Border Vigilance and Dialogue Both Needed in India-China Ties: Chauhan

India-China Ties Need More Than Border Focus, Says Former CDS Anil Chauhan

New Delhi, September 6: Former Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan has described China as a significant and long-term security challenge for India, while stressing that bilateral relations cannot be viewed only through the lens of the unresolved boundary dispute.

Chauhan said the border issue requires continued vigilance, strong military capabilities and preparedness, particularly as differences over the Line of Actual Control (LAC) remain unresolved.

At the same time, he emphasised the importance of maintaining dialogue and engagement with Beijing as Asia's strategic environment continues to evolve. According to Chauhan, India needs to balance a robust security posture with sustained communication to prevent misunderstandings and manage tensions.

His comments come as India and China continue efforts to improve military communication along the LAC. The two countries are also holding fresh military-level discussions, including the first Corps Commander-level talks in Arunachal Pradesh.

Chauhan's remarks underline the need for India to pursue a dual approach strong defence preparedness at the border alongside strategic engagement with China while keeping India's wider economic, diplomatic and security interests in view.