Will power-Determination
                                  ( Sankalp-in Hindi )

 India's 5 th winter team had been in Antarctica from Dec 1987 to Mar1989.In this about 480 days the teams perfomance had been  unique that no other winter team in the world would have attempted to do.
            One such event is the design and execution of wintering caravan.Even though four winter teams had been there no one had made any arrangements for winter movement.Perhaps no one might have moved out of the research station.But the necessity has come now as India's second winter station "Maitri"  construction had started in Dec 1987 and has to be completed by Mar1989 before Ganesan's team moved out of Antarctica.
                              So there was a need to go to Shirmaachar Oassis hills during wintering period of 1988  which is about 85 Km away where the new station was coming up.The tracked wintering vehicles will have a speed of about 4-5 Km/hr.So about 12 to 15 hrs of drive is required .During this period if blizzard comes one has to stay put  as visibility reduces to zero.For all this there was a need to have a caravan type vehicle/trailer.
                           Explaining all these to the secretary,Department of ocean Development,New Delhi,Ganesan got special permission to modify one of the existing container to suit their requirement.
                    The project was named"Ashrey "and started in March 1988.The steel container was to be cut at different places,and 16/18 mm ply wood used for the design.The caravan is to have accomodation for 6-7 persons,a radio room,a mini kitchen,a toilet.Provision for keeping food and other items are to be made.Frozen items like mutton,fish etc can be outside of the container as the wintering temperature is always -30 -40 * c.
                       The team had worked for day and night as the Polar night was fast approaching.Once sun goes down there will be no day light for about 4 months.By 20 April 1988,the project was completed and was to be inaugurated the next day.But on the next day there was blizzard and could not be conducted.Another day was fixed and unfortunetely that day also had blizzard .
                            This time Ganesan decided to change the name of the caravan to "WILL  POWER " and requested members to suggest suitable name in any language.Accordingly name "SANKALP " was selected and a day was fixed for inauguration.
                   But unfortunetely on that day also there was blizzard and even stronger than previous days.But Ganesan did not stop.The team lifted a portable 1.5 KV generator to the container and boiled milk,did pooja and had ready made "suji halwa "as prasad.

                           To day it is almost 30 years old.Sankalp with other modifications in accordance with technological developments still going strong I believe.

                                Long live "Fikar Not Fifteen " (5 th winter team )

                   Sankalp made frequent trips to Maitri during 1988 .Here Sankalp at midway between Dakshin Gangotri and Maitri'






 

                              Wintering at Antarctica ....3
                                              A 
                             Demonstrative Performance.......

      With in  few days of isolation at Antarctica all the members of 5 th winter team realised that they are under different type of Leadership.Ganesan started inter acting with the team individually and collectivlly,both on official and personal matter.

           The wintering members are given 6 mts per month on inter national sattellitte communication net work to talk to their families.Those members who had direct telephone facilities had used this.some members contacted their friends and neighbours ant through them they spoke to their families. After a telephone conversion with their family members like wife and children  the members morale used to be high and they even shared their family news with other members.

                         Ganesan kept on observing these and maintained a confidential file on all members.The team had cook Mr.Singh from the Indian Navy. He was the youngest in the team and a bachelore.He had no telephone connection to his family members.It was about 3-4 months of wintering.Ganesan was discussing with Mr.Singh about his family and why he did not speak to his family members.

        
                      An interesting story opened.He was native of Chamb-Jaurian an remote village in Indo -Pak border near Jammu.In the 1971 Indo-Pak war Chamb-Jaurian was bombed heavily by Pakisthan and the area was captured by them.Even after the cease fire Pakisthan did not return that area to India.All those indians from that area came as refugees and Govt had allotted lands to them near Samba.Now Mr.Singh's parents are living in that small village near Samba.So he did not bother to make any arrangements for telephone conversation.He is very happy at Antarctica and hence did not worry about his family.

                After this interview,Ganesan thought for a while.Even though Singh is young and not worried about his parents After some time of loneliness  and while others talk about their family etc a depression may creep in to Singh.He being a cook this may affect his interest in his work.So Ganesan took his parents address.He being an Army officer had served in Samba area and also thoruoghly aware of the 1971 war and the massacre of Chamb-Jaurian by Pakisthan's tanks.

