Three Chinese bloggers were detained by authorities in China for questioning the official Chinese version of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-releases-propaganda-video-of-galwan-valley-clash-364969">Galwan</a> Valley clash against Indian troops which took place on June 15 last year, reports said.

WATCH|

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China's state-run Global Times said "following the arrests of two web users who slung mud at the People's Liberation Army(PLA) heroes who were killed in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-4-soldiers-killed-in-galwan-clash-with-india-in-june-last-year-reveals-china-364669">Galwan</a> Valley border clash with India, a blogger in southwest China's Sichuan province 'confessed' his misdeeds for having insulted the martyrs has been arrested."

The move comes after China acknowledged the casualties in Galwan. On Friday, China had announced military honours for the four soldiers who had lost their life and a regimental commander who was injured in the clash with Indian soldiers at Galwan in June, 2020.

Iu Ziming, an investigative journalist formerly employed with the Economic Observer was among the three people arrested. Ziming had questioned the official Chinese account of the Galwan clashes. On Weibo, the Chinese Twitter alternative, Ziming suggested that the casualties would have been higher than the officially reported figure.

He further suggested that some of the soldiers would have also died coming to the aid of injured troops and they in his view would have suffered losses as well. Ziming also questioned the time taken by Beijing to make the fatalities public. He said that Beijing took almost eight months to make the losses public while India was prompt in disclosing the fatalities.

WATCH|

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“In India’s view they won and paid a lesser price," Ziming said. After his arrest, the Nanjing police posted a message that said Ziming was arrested for "releasing false information and smearing the four heroes who died and one who was wounded when dealing with the Indian military's illegal trespassing."

The journalist's account was suspended immediately. Another blogger going by the last name Chen was among the three arrested. He was detained in Beijing for comments made during a group chat. According to Chinese police, they received a complaint of a 28-year-old publishing insulting comments about the PLA soldiers on WeChat.&nbsp;

The comments reportedly sparked fury on the group, Global Times reported. The Beijing police took action and said that as per Chen's statement the comments were made "to vent his emotions."

A 25-year-old blogger with the surname Yang was the last among the three detained. Yang was reported by internet users for posting "smears" against the Chinese troops. "Under social pressure, Yang confessed to the police the following day," China's state-run newspaper said

As per the police, he has been handed seven-day&nbsp;detention.

China had announced it was pulling out of forward bases along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ladakh-disengagement-india-china-talks-last-for-16-hours-365184">eastern Ladakh</a>, the disengagement was completed last week.

Three Chinese bloggers were detained by authorities in China for questioning the official Chinese version of the Galwan Valley clash against Indian troops which took place on June 15 last year, reports said.

Three Chinese bloggers were detained by authorities in China for questioning the official Chinese version of the Galwan Valley clash against Indian troops which took place on June 15 last year, reports said. WATCH| China's state-run Global Times said "following the arrests of two web users who slung mud at the People's Liberation Army(PLA) heroes who were killed in the Galwan Valley border clash with India, a blogger in southwest China's Sichuan province 'confessed' his misdeeds for having insulted the martyrs has been arrested." The move comes after China acknowledged the casualties in Galwan. On Friday, China had announced military honours for the four soldiers who had lost their life and a regimental commander who was injured in the clash with Indian soldiers at Galwan in June, 2020. Iu Ziming, an investigative journalist formerly employed with the Economic Observer was among the three people arrested. Ziming had questioned the official Chinese account of the Galwan clashes. On Weibo, the Chinese Twitter alternative, Ziming suggested that the casualties would have been higher than the officially reported figure. He further suggested that some of the soldiers would have also died coming to the aid of injured troops and they in his view would have suffered losses as well. Ziming also questioned the time taken by Beijing to make the fatalities public. He said that Beijing took almost eight months to make the losses public while India was prompt in disclosing the fatalities. WATCH| “In India’s view they won and paid a lesser price," Ziming said. After his arrest, the Nanjing police posted a message that said Ziming was arrested for "releasing false information and smearing the four heroes who died and one who was wounded when dealing with the Indian military's illegal trespassing." The journalist's account was suspended immediately. Another blogger going by the last name Chen was among the three arrested. He was detained in Beijing for comments made during a group chat. According to Chinese police, they received a complaint of a 28-year-old publishing insulting comments about the PLA soldiers on WeChat. The comments reportedly sparked fury on the group, Global Times reported. The Beijing police took action and said that as per Chen's statement the comments were made "to vent his emotions." A 25-year-old blogger with the surname Yang was the last among the three detained. Yang was reported by internet users for posting "smears" against the Chinese troops. "Under social pressure, Yang confessed to the police the following day," China's state-run newspaper said As per the police, he has been handed seven-day detention. China had announced it was pulling out of forward bases along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh, the disengagement was completed last week.

India-China standoff: China detains bloggers for questioning official version of Galwan clash

The US has welcomed the ongoing efforts by India and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-only-understands-the-language-of-strength-and-india-so-knows-it-363006">China</a> to de-escalate the situation in eastern Ladakh and said it would continue to monitor the situation closely as both sides work toward a peaceful resolution.

Watch:

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Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday announced in Parliament that India and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-china-will-move-troops-to-east-of-finger-8-says-rajnath-singh-in-parliament-over-disengagement-362787">China</a> have reached an agreement on disengagement in the north and south banks of Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh that mandates both sides to cease forward deployment of troops in a "phased, coordinated and verifiable" manner.

"We're closely following reports of initial troop disengagement. We welcome the ongoing efforts to de-escalate the situation," a State Department spokesperson said.

"We will, of course, continue to monitor the situation closely as both sides work toward a peaceful resolution," the spokesperson said while responding to a question on China and India pulling back their troops from eastern Ladakh.

Congressman Michael McCaul, lead Republican in the House Foreign Affairs Committee, also welcomed the disengagement of troops.

"It's heartening to see India stand strong in defending its sovereignty," he said in a tweet.

"The (Chinese Communist Party) CCP's constant territorial aggression, from the East and South China Seas to the waters of the Mekong, to the Himalayas, has no place in the 21st century," McCaul said.

India and China had rushed a large number of battle tanks, armoured vehicles and heavy equipment to the treacherous and high-altitude areas of eastern Ladakh region after tension escalated following a deadly clash in the Galwan Valley in June last.

Twenty Indian soldiers were killed in the fierce hand-to-hand combat on June 15 in the Galwan Valley, an incident that marked the most serious military conflicts between the two sides in decades.

China is yet to disclose the number of its soldiers killed and injured in the clash though it officially admitted to have suffered casualties. According to an American intelligence report, the number of casualties on the Chinese side was 35.

The US has welcomed the ongoing efforts by India and China to de-escalate the situation in eastern Ladakh and said it would continue to monitor the situation closely as both sides work toward a peaceful resolution.

The US has welcomed the ongoing efforts by India and China to de-escalate the situation in eastern Ladakh and said it would continue to monitor the situation closely as both sides work toward a peaceful resolution. Watch: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday announced in Parliament that India and China have reached an agreement on disengagement in the north and south banks of Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh that mandates both sides to cease forward deployment of troops in a "phased, coordinated and verifiable" manner. "We're closely following reports of initial troop disengagement. We welcome the ongoing efforts to de-escalate the situation," a State Department spokesperson said. "We will, of course, continue to monitor the situation closely as both sides work toward a peaceful resolution," the spokesperson said while responding to a question on China and India pulling back their troops from eastern Ladakh. Congressman Michael McCaul, lead Republican in the House Foreign Affairs Committee, also welcomed the disengagement of troops. "It's heartening to see India stand strong in defending its sovereignty," he said in a tweet. "The (Chinese Communist Party) CCP's constant territorial aggression, from the East and South China Seas to the waters of the Mekong, to the Himalayas, has no place in the 21st century," McCaul said. India and China had rushed a large number of battle tanks, armoured vehicles and heavy equipment to the treacherous and high-altitude areas of eastern Ladakh region after tension escalated following a deadly clash in the Galwan Valley in June last. Twenty Indian soldiers were killed in the fierce hand-to-hand combat on June 15 in the Galwan Valley, an incident that marked the most serious military conflicts between the two sides in decades. China is yet to disclose the number of its soldiers killed and injured in the clash though it officially admitted to have suffered casualties. According to an American intelligence report, the number of casualties on the Chinese side was 35.

Closely following reports of initial troop disengagement, says US on India-China standoff

After two border provocations in seven months both in the middle of the Wuhan virus pandemic, China has tried to play the distraction game.

On June 15, the world was distracted by the Wuhan virus pandemic, however, China tried to capitalise on the crisis. It clashed with Indian troops with the hope of grabbing some land.

Now, seven months later, on January 20, China has tried to play the same trick again. This time it clashed with Indian troops at Naku la to distract the world from the crisis back home.

China wants to change the headlines. On January 14, China had recorded its first Wuhan virus death since May. The healthcare situation has gone downhill since with 1,800 active cases in China. There has been a spike in daily cases. On January 24, China recorded 124 new cases, just the day before it was 80.

It was the worst wave of new infections since March 2020. China currently has at least 19 million people under lockdown as infections have spread to the provinces of Hebei, Jilin and Hei long Jiang. The latest outbreak is in the cty of Tonghua with 500,000 residents in home quarantine.

The situation is so bad that even Chinese mouthpiece the Global Times is having a hard time covering up.

"Under pressure from the online public outcry, deputy mayor Jiang Haiyan issued an apology on behalf of the city's party committee and the government of Tonghua at a Sunday press conference for the inconvenience caused by inadequate distribution of daily necessities for residents," it said.

The lockdown has resulted in food and medicine. There has been mounting anxiety and anger against the Chinese Communist Party. Authorities in Tonghua had to put out a circular stating that it has "sufficient reserves of basic materials such as grains, oils, vegetables".

It said: "the general public must maintain a good attitude, fight the nationwide fight against the epidemic". China does not want anyone to know about rising frustration with the CCP at home so it is decided to create problems at LAC.

Beijing tried to kill two birds with one stone by creating tensions at the Indian border.&nbsp;China hoped to also mask the headlines in India on India's vaccine diplomacy. While China has been orchestrating the world's biggest cover-up, India has been driving the world's largest vaccination programme.

India has also gifted vaccines to seven countries. At least two others have received commercial shipments and 92 countries have reportedly approached India for Wuhan virus jabs from Brazil to Bangladesh- countries are heaping praise on India.

These are the same countries that China hoped to sell its vaccines. Beijing wanted to capitalise on the crisis, however, that dream has now been killed by India's vaccine diplomacy. China is now issuing consolation notes. China's foreign ministry said there should not be vicious competition or confrontation when it comes to vaccine supply.

"There are currently multiple COVID-19 vaccines available worldwide. It is up to each country to decide independently which vaccine to choose," &nbsp;Zhao Lijian, Chinese ministry of foreign affairs spokesperson, said.

From vaccines to investment, countries do not want anything to do with China. In 2020, India's FDI increased more than China's - 13 per cent as opposed to China's 4 per cent - these numbers must have been frustrating for China.

FDI in India rose by 13 per cent boosted by investment in the digital sector and a border clash was the perfect way to take attention away from India's successes.

Distraction is the Dragon's favourite tool. In 2020, China used the pandemic as a distraction to pursue its long-term foreign policy. It claimed sovereignty over disputed islands in the South China Sea and intimidated Taiwan. It quashed freedom in Hong Kong and tried taking advantage of an undefined border with India.

In 2021, China is using distraction again to hide an outbreak at home, the only difference is this time the world knows better!

After two border provocations in seven months both in the middle of the Wuhan virus pandemic, China has tried to play the distraction game. On June 15, the world was distracted by the Wuhan virus pandemic, however, China tried to capitalise on the crisis.

