Amid the BRICS talk and the resumption of Sino-Indian talks, Governor KT Parnaik has said that India must remain vigilant, united, and prepared to protect its territorial integrity and national interests.

He made the remarks while referring to China's territorial claims over Arunachal Pradesh and areas in Ladakh at a conference, as he called on stakeholders to understand China's evolving role and prepare India for emerging geopolitical challenges.

Describing China as India's "civilisational neighbour," he noted that China's strategic outlook shows expansionist tendencies through territorial claims and assertive border posturing, as he advocated empowered and prosperous border communities, along with robust infrastructure and communication networks, in order to secure the border.

It is true that even basic facilities are nonexistent or lacking in these border areas.

The stark difference between what needs to be done and the prevailing conditions and facilities needs to be addressed by the state with promptness, as these are sensitive border areas.