Situation stable, but not normal: Army chief warns against China’s LAC tactics

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi has warned against China’s “Grey Zone” tactics along the Line of Actual Control and warned that, despite the situation on the countries’ border remaining stable presently, it, however, was “not normal”.
The Army chief addressed the curtain raiser of the Chanakya Forum Dialogue, during which he provided key insights into India’s defence posture, regional stability, and the importance of joint military planning.
While discussiong the current situation along the northern borders, General Dwivedi emphasised that while diplomatic channels have shown encouraging signs, on-ground realities remain sensitive.
“Positive signals are coming from the diplomatic side. When it comes to the on-ground situation, our corps commanders are the ones who make operational decisions,” he said.
The Army chief further stressed the need for restoring pre-2020 normalcy, especially in theareas of concern.
“The situation is stable, but it is not normal. The situation that existed before 2020 should be restored. Until that happens, we will treat the situation as sensitive and remain operationally prepared,” he added.
GREY ZONE WARFARE AND NEED FOR CONSTANT VIGILANCE
On the nature of modern conflict, General Dwivedi highlighted the concept of Grey Zone Warfare, a state of persistent tension below the threshold of traditional war.
He cited Kargil, Galwan, and Doklam as examples of this type of conflict.
“War will come when it comes, but we must be ready during the period in between. Kargil, Galwan, Doklam — these were not full wars, but examples of Grey Zone conflicts,” he explained.
General Dwivedi stressed the importance of a unified mindset across all levels of command to effectively deal with these ambiguous challenges.
“At every level, we need to have a common understanding and approach to handling Grey Zone threats,” he concluded.
PROGRESS IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR
Reflecting on the developments in Jammu and Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370, General Dwivedi noted significant changes in the region’s environment.
“Children in schools now know which flag to draw,” he said, highlighting the normalcy in education and civil life. “I feel we are moving towards peace and prosperity.”
He also addressed the evolving security focus in Kashmir, stating that areas previously overlooked, such as northern Kashmir, are now being targeted by adversaries.
“We had concentrated in southern Kashmir and Poonch. The areas that were left are now being focused on by our adversary. We have changed our posture and are putting in efforts to address this shift,” he explained.
In terms of recruitment, General Dwivedi revealed a significant reduction in militant activity. “In 2024, only two militants have been recruited. Post-Article 370, things have changed drastically,” he noted.
THEATRE COMMANDS AND JOINT OPERATION
On the subject of theaterisation, General Dwivedi expressed confidence in the military’s unified approach.
“We have a great consensus between all three service chiefs. The roadmap and planning are ready. Jointness and integration are critical for future warfare,” he said, emphasising the need for collective military strength in the face of evolving threats.
He also raised concerns over China’s Grey Zone tactics and artificial settlements along the border.
“China is creating artificial settlements to shift the status quo and establish grey zones. We are well-prepared for their settlements and infrastructure developments,” he warned.
On the Indian side, the Army Chief highlighted the significance of border model villages under the Vibrant Villages Programme, a key initiative to develop remote areas along the frontier. “The Indian Army will provide the soul to these villages in line with Prime Minister Modi’s vision,” he assured.
INSIGHTS ON MANIPUR CONFLICT
Addressing the ongoing unrest in Manipur, General Dwivedi traced the origins of the violence to misinformation and the weaponisation of local communities. “Manipur started with a rumour, which led to major violence. It has now become a battle of narratives, with deep polarisation between communities,” he said.
He added that over 60,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) are currently seeking refuge, while various local groups, particularly women-led organisations, have emerged to defend their communities.
“The Army and Assam Rifles have deployed 126 columns, and while weapons have been recovered, peace will take time. Social fracturing doesn’t heal quickly,” he remarked.
ARMY’S ROLE IN NATION BUILDING
Beyond defence, General Dwivedi underscored the Indian Army’s role in nation-building, particularly in remote and economically deprived regions.
“The Army plays a crucial role in developing the economy of remote locations where it is deployed, contributing to both security and local prosperity,” he stated.
In sum, General Dwivedi’s address at the Chanakya Forum Dialogue painted a clear picture of India’s multi-faceted approach to national security, focused not only on preparing for conventional threats but also on addressing the complexities of modern, hybrid warfare while contributing to the broader goal of peace and prosperity in the region.