After two border provocations in seven months both in the middle of the Wuhan virus pandemic, China has tried to play the distraction game. On June 15, the world was distracted by the Wuhan virus pandemic, however, China tried to capitalise on the crisis. It clashed with Indian troops with the hope of grabbing some land. Now, seven months later, on January 20, China has tried to play the same trick again. This time it clashed with Indian troops at Naku la to distract the world from the crisis back home. China wants to change the headlines. On January 14, China had recorded its first Wuhan virus death since May. The healthcare situation has gone downhill since with 1,800 active cases in China. There has been a spike in daily cases. On January 24, China recorded 124 new cases, just the day before it was 80. It was the worst wave of new infections since March 2020. China currently has at least 19 million people under lockdown as infections have spread to the provinces of Hebei, Jilin and Hei long Jiang. The latest outbreak is in the cty of Tonghua with 500,000 residents in home quarantine. The situation is so bad that even Chinese mouthpiece the Global Times is having a hard time covering up. "Under pressure from the online public outcry, deputy mayor Jiang Haiyan issued an apology on behalf of the city's party committee and the government of Tonghua at a Sunday press conference for the inconvenience caused by inadequate distribution of daily necessities for residents," it said. The lockdown has resulted in food and medicine. There has been mounting anxiety and anger against the Chinese Communist Party. Authorities in Tonghua had to put out a circular stating that it has "sufficient reserves of basic materials such as grains, oils, vegetables". It said: "the general public must maintain a good attitude, fight the nationwide fight against the epidemic". China does not want anyone to know about rising frustration with the CCP at home so it is decided to create problems at LAC. Beijing tried to kill two birds with one stone by creating tensions at the Indian border. China hoped to also mask the headlines in India on India's vaccine diplomacy. While China has been orchestrating the world's biggest cover-up, India has been driving the world's largest vaccination programme. India has also gifted vaccines to seven countries. At least two others have received commercial shipments and 92 countries have reportedly approached India for Wuhan virus jabs from Brazil to Bangladesh- countries are heaping praise on India. These are the same countries that China hoped to sell its vaccines. Beijing wanted to capitalise on the crisis, however, that dream has now been killed by India's vaccine diplomacy. China is now issuing consolation notes. China's foreign ministry said there should not be vicious competition or confrontation when it comes to vaccine supply. "There are currently multiple COVID-19 vaccines available worldwide. It is up to each country to decide independently which vaccine to choose," Zhao Lijian, Chinese ministry of foreign affairs spokesperson, said. From vaccines to investment, countries do not want anything to do with China. In 2020, India's FDI increased more than China's - 13 per cent as opposed to China's 4 per cent - these numbers must have been frustrating for China. FDI in India rose by 13 per cent boosted by investment in the digital sector and a border clash was the perfect way to take attention away from India's successes. Distraction is the Dragon's favourite tool. In 2020, China used the pandemic as a distraction to pursue its long-term foreign policy. It claimed sovereignty over disputed islands in the South China Sea and intimidated Taiwan. It quashed freedom in Hong Kong and tried taking advantage of an undefined border with India. In 2021, China is using distraction again to hide an outbreak at home, the only difference is this time the world knows better!

How China is playing the distraction game at LAC to hide Wuhan virus weakness at home

After seven months, nine rounds of talks and several exchanges, China is yet to commit to a complete withdrawal along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

In the last one year, India-China relations have hit its lowest point.&nbsp;

On June 15 last year, without a single bullet or a bomb there was a bloodbath at the LAC after an unprovoked attack by the Chinese side which led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers and many more Chinese soldiers who still remain unacknowledged.

It was the deadliest border clash between India and China since 1975. It led to a massive troop build-up in the following weeks as India and China poured tens of thousands of troops with heavy weaponry along the 3,500-kilometre long disputed border.

Reports say India has deployed nearly 50,000 soldiers who remain in a high state of combat readiness with India matching the Chinese build-up toe-to-toe, Beijing has been forced to come to the negotiating table.

In August last year, India had captured strategic outposts in a night-time operation stationed on key heights. Indian soldiers now have a clear view of troop movements in the disputed territory. China did try to close in on Indian positions firing warning shots on the border but the Indian side has managed to keep China at bay.

The standoff has spilled to other fronts, beyond the border. India has curbed Chinese investments and banned more than 250 Chinese apps with ties hitting an all-time low. India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit(SCO) in September last year.

The two leaders managed to reach a five-point consensus to ease tensions but even after nine rounds of military talks, the standoff hasn't ended. &nbsp;After repeated promises, China hasn't moved back its frontline troops. In several areas, soldiers from both sides remain just a few hundred meters apart from each other.

Meanwhile, the Chinese press has been aggressively pushing war rhetoric releasing videos showing the Chinese military ramping up its troop deployments. The provocations from the Chinese side have continued in 2021. In the latest development, satellites spotted a village along the border in Arunachal Pradesh. China has allegedly built more than a hundred homes in the area which has been under Chinese occupation for decades.

Meanwhile, India continues to ramp up border infrastructure and connect remote villages by roads. The two armies remained locked in their positions on the front while officials continue to look for a diplomatic solution.

After seven months, nine rounds of talks and several exchanges, China is yet to commit to a complete withdrawal along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). In the last one year, India-China relations have hit its lowest point.

After seven months, nine rounds of talks and several exchanges, China is yet to commit to a complete withdrawal along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). In the last one year, India-China relations have hit its lowest point. On June 15 last year, without a single bullet or a bomb there was a bloodbath at the LAC after an unprovoked attack by the Chinese side which led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers and many more Chinese soldiers who still remain unacknowledged. It was the deadliest border clash between India and China since 1975. It led to a massive troop build-up in the following weeks as India and China poured tens of thousands of troops with heavy weaponry along the 3,500-kilometre long disputed border. Reports say India has deployed nearly 50,000 soldiers who remain in a high state of combat readiness with India matching the Chinese build-up toe-to-toe, Beijing has been forced to come to the negotiating table. In August last year, India had captured strategic outposts in a night-time operation stationed on key heights. Indian soldiers now have a clear view of troop movements in the disputed territory. China did try to close in on Indian positions firing warning shots on the border but the Indian side has managed to keep China at bay. The standoff has spilled to other fronts, beyond the border. India has curbed Chinese investments and banned more than 250 Chinese apps with ties hitting an all-time low. India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit(SCO) in September last year. The two leaders managed to reach a five-point consensus to ease tensions but even after nine rounds of military talks, the standoff hasn't ended. After repeated promises, China hasn't moved back its frontline troops. In several areas, soldiers from both sides remain just a few hundred meters apart from each other. Meanwhile, the Chinese press has been aggressively pushing war rhetoric releasing videos showing the Chinese military ramping up its troop deployments. The provocations from the Chinese side have continued in 2021. In the latest development, satellites spotted a village along the border in Arunachal Pradesh. China has allegedly built more than a hundred homes in the area which has been under Chinese occupation for decades. Meanwhile, India continues to ramp up border infrastructure and connect remote villages by roads. The two armies remained locked in their positions on the front while officials continue to look for a diplomatic solution.

Seven months after Galwan clash, China yet to commit troop withdrawal along LAC

Nine months after the first intrusion attempt and seven months after the clashes in Galwan, the Chinese have done it again - provoked India at the border.

There were clashes this time in Sikkim which took place last week at Naku la on January 20. New Delhi said it was a "minor face-off" as both sides suffered injuries.

Commanders on both sides stepped in to resolve the issue. It was the third border clash in Sikkim in a month as tensions remain even as talks are still on.

While thousands of soldiers maintain a&nbsp;tight watch on the border, China has been denying India's claims, rejecting media reports and even calling the clashes "fake news".

The first denial came from Hu Xijin, Editor-in-Chief of state-run Global Times.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This is fake news. Based on what I learned, there is no record of this clash in the patrol log of the Chinese side. Small frictions often occur on China-India border area, but clash that caused multiple injuries will definitely be recorded and reported. <a href="https://t.co/VaeU4Gxkdx">pic.twitter.com/VaeU4Gxkdx</a>
— Hu Xijin 胡锡进 (@HuXijin_GT) <a href="https://twitter.com/HuXijin_GT/status/1353607368718700544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“This is fake news. Based on what I learned, there is no record of this clash in the patrol log of the Chinese side. Small frictions often occur on China-India border area but clash that caused multiple injuries will definitely be recorded and reported,” Hu Xijin said on Twitter referring to an Indian media report he said there is no record of the clash and that the claims were simply fake news.

Around the same time, the chief reporter of Global Times posted on Twitter tagging&nbsp;WION and&nbsp;accusing us of sharing fake news while amplifying a Global Times report that once again peddles the same lie that the clashes did not happen.

China may have blocked WION from the mainland but they certainly hasn't stopped watching the channel. The borders are well defined in this area but &nbsp;Indian and Chinese troops clash frequently in Naku la especially after India began expanding its border infrastructure. There was a flare-up in Naku la in May last year as well. In June, Chinese troops attacked Indian soldiers in Ladakh kicking off one of the longest-running border stand-offs between India and China.

Reporters in Beijing heard about the clashes in Sikkim and questioned Zhao Lijian, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, better known as "wolf warrior"&nbsp;in chief.

Zhao Lijian chose restraint over aggression this time. He said he doesn't know anything about the clashes.

"Regarding the specific situation you mentioned, I have no information to provide you with. What I want to emphasise is that the Chinese border troops have always been committed to maintaining peace and tranquillity in the China-India border region. China urges India to meet China halfway and refrain from any unilateral actions that may complicate or exacerbate the border situation, properly manage differences, and take practical actions to maintain peace and stability in the border areas," Lijian said.

It was a predictable response while tensions persist at the border. On Sunday, both sides had met for talks once again which was the ninth round of commander-level talks. The last commander-level meeting had taken place in November last year. Both sides have met nine times to end the standoff. However, there has been no headway so far but the last round of talks seems to have ended on a promising note.

On Sunday, the Indian delegation had both diplomatic and military representation. Senior officials from the Indian Army, as well as the ministry of external affairs participated in the talks. Reports say their conversation with the Chinese side went on for 15 hours. India has been clear in its demand- it wants status quo and return of all troops to their original positions as they were in April 2020.

India seems keen on keeping the channels of communication open. New Delhi will like a swift end to this standoff despite promising a phased withdrawal on more occasions than one. China hasn't pulled back the PLA from several friction points, the positions from where it could step up its military provocations especially when the summer arrives.

Nine months after the first intrusion attempt and seven months after the clashes in Galwan, the Chinese have done it again - provoked India at the border. There were clashes this time in Sikkim which took place last week at Naku la on January 20.

