Securing the Future

The next morning, Karan walked toward his father's study room, mentally preparing himself for another important discussion. Reaching the grand wooden doors, he knocked firmly.

"Enter," came Maharaja Hari Singh's deep voice.

Karan stepped inside, offering a respectful greeting before taking a seat.

Hari Singh: "How was your journey to the army camp?"

Karan: "It was enlightening. When I first arrived, discipline and training were severely lacking. In the past 20 days, I have restructured their regimen—introducing strict formations, daily endurance training, and modern soldier techniques. We have also initiated an expansion plan, focusing on mountain warfare and ambush tactics to prepare for future threats."

Hari Singh: nodding "You have done well. But tell me, how do you plan to sustain this expansion financially? And how will you prevent British suspicion?"

Karan: "I have already arranged for funding through Ranbir Palace trade operations and upcoming deals with the British. To avoid raising suspicion, we will classify this force as an internal security unit against rebellions. Once we have secured our position, we will restructure it into a proper army."

Karan: "Regarding agriculture, I suggest we use government-controlled land to grow potatoes due to their high yield. We should lower taxes to 20%, with 30% of the production being sold to the government at 80% of the market price. This will encourage farmers while ensuring food security."

Hari Singh: frowning "You want to reduce tax? That is a primary source of income for the kingdom!"

Karan: "Yes, but high taxes burden the farmers, reducing productivity. If we win their trust, they will support us. Economic stability will bring long-term prosperity, outweighing short-term revenue losses."

Hari Singh: after deep thought "Fine. But I expect results."

Hari Singh: "Why are you bringing Bengali refugees into our kingdom?"

Karan: "They are not just refugees, Father. They are skilled laborers—blacksmiths, masons, carpenters—people who can contribute to infrastructure development, manufacturing, and administration. Right now, we lack a sufficient labor force for large-scale projects."

Hari Singh: "Why not use our own people for these tasks? We already have citizens who can work."

Karan: "That is true, but our population is only 4 million. For large-scale development, we need more hands. The British and other major powers have surged ahead because of their industrial workforce. If we want economic growth, we must increase our numbers. Moreover, these refugees are desperate for stability, meaning they will work harder for lower wages, helping us build faster."

Hari Singh: sighing "You intend to use them as cheap labor?"

Karan: "Not just cheap labor. Strategic workforce planning. They will fill roles where we lack manpower, and their skills will be put to use in weapon manufacturing, textile industries, and construction projects. Many of them have suffered in Bengal due to the famine—giving them a home here will also build loyalty."

Hari Singh: "But what about their long-term presence? Will they not become a burden?"

Karan: "That is why we will prioritize skilled workers over ordinary refugees. I have ordered that we screen every migrant—only those with skills or strong labor potential will be allowed in. Additionally, we will settle them in designated areas, integrate them into our society, and ensure they contribute positively."

Hari Singh: after a long pause "You seem to have thought this through. Very well, but I will be monitoring this closely."

Karan: smiling "That is all I ask, Father."

Karan: "Father, we must send trusted people to Europe to acquire technological blueprints, production machines, and land investments. Right now, our economy is too reliant on agriculture, and while reforms will help, we need to diversify our sources of income. Industrialization is the future."

Hari Singh: "You want to send our men overseas? That is a risky endeavor, Karan. We do not have strong diplomatic ties in Europe. How do you propose they gain access to such technology?"

Karan: "By leveraging trade with the British. They are desperate due to the war and will be willing to sell outdated but still valuable industrial equipment for the right price. Our men must study European industries, form ties with manufacturers, and establish trade routes. Even if we bring back just basic textile machines, metalworking tools, and firearm blueprints, it will give us an edge."

Hari Singh: thoughtfully "And what do you plan to do with this knowledge once we acquire it?"

Karan: "We will begin setting up manufacturing sectors in Kashmir. Right now, we are dependent on importing weapons, machinery, and textiles—that must change. With skilled craftsmen from Bengal and proper machinery, we can build our own weapons, ammunition, and industrial goods. This will allow us to compete with British-controlled industries and strengthen our economy."

Hari Singh: "What kind of industries do you have in mind?"

Karan: "Textiles, metallurgy, weaponry, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. Our first priority is setting up cotton and wool mills—we already produce enough raw material, but we lack processing power. We must also invest in gunpowder and explosives production, as it will be necessary for defense. And if we secure medicinal production, we can generate income by selling to war-torn regions."

Hari Singh: nodding "You have a clear vision, Karan. But tell me, how do you intend to fund these ventures?"

Karan: "That is why I propose we use Ranbir Palace's gold reserves for initial investments. Additionally, land purchases in Europe will generate passive income, ensuring we are not solely reliant on Kashmir's agricultural economy."

Hari Singh: after a long pause "I will approve this plan, but with one condition—you will oversee the selection of the men going abroad. They must be loyal, intelligent, and capable of negotiating without drawing suspicion."

Karan: smiling "That is exactly what I intended, Father. We will not fail."

Hari Singh: "Very well. Begin preparations immediately."

With that, Karan left, knowing he had taken another step toward securing Kashmir's future.