(Image source from: Indiatodayne.in)
After years of tensions, India and China have now agreed to disengage their troops stationed along the border, with 50,000 to 60,000 soldiers on each side. The two countries' diplomatic and military representatives have been in close contact, leading to an agreement on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the border areas. This agreement will result in the resolution of the issues that arose in these areas in 2020. Both sides have also expressed a commitment to maintain dialogue to find a mutually acceptable solution. The Chinese Defence Ministry and Indian Ambassador to China have been involved in these discussions.
The Indian Express reported that India and China have made significant progress in resolving their differences along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. They are exploring a potential solution that considers their positions prior to April 2020, while addressing existing issues in Arunachal Pradesh. This suggests that Indian troops, who were previously denied access to certain patrol points due to Chinese presence or buffer zones, may soon regain access. While troops remain alert along the LAC, both sides are avoiding confrontation to prevent further setbacks in their redeployment plans. Local commanders from both sides have been meeting to build trust and prevent clashes. Key friction points, such as Galwan Valley, Pangong Tso, and Gogra-Hot Springs, have seen some resolution through the establishment of buffer zones.
The Depsang Plains area was restricted from troops accessing certain patrol locations. On September 12, India's External Affairs Minister stated that around 75% of the "disengagement challenges" with China have been "resolved," but the "major issue" has been the growing military presence along the border. Later, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said the troops have withdrawn from four locations in Eastern Ladakh, including Galwan Valley, and the border situation is now stable.