Nine months after the first intrusion attempt and seven months after the clashes in Galwan, the Chinese have done it again - provoked India at the border. There were clashes this time in Sikkim which took place last week at Naku la on January 20. New Delhi said it was a "minor face-off" as both sides suffered injuries. Commanders on both sides stepped in to resolve the issue. It was the third border clash in Sikkim in a month as tensions remain even as talks are still on. While thousands of soldiers maintain a tight watch on the border, China has been denying India's claims, rejecting media reports and even calling the clashes "fake news". The first denial came from Hu Xijin, Editor-in-Chief of state-run Global Times. This is fake news. Based on what I learned, there is no record of this clash in the patrol log of the Chinese side. Small frictions often occur on China-India border area, but clash that caused multiple injuries will definitely be recorded and reported. pic.twitter.com/VaeU4Gxkdx — Hu Xijin 胡锡进 (@HuXijin_GT) January 25, 2021 × “This is fake news. Based on what I learned, there is no record of this clash in the patrol log of the Chinese side. Small frictions often occur on China-India border area but clash that caused multiple injuries will definitely be recorded and reported,” Hu Xijin said on Twitter referring to an Indian media report he said there is no record of the clash and that the claims were simply fake news. Around the same time, the chief reporter of Global Times posted on Twitter tagging WION and accusing us of sharing fake news while amplifying a Global Times report that once again peddles the same lie that the clashes did not happen. China may have blocked WION from the mainland but they certainly hasn't stopped watching the channel. The borders are well defined in this area but Indian and Chinese troops clash frequently in Naku la especially after India began expanding its border infrastructure. There was a flare-up in Naku la in May last year as well. In June, Chinese troops attacked Indian soldiers in Ladakh kicking off one of the longest-running border stand-offs between India and China. Reporters in Beijing heard about the clashes in Sikkim and questioned Zhao Lijian, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, better known as "wolf warrior" in chief. Zhao Lijian chose restraint over aggression this time. He said he doesn't know anything about the clashes. "Regarding the specific situation you mentioned, I have no information to provide you with. What I want to emphasise is that the Chinese border troops have always been committed to maintaining peace and tranquillity in the China-India border region. China urges India to meet China halfway and refrain from any unilateral actions that may complicate or exacerbate the border situation, properly manage differences, and take practical actions to maintain peace and stability in the border areas," Lijian said. It was a predictable response while tensions persist at the border. On Sunday, both sides had met for talks once again which was the ninth round of commander-level talks. The last commander-level meeting had taken place in November last year. Both sides have met nine times to end the standoff. However, there has been no headway so far but the last round of talks seems to have ended on a promising note. On Sunday, the Indian delegation had both diplomatic and military representation. Senior officials from the Indian Army, as well as the ministry of external affairs participated in the talks. Reports say their conversation with the Chinese side went on for 15 hours. India has been clear in its demand- it wants status quo and return of all troops to their original positions as they were in April 2020. India seems keen on keeping the channels of communication open. New Delhi will like a swift end to this standoff despite promising a phased withdrawal on more occasions than one. China hasn't pulled back the PLA from several friction points, the positions from where it could step up its military provocations especially when the summer arrives.

India, China troops involved in 'minor face-off' in Sikkim

As India-China standoff continues along the Line of Actual Control(LAC), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-displays-rafale-sukhoi-fighters-on-88th-foundation-day-333586">Indian Air Force</a> chief RKS Bhadauria said today that China has deployed heavily along the border in eastern Ladakh to support the army.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-vietnam-navy-to-undertake-passex-exercises-in-south-china-sea-352216/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"They have a large presence of radars, surface-to-air missiles and surface-to-surface missiles," Bhadauria said, adding,"Their deployment has been strong. We have taken all actions required to be taken."

Tensions between the two countries have been at boiling point for over six months after Indian and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indian-army-is-preparing-to-take-on-chinas-pla-in-ladakhs-snow-clad-mountains-350186">Chinese</a> troops clashed at Galwan Valley on June 15-16 in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, although the PLA lost soldiers as well but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge the casualty list.&nbsp;

"Any serious India-China conflict isn't good for China at the global front. If Chinese aspirations are global then it doesn't suit their grand plan," the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-indian-air-force-intends-to-counter-chinas-forward-airbase-close-to-lac-326902">Indian Air Force </a>chief added.

"What could be possible Chinese objectives for their action in north?...it's important that we recognise what they have really achieved," the Indian Air chief&nbsp;said.

IAF chief Bhadauria said the "low-cost and easy availability of simple disruptive technologies such as drones" by small state and non-state actors had them more "lethal, agile and capable of generating disproportionate effects".

"The evolving uncertainties and instability at the global geopolitical front have provided China with an opportunity to demonstrate its growing power," the Indian air chief said, however, he added that it "indirectly" brought to fore the "inadequate contribution of major powers to global security".

Indian and Chinese commanders have conducted several round of talks to ease tensions, however, several thousand Chinese troops continue to be deployed at the border leading India to station more troops to prevent any Chinese misadventure which had earlier taken place in Galwan.

Amid the ongoing border row, reports said India will conduct war games with the French Air Force with its newly bought Rafale fighter jets and SU-30 MKI fighters at Jodhpur. The<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indian-air-forces-5th-generation-fighter-jet-will-change-air-equation-in-south-asia-334475"> IAF</a> had last carried out an exercise with the French Air Force in July last year.

India had reached an agreement with France over the supply of 36 Rafale jets with the last consignment set to reach India by end 2022.

As India-China standoff continues along the Line of Actual Control(LAC), Indian Air Force chief RKS Bhadauria said today that China has deployed heavily along the border in eastern Ladakh to support the army.

As India-China standoff continues along the Line of Actual Control(LAC), Indian Air Force chief RKS Bhadauria said today that China has deployed heavily along the border in eastern Ladakh to support the army. Watch: "They have a large presence of radars, surface-to-air missiles and surface-to-surface missiles," Bhadauria said, adding,"Their deployment has been strong. We have taken all actions required to be taken." Tensions between the two countries have been at boiling point for over six months after Indian and Chinese troops clashed at Galwan Valley on June 15-16 in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, although the PLA lost soldiers as well but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge the casualty list. "Any serious India-China conflict isn't good for China at the global front. If Chinese aspirations are global then it doesn't suit their grand plan," the Indian Air Force chief added. "What could be possible Chinese objectives for their action in north?...it's important that we recognise what they have really achieved," the Indian Air chief said. IAF chief Bhadauria said the "low-cost and easy availability of simple disruptive technologies such as drones" by small state and non-state actors had them more "lethal, agile and capable of generating disproportionate effects". "The evolving uncertainties and instability at the global geopolitical front have provided China with an opportunity to demonstrate its growing power," the Indian air chief said, however, he added that it "indirectly" brought to fore the "inadequate contribution of major powers to global security". Indian and Chinese commanders have conducted several round of talks to ease tensions, however, several thousand Chinese troops continue to be deployed at the border leading India to station more troops to prevent any Chinese misadventure which had earlier taken place in Galwan. Amid the ongoing border row, reports said India will conduct war games with the French Air Force with its newly bought Rafale fighter jets and SU-30 MKI fighters at Jodhpur. The IAF had last carried out an exercise with the French Air Force in July last year. India had reached an agreement with France over the supply of 36 Rafale jets with the last consignment set to reach India by end 2022.

India-China standoff: China has deployed radars, surface-to-air missiles & surface-to-surface missiles at LAC:  IAF chief Bhadauria

Indian and Chinese officials on Friday sat for diplomatic talks as &nbsp;part of Working Mechanism for Consultation &amp; Coordination (WMCC) after more than two months with the top focus being disengagement and the next round of military talks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-satellite-image-of-winter-at-galwan-valley-emerges-350823">In Pics:&nbsp;Satellite image of winter at Galwan Valley emerges</a>

A ministry of external affairs read out after the 20th round of WMCC said both sided "agreed that the next (9th) round of senior commanders meeting should be held at an early date" so that they can "work towards early and complete disengagement of troops along the LAC" something that New Delhi has been reiterating many times in the over 8 months-long stand-off.

The read out explained: "The two sides agreed that based on the guidance provided by senior leaders and the agreements reached between the two foreign ministers and special representatives, they would continue to work towards ensuring complete disengagement in all friction points along the LAC in the western sector at the earliest."

The talks took place virtually. The Indian side was led by joint secretary (East Asia), Ministry of External Affairs Naveen Srivastava and from the Chinese side, Director General of the Department of Boundary &amp; Oceanic Affairs was present. The last such meet happened on September 30.

Chinese foreign ministry in its statement said both sides, "agreed to earnestly implement" the five-point consensus reached by the foreign minister of both the countries after the meeting in Moscow earlier this year and, "focused on the disengagement of frontline troops" and "take concrete measures to deal with the issues on the ground to further deescalate the border situation." 
&nbsp; 
The Chinese side also called for holding the "9th round of Senior commanders meeting as soon as possible".

The next focus will be on the military round of talks. The last round of military talks occurred on November 6 and since then the stalemate continues as forces from both sides remained stationed at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh.

2020 saw an aggressive China which not only violated the understanding and agreements with India on build-up but also indulged in action in Galwan Valley that killed 20 Indian soldiers in June.

Indian and Chinese officials on Friday sat for diplomatic talks as part of Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination (WMCC) after more than two months with the top focus being disengagement and the next round of military talks.

Indian and Chinese officials on Friday sat for diplomatic talks as part of Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination (WMCC) after more than two months with the top focus being disengagement and the next round of military talks. In Pics: Satellite image of winter at Galwan Valley emerges A ministry of external affairs read out after the 20th round of WMCC said both sided "agreed that the next (9th) round of senior commanders meeting should be held at an early date" so that they can "work towards early and complete disengagement of troops along the LAC" something that New Delhi has been reiterating many times in the over 8 months-long stand-off. The read out explained: "The two sides agreed that based on the guidance provided by senior leaders and the agreements reached between the two foreign ministers and special representatives, they would continue to work towards ensuring complete disengagement in all friction points along the LAC in the western sector at the earliest." The talks took place virtually. The Indian side was led by joint secretary (East Asia), Ministry of External Affairs Naveen Srivastava and from the Chinese side, Director General of the Department of Boundary & Oceanic Affairs was present. The last such meet happened on September 30. Chinese foreign ministry in its statement said both sides, "agreed to earnestly implement" the five-point consensus reached by the foreign minister of both the countries after the meeting in Moscow earlier this year and, "focused on the disengagement of frontline troops" and "take concrete measures to deal with the issues on the ground to further deescalate the border situation." The Chinese side also called for holding the "9th round of Senior commanders meeting as soon as possible". The next focus will be on the military round of talks. The last round of military talks occurred on November 6 and since then the stalemate continues as forces from both sides remained stationed at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh. 2020 saw an aggressive China which not only violated the understanding and agreements with India on build-up but also indulged in action in Galwan Valley that killed 20 Indian soldiers in June.

India, China sit down for diplomatic talks after over two months; disengagement remains top focus

Amid the India-China standoff&nbsp;along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh,&nbsp;the Cabinet on Wednesday cleared a proposal to secure telecom infrastructure by designating a "trusted source" for the purchase of equipment by service providers.

Under the provisions of this directive, the government will declare a list of trusted sources and trusted products for installation in the country's telecom network.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indian-army-is-preparing-to-take-on-chinas-pla-in-ladakhs-snow-clad-mountains-350186" hreflang="en">India-China standoff- How Indian Army is preparing to take on China's PLA in Ladakh's snow clad mountains</a>

"The methodology to designate trusted products will be devised by the designated authority, the National Cyber Security Coordinator. Telecom service providers are required to connect new devices that are designated trusted products," Law and Telecoms Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad&nbsp;told a news conference on Wednesday.

While Prasad did not name any company or country from which sourcing of equipment would not be allowed, some Indian government officials have privately expressed concerns over mobile carriers' use of telecom gear from Huawei, which the United States has accused of spying for China.

He added that the&nbsp;step has been taken to strengthen national security and further Atmanirbhar Bharat objectives including through the involvement of all stakeholders within government and in the private sector.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-congress-passes-defence-policy-bill-that-calls-out-chinese-aggression-against-india-350233" hreflang="en">US Congress passes bill that calls out Chinese aggression against India</a>

China and India have been locked in a military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh since May this year. Several rounds of talks between the two countries to resolve the standoff have not yielded any concrete outcome.

"The list of the trusted source and product will be decided based on approval of a committee headed by the deputy national security advisor. The committee will consist of members from relevant departments, ministries and will also have two members from the industry and independent experts. The committee will be called the National Security Committee on Telecom," Prasad said.

The government will also create a list of designated sources from whom no procurement can be done.

"The present directive does not envisage mandatory replacement of the existing equipment already inducted in the network of TSPs," the minister said.

Huawei has previously denied spying allegations and said it is open to a "no backdoor" agreement with India to allay security concerns.

