India-China Border Management

Efforts to Reduce Trust Deficit

• Indian troops in eastern Ladakh are implementing confidence-building measures to improve relations with Chinese troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
• Efforts include the enhancement of technical surveillance infrastructure established over the past five years to monitor the LAC continuously.

Surveillance and Patrolling

• A comprehensive surveillance network has been set up to monitor the LAC and nearby areas around the clock.
• The infrastructure is being upgraded to reduce the need for extensive patrolling, especially during Ladakh's challenging icy winters.

Challenges and Solutions

• Patrolling in the harsh winter conditions of Ladakh is difficult and can lead to delays and potential confrontations.
• Enhanced ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) infrastructure reduces patrol frequency and troop stress.

Diplomatic and Military Dialogues

• The 24th round of Special Representatives’ dialogue resulted in an agreement to establish an expert group for early boundary delimitation.
• There are ongoing discussions to address unresolved issues, starting with areas that are easier to resolve.

Current Military Presence

• Despite some disengagement, approximately 50,000-60,000 troops remain stationed on either side of the LAC.

Recent Developments and Agreements

• The August dialogue between Indian and Chinese representatives emphasized improved border management and de-escalation strategies.
• An agreement reached in October led to disengagement and issue resolution along the LAC.
• Efforts are underway to geotag patrolling points to clarify the LAC and ease future negotiations.

Statistics and Talks

• 21 rounds of military commanders’ talks, 34 rounds of WMCC talks, and 24 rounds of SR dialogue have been held between India and China.