                  He contacted his friends in Delhi and through them came to know another close friend serving at Jammu.He got his appointment details and contacted him requesting for a help. That friend was thrilled to hear Ganesan's voice and that too from Antarctica.Ganesan gave him Singh's parents address and requested him to locate them.If they are located then on a particular date and time the complete family members must be in Jammu near the telephone on which Ganesan is now contacting them.The Jammu friend promised Ganesan to do the needfull immediately and Ganesan would contact again  to confirm these things. So Ganesan contacted Jammu friend in the evening and was very happy to know that things have moved as expected and that  Sing's parents would be there at 10.00 oclock in the morning next day.

                                          The 15 member team with col Ganesan at top.

                         Next day at 10.00 AM according to India timing  Ganesan called Mr.Singh to the radio room  and told him to speak to some friend on telephone.Ganesan contacted Jammu and his friend gave the phone to Singh's father.He was speaking in punjabi.Ganesan gave the phone to Singh.
The moment contact was established there was great outburst of happiness at Antarctica as well as at Jammu.All Mr.Singh's family members had come to Jammu.His father,mother,brothers,sisters and others.
                    Singh spoke for 23 mts on that day in the international Sattellitte communication .After the call ended Singh came out of the radio room in emotional tears  and fell on Ganesan's feet.He just could not control his happiness and  it was un believable for him.

                   Ganesan consoled Singh and told him that he is under different leader and as days passed the 5 th winter team may witness  many such things.

                      Leadership and management are two different aspects.Leadership is of the spirit;its practice is an art.while management is of mind;its practice is a science.Managers are necessary;but Leaders are essential.

              The Indian 5 th winter team started realising Leadership.

                                                                                      To be contd.......

                                  காக்கை உட்கார.........பனம்பழம் வீழ.....
                                ( சில நிகழ்வுகள்........சில விளைவுகள்......)

        திருவாரூர் மாவட்டம் சன்னாநல்லூரில் பிறந்து வளர்ந்து வந்த எனது வாழ்வில் சில அசாதாரண நிகழ்வுகள் நடந்துள்ளன.அவைகள் எனது மனதில் சில உண்மைகளப்  பதிவிட்டிருக்கின்றன.

                      எண்ணங்களின் சீரமைப்பு எதேச்சையாக நடந்து எனது வாழ்க்கை சரியானதடத்தில் செல்ல உதவியிருக்கின்றன. இவைகள் இதை வாசிப்பவர்களுக்கும்  உதவும் என்பதால் அவைகளை இங்கே பதிவிடுகிறேன் 

1.கிணற்றில் வீழ்ந்தது.
                  நாலைந்து வயது சிறுவனாக இருந்தபொழுது  சுமார் 10-15 அடி  ஆழ கிணற்றில் வீழ்ந்துவிட்டேன். நீச்சல் தெரிந்திருந்ததால் மேலே நின்றுகொண்டிருந்த அண்ணனால் காப்பாற்றப்பட்டேன்.

                             இளம் வயதில் நீச்சல் தெரிந்திருப்பதும் சுறு சுறுப்பாகவும் இருப்பது அவசியம்.

2.தண்ணீர் விளையாட்டு.

                     கிராமத்து சிறுவர்களிடையே தண்ணீரில் விளையாடுவது  சர்வ சாதாரணம்.இந்த விளையாட்டு ஒரு முறை வினையாகி இன்னொரு சிறுவனை விரட்டிக்கொண்டு தண்ணீரில் சுற்றிச்சுற்றி  நீந்தி நடு  குளத்தில் அவனைப்பிடித்து தண்ணீருக்குள் அமுக்குக்கிப்பிடிக்கிறேன் .அவன் திமிரத்திமிர  அமுக்கியபொழுது  "அவன் இறந்துவிட்டால்....."என்ற எண்ணம் எழ அவனை விட்டுவிடுகிறேன். அன்று அவன் இறந்திருந்தால் ..........

                          சிறுவர்கள் சீர்திருத்தப்பள்ளியில் நான் .........

