Tue May 27 14:38:40 UTC 2025: ## Summary:

Bangladesh is planning to revive the Lalmonirhat air base, a facility dating back to World War II, with financial and technical assistance from China. This development has reportedly caused concern within the Indian government.

## News Article:

**India Wary as Bangladesh Seeks Chinese Aid to Revive WWII-Era Air Base**

**Dhaka/New Delhi –** Plans by Bangladesh to rehabilitate the Lalmonirhat air base, a relic from World War II, with the assistance of China have reportedly triggered unease within the Indian administration. The air base, located in the Rangpur division of Bangladesh, is envisioned to be upgraded and modernized with Chinese financial and technical support.

Sources within the Indian government suggest the development is being closely monitored, raising concerns about the potential strategic implications of China’s increasing influence in the region.

Lalmonirhat, a historic airbase with roots stretching back to the Second World War, has seen limited use in recent decades. The Bangladeshi government’s decision to revive the facility with Chinese involvement has been interpreted by some as a move to bolster its defense capabilities and strengthen its relationship with Beijing.

While details of the project remain scarce, analysts speculate the upgraded air base could potentially be used for both civilian and military purposes. The proximity of Lalmonirhat to India’s strategic Siliguri Corridor, also known as the “Chicken’s Neck,” a narrow strip of land connecting mainland India to its northeastern states, is likely contributing to India’s heightened vigilance.

Neither the Bangladeshi nor the Chinese government has officially commented on the specific details of the project, but the prospect of a Chinese-backed air base near India’s border is sure to fuel further discussion and potentially influence future strategic calculations in the region.

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