Military Reforms

After General Rajendra Pratap Singh left, Karan sat in silence, contemplating his next moves. Strengthening the army was a crucial step, but an army required food, resources, and funds. A kingdom's strength was not just measured by its military but also by its economy.

Not long after, his butler, Mahadev Singh, entered the chamber and bowed. "Your Highness, your personal servant, Raghav, has returned from the market. He has successfully acquired ten tons of potatoes and ten bales of cotton from merchants in Punjab."

Karan looked up, intrigued. "Good. I had ordered these supplies when I sent people to gather intelligence on Sheikh Abdullah. Did he face any difficulties?"

Mahadev nodded. "The prices have started rising due to shortages in British-controlled territories. The Bengal famine has worsened trade conditions. Merchants are hoarding supplies, expecting prices to soar further."

Karan leaned back, absorbing the information. The Bengal famine had already claimed millions of lives, and the British government's mismanagement was exacerbating the crisis. If trade routes continued to be unstable, Kashmir's food security could be at risk.

"Mahadev, distribute the potatoes to our farm farmers, independent farmers, and trusted landlords—free of charge. Simultaneously, begin purchasing more potatoes without causing a spike in prices. As for the cotton, store it for now."

Mahadev bowed. "As you command, Your Highness."

Karan continued, "Send servants 2 and 3 with 30 soldiers to Bengal. Their task is to recruit craftsmen, blacksmiths, carpenters, and strong laborers, preferably with their families. We need between 10,000 to 15,000 recruits, with a majority being Hindu."

Mahadev noted the orders and left.

Afterward, Karan summoned his maid. "Prepare a carriage. I will visit the Satwari Cantonment military camp."

While traveling, he contemplated how to capitalize on World War II. Recruiting talent for education and research was vital. Additionally, selling food supplies in exchange for British technology could prove advantageous.

"I should also develop black powder and manufacture it here. If I sell it to the British, we can generate funds," he muttered.

Turning to his butler, he added, "Draft a proposal to establish a mint for textile production. Also, gather my most trusted men in Ranbir Palace and prepare a facility to manufacture black powder."

After some time, he arrived at the military camp. Observing the state of the troops, disappointment settled in. Discipline was lacking, and many soldiers were unqualified. Of the 3,000 stationed troops, nearly a third were undertrained.

Frowning, Karan proceeded to the general's office.

Karan: "General Singh, I have assessed the camp. The state of discipline and training is unacceptable."

General Singh: "Your Highness, many of these men were recruited in haste. Resources for proper training have been limited."

Karan: "That changes today. Gather all soldiers at the training ground immediately."

A short while later, Karan stood before the assembled troops. Their formation was sloppy, their posture uncertain. He suppressed his frustration.

Karan: "Men, I see potential, but I also see weakness. That is not your fault—it is the fault of those who allowed mediocrity to persist. But I am here to change that.

From today onward, only those who meet the qualifications will serve. Those who fail will be assigned to auxiliary forces.

The benefits of the army will be clear. During battle, your pay will increase by 40%. If you fall in service, your families will receive a pension of 12 rupees per month, increasing based on rank. If your children are unable to support themselves, they will be provided for until they can. If capable, they will receive a lump sum of 100 rupees and employment according to your rank and contributions."

Excitement stirred among the soldiers. The promise of better wages and security for their families inspired renewed commitment.

Karan: "Obedience is not an option—it is a requirement. Those who fail to uphold discipline will face military action. We will train harder, fight smarter, and emerge stronger."

Thus, the transformation of the Kashmiri army began.