3.நாவல் மரத்திலிருந்து வீழ்தல்

                          மரம் ஏறுதல் ,உச்சி மரம் வளையும்போது அடுத்தமரத்திற்கு தாவுதல் போன்றவை எனது இளமை விளையாட்டு.ஒருமுறை நாவல் மர உச்சி கிளையில் நின்றுகொண்டு மேல் கிளையைப்பிடித்து உலுக்குகிறேன் .மரம் ஏறத்தெரியாத சிறுவர்கள் கீழே சுட்டப்பழம் சாப்பிடுகிறார்கள்.இந்நிலையில் திடீரென்று இரண்டு கிளைகளும் முறிந்து நான் கீழே விழுகிறேன் .கையில் பிடித்திருந்த கிளையை விடாததால் அது கீழே மற்றோரு கிளையில் மாட்டிக்கொள்ள நான் அப்படியே தாவிப்பிடித்து சர்வ சாதாரணமாக மரத்திலிருந்து இறங்குகிறேன்.

            அன்று நான் சுமார் 15-20 அடி  உயரத்திலிருந்து விழுந்திருந்தால் .........

4.சமையலும் நானே .....சாப்பிடுவதும் நானே.......

                    எஸ் எஸ் எல் சி தேர்வுகள் எழுதுகிறேன்.அம்மா தஞ்சாவூர் மருத்துவ மனையில்.வீட்டில் தங்கை மட்டுமே பெண்.காலை 4 மணிக்கு எழுந்து சமையல் முடித்து 5 கி.மீ தூரத்தில் உள்ள பள்ளிக்கு ஓடி காலைத் தேர்வு எழுதுகிறேன்.பக்கத்து கோவிலில் உட்கார்ந்து தயிர் சாதம் சாப்பிட்டுவிட்டு பகல் 2 மணிக்கு அடுத்த தேர்வு எழுதிவிட்டு வீட்டுக்கு ஓடுகிறேன்.தேர்வு முடிந்து வீட்டில் ஆடு மாடுகள் மேய்த்துக்கொண்டு விவசாய வேலைகள் பார்த்துக்கொண்டிருக்கிறேன்.

                         அன்று நான் தேர்வில் தோற்றுப்போயிருந்தால் ............

5.பதினாறு வயதில் கல்லூரி விடுதி வாழ்க்கை.

                       

                                                           Wintering At Antarctica -2
                                                        A 
                                   Demonstrative Performance.

        We had seen that wintering at Antarctica is not a routine act. Inspite of changed environments,scientific developments  ,higher educations  wintering at Antarctica still remains as struggle between man and the extreme environment.In this battle of nerve man can never challenge nature. If he survives  and remains in good health after wintering at Antarctica that it self a  proof  of great success.

                      Colonel Ganesan came to Antarctica after a thorough preparation  and physically,mentally and psychologically strong enough to face the extreme climatic conditions of Antarctica.He had analysed the heroic race between Robert Falcon scott of UK and Roald Amundsen of Norway and the trumph and tragedy of their race to reach the South Pole.The repeated attempt of Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton to engrave his name in Antarctic History will certainly be an eye opener to all those who wants to know more about Antarctica.

              Colone Ganesan had repeatedly studied again and again Shachleton's "Endurance"expedition to walk 2900 km from weddell sea via south pole to Ross sea.The ship endurance was trapped in ice and the ship crushed destroying the dream of Shackleton.But shackleton ,the great Antarctic hero,struggled 522 days in the open sea and brought all his 28 men safe.

                        This shows not only men should think extra ordinary but be bold to execute his plan.This had blown open Ganesan's mind and his wintering plan was something different which no one thought off.So his team members were ever willing for adventure and try new fields.They were told by the out going team  that hot water making plant was not working properly and hence there must be restriction on water usage.Where as Ganesan's team strip opened the plant thoroughly overhauled and re fitted.water was flowing like avalanche and the team had hot water bath twice a day.

                    The team decided to have puja on every saturday and on the first puja all 15 members came in different outfit.Ganesan thought that for sanctity and uniformity all must be in same outfit.There were plenty of sealed boxes which were lying un opened since first expedition. Ganesan ordered to thoroughly search the station and found about 300 white double bed  sheets. There was sewing machine and two of his team members were knowing stitching.so in the next 3 days all the 15 members had white pyjama-kurtha and ready for next week puja.

                      The greatest enemy in Antarctica is idleness.Ganesan designed many activities which kept the team always buzy.TheRussian's administrative base was  near india bay.so once in 2-3 months their convoy with about 6-7 men will come to their adm base and call on Ganesan.When they came next time Ganesan had organised Indo-Russia 6 sided football matchat  in -34 degree. This was videographed and later  when played at National college Bangalore  evoked great enthusiasm  and Dr.Narasimaiah,vice changalore had all the praise for Ganesan.

