The rise of China over the years has witnessed rapid growth in various sectors, including defence. With regard to India its policy has always been that of ambivalence. After 1962, it has not used any direct military route to confront India; however, it has kept the pot boiling by raising border issues every now and then, by assisting Pakistan whenever and however possible, and through successful and unsuccessful attempts to thwart India’s interests in various fields — be it the UN Security Council, an NSG waiver or about purchasing oil fields in Africa. Today, China to a certain extent has succeeded in encircling India. Its interests in Nepal and Myanmar are well known, as is its material support for the recent Sri Lankan operations against the LTTE.

Arunachal Pradesh has become an ever-more sensitive issue for China. Even routine visits to the state by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and President Pratibha Patil have given rise to objections from China. However, India has definitely made something of a statement when the president recently visited Tawang, smack-bang in the middle of the region China considers disputed.

From the Indian point of view it is important to strengthen its force level in the region close to Arunachal Pradesh. The 1962 war in this region was fought at the height of around 14,000 feet. Keeping forces active at this height even during peacetime is a logistical nightmare. No infrastructure development has taken place in this region for many years, further hampering military support. India has an inherent disadvantage in the region, due to unfriendly topography and terrain in comparison with China. Airfields capable of handling transport operations will definitely boost logistical supply and troop reinforcement in a big way.

... contd.