After prolonged negotiations and years of military stand-offs post the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes, India and China have commenced troop and artillery withdrawal in Eastern Ladakh. The disengagement is focused on friction points such as Pangong Tso, Gogra-Hot Springs, and Depsang Plains. Both countries aim to de-escalate tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), where clashes had severely impacted bilateral relations.
While this step is being seen as a breakthrough in restoring stability, Indian defense experts remain cautious of China’s strategic intentions. The Indian government has assured close monitoring of the disengagement process to ensure adherence to agreements. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that India remains committed to safeguarding its territorial sovereignty while pursuing diplomatic solutions.
This marks a positive development, but unresolved border disputes and concerns over infrastructure development by China near the LAC continue to loom.