                   The blizzard at Antarctica is most dangerous thing.visibility goes to zero.If you are otuside the station and can reach the station with in 5-10 mts then try.But if you are little away stay put where ever you are. If you try to be hero and try to come back you will loose the way and perhaps be blown away to unknown destination.

                           Ganesan had made a walking ring of about 100 feet radius arround the station and fixed different land marks like empty barrel,bamboo pole wooden sleeper etc to identify direction and distance.Rope was tied arround the ring .on a blizzard day the team members two two each will come out of the station and walk along the ring holding the rope.It is just to feel the effect of cold and blizzard .. After all of them return to station they will have good snakes and tea.

                      Ganesan is of the opinion that life has to be enjoyed all along the way;not at the terminal.so one must be  active as much as he can according to his age and capability.Always count your blessings and not the problems. Happiness is a state of mind ;so dont look for happiness outward but look inward.

                 We all know that polar night which is about 4 months at Dakshingangotri is the most idle period as  there is no sun. but Ganesan had designed many indoor and out door games  both individual and team events  that the polar nigt period was the most buzy and active period of wintering.

               Every man has got the nature of deviating from straight line.If you close your eyes and walk on pre marked sraight line ,after about about 20 steps you will find yourself deviated either right or left. Ganesan had tested all his winter team members and told them to be aware of their deviation. He also had given instruction that there will be no out side movement during blizzard. Inspite of that an event took place at Dakshingangotri.

                          It was 19 September 1988.Out side slight blizzard was blowing.Time was about 4pm.Ganesan was on night duty previous night and hence was taking rest.Suddenly there was knocking on the door. Ganesan opened the door and found 2-3 members were standing in a worried state.The matter is this;
                                    One of the Met scientist is missing from the station.The station had two metrological scientist and they were recording Met Datas  every 3 hours. They both perform duty on shift basis.The one on rest was playing chess in the hall and saw the one on duty going out to take 3 oclock reading. He casually observed after some time  that the scientist who went out side did not return.He went to the laboratory and saw that  the 3 0clock reading not entered.He alerted all other members and station was searched.The scientist was not in the station. That means he had gone out side and did not return.
                        So what to do ?
    They knocked the door and reported to Col Ganesan.
                  Ganesan ordered rest of the members to assemble in the hall.
            He ordered.
1.Doctor to get first aid equipments,hot water bags ready.
2.No one will go out on his own in search.
3.Get 200 feet nylon rope.
4.One bachelore member will accompany Ganesan and go in search out side.
5.Incase Ganesan did not come with in reasonable time who should be next team to go insearch.
6.Medical officer will be temporarily incharge and he will not leave the station.
7.Since blizzard  was going on all safety measures are to be observed by all.
8.Put on emergency light and blow electric siren continuously.

              The fully buried station.Life saving escape shaft with ladder leaning can be seen.Col Ganesan standing near the Met instrument box from where the scientist was unable to reach the Station

                        With these instruction Ganesan  and his assistant cilmbed the 20 feet vertical ladder and then got down through the sloping ladder to the ice surface.Tied one end of  the nylon rope to the ladder and other end was tied between the two.Since blizzard was blowing arround 50-60 knots visibility was not there.The kept on crawling to the likely places snd shouting the scientist name.They were moving in a sytematic way from one to other end.after about 20 25 mts search they stumbled over half buried  scientist.Ganesan and his assistant dragged the scientist to the base of the ladder and with the the help of other members the scientist was taken to the generator room.The genrator exaust was blown to the scintist body.The ice covered on the body slowly melted.

                        Once the ice on the eye lashes melted he slowly opened his eyes.

                  "*********...... Re born ( name avoided ) A special birth day party was organised on that day.

                There were   many such thrilling moments.May be some will come out if any one wants to know.
                                                                                        To be contd............

                                                    Wintering at Antarctica

       Wintering at Antarctica is the most adventurous service.It is the most hazardous struggle between man and the extreme environment.In the entire world only some 800 people winter at Antarctica.About 60 countries have got their research stations at Antarctica and all of them do not maitain wintering team.

           The wintering team undergoes a great physical,mental and psychological battle firstly with their inner self and secondly with out side world.Isolation and loneliness  is the biggest enemy  and the winter team fights this enemy individually and collectivelly.

