We are saddened by the death of Brigadier Gurmeet Kanwal, who was a towering personality in South Asia’s band of scholars in the field of strategic studies.
I had the honor to personally know Brig. Gurmeet and his wife during our many interactions in Track II dialogues abroad. Though sitting on opposite sides of the table and often having heated debates, there is no doubt that we learnt a great deal from Brig. Gurmeet about Indian military and strategic thought. After the session ended, Brig. Gurmeet would sit separately with young scholars like me during lunch session and in his typical warm style, encourage us. Like many other military professionals of South Asia, Brig. Gurmeet loved to share his experience of serving in the Indian army, which exposed us to many unknown facets of his life.
Brig. Gurmeet contributed a lot to Indian strategic thought through his writings. I would personally always refer to his writings whenever I wanted answers to my questions. He was also quick in responding to queries, which reflected his desire to share his vast knowledge.
His death has created a void that will be difficult to fill. May his soul rest in peace.
