Diwali peace at border: India-China conclude Ladakh disengagement as troops prepare for patrols

India-China Relations: Following a precise timeline, India and China have successfully completed their disengagement in the Depsang and Demchok regions of Eastern Ladakh. Army sources confirmed that regular patrols will soon resume, and as a gesture of goodwill, Indian and Chinese troops are set to exchange sweets on Diwali, fostering mutual respect. This disengagement marks a significant step toward stabilizing relations and creating a path for peace along the contentious border areas.

Verification and patrolling protocols

Army officials disclosed that verification processes are currently underway, while the modalities for resumed patrolling will be established by ground commanders. The Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, highlighted the importance of the recent agreements, crediting discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping during the recent BRICS summit in Russia for advancing this positive development. “The meeting has set a strong foundation for future interactions between our countries,” stated Ambassador Feihong, emphasizing a mutual goal to reduce disagreements through constructive dialogue.

Strategic decisions following satellite confirmation

On October 21, India’s government announced a patrolling agreement for Depsang and Demchok, with both nations agreeing to restore forces to pre-2020 standoff positions. This strategic move follows satellite imagery showing the dismantling of Chinese military structures in these disputed zones. The images captured significant developments, including the removal of tents and vehicles near the “Y Junction,” a site pivotal to India’s patrol reach within the Line of Actual Control.

Past tensions and forward progress

The India-China standoff, which ignited in May 2020 and escalated with the Galwan Valley clash, led to multiple rounds of military talks and progressive withdrawals. In 2022, both sides agreed to pull back from the Gogra-Hot Springs area, inching closer to the current disengagement. This latest round of talks, facilitated by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, paved the way for new agreements that will allow both nations to resume border operations in peace.

Leaders commit to lasting peace

After the disengagement announcement, Prime Minister Modi and President Jinping reaffirmed the agreement on October 23, prioritizing peace and stability along the shared border. Prime Minister Modi remarked, “It should be our priority to ensure peace and stability along our border,” underscoring a joint commitment to fostering a peaceful frontier.