                  So one can imagine the burdon of reponsibility of the wintering station commander.Firstly he should keep himself fit and then organise team activities.The team members should understand the antarctic mental temperment and co-operate for individual well being and Team's success which will ultimately contribute towards National image.

               On 24 Feb 1988 the Indian 7 th expedition members made a hapazard and huried exit from the Antarctic Area with out any Farewell to the 5 th winter team which was a National shame on the part the expedition leader.The weather was certainly bad as the blizzard was blowing about 100-150 km/hr and likely to continue for few days.But these hazards are part of an expedition and one has to face  and solve.You can not run away from a battle front.

                          Col Ganesan expected the country which has choosen him for a National responsibility will strongly stand behind him.But the un ceremonial exit of the 7th Expedition had shown different attitude  of higher level .So Ganesan determined to fight a lone battle and will not let down the country in the world forum amongst the Antarctic member countries.

                      After receipt of the fax message from the expedition leader about their departure,Ganesan called for a meetting of the winter team at Dakshingangotri.The station though buried into ice was quite comfortable once you reach inside.but to reach inside one has to climb about 15 steps in a ladder ,reach an escape shaft and vertically climb down to the floor of the station.

            After selection as station commander and before his departure to Antarctica Ganesan had about 6 months time.During this period he had studied many expedition reports and had met past members of indian expeditions.Out of all these experience Ganesan had prepared excellent notes about his complete wintering period.For example sitting in india in june 1987 he had written notes about what  all he should do in June 1988 at Antarctica.
                 By and large he had mentally lived and experienced Antarctica before he boarded the ship.
          So,Ganesan was bold enough to face the situation on 24 th Feb 1988 when the 7 th expedition made an un ceremonial exit from Antarctic coast.

                     Being a dedicated military officer he took the entire team in one fold and the daily routine went on well like a well oiled machine running smoothly.

                      But Ganesan was shocked to see that the Department of ocean development did not perform a honest bussiness about the whole expedition.They had taken very lightly about some of their failure which seriously affected the winter team.For example they did not send suitable gloves for the team and their promise of sending them through Russian ship did not take place.They had given written statement that alternate accomodation for the winter team is available and that Dakshin gangotri is like a 5 star hotel.Where as the alternate accomodation had sunk into ice with in 2-3 months of construction and Dakshin gangothri is like alive death trap sunk 15-20 feet into ice .the first floor window had been modified as door and that too gets covered during blizzard.A life saving escape shaft had been construted with ladder both inside and outside for movements.

                All these things put Ganesan on the offencive and he started blasting out the officials who are responsible for conducting Antarctic expeditions.

                    But at the same time Ganesan and his team was performing extremely well setting new trend for wintering as the unified team was always in high spirit.Each member was individually gaining great experience and his co operation and contribution for team work was superb.For example the post graduate surgical specialist doctor did not hesitate to take showel and join the team for snow clearence. A carpenter will assist the indian instituete of geo magnetism scientist in his work.Of course needless to say Col Ganesan was every where in assistng the team.

                         At the time departure from Goa Ganesan's wife met with a minor accident and fractured her leg.With bandagged leg she came to Goa to see of Ganesan.Secretary Dept of ocean development  took simpathy on her and told her a confidential note about Col Ganesan.After all medical and psychological tests of members the specialists were of the opinion that Col Ganesan would be a different type of officer and his conduct of wintering will open new path which will be for good.This the secy told Mrs Ganesan and boosted her morale and requested her to be happy.
          
                       Ganesan was the oldest member of the winter team but he is the fittest officer to winter.so Ganesan had systematically planned the year long wintering activities and was going smoothly.After 21 March 1988 the sun started going down and after few days it was total dark .The polar night at the poles is about six months and at  Dakshin gangotri which is about 1000 km short of pole  used to be about four months.

                        21 June is the mid winter day .All member countries exchange greetings for happ and safe wintering.Ganesan received greetings from then American President Ronald Regan,Japan,Soviet union,UK,East Gesmany,Suth Africa.Indian station was having radio contact with these stations.

                        Ganesan took the land convoy 2-3 times to shirmachar oassis where india's second station was coming up. En route had friendly meeting with  soviet union station Novolazaravskia and East German station George Foster. invited them for india's independence day and Republic day.similarly Ganesan and his team participated their National functions.

