Speaking at the India Today Conclave 2024, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan addressed concerns regarding Pakistan’s military capabilities and India’s security challenges in the 21st century.
Gen Chauhan acknowledged that while Pakistan may be facing economic turmoil, there has been “no denting” in its military capabilities, and its armed forces “remain a threat for us.” Despite this, he expressed confidence in India’s ability to manage its borders effectively, especially in the disputed regions in the north.
Highlighting the unity that external challenges bring to a nation, Gen Chauhan emphasized the importance of addressing immediate external concerns. He cited past instances such as the Kargil conflict and the Galwan Valley skirmish as examples of how external challenges unite the nation.
Identifying the rise of China and the unsettled boundary problem as immediate challenges for the armed forces, Gen Chauhan underscored the predictability of both neighboring countries’ behavior. However, he emphasized the need for India to adapt to the changing nature of warfare in the future.
Gen Chauhan emphasized the importance of introducing new weapon systems, technologies, tactics, and strategies to address evolving security threats. He acknowledged the unpredictability of future warfare and stressed the necessity for India to remain agile and adaptive in its defense approach.
In conclusion, Gen Chauhan reiterated India’s preparedness to face external challenges while highlighting the imperative of anticipating and adapting to future security threats effectively. As India navigates the complexities of modern warfare, Gen Chauhan emphasized the importance of strategic foresight and proactive defense measures.
