India and China Make Significant Progress on LAC Issues in Eastern Ladakh
India and China have reportedly made significant progress in narrowing their differences regarding the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. Recent diplomatic and military discussions have focused on solutions that consider pre-April 2020 positions, potentially addressing outstanding issues in Arunachal Pradesh as well.
Key Developments
Sources indicate that Indian troops may soon regain access to several patrolling points along the LAC that had previously been blocked due to Chinese military presence and the implementation of buffer zones following disengagement agreements. This marks a notable shift in the ongoing military standoff that has persisted since mid-2020.
The upcoming 22nd round of military talks at the Corps Commanders’ level is expected to outline specific modalities, including a timeline for troop deployment adjustments based on mutual agreements. High-level officials confirmed that progress was made during the recent 31st Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) talks held in Beijing.
Current Situation on the Ground
Despite the encouraging developments, troops from both sides remain on high alert along the LAC. Officials have emphasized the importance of avoiding confrontations that could lead to a trust deficit and delay redeployment plans. To enhance confidence, local commanders have been meeting regularly to prevent clashes.
Furthermore, plans are underway to raise an additional division, likely the 72nd Division, in Ladakh by mid-next year. This reorganization aims to allow certain forces, including the Rashtriya Rifles, to return to their original locations.
Continued Infrastructure Development
Regardless of any troop redeployments, the Indian Army is committed to ongoing border infrastructure development along the entire LAC to ensure preparedness for any contingencies. Winter stocking for approximately 50,000 to 60,000 additional troops in eastern Ladakh is also proceeding as planned, indicating that while redeployment may be forthcoming, the situation remains complex and fluid.
On September 12, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar noted that approximately 75% of disengagement issues with China have been resolved, although he cautioned that the increasing militarization of the border remains a concern. Meanwhile, the Chinese Foreign Ministry confirmed disengagement at four locations in eastern Ladakh, including the Galwan Valley, asserting that the situation along the border is stable.
High-Level Diplomatic Engagements
Recent discussions between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during the BRICS NSAs meeting in St. Petersburg further underscored the commitment to finding a resolution to outstanding border issues. A statement from the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the constructive nature of these talks, suggesting that both sides are keen to stabilize and rebuild bilateral relations.
During the last WMCC meeting, officials expressed a desire to work urgently and redouble efforts to achieve complete disengagement in the remaining areas. The last formal disengagement occurred in September 2022, when troops pulled back from Patrolling Point-15 in the Gogra-Hot Springs area.
Legacy Issues Remain
While progress has been made at several friction points—such as Galwan Valley, the north and south banks of Pangong Tso, and Gogra-Hot Springs—legacy issues like those in the Depsang Plains and Demchok still pose challenges. Troops in the Depsang Plains have been restricted from accessing patrol points in the Y junction area.
As both nations continue to engage diplomatically, the focus remains on maintaining peace and stability along the LAC while addressing historical grievances and ensuring that military readiness is not compromised.