                  By and large indias 5 th wintering was going smoothely .In November 1988 an international polar inspection team landed at Dakshingangotri in a ski fitted IL-14 small aircraft.Ganesan received them well and conducted arround the station.They had refreshments and exchange of gifts.Their leader Dr.Chellingarov,soviet union minister for hydro metrology was having all the praise for indian team and their high morale and in appreciation presented a wrist watch to Col Ganesan.
                     On 20 Dec 1988 the 5 th winter team had camp fire followed by final Pooja and was ready to receive the 6 th winter team. Ganesan remembered his reception when he landed about a year before.So now he had planned a reception which will be a land mark in Indian Antarctic history.

                   The team was geared up to put on ground all Ganesan's ideas.A very big banner "welcome indias 8th expedition and 6th winter team " was put up.About 15 boards were put up representing all the departments participating in wintering.A hydrojen gas filled baloon (about 8 feet diameter ) was prepared, National flag was tied to that and was flown at about 100 feet high and tied with strong nylon rope. A royal path way from the station to the helipad was laid and members will stand on either side  to welcome the new team .A radio was put up out side the station and will play MS Subbulakshmi's "swaagatham " welcome song. A low loading trailer decorated with departmental flags of all units and fitted with mike and amplifier  will bring the new team helipad to station. 

                            Colonel Ganesan will receive the team at the helipad.
                                                                                  Two escorts  in snow scooter will be pilots.
            The team was in high spirit to receive the new members.

               On the contrary let us see the mind set up of the new team.We are aware that Ganesan was head and shoulder  above the expedition organisers  and now and then he had blastered them for their incompetence and poor performance.So an imaginery pen picture about Ganesan was painted to the new team leaders that Ganesan is an arrogant  and rough leader and be carefull in dealing with him.They were mentally prepared to a violent and abusive reception.

                                 Message was received by Ganesan that indias 8th expedition leader and two winter team leaders and captain of the ship will land at Dakshingangotri on 21 December 1988 to pay compliments and greetings to indias 5 th winter team.

                                      With these different views the teams were ready to meet.

        On 21 Dec 1988  at about 1800 hrs (24 hrs sun ) the Airfoce MI-28 helicopter landed at the marked place.India's Film Division rep got down first to record the events.As the leaders one by one got down the music was on full blast.Ganesan was standing in an  highly decorated colourfull arena.

                               The new team leaders were wonder struck and stunned to see the station decoration.As gods representative Sqn Leader K S Gill who brought Ganesan  to Antarctica about a year before ran towards Ganesan and lifted him. He shouted at the top of his voice "Colonl Ganesan ,the great ! ! Colonel Ganesan the Great ! !.

                        The new leaders were still standing at the place they got down and perhaps was in a trance.They just could not believe their eyes.As thy slowly moved forward and garlanded Ganesan .Ganesan slowly introduced all his team members as they moved forward and came inside the station.Every where there was ample display showing pride and honour of our great country and all members of Ganesan's team were in very high spirit and morale. 

                        After some time the new expedition leader spoke to Secretary,Department of Ocean development,New Delhi and reported their arrival.He could not avoid his emotion about the reception and said,Sir

                "Colonel Ganesan  is a jewell of this country and he has demonstrated it today "
                                  ..............more

                                      Station commander
                     Indian Antarctic Research Station
                             Dakshingangotri

             Ganesan was finally on board ship M V Thuleland on 26 Nov 1987 at Goa,Maharashtra port.He was appointed as Dy Leader of 7 th Indian Antarctic Expedition and Station Commander of Indian Antarctic Resaerch station Dakshin Gangotri for the period 1987-89.

                             Mrs Ganesan and the children came to Goa to bid farewell to Ganesan.There was ocean of responsibility on the shoulder of Mrs Ganesan for the next one and half years.Brother-in law Mohanakrishnan (Balaji ) also had come to see off.

                  As the last load helicopters of the Airforce and Navy were loaded.Finally the ship De anchored arround 4.00 PM ON 26 Nov 1987.Ganesan met all the 14 members of his winter team
for the first time and every one introduced themself.

