India and China have reached a limited agreement on disengagement and patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. While this agreement, signed on 21 October 2024, is seen as a step towards reducing tensions, it does not fully resolve the issues that arose after the 2020 border standoff. There are still key areas left unaddressed in this strategic relationship, and the deal’s restrictions on patrolling raise questions about the long-term stability of the region.

Limited Disengagement Agreement: A Half-Measure

The India-China border disengagement agreement mainly covers the Depsang and Demchok areas. However, several critical regions, including the Galwan Valley, Pangong Tso, and Hot Springs, remain unresolved. The agreement has imposed new limitations on patrolling in these areas, including restrictions on the number of soldiers per patrol and the frequency of patrols. Both India and China will only patrol two to three times a month, and prior notification is required before any movement. These measures, presented as a “new formula” to build consensus, seem more like an acceptance of compromise. India has made concessions, such as limiting its patrols in Charding La, a crucial pass. The imposition of such restrictions signals a shift in India's border strategy, especially as it adjusts to China’s growing military presence.

Strategic Relationship and Infrastructure Development

Despite the limitations on patrolling as per the India China border agreement, the Indian government has continued to focus on improving infrastructure along the border. The development of critical infrastructure, such as the Darbuk Shyok Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO) road, and the creation of new airstrips and tunnels are vital for enhancing India’s defence posture. Additionally, India’s military has undergone structural reforms, including the establishment of a new operational corps for monitoring the LAC. These steps have bolstered India’s defence capacity in the face of Chinese aggression. However, these efforts must be accompanied by significant investments in military modernization to ensure India can effectively safeguard its border.

Military Modernization: The Need for a Stronger Army

While infrastructure development has been a key focus, India must also invest more in its defence capabilities. The current defence budget, which has primarily focused on revenue expenditure, has seen minimal increases in capital purchases, especially for new weapons and equipment. India China border disengagement may signal weakness and could embolden China to take further aggressive actions. With no significant increase in defence spending since 2017, India risks falling behind in the arms race, which could escalate tensions and potentially lead to military conflict.

Conclusion

India’s border agreement with China marks a positive development, but it is not enough on its own to ensure lasting peace. While infrastructure improvements and military reforms are commendable, India must prioritize enhancing its military strength to maintain a strategic advantage. Know more about this strategic relationship in a detailed article here.