India has so far not banned Huawei or ZTE, and its telecoms department did not immediately respond to a request asking if the policy was aimed at Chinese gearmakers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has told two state-run telecoms firms to use locally-made rather than Chinese telecom equipment to upgrade their mobile networks to 4G.

India&nbsp;will auction 2,251 megahertz (MHz) of airwaves worth over 3.92 trillion rupees ($53.2 billion) across seven bands ranging from 700 MHz to 2500 MHz.

Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, who controls India's biggest carrier Jio, has already said his company is looking to launch 5G services in the country in the second half of 2021.

Last year, the government banned imports of Chinese handsets without the International Mobile Equipment Identity, or IMEI, number, again citing security reasons such as the use of stolen handsets to make terror or hoax calls.

The IMEI number of a mobile phone is a 15-digit number unique to every mobile handset. It prevents stolen handsets from making calls and allows security agencies to track down a specific user.

Amid the India-China standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, the Cabinet on Wednesday cleared a proposal to secure telecom infrastructure by designating a "trusted source" for the purchase of equipment by service providers.

Amid the India-China standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, the Cabinet on Wednesday cleared a proposal to secure telecom infrastructure by designating a "trusted source" for the purchase of equipment by service providers. Under the provisions of this directive, the government will declare a list of trusted sources and trusted products for installation in the country's telecom network. Also see: India-China standoff- How Indian Army is preparing to take on China's PLA in Ladakh's snow clad mountains "The methodology to designate trusted products will be devised by the designated authority, the National Cyber Security Coordinator. Telecom service providers are required to connect new devices that are designated trusted products," Law and Telecoms Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told a news conference on Wednesday. While Prasad did not name any company or country from which sourcing of equipment would not be allowed, some Indian government officials have privately expressed concerns over mobile carriers' use of telecom gear from Huawei, which the United States has accused of spying for China. He added that the step has been taken to strengthen national security and further Atmanirbhar Bharat objectives including through the involvement of all stakeholders within government and in the private sector. Also read: US Congress passes bill that calls out Chinese aggression against India China and India have been locked in a military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh since May this year. Several rounds of talks between the two countries to resolve the standoff have not yielded any concrete outcome. "The list of the trusted source and product will be decided based on approval of a committee headed by the deputy national security advisor. The committee will consist of members from relevant departments, ministries and will also have two members from the industry and independent experts. The committee will be called the National Security Committee on Telecom," Prasad said. The government will also create a list of designated sources from whom no procurement can be done. "The present directive does not envisage mandatory replacement of the existing equipment already inducted in the network of TSPs," the minister said. Huawei has previously denied spying allegations and said it is open to a "no backdoor" agreement with India to allay security concerns. India has so far not banned Huawei or ZTE, and its telecoms department did not immediately respond to a request asking if the policy was aimed at Chinese gearmakers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has told two state-run telecoms firms to use locally-made rather than Chinese telecom equipment to upgrade their mobile networks to 4G. India will auction 2,251 megahertz (MHz) of airwaves worth over 3.92 trillion rupees ($53.2 billion) across seven bands ranging from 700 MHz to 2500 MHz. Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, who controls India's biggest carrier Jio, has already said his company is looking to launch 5G services in the country in the second half of 2021. Last year, the government banned imports of Chinese handsets without the International Mobile Equipment Identity, or IMEI, number, again citing security reasons such as the use of stolen handsets to make terror or hoax calls. The IMEI number of a mobile phone is a 15-digit number unique to every mobile handset. It prevents stolen handsets from making calls and allows security agencies to track down a specific user.

India-China standoff: Cabinet approves buying telecom equipment only from 'trusted' sources

The US Congress has officially passed the USD 740 billion defence policy bill, which among other things include calling out Chinese aggression against India along the&nbsp;Line of Actual Control&nbsp;(LAC).

The US House of Representatives and the Senate on Tuesday passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included key components of Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi’s resolution language urging the Chinese government to end its military aggression against India along the LAC.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indian-army-is-preparing-to-take-on-chinas-pla-in-ladakhs-snow-clad-mountains-350186" hreflang="en">India-China standoff- How Indian Army is preparing to take on China's PLA in Ladakh's snow clad mountains</a>

China and India have been locked in a military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh since May this year. Several rounds of talks between the two countries to resolve the standoff have not yielded any concrete outcome.

The House and Senate versions of the bill were reconciled by a bipartisan Congressional conference committee earlier this month.

The inclusion of this provision, which Krishnamoorthi led as an amendment when the bill passed the House, reflects the US government’s strong support for its allies and partners like India in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.

Krishnamoorthi’s measure, which passed each chamber with overwhelming bipartisan support, will become law if President Donald Trump signs it.

Trump has threatened to veto the bill as it lacks a repeal of legal protections for social media companies. However, the NDAA has been passed by Congress for the last 59 years.

“Violent aggression is seldom the answer, and this is especially true for the Line of Actual Control, which is the disputed border region that separates the People’s Republic of China from India,” Krishnamoorthi said.

“By including my resolution language in the NDAA and signing that legislation into law, the United States government will send a clear message that China’s military provocations of India will not be tolerated,” he said.

“The United States is committed to standing with our allies and partners like India in resolving the border standoff using diplomatic means,’ Krishnamoorthi said.

As approved by the conference report, the powerful NDAA says that it is the sense of the Congress on the aggression of China along the border with India and its growing territorial claims.

The Senate agreed to include the provisions of the bill that was passed by the House in its version of the bill.

The House bill contained provisions that would express the sense of Congress on cross-border violence between China and India and the growing territorial claims of Beijing.

Expressing “significant concern” over the continued military aggression by China along the border with India, the NDAA says that China “should work with” India toward de-escalating the situation along the Line of Actual Control through existing diplomatic mechanisms and refrain from attempting to settle disputes through coercion or force.

Attempts by China to advance baseless territorial claims, including those in the South China Sea, the East China Sea, and with respect to Bhutan, are destabilising and inconsistent with international law, says the bill.

China is also engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in both the South China Sea and the East China Sea. China claims sovereignty over all of the South China Sea. Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims.

Beijing has built up and militarised many of the islands and reefs it controls in the region. Both areas are stated to be rich in minerals, oil and other natural resources and are also vital to global trade.

&nbsp;

The US Congress has officially passed the USD 740 billion defence policy bill, which among other things include calling out Chinese aggression against India along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The US Congress has officially passed the USD 740 billion defence policy bill, which among other things include calling out Chinese aggression against India along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The US House of Representatives and the Senate on Tuesday passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included key components of Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi’s resolution language urging the Chinese government to end its military aggression against India along the LAC. Also see: India-China standoff- How Indian Army is preparing to take on China's PLA in Ladakh's snow clad mountains China and India have been locked in a military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh since May this year. Several rounds of talks between the two countries to resolve the standoff have not yielded any concrete outcome. The House and Senate versions of the bill were reconciled by a bipartisan Congressional conference committee earlier this month. The inclusion of this provision, which Krishnamoorthi led as an amendment when the bill passed the House, reflects the US government’s strong support for its allies and partners like India in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. Krishnamoorthi’s measure, which passed each chamber with overwhelming bipartisan support, will become law if President Donald Trump signs it. Trump has threatened to veto the bill as it lacks a repeal of legal protections for social media companies. However, the NDAA has been passed by Congress for the last 59 years. “Violent aggression is seldom the answer, and this is especially true for the Line of Actual Control, which is the disputed border region that separates the People’s Republic of China from India,” Krishnamoorthi said. “By including my resolution language in the NDAA and signing that legislation into law, the United States government will send a clear message that China’s military provocations of India will not be tolerated,” he said. “The United States is committed to standing with our allies and partners like India in resolving the border standoff using diplomatic means,’ Krishnamoorthi said. As approved by the conference report, the powerful NDAA says that it is the sense of the Congress on the aggression of China along the border with India and its growing territorial claims. The Senate agreed to include the provisions of the bill that was passed by the House in its version of the bill. The House bill contained provisions that would express the sense of Congress on cross-border violence between China and India and the growing territorial claims of Beijing. Expressing “significant concern” over the continued military aggression by China along the border with India, the NDAA says that China “should work with” India toward de-escalating the situation along the Line of Actual Control through existing diplomatic mechanisms and refrain from attempting to settle disputes through coercion or force. Attempts by China to advance baseless territorial claims, including those in the South China Sea, the East China Sea, and with respect to Bhutan, are destabilising and inconsistent with international law, says the bill. China is also engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in both the South China Sea and the East China Sea. China claims sovereignty over all of the South China Sea. Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims. Beijing has built up and militarised many of the islands and reefs it controls in the region. Both areas are stated to be rich in minerals, oil and other natural resources and are also vital to global trade.

US Congress passes defence policy bill that calls out Chinese aggression against India

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat stated on Monday that the People's Liberation Army (PLA) is carrying out development activities in Tibet Autonomous Region of China, amid the Sino-Indian standoff at Ladakh.

He also underlined that Indian forces are well- equipped to deal with any eventuality, and similar activities are being undertaken in the country.

"We are locked in a stand-off in Ladakh. There is some development activity which has been going on in Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Every nation will continue to make preparations to boost its security based on its strategic interests. "I don't think there should be much concern in that because we, on our side, are also carrying out similar activities," Rawat told reporters after the launch of indigenously built state-of-the-art stealth frigate 'Himgiri' at Defence PSU Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers here. Indian Armed forces will leave no stone unturned to safeguard the country's frontiers, he insisted.

"China's attempt to change the status quo on the Line of Actual Control along the northern borders amidst the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated high levels of preparation on the land, sea and in the air," the CDS said.

The Indian Army, following the Doklam stand-off in 2017, has taken measures to ensure that the situation does not escalate there any further, he maintained. Indian forces are carefully watching the activities of the PLA at Doklam, where the armies of the two most populous countries in the world were engaged in a 73-day eyeball-to-eyeball stand-off in 2017.

"We have taken necessary action to counter anything that would be a cause of concern to our national security," he said, when asked about possible Chinese misadventures in the eastern sector, in the midst of the Ladakh impasse.

The CDS further said that the Indian Armed forces have adequate strength and reserves to counter any threat, and is looking to equip themselves with more cutting-edge technology.

"Time has come now to look at the future of war fighting, imbibing technology into our systems," he said.

Talking about the continuous ceasefire violation by Pakistan, he said India is fully prepared to deal with it and that it is the other side which should be more concerned about carrying out such activities.

Asked whether India should have more submarines or procure another aircraft carrier, Rawat said both have their advantages and disadvantages.

"Submarines have a separate place in naval warfare, in domination of the seas, and so does an aircraft carrier," he said, maintaining that the Navy needs an air wing.

The country needs to utilise its large number of island territories for strengthening security along the sea lanes of communication, Rawat said.

He also said that islands can be an option for launching naval strike aircraft. "Once we have studied all that and understood in detail, we will take a call," he asserted.

Rawat said that the three forces -- Army, Navy and Air Force -- will be integrated, while retaining the niche capabilities of each service.

"We strongly believe that no single force or no single service can succeed in any conflict situation if we are to face conflict with our adversaries anywhere -- whether it is land, air or sea," he said.

The integration will ensure synergised application of the country's combat potentials, the CDS said.

"We had some hiccups on this, we have to have understanding of each other's service, integration is taking place and gradually we are moving forward in that direction.''&nbsp;

"We have successfully overcome some of the misconceptions about force restructuring by allowing space to each force to develop niche capabilities based on their strengths, and thus enhance our overall combat power," he added.

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat stated on Monday that the People's Liberation Army (PLA) is carrying out development activities in Tibet Autonomous Region of China, amid the Sino-Indian standoff at Ladakh.

