India-China Consensus on LAC Signals Diplomatic Victory, Defence Minister Highlights

New Delhi, India: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded breakthrough in India-China relations over certain areas along Line of Actual Control (LAC) during his keynote dress at Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024 in New Delhi. He revealed that continuous dialogue between two nations at diplomatic and military levels h led to a bro consensus on restoring ground situation to pre-April 2020 levels, based on principles of equal and mutual security. 

“This consensus is a testament to power of engaging in continuous dialogue. Both countries have me progress in resolving ir differences through se diplomatic and military discussions,” Rajnath Singh said, emphasizing that this development underscores importance of communication in solving security challenges. 

Interconnection of Development and Security 

During his dress on me of "India’s Vision for Development & Security," Defence Minister highlighted deep interconnection between security and economic development, challenging tritional notion of viewing m as separate entities. "Historically, economic development has focused on land, labour, capital, and entrepreneurship, often sidelining significant role of defence and security. Yet, se sectors are integral to a nation’s economic and infrastructural growth, even in peacetime," he said.

Rajnath Singh elaborated that national security consumes a substantial portion of a country’s budget, contributing to job creation, technological vancements, and infrastructure development. He stressed that economic development thrives when national security is assured, and government's focus on border area development exemplifies this symbiosis. 

Indigenous Defence Manufacturing: A Catalyst for Growth 

Defence Minister reiterated government’s resolve to bridge gap between development and security by promoting indigenous arms and equipment manufacturing. He stated that indigenous production not only strengns security apparatus but also stimulates employment, expertise, and innovation, fostering economic growth. "Security initiatives often serve as powerful catalysts for broer national development. Domestic production, supply chains, and technological innovations create a ripple effect that benefits entire economy," he ded.  

He pointed to Prime Minister’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative as a critical component of India's defence policy, arguing that if defence h been integrated into development strategies earlier, India might have achieved self-reliance in defence manufacturing much sooner.  

Rajnath Singh clarified that self-reliance does not mean isolation from global community but fostering an equitable and inclusive world order. He reasserted India’s commitment to international collaboration, highlighting that self-reliance will empower India to contribute more effectively to global security and development efforts. 

“Our journey toward self-reliance is a step toward greater collaboration and partnership. It positions us to share our expertise with global community and to build a stronger, interconnected world that respects sovereignty and aspirations of every nation,” he said. 

Insights from Chief of Army Staff and Technology’s Role in Security 

Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, in his dress, referenced Chanakya’s ‘Saptang ory’ to emphasize role of state institutions, governance mechanisms, and societal development in nation-building. He stated that Army plays a pivotal role in not just securing nation but also in contributing to various aspects of national development, including skill development and environmental sustainability. 

General Dwivedi stressed importance of convergence of technology and security, particularly concept of ‘Smart Power’, which combines military might with diplomacy and development. He highlighted transformative role of technology in modern warfare and need to continuously apt to current security challenges. 

Green and Digital Initiatives by Indian Army 

On this occasion, Rajnath Singh launched two new initiatives: Green Initiative 1.0 and Digitisation of Indian Army 1.0. se efforts reflect Indian Army's focus on environmental sustainability and digital transformation, showcasing 100 initiatives in field of digitisation that enhance operational reiness and integrate Army's modernisation efforts with Digital India Mission. 

Indian Army’s green practices align with its commitment to combating climate change while maintaining operational effectiveness. se initiatives underscore Army’s role in promoting sustainable development while ensuring national security. 

A Global Dialogue on Security and Development 

Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024, jointly organised by Indian Army and Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS), featured prominent speakers from India, United States, Russia, Israel, and Sri Lanka. dialogue focused on integrating security within broer framework of national and international policy-making, reflecting on strategies for sustainable growth and a secure future under vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Speakers from across globe highlighted critical role that security plays in a nation’s development trajectory and need for countries to balance se factors for long-term prosperity. 

dialogue will continue for a second day, featuring dresses by ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath and Former Permanent Representative of India to United Nations Ms. Ruchira Kamboj, among or distinguished speakers. event is expected to foster meaningful discussions on global security issues and national growth strategies.