This talk is centered on the Indian Spy R.N. Kao and the Indian intelligence agency R&AW. The author Nitin Gokhale shares insights into the challenges and time constraints he encountered while penning the book ‘R.N. Kao: Gentleman Spymaster’. Ramanathan Kumar discusses the reasons for the formation of R&AW and detailing the rationale behind the final decision of carving out a separate external intelligence agency from IB. He also sheds light on Indira Gandhi’s confidence in R.N. Kao to actualize this vision. The discussion extends to R&AW’s pivotal role in the creation of Bangladesh and in recent times in Balakot air strike. Additionally, the talk delves into R.N. Kao’s persona and the qualities that empowered him to forge such an exceptional agency.

About the Speaker: Nitin A. Gokhale is a leading strategic analyst in South Asia, renowned for his expertise in defense affairs. He founded BharatShakti.in, a prominent defense-related website, and Strategic News International (sniwire.com). With a career spanning over four decades across print, web, and broadcast media, Gokhale has established himself as a media entrepreneur. He is the author of numerous books on national security and frequently lectures at prestigious Indian defense institutions such as the National Defence College and various military war colleges.

Ramanathan Kumar, formerly serving as the Special Secretary at Research & Analysis Wing (R&AW), significantly contributed to various clandestine missions conducted by India’s intelligence agencies.

Sandeep Unnithan is an Indian journalist, author, and defense expert known for his insightful coverage of military affairs and national security issues. He has written two non-fiction books as well.