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat stated on Monday that the People's Liberation Army (PLA) is carrying out development activities in Tibet Autonomous Region of China, amid the Sino-Indian standoff at Ladakh. He also underlined that Indian forces are well- equipped to deal with any eventuality, and similar activities are being undertaken in the country. "We are locked in a stand-off in Ladakh. There is some development activity which has been going on in Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Every nation will continue to make preparations to boost its security based on its strategic interests. "I don't think there should be much concern in that because we, on our side, are also carrying out similar activities," Rawat told reporters after the launch of indigenously built state-of-the-art stealth frigate 'Himgiri' at Defence PSU Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers here. Indian Armed forces will leave no stone unturned to safeguard the country's frontiers, he insisted. "China's attempt to change the status quo on the Line of Actual Control along the northern borders amidst the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated high levels of preparation on the land, sea and in the air," the CDS said. The Indian Army, following the Doklam stand-off in 2017, has taken measures to ensure that the situation does not escalate there any further, he maintained. Indian forces are carefully watching the activities of the PLA at Doklam, where the armies of the two most populous countries in the world were engaged in a 73-day eyeball-to-eyeball stand-off in 2017. "We have taken necessary action to counter anything that would be a cause of concern to our national security," he said, when asked about possible Chinese misadventures in the eastern sector, in the midst of the Ladakh impasse. The CDS further said that the Indian Armed forces have adequate strength and reserves to counter any threat, and is looking to equip themselves with more cutting-edge technology. "Time has come now to look at the future of war fighting, imbibing technology into our systems," he said. Talking about the continuous ceasefire violation by Pakistan, he said India is fully prepared to deal with it and that it is the other side which should be more concerned about carrying out such activities. Asked whether India should have more submarines or procure another aircraft carrier, Rawat said both have their advantages and disadvantages. "Submarines have a separate place in naval warfare, in domination of the seas, and so does an aircraft carrier," he said, maintaining that the Navy needs an air wing. The country needs to utilise its large number of island territories for strengthening security along the sea lanes of communication, Rawat said. He also said that islands can be an option for launching naval strike aircraft. "Once we have studied all that and understood in detail, we will take a call," he asserted. Rawat said that the three forces -- Army, Navy and Air Force -- will be integrated, while retaining the niche capabilities of each service. "We strongly believe that no single force or no single service can succeed in any conflict situation if we are to face conflict with our adversaries anywhere -- whether it is land, air or sea," he said. The integration will ensure synergised application of the country's combat potentials, the CDS said. "We had some hiccups on this, we have to have understanding of each other's service, integration is taking place and gradually we are moving forward in that direction.'' "We have successfully overcome some of the misconceptions about force restructuring by allowing space to each force to develop niche capabilities based on their strengths, and thus enhance our overall combat power," he added.

China's PLA carrying out development work in Tibet; India ready for any eventuality: CDS Rawat

China and Pakistan have signed an agreement to deepen defence cooperation between the all-weather allies amid rising tensions with India.

China’s Defence Minister Gen Wei Fenghe&nbsp;on Monday held talks with Pakistan Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa and discussed regional security issues.

Both “exchanged in-depth views on the international and regional situations, the relations between the two countries and militaries, the equipment and technology cooperation and other issues”, a report in China’s official media said.

While details of the new MoU were not immediately available, it follows another agreement signed last year, when China’s Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) General Xu Qiliang visited Rawalpindi for defence cooperation and “capacity building of the Pakistan Army”.

According to reports, this MoU appears&nbsp;to be a response to the growing defence partnership between India and America.&nbsp;Earlier this year,&nbsp;both countries inked the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA), a&nbsp;pact that would allow India to access data and information from the military satellites of America.

On Tuesday he met Pakistan’s President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan. He called on both countries to “push the military-to-military relationship to a higher level, so as to jointly cope with various risks and challenges, firmly safeguard the sovereignty and security interests of the two countries and safeguard the regional peace and stability,” Chinese State media reported.

Gen. Wei also discussed on-going projects under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), in which the Pakistani military is playing an increasingly prominent role.

The Chinese defence minister’s visit to Pakistan came a day after his whirlwind trip to Nepal where he met Nepal Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and exchanged views on matters of mutual interest.

He also held talks with Nepal Army chief Gen. Purna Chandra Thapa on ways to resume military cooperation and training impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

China's provocation

A batch of Chinese air force personnel left for Pakistan on Monday to participate in a joint exercise to deepen practical cooperation and improve the actual-combat training level of the two sides, the Chinese military said.

The troops left for Pakistani Air Force's airbase in Bholari at Thatta district in Sindh, northeast of Pakistan's port city of Karachi, to participate in the drills named "Shaheen (Eagle)-IX", a statement issued by China's Defence Ministry said. The joint air force exercise, which will be held close to the Gujarat border&nbsp;is said to conclude in late December and is a project within the 2020 cooperation plan of the two militaries.

"It will promote the development of China-Pakistan military-to-military relationships, deepen practical cooperation between the two air forces, and improve the actual-combat training level of the two sides," it said. The first such drill was held in Pakistan in March 2011. All-weather friends, China and Pakistan share close military ties. China helps Pakistan to jointly produce JF-17 fighter jets and other armaments.

The drill comes in the backdrop of the ongoing India-China border friction along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh and Pakistan miserably failing to send terrorists across the Line of Control (LOC) before winters settle in.&nbsp;

China and Pakistan have signed an agreement to deepen defence cooperation between the all-weather allies amid rising tensions with India. China’s Defence Minister Gen Wei Fenghe on Monday held talks with Pakistan Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa and discussed regional security issues.

China and Pakistan have signed an agreement to deepen defence cooperation between the all-weather allies amid rising tensions with India. China’s Defence Minister Gen Wei Fenghe on Monday held talks with Pakistan Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa and discussed regional security issues. Both “exchanged in-depth views on the international and regional situations, the relations between the two countries and militaries, the equipment and technology cooperation and other issues”, a report in China’s official media said. While details of the new MoU were not immediately available, it follows another agreement signed last year, when China’s Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) General Xu Qiliang visited Rawalpindi for defence cooperation and “capacity building of the Pakistan Army”. According to reports, this MoU appears to be a response to the growing defence partnership between India and America. Earlier this year, both countries inked the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA), a pact that would allow India to access data and information from the military satellites of America. On Tuesday he met Pakistan’s President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan. He called on both countries to “push the military-to-military relationship to a higher level, so as to jointly cope with various risks and challenges, firmly safeguard the sovereignty and security interests of the two countries and safeguard the regional peace and stability,” Chinese State media reported. Gen. Wei also discussed on-going projects under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), in which the Pakistani military is playing an increasingly prominent role. The Chinese defence minister’s visit to Pakistan came a day after his whirlwind trip to Nepal where he met Nepal Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and exchanged views on matters of mutual interest. He also held talks with Nepal Army chief Gen. Purna Chandra Thapa on ways to resume military cooperation and training impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. China's provocation A batch of Chinese air force personnel left for Pakistan on Monday to participate in a joint exercise to deepen practical cooperation and improve the actual-combat training level of the two sides, the Chinese military said. The troops left for Pakistani Air Force's airbase in Bholari at Thatta district in Sindh, northeast of Pakistan's port city of Karachi, to participate in the drills named "Shaheen (Eagle)-IX", a statement issued by China's Defence Ministry said. The joint air force exercise, which will be held close to the Gujarat border is said to conclude in late December and is a project within the 2020 cooperation plan of the two militaries. "It will promote the development of China-Pakistan military-to-military relationships, deepen practical cooperation between the two air forces, and improve the actual-combat training level of the two sides," it said. The first such drill was held in Pakistan in March 2011. All-weather friends, China and Pakistan share close military ties. China helps Pakistan to jointly produce JF-17 fighter jets and other armaments. The drill comes in the backdrop of the ongoing India-China border friction along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh and Pakistan miserably failing to send terrorists across the Line of Control (LOC) before winters settle in.

Amid tensions with India, China and Pakistan sign military deal

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar has said ties with Beijing have "significantly damaged" this year in the backdrop of the Galwan incident and the ongoing buildup which has "completely changed national sentiment".

India lost 20 of its soldiers die to aggressive action by Chinese forces at Galwan Valley in June this year.

Speaking at a virtual event Jaishankar said, "we are today probably at the most difficult phase of our relationship with China. Certainly in the last 30-40 years. The last time there were military casualties on our borders was in 1975."

The Chinese forces had started build-up in April-march period and still continue&nbsp;to remain at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh.

The EAM pointed out that direction of ties were "positive" since 1988, because while border issues were being discussed "you never had a major breach of this understanding" which included "not to bring large force".

"China has given India five&nbsp;different explanation on the current situation but a number of agreement are being violated by the country including bringing tens of thousands of soldiers in full military preparation mode right to the LAC in Ladakh" and&nbsp;"naturally the relationship will be profoundly disturbed by this", he said.

The big challenge he said is, "How do we get the relationship back is a very big issue, we are very clear maintaining peace and tranquillity at LAC is the basis of the rest of the relationship to progress."

A number of diplomatic and military talks have taken place between the two countries to defuse the situation.&nbsp;

EAM Jaishankar and&nbsp;defence minister Rajnath Singh both had met there respective counterparts in September in Moscow but the stand-off continues at the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar has said ties with Beijing have "significantly damaged" this year in the backdrop of the Galwan incident and the ongoing buildup which has "completely changed national sentiment".

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar has said ties with Beijing have "significantly damaged" this year in the backdrop of the Galwan incident and the ongoing buildup which has "completely changed national sentiment". India lost 20 of its soldiers die to aggressive action by Chinese forces at Galwan Valley in June this year. Speaking at a virtual event Jaishankar said, "we are today probably at the most difficult phase of our relationship with China. Certainly in the last 30-40 years. The last time there were military casualties on our borders was in 1975." The Chinese forces had started build-up in April-march period and still continue to remain at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The EAM pointed out that direction of ties were "positive" since 1988, because while border issues were being discussed "you never had a major breach of this understanding" which included "not to bring large force". "China has given India five different explanation on the current situation but a number of agreement are being violated by the country including bringing tens of thousands of soldiers in full military preparation mode right to the LAC in Ladakh" and "naturally the relationship will be profoundly disturbed by this", he said. The big challenge he said is, "How do we get the relationship back is a very big issue, we are very clear maintaining peace and tranquillity at LAC is the basis of the rest of the relationship to progress." A number of diplomatic and military talks have taken place between the two countries to defuse the situation. EAM Jaishankar and defence minister Rajnath Singh both had met there respective counterparts in September in Moscow but the stand-off continues at the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

India, China ties significantly damaged this year: Jaishankar

To counter China,&nbsp;India's topmost representatives have travelled to five countries in its&nbsp;immediate and&nbsp;the extended neighbourhood.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is on a tour to West Asia,&nbsp;foreign secretary Harsh Shringla is on a tour of Nepal and&nbsp;National Security Advisor&nbsp;Ajit Doval is on a tour to Sri Lanka.

The high-profile visits of Indian diplomats to its neighbouring countries are being seen as an effort to wrest back the waning regional influence from China. India is embroiled in a deadly border showdown with China in eastern Ladakh since May and&nbsp;has sought closer military ties with other countries.

As per reports, the Ladakh border standoff is likely to extend through the winter. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;is advancing bilateral ties with countries where the security interests of both sides converge.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nsa-ajit-doval-arrives-in-sri-lanka-to-attend-trilateral-maritime-dialogue-345789" hreflang="en">NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend trilateral maritime dialogue</a>

Doval, India's National Security Advisor, arrived in Colombo on Friday for trilateral maritime dialogue among India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Sri Lanka will host the fourth national security advisor trilateral meeting on maritime security cooperation with India and Maldives on Friday and Saturday.

This will be the first NSA level meeting on Trilateral Maritime Security Cooperation. Besides Doval, Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major General (Retd). Kamal Gunaratne and Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Didi will participate in the meeting.

