Kiren Rijiju Highlights Government's Focus on Border Development Amidst Chinese Tensions

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has asserted that the Modi government is prioritizing the development of border areas, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh, amidst rising tensions with China. He referenced historical policies that neglected these regions and criticized the Congress party's past record on border infrastructure. Rijiju's comments come in light of concerns over Chinese military activities, as he reassured local residents of the government's commitment to safeguarding Indian territory. The Ministry of External Affairs also emphasized the importance of maintaining peace along the Line of Actual Control in relation to China. This article delves into Rijiju's statements and the broader implications for India's border strategy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 20, 2026, 14:18 IST

Government's Commitment to Border Areas

New Delhi: On Thursday, Kiren Rijiju, the Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, emphasized that the Narendra Modi administration is prioritizing border regions, which have historically been overlooked, in response to allegations of new Chinese incursions in Arunachal Pradesh.

Rijiju referenced a statement made by former Defence Minister A.K. Antony in 2013, which acknowledged India's long-standing policy of underdeveloping border areas. Antony had noted that this approach had been abandoned by subsequent governments well before the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) took office.

These comments from Rijiju, who serves as the Lok Sabha representative for Arunachal West, arise amidst heightened concerns regarding Chinese military activities in the Upper Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh.

In a post on X, Rijiju remarked, "Some individuals casually discuss the border situation. While these areas are challenging, the Modi government is dedicated to their development. I visited Maza, Galemo, and Taksing in Arunachal Pradesh to expedite infrastructure projects. Previously neglected, these borders are now a top priority."

He also directed criticism towards the Congress party regarding its history with border infrastructure.

Rijiju stated, "Among Congress leaders, A.K. Antony is quite sincere. As Defence Minister, he openly admitted in Parliament that the Congress government had not prioritized border infrastructure."

He referred to Antony's remarks from September 6, 2013, where the then Defence Minister acknowledged that China had significantly improved its border infrastructure, while India lagged due to a policy that had been in place since Independence.

Antony explained that for many years, India operated under the belief that undeveloped borders were safer, leading to a lack of road and airfield construction in these regions.

During this time, China continued to enhance its border infrastructure, resulting in a significant advantage over India. Antony admitted this disparity, stating it was a historical reality.

However, he also noted that India recognized its past mistakes and began changing its approach 20 to 25 years prior to his statement in 2013.

Antony added, "In the last two decades, Indian governments have acknowledged these errors and shifted their policies. We are now reinforcing our capabilities in border areas. I can assert that in the past nine years, we have made significant strides in strengthening our border capabilities compared to the UPA government."

On Wednesday, Rijiju dismissed claims that Chinese troops had advanced as far as 60 kilometers into Arunachal Pradesh, while acknowledging the concerns of local residents.

He stated, "The India-China border issue is serious. We must avoid making false claims about such sensitive matters. The government will address local concerns and safeguard Indian territory."

Following reports of rising tensions along the border, the Ministry of External Affairs reiterated that maintaining peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) is crucial for overall relations with China.

A spokesperson for the Ministry emphasized that discussions with the Chinese side have always highlighted the seriousness of border issues, stating that the state of border affairs directly impacts broader bilateral relations.