28.5c India
In a significant development following the disengagement process at the friction sites along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, Indian forces have initiated patrolling in the Demchok region. This move, which began on Friday, marks a crucial step in the ongoing situation. Indian Army sources have confirmed the start of 'coordinated patrolling' in Demchok, with plans to extend this to the Depsang Plains in the near future.
This measure is consistent with India and China's disengagement agreement, which was announced on October 21, just before Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping met at the BRICS Summit in Russia.
The deal is viewed as a vital step in lowering tensions that increased after China invaded eastern Ladakh in 2020. The impasse was exacerbated by Chinese troops blocking Indian access to several patrol points in Depsang and the Charding Nullah area in Demchok.
Recent discussions with local commanders have made disengagement, the first in a three-step strategy that includes de-escalation, de-induction of soldiers, and disengagement, more accessible.
The Chinese Ministry of National Defense affirmed that the disengagement agreement is still being implemented.
By emphasizing maintaining peace along the border regions through military and diplomatic cooperation, both nations seek to provide the groundwork for long-term, stable bilateral relations.