India-China Agreement on LAC Tensions

Source: This post on India-China Agreement on LAC Tensions has been created based on the article “India, China reach deal on easing LAC tensions” published in The Hindu on 22nd October 2024.

Why in news?

India and China recently reached an agreement on patrolling arrangements at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The agreement includes resolving remaining military stand-off points at Demchok and Depsang.

Key Points of the agreements

1. Restoration of 2020 LAC Status: India and China have agreed to restore the LAC to its pre-May 2020 status, resuming patrolling by both sides. This marks a significant diplomatic breakthrough in resolving the border standoff that had escalated since 2020.

2. Diplomatic Achievement: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced the agreement on October 21, 2024, crediting it to “patient and persevering diplomacy.” This move reflects the culmination of efforts by both nations to de-escalate tensions.

3. Patrolling Resumed: As per the agreement, Indian and Chinese soldiers will now patrol the LAC in a manner consistent with pre-2020 arrangements, resolving the standstill that had blocked patrols in key areas for over four years.

4. Areas resolved under agreement: Indian troops will regain patrolling rights up to Patrolling Points (PP) 10 to 13 in areas such as Depsang Plain and Demchok (Charding Nullah).

5. Military Mobilization: During the standoff, both countries stationed over 50,000 troops along the LAC, along with significant firepower and military resources. The agreement aims to reduce tensions in this heavily militarized zone.

6. Future Considerations: The agreement leaves some questions unanswered, particularly whether patrolling rights have been restored along the entire LAC or just in specific areas. Additionally, the future of buffer zones, created in transgression areas, remains unclear.

7. Strategic Implications: The timing of the agreement, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the BRICS summit in Russia, could strengthen India’s position on the global stage. However, concerns remain over China’s long-term intentions, especially in relation to Taiwan.

UPSC Syllabus: Internal security