Indian and Chinese troops marked Diwali with the traditional exchange of sweets at several locations along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This gesture of goodwill came after both nations completed the disengagement process at key friction points in eastern Ladakh, a significant development in alleviating long-standing border tensions. The disengagement, finalized at the Depsang Plains and Demchok, involved the withdrawal of troops, weapons, and temporary shelters to their positions prior to April 2020, aiming to foster peace in the region after years of heightened conflict.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced that the recent agreement resulted from extensive negotiations between Indian and Chinese officials. He expressed optimism that this breakthrough would help ease tensions that had persisted since the violent clashes in Galwan Valley in 2020. The formal endorsement of the disengagement plan by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping on October 23 further underscored the commitment to reducing hostilities along the border.
With the disengagement in place, ground commanders from both countries will collaborate to set up safe patrolling protocols, initiating discussions at the brigadier level. This coordinated effort aims to manage border activities effectively and restore stability along the LAC. The sweet exchange on Diwali symbolizes a hopeful step towards normalizing relations between India and China, reinforcing the diplomatic progress made in recent negotiations.
Post Your Comments