Pune: During the “3rd Strategic and Security Dialogue on Rise of China and its Implications for the World” event held in Pune, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan emphasized the significant challenge posed by unsettled borders with China and the growing influence of China on India and its armed forces in the foreseeable future.
General Chauhan highlighted the historical context of India’s border issues, tracing them back to the colonial era and the subsequent independence, which left India with disputed borders. He noted the incorporation of Tibet into China as a factor creating a new neighbor and the partition of India leading to the emergence of a hostile neighboring nation.
The event, organized by the Department of Defence and Strategic Studies at Savitribai Phule Pune University, provided a platform for General Chauhan to address the current challenges faced by India, particularly concerning its disputed borders.
General Chauhan stressed the need for the Indian armed forces to assert the legitimacy of India’s claims along the disputed borders during peacetime. He emphasized the importance of handling the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China with strategic acumen and maintaining adherence to agreed rules of engagement at all friction points.
Furthermore, General Chauhan urged a broader perspective on India-China relations, recognizing that the rise of China impacts not only India but also other nations. He suggested seeking alliances with like-minded nations to ensure a balanced approach while acknowledging the necessity for India to be prepared for its own defense, as highlighted by recent remarks from External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.
In terms of technological advancements, General Chauhan cautioned against allowing a significant technological gap to develop between India and its immediate adversaries, warning of potentially dire consequences.
The statement also addressed recent tensions between India and China over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh. India firmly rebutted China’s objections, asserting Arunachal Pradesh’s integral and inalienable status as part of India and dismissing China’s concerns regarding Indian leaders’ visits to the region and developmental projects there.
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