China’s military presence, economic influence, and technological advancements are heightening India’s strategic concerns, according to experts testifying before a U.S. congressional commission. Despite a recent easing of tensions, the rivalry between New Delhi and Beijing remains deeply ingrained, with experts warning that the balance of power has not shifted significantly since the 2024 disengagement along the Line of Actual Control.
Experts emphasized that India perceives China as a long-term adversary, driven by territorial, political, economic, and technological factors. The militarized border and China’s military superiority continue to pose challenges for India, especially with ongoing infrastructure development in Tibet and disputed areas.
While there has been a temporary reduction in hostilities, experts view the current phase in Sino-Indian relations as more tactical than strategic. India’s apprehensions extend beyond its borders, with growing unease over China’s expanding influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region. The economic interdependence between India and China, particularly in pharmaceuticals, raises concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities and global health security.
India’s approach to its economic ties with China is characterized as a delicate balance between interdependence and strategic competition. The experts stressed the importance of U.S. support in countering China, underscoring the need for enhanced defense and technology cooperation to bolster deterrence efforts. The competition between India and China in the technology sector is seen as pivotal in shaping the broader Indo-Pacific region’s future tech landscape.
