're facing a two-pronged challenge: a global crisis in Korea and a local one on our western border. Let's focus on Pakistan. Rajeev, start us off. What do we know?"
Rajeev Sharma, head of the Intelligence Bureau, opened a folder and spoke. "Prime Minister, Pakistan's troop movements have increased over the past two weeks. Our sources indicate that artillery and infantry units have been repositioned near Sialkot and the Sindh border. We've also intercepted chatter about possible involvement of local militant groups, likely to sow chaos in the border villages."
K.N. Rao, head of R&AW, added, "We suspect this isn't just about skirmishes. There's a pattern here they're probing for weak points. It's possible they're preparing for a larger operation. And with the global focus on Korea, they think now's the time to act."
Rohan turned to General Negi, Chief of Defence Staff. "General, how prepared are we if this escalates?"
General Negi leaned forward, resting his hands on the table. "Prime Minister, our forces are well-positioned, but there are gaps we need to address immediately. The 15th Infantry Division is stationed near Amritsar, but they'll need reinforcements if Sialkot heats up. We've also mobilized an armored regiment near Jaisalmer to secure the Rajasthan border. However, any prolonged engagement will stretch our logistics."
Rohan nodded and gestured toward Air Chief Marshal Subroto Mukherjee. "What about air support?"
Mukherjee straightened in his seat. "Our reconnaissance flights have confirmed Pakistan's build-up. We've increased patrols near the border, and fighter squadrons are on standby. If needed, we can provide close air support for ground operations. That said, maintaining prolonged readiness will put a strain on our resources, especially with our commitments elsewhere."
Admiral R.D. Katari, the Navy Chief, interjected. "The Navy's primary focus is securing the Arabian Sea. There's a small chance Pakistan could attempt naval blockades or disrupt our coastal trade routes. We've deployed additional patrols to preempt any maritime mischief."
Rohan listened carefully, his gaze moving from one official to the next. "What's the likelihood of this escalating into a full-scale conflict?"
Rao replied, "Prime Minister, Pakistan knows they can't sustain a prolonged war, but they might try limited incursions or provocative skirmishes to pressure us diplomatically. Their goal could be to weaken our position internationally, especially with the Security Council preoccupied with Korea."
Rohan tapped the table thoughtfully. "Then we can't give them the chance to exploit the situation. General Negi, reinforce the border immediately. I want additional troops in Punjab and Rajasthan. Air Chief Mukherjee, maintain heightened patrols and be ready to provide cover if required. Admiral Katari, ensure our maritime routes remain secure."
General Negi nodded. "Consider it done, Prime Minister."
Rohan's tone hardened. "We'll also need a strong diplomatic strategy. Neeraj, draft a statement for the UN, making it clear that any aggression from Pakistan will not be tolerated. At the same time, we'll engage key allies to ensure we have international backing if this escalates."
The following day, Rohan met with U.S. Ambassador Chester Bowles in his office.
Bowles arrived with his usual energy but was visibly distracted by developments in Korea.
"Prime Minister," Bowles began, "I hope you understand the U.S. is stretched thin with Korea. We're watching developments in South Asia, but our focus is firmly in the Pacific right now."
Rohan nodded. "Ambassador, we're not asking for intervention. We simply need the international community to recognize that Pakistan's actions are provocative and could destabilize the region. A statement of support from the U.S. would send the right message."
Bowles hesitated. "I'll convey your concerns to Washington, but I can't promise anything immediate. Korea has everyone's attention."
Later, Rohan met Soviet Ambassador Semyon Denisov at the Soviet Embassy. The conversation was more guarded.
"Prime Minister," Denisov said, his voice measured, "India has always emphasized neutrality in global affairs. But these border tensions with Pakistan, do you suspect external influence?"
Rohan chose his words carefully. "We don't have evidence of direct interference, but the timing is suspicious. Regardless, India is prepared to defend its sovereignty."
Denisov gave a slight nod. "The Soviet Union values stability in the region. We'll monitor the situation closely."
By mid-November, Indian troops had reinforced key positions along the western border.
In Amritsar, Colonel Anil Singh of the 15th Infantry Division addressed his men before deployment.
"Gentlemen," he said, his voice steady, "we're not here to start a war, but we won't back down from one either. Keep your eyes open and your wits sharp. The nation depends on us."
Further south, in Rajasthan, an armored regiment commander briefed his crew near Jaisalmer. "This desert is our home now. If the enemy crosses that line, they'll regret it. Stay ready."
Meanwhile, Indian Air Force pilots in Ambala prepared for reconnaissance missions.
Flight Lieutenant Meera Kapoor adjusted her helmet, her expression determined. "This isn't a drill. Every flight counts. Let's make sure we see them before they see us."
As November drew to a close, the situation remained tense but under control.
Pakistani troops stayed near the border but refrained from crossing it.
Indian reinforcements and the government's strong diplomatic messaging had sent a clear signal: India was ready to defend itself.
In a late-night meeting with Neeraj and K.N. Rao, Rohan reflected on the crisis.
"This could have spiraled out of control," Rohan said, sipping his tea. "But we've managed to contain it, for now."
Rao nodded. "Our intelligence indicates that Pakistan wasn't ready for the level of preparedness we've shown. They've pulled back slightly, but we can't let our guard down."
Neeraj added, "The international community has taken note of our measured response. That will help if this flares up again."
Rohan stood and walked to the window, gazing out at the quiet city. "Still I would love a war, last time we took Balochistan this time I will take Lahore"