To defeat China's unending unilateralism, the agenda of the meeting will be cooperation and collective action on security issues in the Indian Ocean region.

From the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka to a friendship bridge in the Maldives,&nbsp;China has been vying for greater control in the region.&nbsp;The maritime dialogue will be aimed at rehauling India's traditional sphere of influence.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nepal-occupies-special-place-in-our-hearts-says-fs-harsh-v-shringla-345802" hreflang="en">Nepal occupies special place in our hearts, says FS Harsh V Shringla</a>

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Friday said Nepal holds a very special place in everybody's hearts. He said this as he inaugurated India-built projects during his visit to Kathmandu.&nbsp;

India is building 50,000 houses in the Gorkha and Nuwakot districts of Nepal, of which 46,000 have been built. Many houses in this area were damaged due to the 2015 Nepal earthquake.

On his first day of the visit, Shringla met the top political leadership of the Himalayan republic, from PM Oli to&nbsp;President Bidya Devi Bhandari.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-energy-defence-key-focus-of-foreign-minister-jaishankars-uae-visit-345763" hreflang="en">Covid-19, energy, defence key focus of Foreign Minister Jaishankar's UAE visit</a>

Energy, Covid-19 cooperation, defence were the key focus areas of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to United Arab Emirates (UAE) as he met the top leadership---Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.&nbsp;

The primary goal of these visits is securing India's interests in the Gulf.&nbsp;New Delhi is working towards protecting the interests of eight million Indians living and&nbsp;working in the region.&nbsp;At the same time big ticket-investments are being made to generate income&nbsp;and India is looking to offer investment opportunities.

Allies in the Gulf are also crucial for India while tackling the perpetual nuisance, Pakistan.&nbsp;

From West Asia to South Asia, there is a renewed push by New Delhi to secure the neighbourhood from growing challenges.

India is making a&nbsp;renewed effort to strengthen the strategic backyard and&nbsp;a strong message for China and Pakistan to mend their ways.

To counter China, India's topmost representatives have travelled to five countries in its immediate and the extended neighbourhood. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is on a tour to West Asia, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla is on a tour of Nepal and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is on a tour to Sri Lanka.

To counter China, India's topmost representatives have travelled to five countries in its immediate and the extended neighbourhood. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is on a tour to West Asia, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla is on a tour of Nepal and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is on a tour to Sri Lanka. The high-profile visits of Indian diplomats to its neighbouring countries are being seen as an effort to wrest back the waning regional influence from China. India is embroiled in a deadly border showdown with China in eastern Ladakh since May and has sought closer military ties with other countries. As per reports, the Ladakh border standoff is likely to extend through the winter. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is advancing bilateral ties with countries where the security interests of both sides converge. Also read: NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend trilateral maritime dialogue Doval, India's National Security Advisor, arrived in Colombo on Friday for trilateral maritime dialogue among India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Sri Lanka will host the fourth national security advisor trilateral meeting on maritime security cooperation with India and Maldives on Friday and Saturday. This will be the first NSA level meeting on Trilateral Maritime Security Cooperation. Besides Doval, Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major General (Retd). Kamal Gunaratne and Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Didi will participate in the meeting. To defeat China's unending unilateralism, the agenda of the meeting will be cooperation and collective action on security issues in the Indian Ocean region. From the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka to a friendship bridge in the Maldives, China has been vying for greater control in the region. The maritime dialogue will be aimed at rehauling India's traditional sphere of influence. Also read: Nepal occupies special place in our hearts, says FS Harsh V Shringla India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Friday said Nepal holds a very special place in everybody's hearts. He said this as he inaugurated India-built projects during his visit to Kathmandu. India is building 50,000 houses in the Gorkha and Nuwakot districts of Nepal, of which 46,000 have been built. Many houses in this area were damaged due to the 2015 Nepal earthquake. On his first day of the visit, Shringla met the top political leadership of the Himalayan republic, from PM Oli to President Bidya Devi Bhandari. Also read: Covid-19, energy, defence key focus of Foreign Minister Jaishankar's UAE visit Energy, Covid-19 cooperation, defence were the key focus areas of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to United Arab Emirates (UAE) as he met the top leadership---Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The primary goal of these visits is securing India's interests in the Gulf. New Delhi is working towards protecting the interests of eight million Indians living and working in the region. At the same time big ticket-investments are being made to generate income and India is looking to offer investment opportunities. Allies in the Gulf are also crucial for India while tackling the perpetual nuisance, Pakistan. From West Asia to South Asia, there is a renewed push by New Delhi to secure the neighbourhood from growing challenges. India is making a renewed effort to strengthen the strategic backyard and a strong message for China and Pakistan to mend their ways.

India-China standoff: How India is countering China's aggression with 'neighbourhood diplomacy'

Antony Blinken trusted aide of US&nbsp;President-elect Joe Biden on Tuesday said&nbsp;India has to be a key partner in engaging China from a position of strength.

Blinken said, ''We have a common challenge which is to deal with an increasingly assertive China across the board, including its aggression toward India at the Line of Actual Control.''

Blinken's statement comes as India is embroiled in a deadly border showdown with China in Eastern Ladakh since May and&nbsp;has sought closer military ties with other countries.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/eye-on-china-india-led-quad-displays-military-prowess-in-malabar-naval-exercise-344391" hreflang="en">Eye on China: India-led Quad displays military prowess in Malabar naval exercise</a>

Deadly clashes between Indian and Chinese troops over a disputed border region have given the Pentagon fresh fuel to draw Delhi closer, as it seeks a coalition to counter what the US sees as the rapid expansion of China's military presence across the Indo-Pacific region.

Responding to a question from Richard Verma, the former US Ambassador to India, who was moderating the panel discussion, Blinken said that Biden as President would be investing in ourselves renewing our democracy, working with our close partners like India, asserting our values, and so engaging China from a position of strength.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indian-air-forces-apache-chinook-will-take-on-chinas-attack-helicopters-along-lac-342634" hreflang="en">India-China standoff: How Indian Air Force's Apache, Chinook will take on China's attack helicopters along LAC</a>

''During the Obama-Biden administration, we worked very hard to establish India as a key contributing member of the Indo-Pacific strategy. And that includes India's role in working with like minded partners to strengthen and uphold a rules-based order in the Indo Pacific, in which no country, including China, can threaten its neighbours with impunity,''&nbsp;Blinken said.

''That role needs to extend even beyond the region as vast as it is to the world at large. In a Biden administration, we would be an advocate for India to play a leading role in international institutions and that includes helping India get a seat on a reformed United Nations Security Council,''&nbsp;he said.

''We would work together to strengthen India's defence, and also add its capabilities as a counterterrorism partner,''&nbsp;he added.

Asserting that Biden is a champion of the US-India relations, Blinken had said that the former vice president had a vision for the US-India relations.

Referring to a 2006 statement by Biden that by 2020, US and India should be closest friends, Blinken said that that has not happened yet, but Biden will make it a reality.

Antony Blinken trusted aide of US President-elect Joe Biden on Tuesday said India has to be a key partner in engaging China from a position of strength. Blinken said, ''We have a common challenge which is to deal with an increasingly assertive China across the board, including its aggression toward India at the Line of Actual Control.

Antony Blinken trusted aide of US President-elect Joe Biden on Tuesday said India has to be a key partner in engaging China from a position of strength. Blinken said, ''We have a common challenge which is to deal with an increasingly assertive China across the board, including its aggression toward India at the Line of Actual Control.'' Blinken's statement comes as India is embroiled in a deadly border showdown with China in Eastern Ladakh since May and has sought closer military ties with other countries. Also see: Eye on China: India-led Quad displays military prowess in Malabar naval exercise Deadly clashes between Indian and Chinese troops over a disputed border region have given the Pentagon fresh fuel to draw Delhi closer, as it seeks a coalition to counter what the US sees as the rapid expansion of China's military presence across the Indo-Pacific region. Responding to a question from Richard Verma, the former US Ambassador to India, who was moderating the panel discussion, Blinken said that Biden as President would be investing in ourselves renewing our democracy, working with our close partners like India, asserting our values, and so engaging China from a position of strength. Also see: India-China standoff: How Indian Air Force's Apache, Chinook will take on China's attack helicopters along LAC ''During the Obama-Biden administration, we worked very hard to establish India as a key contributing member of the Indo-Pacific strategy. And that includes India's role in working with like minded partners to strengthen and uphold a rules-based order in the Indo Pacific, in which no country, including China, can threaten its neighbours with impunity,'' Blinken said. ''That role needs to extend even beyond the region as vast as it is to the world at large. In a Biden administration, we would be an advocate for India to play a leading role in international institutions and that includes helping India get a seat on a reformed United Nations Security Council,'' he said. ''We would work together to strengthen India's defence, and also add its capabilities as a counterterrorism partner,'' he added. Asserting that Biden is a champion of the US-India relations, Blinken had said that the former vice president had a vision for the US-India relations. Referring to a 2006 statement by Biden that by 2020, US and India should be closest friends, Blinken said that that has not happened yet, but Biden will make it a reality.

Biden's secretary of state pick Blinken says India needs to be key partner in combating China

Parliamentary panel chairperson Meenakshi Lekhi told newswire PTI on Wednesday that Twitter has apologised in writing for showing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/leh-row-deliberate-attempt-to-undermine-will-of-parliament-says-indias-it-ministry-to-twitter-342689">Ladakh</a> in China.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-govt-sends-notice-to-twitter-as-it-shows-leh-as-part-of-jammu-kashmir-342831/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Lekhi told the wire service that Twitter's affidavit was signed by Damien Karien, chief privacy officer of Twitter after it wrongly geo-tagged India's map. Lekhi added that Twitter has apologised for hurting Indian sentiments and has sworn to correct the error by November 30, 2020.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-govt-issues-stern-warning-to-twitter-over-settings-showing-leh-in-china-337088">Also Read:&nbsp;Indian govt issues stern warning to Twitter over settings showing Leh in China</a>

"Twitter has now given us a written apology on an affidavit for Ladakh being shown in China," Lekhi said, adding, "They have apologised for hurting Indian sentiments and have sworn to correct the error by November 30, 2020."

The Indian government had earlier expressed dismay over Twitter's misrepresentation of the Indian map.

IT Secretary Ajay Sawhney had written to Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey after the social media giant showed geo-location of Leh in Jammu and Kashmir as a Chinese region.

The Indian government asked Twitter to respect the sensitivities of Indians and asserted that any effort to disrespect the sovereignty and integrity of India was completely unacceptable and unlawful.

Twitter on its part had said it was a "technical" issue and it would be resolved swiftly.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Parliamentary panel chairperson Meenakshi Lekhi told newswire PTI on Wednesday that Twitter has apologised in writing for showing Ladakh in China. Watch: Lekhi told the wire service that Twitter's affidavit was signed by Damien Karien, chief privacy officer of Twitter after it wrongly geo-tagged India's map.

Parliamentary panel chairperson Meenakshi Lekhi told newswire PTI on Wednesday that Twitter has apologised in writing for showing Ladakh in China. Watch: Lekhi told the wire service that Twitter's affidavit was signed by Damien Karien, chief privacy officer of Twitter after it wrongly geo-tagged India's map. Lekhi added that Twitter has apologised for hurting Indian sentiments and has sworn to correct the error by November 30, 2020. Also Read: Indian govt issues stern warning to Twitter over settings showing Leh in China "Twitter has now given us a written apology on an affidavit for Ladakh being shown in China," Lekhi said, adding, "They have apologised for hurting Indian sentiments and have sworn to correct the error by November 30, 2020." The Indian government had earlier expressed dismay over Twitter's misrepresentation of the Indian map. IT Secretary Ajay Sawhney had written to Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey after the social media giant showed geo-location of Leh in Jammu and Kashmir as a Chinese region. The Indian government asked Twitter to respect the sensitivities of Indians and asserted that any effort to disrespect the sovereignty and integrity of India was completely unacceptable and unlawful. Twitter on its part had said it was a "technical" issue and it would be resolved swiftly.

