Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K.T. Parnaik (Retd) called on Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan in New Delhi on Monday, 18 May, for high-level discussions on national security with a focused lens on Arunachal Pradesh, officials confirmed. The meeting covered border security, the Vibrant Village Programme, and the implementation of goodwill projects in frontier areas.

What Was Discussed

According to a Lok Bhavan official in Itanagar, the two senior functionaries reviewed the security situation along Arunachal Pradesh's international border in depth. Governor Parnaik drew on his recent visits to remote border areas of the state, sharing firsthand observations on the prevailing security environment and the level of operational preparedness along the frontier.

He also flagged concern over challenges posed by porous stretches along the eastern border, stressing the urgent need to strengthen border management infrastructure in those zones.

Civil-Military Partnership in Focus

The Governor acknowledged the role of the armed forces in maintaining close coordination with the Arunachal Pradesh state government. He noted that the strong civil-military partnership had meaningfully contributed to the development of frontier villages, ensuring that security and progress advanced in tandem.

Governor Parnaik specifically commended 3 Corps and 4 Corps for their sustained efforts in strengthening civil-military relations through regular interactions, community outreach programmes, and goodwill initiatives aimed at supporting residents of remote border areas.

Visit to Khenzemane Border Outpost

Separately, the Governor recently visited the remote border outpost of Khenzemane, located near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Tawang district. The outpost, set amid challenging terrain and harsh weather conditions, is described by Raj Bhavan officials as a symbol of India's vigilance and resilience on its northern frontier.

During the visit, Governor Parnaik encouraged troops to maintain high morale, remain physically fit, and stay mentally alert — particularly given the demanding conditions in forward areas. The visit was widely seen as a gesture of solidarity with forces guarding the nation's frontiers.

Troops' Welfare and Operational Readiness

The Governor also interacted with personnel of the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), acknowledging their dedication and sacrifices. Drawing on his extensive military experience, Lt Gen Parnaik listened personally to the troops' concerns and gained insights into their day-to-day operational challenges.

He enquired about their overall well-being, including their ability to stay connected with families despite being stationed in remote locations. He underscored that mental and physical strength, combined with discipline and unity, was essential for ensuring operational readiness and safeguarding national security. The Governor also advised security forces to maintain close and cordial relations with local communities, highlighting the importance of civil-military harmony in border regions.

With tensions along the LAC remaining a persistent strategic concern, the meeting between the Governor and the CDS signals continued high-level attention to Arunachal Pradesh's frontier security architecture.