Indian Army in the ancient period describes that the Rig Vedic tribes of Indo-Aryans engaged in warfare with other tribes, as well as with each other. The Rig Veda describes the utilization of horse-drawn chariots set with spikes and weapons constructed with bronze. The other weapons that were commonly employed from the earliest times until about 1000 AD were primarily bow and arrow, sword, spear and axe. A large number of other weapons were also employed as is evident from the ruins of Mohenjodaro, Sanchi, Udaigiri andHarappa. The infantry and cavalry used a long cylindrical pipe and fired it in the manner of a gun of the modern times. This would indicate the active use of gun-powder in ancient India. Further, the ancient army was composed of the infantry, cavalry, chariots, elephants and a commissariat department. Even the admiralty or position constituted a separate department. The higher echelons of command were very well organised and it was considered to be a very efficient system with the large number of military dignitaries and officials. The duties of each person were laid down in great detail which indicates a deep study of the art of war. The composition of the armed forces and employment of balanced forces kept on varying according to the needs of the times. Ample utilization of intelligence strategies was made and the securing of decisions by means other than by often hostilities. Even though chariots and horses were employed, they were more for dignity and show than for obtaining tactical superiority. Later Ashokaformed the espionage section in his army to protect his states.
ISBN: 978-93-89990-02-7
1495
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