Image Credit: Official website of the Indian Army
Army Chief in Bhutan Amid Renewed Chinese Activity in Doklam
India’s Chief of Army Staff has travelled to Bhutan on a crucial visit aimed at bolstering military cooperation at a time when China is reportedly stepping up its infrastructure build-up in the sensitive Doklam region. The visit comes amid renewed Chinese construction, road upgrades, and military fortification activities that have raised fresh concerns in New Delhi about the strategic implications for the tri-junction area between India, Bhutan, and China. Indian officials view the visit as a reaffirmation of India’s commitment to Bhutan’s sovereignty and regional security in the face of increasing pressure from China.
Strategic Significance of Doklam
The Doklam plateau has long been a flashpoint in India-China-Bhutan relations. It was the site of the tense 2017 standoff between Indian and Chinese troops after Beijing attempted to extend a road into territory claimed by Bhutan. For India, the region is vital due to its proximity to the Siliguri Corridor—the narrow stretch of land that connects the northeastern states to the rest of India. Recent satellite imagery and ground reports suggest that China is again escalating its activities in the area, expanding roads, building permanent structures, and increasing troop presence. This has heightened Indian apprehension and prompted swift diplomatic and military engagement.
Strengthening Bilateral Defence Ties
During the visit, the Indian Army Chief held high-level discussions with Bhutanese defence and civilian leadership, focusing on enhancing operational coordination, surveillance capabilities, and joint responses to border threats. Training programs, infrastructure development in forward areas, and deeper intelligence sharing were reportedly on the agenda. India is also assisting Bhutan in upgrading its defence logistics and mobility to ensure faster response times in remote high-altitude regions.
A Message to Beijing
China’s continued presence and activity in Doklam are seen as part of its broader Himalayan strategy to incrementally shift boundaries and solidify its claims along disputed stretches. India’s military diplomacy in Bhutan is designed to act as both reassurance to its neighbour and deterrence to any adventurism by China. The visit underscores India’s strategic interest in maintaining the status quo and preventing any unilateral changes to the border that could endanger the region’s delicate balance. As tensions quietly simmer, India’s visible support for Bhutan signals a readiness to stand firm and protect allied interests in the face of creeping aggression.
