India Faces Security Challenges from Proxy Wars and Border Disputes, Says CDS Anil Chauhan

India faces significant security challenges, including a proxy war by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir and a prolonged border dispute with China, according to Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan. He highlighted these issues during a conference hosted by FICCI in New Delhi.

General Chauhan noted that the global geopolitical environment is currently unstable. "We are passing through an era of great global disruption," he said, citing technological, economic, environmental, and demographic changes as contributing factors. He also mentioned the ongoing political situation in Bangladesh as a cause for concern.

Global Security Environment

The global security landscape has been significantly altered by two major wars that have been both intense and prolonged. "There are other conflicts too, ranging from Myanmar to Sudan or Congo," General Chauhan stated. He added that while wars in Libya, Syria, Yemen, and Armenia may have settled for now, lasting peace remains elusive.

General Chauhan described the current phase as the most violent since World War II. He pointed out that the volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA) of the world are severely impacting global defence supply chains, especially ammunition. The global arms industry is struggling to meet the widening gap between demand and supply.

India's Security Challenges

Addressing India's specific security concerns, General Chauhan reiterated the challenges posed by Pakistan's proxy war in Jammu and Kashmir and the unresolved border dispute with China. He also mentioned instability in neighbouring countries as another significant issue.

"For a large nation like India with numerous security problems, it cannot remain dependent on foreign imports for war-fighting and sustenance," General Chauhan asserted. He emphasised the importance of self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta) in maintaining strategic autonomy.

Civil-Military Fusion

General Chauhan underscored the significance of civil-military fusion. He called upon the Services, defence industries, scientists, and academia to collaborate in promoting India's Aatmanirbharta drive. He stressed that strong armed forces backed by a robust industrial sector are essential for the nation-state.

The standoff between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh continues at certain friction points despite disengagement from several areas following extensive talks. General Chauhan highlighted that innovations during conflicts are not limited to technology or tactics but also include ammunition. "One sees it happening in Ukraine, as even during Kargil war it happened," he said.

Opportunities Amid Disruptions

General Chauhan noted that indigenous capabilities could open new opportunities for both the defence industry and defence diplomacy. He acknowledged that reliance on imports to bridge gaps is becoming necessary for many nations, highlighting global interdependence in defence supplies.

"As the saying goes, in every challenge there is an opportunity," General Chauhan remarked. He added that these disruptions present opportunities for global defence arms manufacturers, including those in Indian markets.

The Chief of Defence Staff concluded by emphasising that India's quest for self-reliance is central to maintaining its strategic autonomy. Indigenous capabilities can significantly contribute to this goal while also enhancing defence diplomacy.