Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan highlighted that the unsettled borders with China will remain a formidable challenge for India and its Armed Forces in the foreseeable future. He underscored that China’s economic and military rise is a major issue for India and the world while speaking during the third Defence and Strategic Dialogue on the theme of ‘Rising China and its implications for the world’ on Monday in Pune. The event was organised jointly by the Department of Defence and Strategic Studies (DDSS) of Savitribai Phule Pune University (SSPU), along with the Centre for China Analysis and Strategy, New Delhi, and the Centre for Advanced Strategic Studies (CASS).
General Chauhan added that China’s rising military and economic might pose a greater challenge to the international order in which we all aspire to live. With its economic prosperity, China is trying to create a favourable world order by forcing its own will, leading to major friction between China and other powers. Chinese leadership must understand the delicate balance between military might and economic development, he cautioned Beijing. The pursuit of power without following ethical principles is not only harmful to international relations but also undermines peaceful coexistence, mutual cooperation, and respect for others’ sovereignty. He also mentioned the importance of India’s role in enhancing collaboration among the international community with its principle of ‘Vasdhaiva Kutumbakam‘ (The World Is One Family).
Unsettled borders: Remains major concern
The CDS also raised concerns about unsettled borders with China. He mentions this as a major concern as both countries share more than four thousand kilometres of unsettled borders. Though the status quo is maintained along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the situation remains critical. Gen Chauhan said that border disputes with both our neighbours were inherited from the British era as they altered our ancient frontiers, and these disputes have led to the emergence of terms like Line of Control (LoC) and Line of Actual Control (LAC).
He also stressed that it is the duty of the armed forces to maintain the legitimacy of India’s claim on the disputed borders during peacetime. He highlighted the need for astute handling of the Chinese army at all the friction points. Gen Chauhan stressed India’s role in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and greater responsibilities in the Indo-Pacific. He said that a free and peaceful Indian Ocean region is India’s responsibility as the Indian Navy is the first responder and preferred security partner in this region. The CDS also lauded the role of the Indian Navy in anti-piracy operations and stressed building a formidable navy to defend national interests.
Vinay Chati, Pune
