Indian and Chinese troops have resumed joint patrols along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh for the first time in over four years, signalling a significant de-escalation in the prolonged border tensions that followed a deadly confrontation in 2020. On October 31, soldiers from both sides patrolled sensitive areas like Depsang and Demchok, each notifying the other side prior to movement—a symbolic step toward cooperation following years of strained relations.
The resumption of patrols marks an important shift in the military landscape at the LAC. Patrolling had been suspended since June 2020, when a violent clash in Galwan Valley resulted in the loss of 20 Indian soldiers, a turning point that led both nations to halt patrolling and increase defensive posturing along the border. Under the recent patrolling agreement, however, both Indian and Chinese forces have completed phased military disengagement, creating an environment for peaceful patrols and coordinated efforts to avoid any misunderstandings.
The joint patrols on October 31 included notable gestures of goodwill as troops exchanged Diwali sweets at five locations along the LAC, including Chushul Maldo and Daulat Beg Oldi, underscoring a renewed commitment to diplomatic protocols and mutual respect. This exchange, a longstanding tradition often observed at key festivals, added a hopeful note to the resumed patrols.
In the Depsang area, Indian troops are expected to regain access to patrol points beyond previously restricted regions, known as the “bottleneck,” where Chinese forces had earlier limited movement. Similarly, in Demchok, Indian forces are anticipated to resume patrols at Track Junction and Charding Nullah, strategic locations essential to maintaining comprehensive border oversight.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh commented on the recent developments, emphasising the efforts made at both diplomatic and military levels to achieve a “broad consensus on the basis of equal and mutual security.” This approach, which includes ongoing diplomatic talks and military discussions, has fostered incremental steps toward restoring trust along the LAC.
