Apple Pickers of Kalaroos: An Untold Story of a Secret Mission in Kashmir

Apple Pickers of Kalaroos presents a gripping account of an extraordinary Indian Army mission set during the rise of militancy in Kashmir. It explores how insurgency, terrorism, and political failures transformed the region into a conflict zone influenced heavily by Pakistan and the ISI.

The narrative combines military insight with historical context, highlighting the challenges faced by soldiers in counter-insurgency warfare. At the heart of the book lies a remarkable operation in which Indian soldiers rescued one hundred and thirty-seven innocent villagers without using weapons or firing a single bullet.

The mission reflects exceptional courage, intelligence, and discipline, proving that bravery is not always measured through violence, but through determination and sacrifice.

The author also reflects on the wider impact of insurgency in India, discussing Punjab, Kashmir, and other troubled regions.

Written with realism and emotion, the book offers readers a powerful understanding of war, survival, and patriotism.

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The Author is a third-generation Indian Army officer and former officer of the 5th Battalion, The Garhwal Rifles, with over 25 years of distinguished service in some of India’s most challenging conflict zones, including Kashmir and the insurgency-affected North East.

He later commanded a Special Operations battalion along the Indo-Tibet Border.A native Garhwali and passionate mountaineer, he brings rare authenticity and operational depth to his writing on counter-insurgency and military life.

He has been awarded the Chief of the Army Staff Commendation Card and the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Commendation Card twice for distinguished service.

He is the author of The Holy Warriors, Battlefield Jaffna, and The Archers. His debut work, The Holy Warriors, inspired by his firsthand experiences in Kashmir, is currently being adapted into a web series.