Notwithstanding periodic episodes of cartographic obfuscation by the Chinese regarding the status of Arunachal Pradesh, the state is progressing on the road to development. Enabling this, as part of a whole-of-govt approach, are Indian Army and IAF, whose presence in strength, in and around the state, is an assurance that no military adventurism by adversarial neighbours will go unchecked.
I saw this on a recent road trip from Dibrugarh in Upper Assam to Mechuka Valley and beyond, to within touching distance of LAC with China. Historically, Mechuka carries a solemn legacy of the 1962 conflict with China, when the Chinese advanced along multiple axes down Lola Pass and along Siyom Valley, overran Mechuka, and stopped short of Aalo at a place called Tato, after Mao declared a unilateral ceasefire on Nov 20, 1962.
For decades after 1962, lack of resources had created vulnerabilities for India, particularly in areas east of Tawang and Kameng District, more commonly known in Army as Rest of Arunachal Pradesh (RALP). The situation today is vastly improved, propelled by strong and evolving Army deployment, with adequate firepower.
Complementing this are IAF fighter squadrons equipped with latest multi-role aircraft, and air mobilityand special forces-capable platforms comprising the latest helicopters and transport aircraft. Adding defensive punch, is a network of the latest multi-layered air defence systems, including S-400. Speedy rollout of dual-use infra and durable roads to within touching distance of LAC, by BRO, and Army’s engineer regiments, augurs well.
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Disclaimer
Views expressed above are the author’s own.
