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Context:

India and China have finalized a patrolling agreement along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Background

India and China share a long and disputed border known as the Line of Actual Control (LAC), which divides Indian-controlled territory from Chinese-controlled territory. It is the unofficial border between India and China, stretching about 3,488 kilometers.

In the LAC area, both India and China generally keep a distance of about 50 to 100 kilometers from each other, however, this distance can vary based on specific locations and situations.

The border has been a source of tension, especially since the violent clash in Galwan Valley in June 2020, which left soldiers from both sides dead. Since then, India and China have engaged in several discussions to try and reduce these tensions.

Recent Agreement

India and China decided to resume patrolling in two key areas: Depsang and Demchok.   

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is coordinating closely to implement the agreement. Both sides will conduct joint patrolling in the agreed areas to ensure mutual trust and transparency.

Patrolling Areas under the recent agreement

Depsang Plain is located near the strategic Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) airstrip; close to the Karakoram Pass.

Demchok, located in southeastern Ladakh, the area is strategically important as it lies near the Charding Nullah, a stream that marks the LAC in this region; both countries have built infrastructure resulting in occasional conflicts.

Galwan Valley has been a main point of military build-up and disengagement measures.

Significance

The agreement is an effective step towards restoring peace and stability along the LAC, it indicates a mutual willingness to resolve disputes through dialogue and cooperation. The resumption of patrolling is expected to:

• Regular patrolling will help in reducing misunderstandings and accidental confrontations.
• Joint patrolling and disengagement will build confidence between the two militaries.
• This action will probably stabilize bilateral relations and provide the way for further diplomatic engagements on other controversial issues.

Way Forward

The resumption of patrolling is a positive development, however, more comprehensive resolution for border disputes will require continuous diplomatic efforts to address conflicting issues and work towards a long-term solution.

Must Read Articles: 

INDIA-CHINA BORDER TALKS

Source: 

NDTV

PRACTICE QUESTION Q.Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) airstrip located near which mountain range? A) Western Ghats B) Karakoram Range C) Eastern Himalayas D) Zanskar Range Answer: B Explanation: The Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) airstrip is strategically important due to its location near the Karakoram Range.