Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu Addresses Border Security and Historical Context

In a recent address, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu clarified that the state shares its border with Tibet-China, not directly with China. He emphasized the significant advancements in border infrastructure since the 1962 Indo-China war, asserting that the current situation is vastly improved. Khandu highlighted the Union government's efforts to enhance accessibility and military readiness in border regions. He also dismissed China's claims over Arunachal Pradesh, stating that they are not taken seriously by the state's government or its people. This discussion took place during the 73rd North Eastern Council plenary session in Shillong.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 4, 2026, 17:19 IST

Clarifying Arunachal Pradesh's Border History

A file image of Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu. (Photo:X)

Shillong, June 4: Pema Khandu, the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, emphasized on Thursday that the state does not share a border with China, but rather with "Tibet-China." He reassured that Arunachal Pradesh is secure and adequately prepared along its international boundary.

During the 73rd plenary session of the North Eastern Council (NEC) in Shillong, Khandu highlighted the importance of understanding the historical context of the border.

“Our border is not with China; it is with Tibet-China. Historically, we only shared a border with Tibet,” he stated.

The Chief Minister also alleviated fears regarding border readiness, asserting that the current situation is vastly different from the 1962 Indo-China conflict.

“In terms of infrastructure, we are not in 1962; we are in 2026. This is a new era for India,” Khandu remarked.

He pointed out the significant advancements in border infrastructure over the last decade, noting improvements in roads, connectivity, and strategic facilities that have bolstered both civilian access and military readiness.

“Comparing the current infrastructure of Arunachal Pradesh to that of 1962 would be misleading. Our border areas have seen tremendous enhancements,” he added.

Khandu acknowledged the Union government's commitment to developing border regions across northern India, from Jammu and Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh.

“In the past 12 years, there has been a concerted effort to improve infrastructure in these areas. They are now much more accessible, and the facilities available to our armed forces have significantly improved,” he explained.

Reaffirming Arunachal Pradesh's stance on China's ongoing claims over the state, Khandu stated that both the people and the government of Arunachal Pradesh do not take these claims seriously.

“We do not regard China's assertions over Arunachal Pradesh as significant,” he concluded.

China has consistently claimed Arunachal Pradesh, referring to it as part of what it terms “South Tibet,” a claim that India has firmly rejected.