India, China Resume Patrolling at Demchok and Depsang as LAC Disengagement Concludes

The Indian and Chinese armies have restarted coordinated patrolling in the Demchok and Depsang Plains along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. This development follows a recently concluded disengagement process, aimed at de-escalating tensions that have persisted since the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes.

The resumption of patrolling comes after both sides reached an agreement to end the over four-year standoff, formalizing disengagement in two of the most contentious areas along the LAC. With verification underway, both armies are ensuring the removal of temporary infrastructure and the repositioning of troops to pre-standoff locations. Each patrol operation will involve varied numbers of personnel and adjusted distances to meet specific tasks, as established in the latest protocols.

Ongoing Talks for Long-Term Stability

To support continued stability, commanders from both nations are set to engage in local-level discussions to finalize safe patrolling protocols and address any residual issues. Brigadier-level talks will facilitate coordination and reduce the risk of misunderstandings along the border.

In a customary show of goodwill, Indian and Chinese troops exchanged sweets for Diwali along the LAC, though no additional cultural programs accompanied this year’s celebration. The tradition reflects mutual respect and renewed cooperation, even amid lingering tensions.

High-Level Agreement to Rejuvenate India-China Relations

The disengagement effort stems from an October 21 breakthrough when India announced a border agreement with China, which Beijing confirmed the following day. Both nations expressed commitment to de-escalation, dismantling military infrastructure and temporary posts established after the Galwan clash.

Additional discussions are anticipated to address buffer zones in other sensitive areas, including Galwan. The recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit in Kazan on October 25 underscored the shared goal of resuming constructive dialogue and fostering diplomatic relations.