Defence Minister Krishna Menon twice blocked Katari from visiting the United States even though he traveled elsewhere and had shown skill in naval diplomacy. The denied visits may have cost India a chance to improve early relations with the United States during a period complicated by American ties with Pakistan. As chair of the Chiefs of Staff Committee, Katari also had to coordinate the services through a seniority-based arrangement while managing a difficult relationship with Menon. Limited funding prevented him from completing every naval program he wanted. Even so, he left the Indian Navy with stronger leadership practices and a firmer institutional base.
Notable Point · 1:07:31-1:10:55
Denied U.S. visits and the demands of joint leadership
Blocking Katari's U.S. visits may have wasted a skilled relationship-builder during a difficult period in Indian-American and joint-service affairs.