Twitter apologises to Indian government for showing Ladakh in China

The proactive deployment of IAF's "offensive" capabilities in response to the standoff with China in eastern Ladakh demonstrated its current operational readiness and the strong posturing was instrumental in dissuading the adversary to a large extent, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said on Friday.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) chief also said that the Balakot airstrikes in Pakistan clearly demonstrated that airpower could be put to sophisticated use and create a space for action below the conventional threshold.

Air Chief Marshal Bhadauria was speaking at an online seminar organised by the National Defence College.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-pla-facing-unanticipated-consequences-of-misadventure-in-ladakh-says-cds-gen-bipin-rawat-341137" hreflang="en">India-China standoff: PLA facing unanticipated consequences of misadventure in Ladakh, says CDS Gen Bipin Rawat</a>

"Over the past few months, the proactive deployment of our offensive capabilities in response to developments in eastern Ladakh, both in terms of deployment of air assets as well as rapid airlifting of Army combat elements, demonstrated the IAF's operational readiness today," he said without elaborating.

He said the deployment also reflected the capability and the nation's resolve to use airpower if the need arises.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-us-drones-along-lac-can-tilt-the-balance-in-indias-favour-against-china-332261">India-China standoff: How US drones along LAC can tilt the balance in India's favour against China</a>

"It is our belief that our pro-active action and strong posture was instrumental in dissuading the adversary from making further attempts...We remain hopeful that the peace and stability will be restored along the LAC through ongoing dialogue," he said.

The IAF has deployed almost all its frontline fighter jets like Sukhoi 30 MKI, Jaguar and Mirage 2000 aircraft in the key frontier air bases in eastern Ladakh and elsewhere along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

The newly inducted fleet of Rafale jets has also been carrying out sorties in eastern Ladakh.

On the Balakot strikes, he said terrorist organisations will have to think "hard" before making any further attempts to carry out attacks. 
Indian warplanes pounded a Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM) terrorist training camp on February 26 last year, nearly two weeks after the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

"The airstrikes in February last year by Indian Air Force targeting terror infrastructure at Balakot clearly demonstrated that airpower could be put to sophisticated use and create a space for action below the conventional threshold," Bhadauria said.

Talking about the overall security scenario, he said there has been a transformation of the security paradigm in recent years. 
"Our definitions of national boundaries have shifted beyond the classical definition of land border, shorelines etc. We cannot remain chained to the old concepts of fronts -- two fronts, one front. The nature and scope of warfare itself have expanded," he said.

In Indian defence parlance, the two front conflicts refer to hostilities along the country's western and northern borders. 
The Chief of Air Staff said the induction of modern platforms and acquisition of nice capabilities has bolstered the IAF's combat capabilities across the entire spectrum of warfare.

"The ongoing transformation is aimed at adding agility to our combat fleets. However, practitioners of airpower are mindful of the fact that besides providing a host of kinetic and non-kinetic response options against an adversary, a strong and capable air force plays a much larger role in ensuring deterrence and avoiding conflict in the first place."

Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chief of Army Staff S K Saini said India's unsettled borders have been its biggest security challenge. 
"The possibility of conflict over territorial disputes with China and Pakistan will continue to remain an important factor in our defence planning," he added.

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh said the Indian Navy remained poised for rapid response in any situation. 
"For the Indian Navy, operating farther and outward from Indian shores, in step with our country's national interests, is a strategic imperative and necessity," he said.

The proactive deployment of IAF's "offensive" capabilities in response to the standoff with China in eastern Ladakh demonstrated its current operational readiness and the strong posturing was instrumental in dissuading the adversary to a large extent, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said on Friday.

The proactive deployment of IAF's "offensive" capabilities in response to the standoff with China in eastern Ladakh demonstrated its current operational readiness and the strong posturing was instrumental in dissuading the adversary to a large extent, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said on Friday. The Indian Air Force (IAF) chief also said that the Balakot airstrikes in Pakistan clearly demonstrated that airpower could be put to sophisticated use and create a space for action below the conventional threshold. Air Chief Marshal Bhadauria was speaking at an online seminar organised by the National Defence College. Also read| India-China standoff: PLA facing unanticipated consequences of misadventure in Ladakh, says CDS Gen Bipin Rawat "Over the past few months, the proactive deployment of our offensive capabilities in response to developments in eastern Ladakh, both in terms of deployment of air assets as well as rapid airlifting of Army combat elements, demonstrated the IAF's operational readiness today," he said without elaborating. He said the deployment also reflected the capability and the nation's resolve to use airpower if the need arises. Also see| India-China standoff: How US drones along LAC can tilt the balance in India's favour against China "It is our belief that our pro-active action and strong posture was instrumental in dissuading the adversary from making further attempts...We remain hopeful that the peace and stability will be restored along the LAC through ongoing dialogue," he said. The IAF has deployed almost all its frontline fighter jets like Sukhoi 30 MKI, Jaguar and Mirage 2000 aircraft in the key frontier air bases in eastern Ladakh and elsewhere along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). The newly inducted fleet of Rafale jets has also been carrying out sorties in eastern Ladakh. On the Balakot strikes, he said terrorist organisations will have to think "hard" before making any further attempts to carry out attacks. Indian warplanes pounded a Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM) terrorist training camp on February 26 last year, nearly two weeks after the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. "The airstrikes in February last year by Indian Air Force targeting terror infrastructure at Balakot clearly demonstrated that airpower could be put to sophisticated use and create a space for action below the conventional threshold," Bhadauria said. Talking about the overall security scenario, he said there has been a transformation of the security paradigm in recent years. "Our definitions of national boundaries have shifted beyond the classical definition of land border, shorelines etc. We cannot remain chained to the old concepts of fronts -- two fronts, one front. The nature and scope of warfare itself have expanded," he said. In Indian defence parlance, the two front conflicts refer to hostilities along the country's western and northern borders. The Chief of Air Staff said the induction of modern platforms and acquisition of nice capabilities has bolstered the IAF's combat capabilities across the entire spectrum of warfare. "The ongoing transformation is aimed at adding agility to our combat fleets. However, practitioners of airpower are mindful of the fact that besides providing a host of kinetic and non-kinetic response options against an adversary, a strong and capable air force plays a much larger role in ensuring deterrence and avoiding conflict in the first place." Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chief of Army Staff S K Saini said India's unsettled borders have been its biggest security challenge. "The possibility of conflict over territorial disputes with China and Pakistan will continue to remain an important factor in our defence planning," he added. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh said the Indian Navy remained poised for rapid response in any situation. "For the Indian Navy, operating farther and outward from Indian shores, in step with our country's national interests, is a strategic imperative and necessity," he said.

IAF'S strong posturing during Ladakh standoff helped India ward off any threat from China: Bhadauria

A day after reports said Indian security forces had apprehended a Chinese soldier in Chumar-Demchok area of Ladakh amid the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">India-China standoff </a>along the LAC, China said it hoped that India will hand over the solider soon "who got lost in China-India border areas".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-captures-chinese-soldier-in-ladakh-336383">Also Read:&nbsp;Indian Army captures Chinese soldier in Ladakh</a>

"We hope that the Indian side will live up to its promise to hand over the missing Chineses soldier as soon as possible and implement the consensus reached by the two sides in the 7th round of Senior Commanders meeting, so as to maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas," Zhang Shuili, spokesperson for the Western Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), said.

The Indian Army had said that<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prepare-for-war-be-absolutely-loyal-xi-jinping-tells-chinese-troops-335294"> PLA</a> soldier identified as Corporal Wang Ya Long was provided medical assistance including oxygen, food and warm clothes.

"A request has also been received from the PLA about the whereabouts of the missing soldier. As per established protocols, he will be returned back to Chinese officials at the Chushul-Moldo meeting point after completion of formalities," the Indian Army had said.

The Indian Army added that he was taken in by Indian forces in eastern<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/get-lost-says-taiwan-after-chinese-mission-asks-indian-media-to-follow-one-china-policy-333248"> Ladakh</a> on October 19 after he strayed across the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

The incident comes amid heightened tensions between India and China along the LAC even as corps commander of both sides meet later this week on the disengagement process in eastern Ladakh.&nbsp;

The two sides have so far held seven rounds of military talks on the border faceoff with the seventh round of talks held on October 12.

Tensions between India and China escalated in June after 20 Indian soldiers were killed in action along the LAC in a clash with PLA soldiers, although the Chinese Army had suffered casualties as well but the Chinese foreign ministry has failed to divulge figures.

Another clash occurred between the two sides occurred on August 29-30 as Indian troops pushed back Chinese incursion along the LAC.

A day after reports said Indian security forces had apprehended a Chinese soldier in Chumar-Demchok area of Ladakh amid the India-China standoff along the LAC, China said it hoped that India will hand over the solider soon "who got lost in China-India border areas".

A day after reports said Indian security forces had apprehended a Chinese soldier in Chumar-Demchok area of Ladakh amid the India-China standoff along the LAC, China said it hoped that India will hand over the solider soon "who got lost in China-India border areas". Also Read: Indian Army captures Chinese soldier in Ladakh "We hope that the Indian side will live up to its promise to hand over the missing Chineses soldier as soon as possible and implement the consensus reached by the two sides in the 7th round of Senior Commanders meeting, so as to maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas," Zhang Shuili, spokesperson for the Western Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), said. The Indian Army had said that PLA soldier identified as Corporal Wang Ya Long was provided medical assistance including oxygen, food and warm clothes. "A request has also been received from the PLA about the whereabouts of the missing soldier. As per established protocols, he will be returned back to Chinese officials at the Chushul-Moldo meeting point after completion of formalities," the Indian Army had said. The Indian Army added that he was taken in by Indian forces in eastern Ladakh on October 19 after he strayed across the Line of Actual Control(LAC). The incident comes amid heightened tensions between India and China along the LAC even as corps commander of both sides meet later this week on the disengagement process in eastern Ladakh. The two sides have so far held seven rounds of military talks on the border faceoff with the seventh round of talks held on October 12. Tensions between India and China escalated in June after 20 Indian soldiers were killed in action along the LAC in a clash with PLA soldiers, although the Chinese Army had suffered casualties as well but the Chinese foreign ministry has failed to divulge figures. Another clash occurred between the two sides occurred on August 29-30 as Indian troops pushed back Chinese incursion along the LAC.

India-China standoff: Hope India will live up to its promise and hand over missing soldier, says China

Amid the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">India-China standoff</a> at the LAC, the seventh India-China corps commander-level talks are due to take place on October 12 at Chushul.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iafs-chinook-helicopter-carries-out-night-sortie-from-leh-airbase-watch-video-334404">Watch video:&nbsp;IAF's Chinook helicopter carries out night sortie from Leh airbase</a>

Indian and Chinese commanders have been involved in commander-level talks since May and after the Galwan Valley clash on June 15 in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, although the PLA had lost soldiers as well but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge figures.

Indian and Chinese troops were involved in another clash on August 29-30 as the Indian side pushed back the Chinese incursion.

India's foreign ministry had said earlier that it "never accepted the so-called unilaterally defined 1959 Line of Actual Contro(LAC). The position has been consistent and well known including to the Chinese."

The MEA called &nbsp;on the Chinese side to "sincerely and faithfully" abide by all "agreements and understandings in their entirety and refrain from advancing an untenable unilateral interpretation of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hopes-india-china-resolve-border-issues-offers-help-again-330069"> LAC</a>."

MEA had asserted that the "two sides had engaged in an exercise to clarify and confirm the LAC up to 2003 but this process could not proceed further as the Chinese side did not show a willingness to pursue it.

