No Mission Impossible  is not just another military autobiography. It offers a riveting, deeply personal account of the extraordinary career of Lt. Gen. J.B.S. Yadava, a decorated general, who has seen and shaped some of India`s most defining military moments. This gripping memoir stands apart by diving into the heart of what it takes to become a military leader in the face of adversity, uncertainty, and often hostile environments.

Spanning nearly seven decades, the book provides a rare and vivid perspective on India`s military history from 1950 to 2018, through the lens of a general who participated in critical events such as the 1965 Indo-Pak War, the 1971 war for Liberation of Bangladesh, and the insurgencies in Nagaland, Mizoram, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir. Lt. Gen. Yadava does not just recount these events—he provides insights into the socio-political, economic, and military contexts that shaped them, offering a comprehensive, multi-dimensional view of the tumultuous periods that shaped modern India.

This memoir is more than a historical account. It`s a powerful critique, spotlighting the often-overlooked gaps in strategic vision in India`s political and military leadership. Lt. Gen. Yadava unflinchingly highlights the flaws in leadership training, development, and the absence of strategic foresight that, at times, impacted national security outcomes. What truly sets No Mission Impossible apart is its candid lessons learned from real-life operations—lessons that resonate not only with those in uniform but with anyone interested in leadership under pressure. Lt. Gen. Yadava offers a frank, ringside view of key military and political decisions or lack thereof that changed the course of history. With its easy flow and accessible language, this book is a must-read for current and aspiring military leaders, defence analysts, and anyone keen on understanding the complexities of leadership in war and conflict. No Mission Impossible is more than a memoir; it is a blueprint for future leaders and a reflection on the cost of leadership when the stakes are the highest.

Lt. Gen. J.B.S. Yadava`s military career spans an impressive 41 years of service in the Indian Army, culminating in his role as Deputy Chief of Army Staff (DCOAS) in 2005. A graduate of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Indian Military Academy (IMA), he was commissioned into the 5/11 Gorkha Rifles in August 1964. Over the years, he has made his mark in some of India`s most significant military operations.

He fought in the 1965 Indo-Pak War in the Sialkot Sector and was wounded in the 1971 War for the Liberation of Bangladesh, earning the Vir Chakra for gallantry in the Battle of Govindganj. His leadership extended to counter-insurgency operations in Nagaland and Mizoram, and as Brigade Commander in Punjab (1990-92), he played a critical role in restoring democracy in the region.

Lt. Gen. Yadava`s leadership continued as he commanded the 8 Mountain Division in the Srinagar Valley (1996-98) and the 16 Corps in Jammu (2001-02), helping to restore peace and facilitate democratic elections. His extensive contributions have had a lasting impact on national security and governance.

Beyond the battlefield, Lt. Gen. Yadava represented India in military diplomacy, leading delegations to the USA, UN, France, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Zambia, Lebanon, and Eritrea. A scholar as well, he holds an MSc, MPhil, and PhD in Military Science and is an alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) and National Defence College (NDC).

Post-retirement, Lt. Gen. Yadava has remained active in public service and corporate roles while continuing to write and speak extensively on military and strategic issues. His legacy is one of dedication, courage, and an unwavering commitment to India`s defence and governance.