India has achieved great success on the LAC issue.
The settlement of the India-China border dispute is gradually moving in a positive direction. Despite tensions in eastern Ladakh since 2020, the agreement between the two countries forced the Dragons to retreat. On October 21, 2024, India and China reached an agreement to end the tensions in Depsang and Demchok. Since then, the world has seen India’s strategy and strength in restoring border peace. Let us know for what five reasons China was forced to retreat and how India showed strong leadership on the entire issue.
- Military strength and better border infrastructure: Since 2020, India has accelerated its military deployment on the border. Despite global challenges like Covid-19, the Indian Army is ready for a tough fight in eastern Ladakh. At the same time, the construction of strategic border roads, bridges, and tunnels has been accelerated. Projects such as the Umling La Pass Road, Atal Tunnel and Sera Tunnel provide India with better access to the high Himalayan terrain and the ability to secure military supplies.
- Victory of Diplomatic Efforts: India adopts a policy of resolving disputes through dialogue. Since the Galwan conflict in 2020, a total of 21 military commander-level meetings and 17 diplomatic-level consultation and coordination working mechanism meetings have been held. Despite the peak of tensions, communication between the two countries has remained constant. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Defense Minister held several meetings with the Chinese Defense Minister.
- Adhere to three important principles: India has made it clear that without border peace and stability, bilateral relations cannot be normal. India has put forward three major conditions to China: 1- Both sides must respect the Line of Actual Control (LAC). 2- Any unilateral attempt to change the situation is unacceptable. 3- Full compliance with prior agreements and understandings should be ensured. By adhering to these principles, India has maintained its strong position.
- Correct answer to China’s actions: In response to China’s large-scale troop deployment in eastern Ladakh in 2020, India also immediately carried out mirror deployment, that is, reciprocal military deployment. After the conflict in the Galwan Valley, the Indian army sent a clear message that it will not tolerate any form of infiltration or provocation. The bold response and profound strategic thinking of Indian soldiers forced China to take a step back.
- India’s role on the global stage: India has not only used diplomacy and military power to resolve disputes with China but also strengthened its position in global forums. India has taken a tough stance against China’s aggressiveness and expressed its views in international forums. The conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping during the BRICS meeting (Kazan) had a significant impact in this regard. During the G20 Summit (Rio de Janeiro), the foreign ministers of the two countries agreed to quickly implement the decisions of Modi and Kim Ping during their talks.
What message does India send to the world?
- Throughout the incident, India has sent a clear message that it is not only capable of protecting its borders but will not bow to any pressure. India has shown that it favors peace but will not compromise on sovereignty and integrity.
- Dragon was forced to retreat due to India’s diplomacy, military might and determination. This victory is not only a restoration of border peace, but also a testament to India’s international prestige and leadership. This sends a message to the world that India stands ready to protect its security, sovereignty and global interests.
