As the world takes note of improving India&ndash;China relations during recent SCO meetings, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen Anil Chauhan has underlined that unresolved issues with China remain India&rsquo;s biggest national security challenge.
Speaking at an event in Gorakhpur, Gen Chauhan highlighted six major threats confronting India&rsquo;s defence preparedness. At the top of the list is the boundary dispute with China, followed by Pakistan&rsquo;s continued proxy war strategy aimed at destabilizing India through cross-border terrorism.
Regional instability in neighbouring countries was identified as another major concern, with political, social, and economic unrest often spilling over to impact India. He also stressed that the nature of future warfare is evolving rapidly, expanding beyond land, air, and sea to include space, cyber, and electromagnetic domains.
Gen Chauhan further pointed to the dual challenge of facing two nuclear-armed adversaries, noting that India must be ready for both conventional and unconventional warfare. The sixth key challenge, he said, lies in adapting to technological advancements that are reshaping battlefield scenarios at unprecedented speed.
The CDS also spoke about Operation Sindoor, conducted in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which aimed to set clear boundaries against terrorism. He acknowledged the critical role of the National Security Advisor in guiding military planning, troop deployment, and diplomatic coordination for the operation.
Gen Chauhan&rsquo;s remarks reflect India&rsquo;s evolving security doctrine at a time when geopolitical shifts are redefining alliances and regional balances.

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen Anil Chauhan

Chauhan lists China, Pakistan, regional instability, and future warfare as Key factors

India’s CDS Flags Top Security Challenges

Chauhan lists China, Pakistan, regional instability, and future warfare as Key factors

September 5, 2025 | 23:25 IST