                       The winter team was a conglamorated group.3 from Army engineers,4 from Army EME,4 from Indian Navy,2 from Indian Metrological Dept,1 from Indian institute of geo magnetism 1 from Army Medical corps (Doctor-surgical specialist )

                       Similarly the team came from J&K to Kerala.To be specific 1 from J &K,1 from Himachal Pradesh,1 from Delhi,1 from Madhyapradesh,1 from Maharaashtra,1 fom Andrapradesh 1 from Assam,4 from Tamilnadu and 4 from Kerala.

                          Command and control was not a problem as Ganesan has come just after  3 years Engineer Regiment Command.Language also was not a problem.So Ganesan was fully on home ground .Since he had thoroughly studied past Antarctic expedition reports and that of great explorers  he was fully prepared to face the wintering at Antarctica like an Army commander battle inoculated for war with unknown enemy.

                      On 21 December the Expedition reached Antarctica.En route while crossing Equater and while crossing 40-60 Degree latitude they had tough time reminding of the english movie "Possidon Adveture"where the ship capsise and passengers struggle for survival.

                   Imediately on anchoring at Antarctic coast ,the expedition leader and Dy leaders took a helicopter and went to Dakshingangotri to greet the 4 th winter team leader.There were 17 members wintering.On receiving our message that we will be visiting 4 members came out and standing under a bamboo pole in which India's national flag was flying.Rest of the team were busy in their works.

           The helicopter reached 70.0*E,12.05 * the latitude and longitude co ordinates where the Research station was located.The pilot was not able to trace the station as it was fully buried and sunk into ice.The leader insisted to lower down and a thin line of  roof line was noticed.Now the pilot was able to see the four men under our national flag.

                        The leaders got down and  a person presumed to be the 4 th winter team leader came forward and shook hands.Col Ganesan was introduced as 5 th wintering leader  who would be taking over from him.
               It was a sad affair as no pride or enthusism was seen on their faces and other members did not bother about the arrival of new team.Sqn leader K S Gill the pilot of the helicopter had a pathetic look at Col Ganesan about the threatening time he and his team going to have during 1987-89 wintering.
                   On the contrary Ganesan had smiling face and full of pride that he will demonstrate to the world about wintering at Antarctica and his leadership qualities during his time at Antarctica.

               The routine of unloading of stores handing and taking over of the station started.

 The 1987 Dec-1988 Jan,Feb period at Antarctica experienced un presidented weather  interrupting the normal summer actvitiec.With the result the team was running short of time  and work was resorted 24 Hrs non stop .Being polar day sun was there 24 Hrs helping them.

              
              Inspite of all efforts the Blizzards over took us and many tasks were unfinished.On 24 Feb 1988 a heavy blizzard was forming up and captain of the ship suggested to De anchor and move the ship to deep water.All summer team personnel were called to the ship and winter team concentrated at Dakshingangotri.

                  As expected the blizzard in full blast started and the ship kept on moving deeper and deeper.At about 1600 hrs on advice from the captain of the ship ,the expedition leader sent a Fax message to Col Ganesan.

                      " Deeply regret to bid you farewell  like this ,as we are set to move further North  due to un avoidable circumstances.we are departing to India.Take care of you and your team.God Bless."

               Ganesan expected this.
    So on 24 Feb 1988 india's 5th wintering Started.

                                                                                                        To be contd........

