Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, June 23: Ashok Bhan- a legal eagle, columnist and geo-strategic expert, has been nominated as a member of 15 member Board of Management of the country’s oldest and prestigious ‘think tank’ United Services Institution of India(USI).
This institution was created by Britishers and established in 1870 by Major General Sir Charles MacGregor in Shimla. It acts as an advisory think tank in India for geo-strategic affairs, foreign policy and national security. It briefs the Prime Minister periodically.
Ashok Bhan has also been designated as a distinguished fellow of the institution.
“Considering your vast experience, knowledge and expertise in strategic & Security affairs, the USI would be happy to confer a designation of “Distinguished Fellow” on you. We shall be grateful if you accept the same,” says the request letter by the Director, addressed to Bhan.
The USI was founded as a society in the furtherance of interest and knowledge in the art, science, literature and advising the Defence Services in geo strategic issues. The institute was initially housed in temporary accommodation in the Indian Army Headquarters, which was then based in Shimla.
In 1908, the institute acquired its own premises near the Cumbermere Post Office in Shimla Hills. Among the distinguished officers who served as its Secretary, was Field Marshal William Joseph Slim in the 1930s.
After independence and the subsequent partition of India, the institute has since been known as the United Service Institution of India. (USI)
In 1953, the institute relocated to New Delhi. The institute operated in New Delhi from Kashmir House until 1996 and its current headquarters is in Vasant Vihar, New Delhi.
The institution also runs, The Centre for Strategic Studies and Simulation (CS3) which is focused on conducting research and analyses on national and international security issues. It leverages gaming and simulation of strategic scenarios, to explore options for wider discussion and consideration.
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