ABSTRACT
The principles of war have been deduced from the lessons of past campaigns, which though not sacrosanct act as guidelines for military planners and executors. The maintenance of the aim is the most important principle of war, where Pakistan was found wanting. India’s political aim of war was kept simple and unambiguous to ensure the return of refugees and the establishment of a government respecting the election mandate. Pakistan’s war aim was a vague “keep India at bay.” Concentration and economy of force were optimised by the Indian army adhering to the basic tenets of operation art. India exhibited exemplary jointness amongst the three services. Pakistan lost the war for many reasons, including violating the principles of war to a large extent.