                                                  Exposure to National Mission

            All officers short listed were lined up in Engineer in Chief office ,Delhi.The staff officer went inside and briefed the E in C.He was surprised to see the name of Ganesan.The staff officer explained that it was the same officer ,commanding 4 E R and who gave reply that he was doing no training.
             The E in  C smiled and told to call Ganesan and disburse other officers.Ganesan went inside and saluted E in C.Gen Rai had all the praise for Ganesan for his uprightness and blunt approach and declared that he would be the wintering Leader of INDIAN RESEARCH STATION.He assured Ganesan all the support and told him to contact him direct in case of any difficulty.Ganesan thanked him and returned to Udhampur.
                   Letter from E in C branch followed.Ganesan would be Dy Leader of India's 7 th Antarctic Expedition and wintering station commander of Dakshin gangotri ,India's Antarctic Resaerch station for the period 1987-89.
                   The letter came in May 1987 and Ganesan would be leaving the country in Nov 1987.He had about six months time to prepare himself for the Expedition ,settle  his family and children in a selected place  and hand over the Regiment.
             It was highly exiting period to move arround and get things done.He will move from Udhampur to Delhi,attend conference,move to Bangalore inspect Dozers that are being purchased from Bharath Earth movers,move to Chennai,check accomodation and schooling and then move to College of Military Engineering,Pune inspect the winter team that is being selected and trained and finally move back to Udhampur.
            Ganesan was approved for next rank as Colonel ,but his turn has not come yet.Only Colonel rank officers are entitled to travel by Air on Ty Duty.On his explaining the impotance of the mission Ganesan was promoted out of turn fecilitating him to travel by Air.
                Things moved smoothly.He was allotted 1/3 Defence quarters,Nandhanam,Chennai,a seperated Family quarters and his children were admitted in KV,CLRI,Chennai.
                       The Army Commander, Northern Command Udhampur invited him for Tea.Ganesan bid farewell to 4 Engineer Regiment on 07 Nov 1987 exactly 3 years after taking over.There is no chance of his coming back to the Regiment again as he became the first colonel to Command 4 ER in the rank of Colonel.
                  He was given "Farewell Not Good bye "party in the Regiment.In that a wonderfull song composed by Ganesan himself was sung.
                      "அவனின் பிரிவு முடிவல்ல,மீண்டும் தொடரா உறவல்ல" was 
 an important message which prooved about the cosmic Blessings to Ganesan.which can be seen in subsquent writings.
                  Ganesan left on Antarctic mission on 26 Nov 1987.

                                 A new chapter in his life opened......

                                                                                                        To be contd.......

The command....3

4,The command ....contd
           Ganesan while continuing his commanad of 4 Engineer Regiment in 5 Mountain Division the new G O C Maj.Gen JM Singh took over.
      Gen J M Singh was one out of 14 officers who were asked to either resign or face court martial for illegal relationship with brother officer's wifes by the then COAS Gen Rodriguess.He was very ugly looking  and was stayin single in Tenga.
                 During his tennure he got admitted two officers in MH  as psychiatric case and ruined these officers wifes.
         Ganesan had a tough time to protect himself and his offcers from this rogue.Luckily the unit move order to Udhampur came.But for some reason the move kept on delaying.Ganesan wrote a DO letter to the COAS Gen Sunderjee asking for exact date of move.
            Sunderjee was another tough officer.He not only informed Ganesan about the move but also detailed  officers to make sure the Regiment moved without any rear party.
             Regiment came to Uhampur under complex command.For administration it was under 71 Sub Area and for operation under 16 Corps.In addition it was Northern command Reserve.Here agaain Ganesan had two different officers iniating his ACR.
            Initailly it was Maj Gen Khurana and later Gen Basant  Mallick
     During this time the COAS wanted to present  to the prime Minister the Deep thrust policy by great Armour Blitz criege.For this Great arrangements were made in Delhi and 4 E R  was asked to prepare for Northern Command.
    Because of heavy mobilisation in western border and Rajasthan Pakisthan got gittery and moved all her troops to border.Almost war like situation came .4 ER moved into Operational role and came to Samba border.All border road bridges were to be prepared for demolitions.Heavy mine fields were laid in other sectors.
                How ever the situation got eased down  and troops withdrew to peace time locations.
April-May 1987.
           During this time the E-IN -C Lt Gen P S Rai came for a visit to the Regiment.After normal round he came to office and was having tea.At that time he asked Ganesan what training is going on.Udhampur was not a suitable area to organaise Regimental training cycles.But annual training is a must .So every year the reiment closes all establishments at Udhampur and move to Akhnoor .B TC and F E Camps are organised for about three months and they return to Udhampur.
                  When E-IN C  asked Ganesan what training is going on Ganesan without any hesitations told that he is doing no training.Gen Rai was shocked to receive such reply,but Ganesan continued and explained as above and stated to take on any Engineer task  which Gen Rai desires.
              Gen Rai smiled and started walking out.All the officers felt very bad and shouted at Ganesan for being blunt.Ganesan replied that not even two grains of sand are of the same type in the entire universe and so he is proud to be himself and having no interest to wear some other cap.
                   Time has passed and  Ganesan was completing his command tennure.At that time Army HQ has called for volunteers to be Leader and station commander of Indian ANTACTIC STATION DAKHINGANGOTRI .This will be one and half year tennure at the bottom of the world and under world's worst weather conditions.
                      Ganesan volunteered.About 12 officers were short listed and were called for interview at AHQ  E -IN C Branch.
               There Ganesan found Gen P S Rai sitting as E- IN C .