India-China border situation stable but sensitive: defence ministry
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The Indian Defence Ministry has described the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China as “stable but sensitive,” emphasizing progress in disengagement and troop relocation at key friction points.
Following sustained diplomatic and military negotiations, the consensus reached aims to restore the ground situation based on principles of “equal and mutual security.”
The ministry’s year-end review highlighted the October 21 agreement between Indian and Chinese forces to disengage from Depsang and Demchok. Troop relocations in these areas have been completed, with joint verification ensuring compliance. Traditional patrolling activities have resumed, signaling a return to operational normalcy in these sectors after over four years of tension.
Indian Army personnel remain on high alert to maintain stability and dominance along both the LAC and the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan.
Last week, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval visited Beijing to engage in talks under the Special Representatives (SR) framework with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. This mechanism, revived following discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in October, focuses on resolving the boundary dispute.
The ministry also reported continued vigilance along the LoC with Pakistan, where counter-terror operations are ongoing. Infrastructure development in border regions remains a priority, aligning with the government’s "Viksit Bharat Vision." The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) plans to construct 470 roads totaling 27,000 km by 2028, enhancing connectivity and operational preparedness.
The Indian Navy has maintained high levels of deployment in key sea lanes, particularly after the Israel-Hamas conflict and rising piracy incidents in the Arabian Sea. Over 30 ships have been deployed in the region, responding to 25 incidents and saving over 400 lives across various nationalities. Merchant vessels carrying critical commodities for India have been safely escorted, reinforcing the Navy’s reputation as a reliable security partner.
The Indian Air Force is establishing six new defence wings in countries such as Spain, Armenia, and Ivory Coast, reflecting an expanding global presence. Meanwhile, defence exports reached a record Rs. 21,083 crore in 2023-24, a 32.5% increase over the previous year.