Introduction
Tensions between India and China along their disputed border have reached an unprecedented level in recent years, prompting India to undertake a series of strategic military measures to fortify its defenses. The Galwan Valley clash in June 2020, which resulted in the tragic loss of 20 Indian soldiers, marked a significant turning point in the long-standing border conflict. In the aftermath of this incident, India has taken decisive steps to bolster its military preparedness and infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.
India-China Border Standoff: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in Kolkata, Tuesday, May 14, 2024.
(Image Source :PTI)
Abnormal Deployment of Forces
During an address at an event organized by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in Kolkata, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar raised concerns over the "abnormal deployment" of forces by China along the LAC. He emphasized the paramount importance of national security and highlighted India's response to the Galwan clash and the subsequent counter-deployment of forces. Jaishankar recalled former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's visit to China in 1988, which was a crucial step towards normalizing bilateral relations. At the time, there was a clear understanding between the two nations that they would discuss their boundary differences while maintaining peace and tranquility along the border, allowing the rest of their relationship to progress.
However, Jaishankar lamented China's violation of multiple agreements by deploying a significant number of forces along the border during India's COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. India responded with a counter-deployment of forces, and for the past four years, both countries have maintained their forces ahead of their normal base positions at Galwan.
"For four years now, we have both deployed ahead of our normal base positions. It is a very abnormal deployment today along the Line of Actual Control. Given the tension between the two countries, it's not a matter of we had a conflict 62 years ago. It is about what is happening today on the border. As Indian citizens, none of us should disregard the security of the country... it is today a challenge," Jaishankar asserted.
Strategic Military Infrastructure
In a significant move to enhance military infrastructure and tank operations along the borders with China, the Indian Army has established two high-altitude tank repair facilities in eastern Ladakh. One facility is located in the Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO) sector, and the other is just 25 km from the Chinese border, according to Indian Army officials cited by India Today.
With nearly 500 tanks deployed in the Ladakh region, transporting these armored vehicles back to the mainland for repairs had previously posed a significant challenge. The new repair centers aim to resolve this issue by improving the effectiveness and serviceability of armored fighting vehicles, including tanks and infantry combat vehicles, in the rugged terrain.
Recently, Indian Army Chief General Manoj Pande visited the Medium Maintenance (Reset) Facility for Armored Fighting Vehicles, designed to enhance serviceability and mission reliability in the challenging terrain.
Troop Reinforcements
In response to the deteriorating relations with China after the Galwan standoff, the Indian government has freed a contingent of 10,000 soldiers previously deployed at its western border to strengthen its disputed border with China. This contingent will be combined with an existing force of 9,000 soldiers already stationed along the Chinese border, forming a newly created fighting command.
This combined force of approximately 20,000 soldiers is expected to be deployed to guard the strategically important 532 km (330.57 miles) stretch of the Indo-China border in the northern states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, as reported by Bloomberg.
Economic Implications and Security Concerns
Addressing the economic challenges exacerbated by alleged neglect in the manufacturing and infrastructure sectors in previous years, Jaishankar expressed apprehension over India's significant imports from China.
He questioned, "Why is Indian business buying so much from China... Is it good to be dependent on some other source?"
Jaishankar advocated for shorter and reliable supply chains, particularly in sensitive sectors, to fulfill national security obligations.
"Countries feel today that many core businesses must stay within the country. The supply chain should be shorter and reliable... In the sensitive sectors, we will be careful... There is a national security obligation," he said, as quoted by PTI.
Additionally, Jaishankar touched upon India's positive relations with Russia, citing economic factors such as the latter's access to natural resources like oil, coal, and metals.
Criticism of Past Economic Policies
Reflecting on India's economic trajectory, Jaishankar commended the achievements of the past decade while criticizing past shortcomings in focusing on manufacturing and infrastructure. "Proper focus was not given to the manufacturing and infrastructure sector earlier, and the erstwhile license and permit Raj had created hostility to growth," he remarked.
"Many states including this one (West Bengal), there had been a culture of hostility to growth while job creation has become a challenge," he added, as per PTI.
Highlighting the renewed emphasis on economic growth, infrastructure development, and manufacturing revival, Jaishankar expressed optimism about India's return to a high growth path. "Today, the economic growth rate is a source of hope for all. India has returned to a high growth path, and emphasis has been given to building infrastructure and revival of manufacturing," he concluded.
Conclusion
The escalating tensions along the India-China border have prompted India to take decisive action to fortify its defenses and enhance its military preparedness. The establishment of strategic tank repair facilities, the deployment of additional troops, and the focus on economic security and self-reliance underscore India's commitment to safeguarding its national interests. As the situation along the LAC remains precarious, India's proactive measures aim to deter any potential aggression while maintaining a strong military posture to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Comments