The recent patrolling agreement between India and China marks a significant step towards easing military tensions at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in East Ladakh. After long-standing disputes following the 2020 standoff, both armies will soon resume joint patrols in areas like the Depsang Bulge and Demchok, thanks to the strategic diplomacy led by PM Modi.

This accord, a result of prolonged negotiations, came together following a cordial meeting between PM Modi and President Xi Jinping. Conducted at Kazan, the high-level talks included a detailed dialogue at the delegation level, involving India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Their discussion focused on normalizing ties and reducing military build-ups along the entire LAC, which stretches over 3,488 km.

Coordination between India’s military and diplomatic bodies, including the inter-ministerial China Study Group, was key to achieving this milestone. Both sides have convened 17 diplomatic meetings and 21 military commander discussions since the June 2020 clash at Galwan. Notably, India maintained its stance on resuming patrols in the Depsang and Demchok areas, emphasizing that full normalization is conditional on restoring these rights.
The agreement specifically covers the Western Sector of the LAC, where both forces had blocked each other, and does not affect buffer zones in other friction areas, preventing further disputes.

While opposition parties have raised concerns, PM Modi’s approach has been a mantra of mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity, aiming for a balanced relationship between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The new accord will allow both armies to cautiously resume patrols, backed by mutual restraint to prevent any flare-ups. With more than 50,000 troops, tanks, and fighter jets stationed on both sides, reducing military presence to pre-2020 levels remains a challenge for the future.
By holding ground on this agreement, PM Modi has strengthened India's position, reminding the world of India’s resolve to protect its borders through strategic and steady diplomacy.