India’s Strategy Toward Pakistan is Strategic Disengagement: CDS General Chauhan

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan stated that India’s current approach toward Pakistan is one of strategic disengagement, citing continued hostility from Islamabad despite multiple diplomatic efforts by New Delhi.

General Chauhan highlighted that while Pakistan was ahead of India in several socio-economic indicators post-Independence, India has since surpassed it in all areas — including economic performance, human development, and social harmony. “Despite our greater diversity, we have moved ahead on all fronts,” he said.

Recalling diplomatic overtures, General Chauhan mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2014 invitation to Nawaz Sharif for his swearing-in ceremony and the surprise visit to Lahore in 2015. “It takes two hands to clap. If all we get in return is hostility, then disengagement may itself be a sound strategy,” he noted.

Discussing defence preparedness, the CDS emphasized the success of Operation Sindoor, showcasing the effectiveness of indigenous systems like the Akash missile in neutralizing threats from Pakistan. He praised India’s self-reliance in defence, especially the creation of a robust, cohesive radar network across the country, built without dependence on foreign vendors.

General Chauhan underlined that India’s policy is not without strategy, and while diplomacy remains preferred, national security and technological self-reliance remain at the forefront in dealing with persistent threats.