The Global and Regional Studies Center (GRSC) at the Institute of Business Management (IoBM) hosted the launch of Blood and Toil, authored by Brigadier Tariq Khalil, SJ, SI(M), IS Gallantry (Bar), (Retired), on Saturday, July 26, 2026.
Blood and Toil is a memoir that chronicles Brigadier Tariq Khalil’s military career while highlighting the values of discipline, sacrifice, resilience, ethical leadership, and national duty. Drawing on his personal experiences, the book offers readers a firsthand perspective on military life and a deeper understanding of Pakistan’s armed forces and the principles that underpin effective leadership. The event brought together academics, professionals, retired military officers, and students to discuss the book and its reflections on leadership, service, governance, and national responsibility.
A panel of distinguished reviewers comprising Lt. Gen. Moinuddin Haider, Col. Mukhtar Butt, Mr. Manzar Naqvi, and Dr. Zaituna Shah shared their perspectives on the book.
Representing IoBM at the event were Mr. Talib Syed Karim, President; Prof. Dr. Tariq Rahim Soomro, Rector; Prof. Dr. Muhammad Kashif, Dean, CBM; Prof. Dr. Muhammad Abbas, Dean, CCSIS, and Ambassador G. R. Baluch, Director GRSC, along with faculty members, heads of departments, and students.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Talib Syed Karim said Blood and Toil would enrich research and learning at IoBM by offering valuable insights into leadership, governance, and national affairs. Referring to developments in South Asia, he said the book encourages reflection on leadership, governance, and the role of young people in national development. He added that such experiences offer valuable lessons for policymakers and future leaders.
Brigadier Tariq Khalil (Retired) described Blood and Toil as the story of his life, beginning in the pre-Partition era and covering his experiences during Pakistan’s conflicts with India, including the 1971 war. He said the book is a compilation of articles and reflections documenting different phases of his military career and the country’s history, making it a useful reference for historians, researchers, and professionals. He also spoke about the changing geopolitical environment, observing that Pakistan is navigating a transition towards an emerging multipolar world and must prepare itself for the challenges ahead.
Reviewing the book, Lt. Gen. Moinuddin Haider said the generation that witnessed Partition and Pakistan’s early wars is gradually fading, making it essential to preserve their experiences for future generations. He noted that Brigadier Tariq Khalil’s experience in the military, public service, and the corporate sector gives the book a distinctive perspective. He observed that many of the issues raised in the author’s newspaper columns nearly five decades ago remain relevant today and appreciated his efforts to encourage informed national debate.
Col. Mukhtar Butt said the global order has shifted from a unipolar to a multipolar system, creating new geopolitical realities. Stressing the importance of regional cooperation, he said Pakistan must strengthen relations with neighbouring countries while promoting national unity, internal stability, and effective governance to address future challenges.
Mr. Manzar Naqvi, Editor-in-Chief of Financial Daily, described Blood and Toil as an important historical account that documents Pakistan’s journey through the author’s personal experiences. He praised Brigadier Tariq Khalil for preserving significant moments in the country’s history and expressed his appreciation for the author’s continued contributions.
Dr. Zaituna Shah said the book presents a comprehensive account of the regional and geopolitical developments that have shaped Pakistan’s history. She noted that it provides readers with valuable insights into national and international affairs through the author’s personal observations and experiences.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Ambassador G. R. Baluch said that by hosting book launches, IoBM continues to uphold the vision and values on which the Institute was founded. Referring to the late founder, Mr. Shahjehan S. Karim, he said universities should not only impart education but also promote critical thinking, knowledge creation, and meaningful contributions to society. He added that IoBM’s book launch programme provides a platform for scholars, diplomats, policymakers, military professionals, journalists, and students to engage in intellectual dialogue and exchange ideas. Referring to the author, Ambassador Baluch said Brigadier Tariq Khalil writes from firsthand experience, enabling readers to gain a deeper understanding of the events, decisions, and historical developments that have shaped Pakistan. He added that Blood and Toil is not merely a memoir but a valuable contribution to the country’s intellectual discourse.
The event concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which participants discussed the book and exchanged views with the author on Pakistan’s evolving geopolitical environment and contemporary national challenges.
