military standoff in ladakh

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has clarified there is no contradiction between the Army chief Upendra Dwivedi and external affairs minister S Jaishankar regarding disengagement with China in eastern Ladakh. While the Army chief mentioned a 'degree of standoff' remaining, the MEA highlights disengagement is completed at specific points. The Army chief notes authorities can handle minor issues to prevent escalation.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced that Indian and Chinese troops have begun disengagement at Depsang and Demchok in Ladakh. This move aims to restore normalcy along the Line of Actual Control, with de-escalation to follow if China reciprocates. The agreement marks a significant step in resolving the four-year-long military standoff.

Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi announced India's desire to revert to the April 2020 status quo along the Line of Actual Control with China. Following extensive negotiations, India and China have agreed to return to pre-Galwan clash patrolling arrangements in eastern Ladakh, including Depsang and Demchok areas, ending a 54-month-long military standoff.

China and India have made progress in reducing differences and reaching a consensus on disengaging troops from friction points in eastern Ladakh. Both countries agreed to continue dialogue for an early resolution. Discussions were held through diplomatic and military channels, involving foreign ministers and other officials.

A statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has been installed by the Indian Army at Pangong Lake in Ladakh, near the India-China border, symbolizing bravery and justice. Placed by Lt Gen Hitesh Bhalla, this tribute aims to inspire soldiers with Shivaji’s legacy of courage and leadership. While some question its location, it stands as a poignant reminder of India's rich heritage.

India and China held diplomatic talks in Beijing to address the military standoff in eastern Ladakh. Led by MEA joint secretary Gourangalal Das, the Indian side reiterated the importance of restoring peace and respecting the LAC for bilateral normalcy.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh announced nearing completion of disengagement efforts along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, with ongoing efforts for long-term peace with China. Recent dialogues fostered a consensus to restore the pre-standoff situation, focusing on mutual security, patrolling, and grazing rights. Singh also honored Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's contributions.

India and China recently held another round of diplomatic talks to address the military standoff in eastern Ladakh, aiming for an early disengagement process. Despite no breakthrough on the issues at Demchok and Depsang, the discussions were described as in-depth and constructive, with both sides agreeing to maintain momentum through established channels.

China and India have reached a resolution on their disputed border, agreeing on military patrols along the Line of Actual Control. This deal aims to disengage troops and restore peace along the frontier. The announcements precede a BRICS summit in Russia, fueling speculation of potential talks between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar acknowledged the breakthrough agreement with China on LAC patrolling but noted ongoing issues. The disengagement allows progress towards normalisation, he said, crediting military and diplomatic efforts. He emphasized India's improved border infrastructure and ongoing troop disengagement in eastern Ladakh slated for completion by October 28-29.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the India-China agreement easing border tensions as a result of dialogue. The pact, endorsed by PM Modi and President Xi Jinping, focuses on patrolling and grazing in traditional areas. This landmark agreement aims to restore peace along the LAC after prolonged military standoffs and deadly clashes in Galwan Valley.

Chinese government has honored Qi Fabao, a regiment commander injured during the 2020 Galwan clash with India, among 33 individuals recognized for outstanding performance at a Beijing ceremony. This follows previous honors, including his selection as a torchbearer at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics and other military awards.

India will not reduce troops along the LAC with China, citing a persisting standoff and the need to rebuild trust for de-escalation. Army chief Gen Dwivedi also criticized Pakistan for cross-border terrorism in J&K. The situation along the LAC is stable but sensitive, with strategic patience required to resolve the conflict.

From a $100bn trade deficit, to building new settlements in Ladakh, to its plan to build a monstrous $137bn dam on the Yarlung Zangbo river (Brahmaputra on the Indian side) — China continues to hold all trump cards. The Indian government should not be swayed by Beijing agreeing to resume the Kailash Mansarovar yatra or restart direct flights between the two countries. The dragon must be watched

Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi stated that the situation along the LAC in eastern Ladakh is stable but sensitive. He highlighted positive diplomatic signals aimed at resolving the standoff with China but emphasized that ground decisions rely on military commanders. Full resolution is needed to return to the pre-April 2020 situation. India insists on disengagement for normal ties.