India-Bangladesh military ties continue to function through regular and open communication channels, even as Dhaka navigates its transition under an interim government. Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi confirmed ongoing dialogues with his Bangladeshi counterpart and other service heads during a press conference in New Delhi on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. The statements came in response to growing concerns about regional security dynamics and Bangladesh’s evolving relationships with other powers.
The Indian Army Chief’s contact in Dhaka underscores a deliberate effort to maintain clarity and prevent any miscalculations. General Dwivedi emphasized that all three Indian armed services, the Army, Navy, and Air Force, have kept their lines of communication fully active with Bangladesh. This approach reflects a strategic priority to understand the intentions behind recent developments in Dhaka while avoiding unnecessary escalation.
These assurances carry significant weight for South Asia, where stable India-Bangladesh military ties play a critical role in managing shared borders, countering terrorism, and addressing water-sharing disputes. Open communication helps reduce the risk of misunderstandings that could arise from external influences, including Pakistan and China, and supports broader regional cooperation.
Indian Army Chief Dhaka Highlights Continuous Engagement
General Dwivedi explained that the Indian Army maintains multiple channels of direct contact with the Bangladesh Army. He maintains regular contact with his counterpart in Dhaka. In addition, the chiefs of the Indian Navy and Air Force have also held discussions with their Bangladeshi counterparts in recent weeks.
A high-level Indian delegation recently visited Bangladesh to meet key figures on the ground and assess the situation first-hand. These interactions form part of a broader strategy to monitor political and security developments without reacting prematurely.
Dwivedi stated clearly: “As of today all three services have kept their communication channels fully open. The Indian Army has multiple channels of communication open and I remain in regular touch with their chief there. In the same way we are also in contact through our other channels as well. We had sent a delegation there which met everyone on the ground. Similarly the chief of the naval staff and the chief of the air staff have also spoken.”
He further reassured that the current actions of the Bangladesh armed forces are not directed against India in any way. The focus remains on capability building, which both countries pursue as a normal part of modernising their defence forces.
Bangladesh Military Relations India Face New Realities
Bangladesh military relations India have come under increased scrutiny since the political transition in August 2024. The ouster of Sheikh Hasina and the establishment of an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus have introduced new variables into the bilateral relationship.
India has closely watched reports of attacks on religious minorities and the strengthening of ties between Dhaka and Islamabad. Despite these concerns, General Dwivedi stressed that India is adopting a measured and watchful approach rather than an alarmist one.
Open channels Bangladesh serve as a vital mechanism to ensure transparency. Regular military-to-military dialogue helps both sides clarify intentions, share assessments, and maintain a baseline of mutual understanding even during periods of political uncertainty.
Background: Long-Standing Foundation of India Bangladesh Military Ties
India Bangladesh military ties trace their roots to the 1971 Liberation War, when Indian forces played a decisive role in Bangladesh’s independence. Since then, the relationship has grown into a multifaceted partnership that includes joint military exercises, training programmes, and defence equipment cooperation.
Annual exercises such as Sampriti (army) and Bongosagar (navy) continue to strengthen interoperability. India has also provided training to thousands of Bangladeshi officers and supplied military hardware under favourable terms.
Bilateral trade now exceeds USD 10 billion annually, while shared rivers and a 4,096-kilometre border make sustained cooperation essential. Defence collaboration supports joint efforts against terrorism, smuggling, and border security challenges.
Recent political changes in Dhaka have tested the resilience of these ties. India’s response has focused on engagement rather than confrontation, with open channels Bangladesh proving instrumental in managing tensions.
What’s Next for India-Bangladesh Military Ties
Looking ahead, continued military dialogue is expected as Bangladesh prepares for national elections and a referendum scheduled for February 12, 2026. Analysts anticipate that regular high-level exchanges will persist to address capability concerns and reinforce confidence-building measures.
If political stability returns and mutual trust is maintained, India Bangladesh military ties could expand into new areas such as maritime security cooperation and joint disaster response. Regional platforms like BIMSTEC offer additional opportunities for structured collaboration.
Ultimately, open channels Bangladesh and sustained engagement position both nations to navigate future challenges while preserving a relationship that remains vital for peace and stability across South Asia.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 14th, 2026
Follow SouthAsianDesk on X, Instagram and Facebook for insights on business and current affairs from across South Asia.
