Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lieutenant General (retd.) K.T. Parnaik on February 14, 2026, highlighted China’s long-term strategy along the India-Arunachal border. He said China uses border infrastructure, dual-use settlements, and place renaming to influence narratives around the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Speaking at a two-day seminar titled ‘Arunachal Pradesh — India’s Dynamic Frontier’ held at Dinjan, Assam, the Governor called Arunachal a strategic buffer with huge human and economic potential. He stressed that security, development, diplomacy, and community empowerment must move together to ensure stability and control along this sensitive border. “The two aspects are deeply intertwined and one can’t progress without the other,” he said, underlining the need for a coordinated response to both external threats and internal challenges. Parnaik detailed the complex border dynamics with Myanmar and Bhutan. He noted that the Indo-Myanmar border remains socially open under the Free Movement Regime (FMR), which helps local livelihoods but also creates loopholes for insurgent groups. This has prompted India to reconsider the balance between tradition and security. The Governor praised the resilience of border communities and advocated for inclusive development to make Arunachal Pradesh a strategic and economic powerhouse. “Strengthening security ensures stability and confidence, while inclusive development brings opportunity, dignity and resilience,” he added. He called this a transformative phase for Arunachal, matching India’s ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ vision and contributing to the Act East Policy by boosting connectivity with Southeast Asia. Parnaik acknowledged the seminar’s role in fostering dialogue among experts. Speakers included former Eastern Army Commander Lt. Gen. Rana Pratap Kalita, who discussed operational challenges, and Lt. Gen. Dushyant Singh, who focused on China’s designs. Other experts explored historical and ecological aspects of Arunachal Pradesh. The event highlighted the strategic importance of the state amid evolving security concerns.