The Indian Army military is set to keep troops deployed along the high-altitude border through the winter as Chinese troops have reportedly refused to budge from their forward positions in eastern Ladakh.

Temperatures in Ladakh can fall well below freezing with troops deployed at altitudes of over 15,000 feet. India has moved large quantities of supplies to stock its troops with Indian Air Force's large transport aircraft landed at a forward base in Ladakh.

Amid the India-China standoff at the LAC, the seventh India-China corps commander-level talks are due to take place on October 12 at Chushul. Watch video: IAF's Chinook helicopter carries out night sortie from Leh airbase Indian and Chinese commanders have been involved in commander-level talks since May and after the Galwan Valley clash on June 15 in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, although the PLA had lost soldiers as well but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge figures.

Amid the India-China standoff at the LAC, the seventh India-China corps commander-level talks are due to take place on October 12 at Chushul. Watch video: IAF's Chinook helicopter carries out night sortie from Leh airbase Indian and Chinese commanders have been involved in commander-level talks since May and after the Galwan Valley clash on June 15 in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, although the PLA had lost soldiers as well but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge figures. Indian and Chinese troops were involved in another clash on August 29-30 as the Indian side pushed back the Chinese incursion. India's foreign ministry had said earlier that it "never accepted the so-called unilaterally defined 1959 Line of Actual Contro(LAC). The position has been consistent and well known including to the Chinese." The MEA called on the Chinese side to "sincerely and faithfully" abide by all "agreements and understandings in their entirety and refrain from advancing an untenable unilateral interpretation of the LAC." MEA had asserted that the "two sides had engaged in an exercise to clarify and confirm the LAC up to 2003 but this process could not proceed further as the Chinese side did not show a willingness to pursue it. The Indian Army military is set to keep troops deployed along the high-altitude border through the winter as Chinese troops have reportedly refused to budge from their forward positions in eastern Ladakh. Temperatures in Ladakh can fall well below freezing with troops deployed at altitudes of over 15,000 feet. India has moved large quantities of supplies to stock its troops with Indian Air Force's large transport aircraft landed at a forward base in Ladakh.

India-China corps commander talks to take place at Chushul on October 12

China has attempted to “seize” control of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with India by force as part of its territorial aggression, US’ national security advisor has said, underlining that time has come to accept that dialogue and agreements will not persuade Beijing to change.

India and China are locked in a five-month-long tense border standoff in eastern Ladakh that has significantly strained their relations. Both sides have held a series of high-level diplomatic and military talks to resolve the border row. However, no breakthrough has been achieved to end the standoff.

“CCP’s (Chinese Communist Party) territorial aggression is also apparent on its Indian border where China has attempted to seize control of the Line of Actual Control by force,” US National Security Advisor Robert O’Brien said in a remark on China early this week in Utah.

The India-China border dispute covers the 3,488-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC). China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of southern Tibet, while India contests it. The Chinese territorial aggression is also true in the Taiwan Strait where the PLA (People’s Liberation Army) Navy and Air Force continue to conduct threatening military drills, O’Brien said.

“Beijing’s signature international development programme, One Belt One Road (OBOR), involves impoverished companies taking on opaque and unsustainable Chinese loans to pay Chinese firms employing Chinese labourers to build their infrastructure,” he said.

Many of these projects are unnecessary, shoddily built and are “white elephants”, the national security advisor said. “And now these countries’ dependence on the Chinese debt leaves their sovereignty eroded and with no choice but to hue to the party’s line on UN votes or any other issue that the Chinese Communist Party considers a red line,” he said. O’Brien also noted that China’s other international aid efforts include selling surveillance systems and similar tools of repression to “pariah regimes” around the world, including Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro. “The time has come to accept that dialogue and agreements will not persuade or compel the People’s Republic of China to change. There’s nothing to be gained from looking the other way or turning the other cheek. We’ve been doing that for too long,” he said.

O’Brien said the US must stand up to the Chinese and protect the American people.

“We must promote American prosperity, practice peace through strength and advance American influence in the world,” he said, adding that under President Donald Trump’s leadership that is exactly what the US has done.

O’Brien said the Trump administration has adopted a competitive approach to China. That approach, he said, has two primary objectives. First, improve the resiliency of US institutions, alliances and partnerships to prevail against the challenges that China presents; and the second is to impose tangible cost in order to compel Beijing to cease or reduce actions harmful to America’s vital national interest and those of its allied and partner nations.

“President Trump has taken decisive action to meet these objectives. He is working to prevent companies that answer to the CCP’s intelligence and security apparatus,” O’Brien said.

Citing examples, he said Chinese telecommunications giants Huawei and ZTE have been prevented from accessing Americans’ personal and private data and national secrets. The Trump administration, he said, has also imposed import and export restrictions on US semiconductor technology and other exports going to Huawei and similar Chinese telecommunications corporations.

“Our democratic partners are starting to follow. Just last month, the UK joined democracies such as the Czech Republic, Denmark, Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Sweden in committing to using trusted suppliers to build their future 5G networks,” O’Brien said.

“Carriers like Jio in India, Telstra in Australia, SK and KT in South Korea, NTT in Japan, and others have prohibited the use of Huawei equipment in their networks. The Trump administration is investigating and prosecuting the economic espionage aggressively,” he said.

O’Brien said the Trump administration has strengthened its military relationships in the Indo Pacific.

“One important partnership which will be one of the most key partnerships for the United States in the 21st century, India, is thriving,” he said. He also noted that the US has signed extended US military access to Singapore’s air and naval bases. The country is also working closely with Japan, Australia and New Zealand to strengthen relationships with the Pacific Islands, especially Timor. It is also working closely with Mongolia.

However, O’Brien said even as the US competes with China, it does welcome cooperation where America’s interests align. “The US has a deep and abiding respect for the Chinese people and enjoys longstanding ties to that country, including our alliance in World War II,” O’Brien said.

China has attempted to “seize” control of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with India by force as part of its territorial aggression, US’ national security advisor has said, underlining that time has come to accept that dialogue and agreements will not persuade Beijing to change.

China has attempted to “seize” control of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with India by force as part of its territorial aggression, US’ national security advisor has said, underlining that time has come to accept that dialogue and agreements will not persuade Beijing to change. India and China are locked in a five-month-long tense border standoff in eastern Ladakh that has significantly strained their relations. Both sides have held a series of high-level diplomatic and military talks to resolve the border row. However, no breakthrough has been achieved to end the standoff. “CCP’s (Chinese Communist Party) territorial aggression is also apparent on its Indian border where China has attempted to seize control of the Line of Actual Control by force,” US National Security Advisor Robert O’Brien said in a remark on China early this week in Utah. The India-China border dispute covers the 3,488-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC). China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of southern Tibet, while India contests it. The Chinese territorial aggression is also true in the Taiwan Strait where the PLA (People’s Liberation Army) Navy and Air Force continue to conduct threatening military drills, O’Brien said. “Beijing’s signature international development programme, One Belt One Road (OBOR), involves impoverished companies taking on opaque and unsustainable Chinese loans to pay Chinese firms employing Chinese labourers to build their infrastructure,” he said. Many of these projects are unnecessary, shoddily built and are “white elephants”, the national security advisor said. “And now these countries’ dependence on the Chinese debt leaves their sovereignty eroded and with no choice but to hue to the party’s line on UN votes or any other issue that the Chinese Communist Party considers a red line,” he said. O’Brien also noted that China’s other international aid efforts include selling surveillance systems and similar tools of repression to “pariah regimes” around the world, including Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro. “The time has come to accept that dialogue and agreements will not persuade or compel the People’s Republic of China to change. There’s nothing to be gained from looking the other way or turning the other cheek. We’ve been doing that for too long,” he said. O’Brien said the US must stand up to the Chinese and protect the American people. “We must promote American prosperity, practice peace through strength and advance American influence in the world,” he said, adding that under President Donald Trump’s leadership that is exactly what the US has done. O’Brien said the Trump administration has adopted a competitive approach to China. That approach, he said, has two primary objectives. First, improve the resiliency of US institutions, alliances and partnerships to prevail against the challenges that China presents; and the second is to impose tangible cost in order to compel Beijing to cease or reduce actions harmful to America’s vital national interest and those of its allied and partner nations. “President Trump has taken decisive action to meet these objectives. He is working to prevent companies that answer to the CCP’s intelligence and security apparatus,” O’Brien said. Citing examples, he said Chinese telecommunications giants Huawei and ZTE have been prevented from accessing Americans’ personal and private data and national secrets. The Trump administration, he said, has also imposed import and export restrictions on US semiconductor technology and other exports going to Huawei and similar Chinese telecommunications corporations. “Our democratic partners are starting to follow. Just last month, the UK joined democracies such as the Czech Republic, Denmark, Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Sweden in committing to using trusted suppliers to build their future 5G networks,” O’Brien said. “Carriers like Jio in India, Telstra in Australia, SK and KT in South Korea, NTT in Japan, and others have prohibited the use of Huawei equipment in their networks. The Trump administration is investigating and prosecuting the economic espionage aggressively,” he said. O’Brien said the Trump administration has strengthened its military relationships in the Indo Pacific. “One important partnership which will be one of the most key partnerships for the United States in the 21st century, India, is thriving,” he said. He also noted that the US has signed extended US military access to Singapore’s air and naval bases. The country is also working closely with Japan, Australia and New Zealand to strengthen relationships with the Pacific Islands, especially Timor. It is also working closely with Mongolia. However, O’Brien said even as the US competes with China, it does welcome cooperation where America’s interests align. “The US has a deep and abiding respect for the Chinese people and enjoys longstanding ties to that country, including our alliance in World War II,” O’Brien said.

‘Time to accept talks won’t make China change aggressive stance’: US NSA

After triggering a border standoff with India in may - China has failed to follow through on its promise of de-escalation. India is now strengthening its defences by deploying out missiles. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: India-China border stand-off: India strengthens border defences

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">India-China border standoff </a>in Parliament today asserting that &nbsp;both sides have different perceptions about the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-is-china-tracking-influential-indians-327686/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"China doesn't recognise the traditional and&nbsp;customary alignment of the boundary. We consider that this alignment is based on well established geographical principals," Rajnath Singh said in Parliament, adding, "India and China border issue remains unresolved. Till now, there has been no mutually acceptable solution. China disagrees on the border."

"China has mobilised a huge number of Army battalions and armaments along LAC and inner areas. There are&nbsp;many friction points in eastern Ladakh, Gogra, Kongka La, Pangong Lake's north and south banks. Indian Army has made counter deployments in these areas," Rajnath Singh said.

"The Chinese side created a violent face-off on June 15&nbsp;at Galwan. Our brave soldiers laid down their lives and also inflicted costs including casualties on the Chinese side," Rajnath Singh said in Parliament

Rajnath Singh said PM Modi's Ladakh visit instilled confidence while insisting that he is taking stock of the situation at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-indian-air-force-intends-to-counter-chinas-forward-airbase-close-to-lac-326902">LAC</a> himself in the midst of the India-China standoff at the border.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-defeats-china-becomes-member-of-united-nations-ecosoc-327590">Also Read:&nbsp;India defeats China, becomes member of United Nations' ECOSOC</a>

The defence minister informed the House that India's border with China is well established but highlighted that China says the border is still to be decided.

"China continues to be in illegal occupation of approximately 38,000 sq. kms in Ladakh. In addition, under the so-called Sino-Pakistan 'Boundary Agreement' of 1963, Pakistan illegally ceded 5,180 sq. km. of Indian territory in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir to China," Rajnath Singh said.

"Violent conduct of Chinese troops is a violation of all past agreements. Our troops have done counter deployments in the area to safeguard our borders," he said.

"We have told <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-indian-air-force-intends-to-counter-chinas-forward-airbase-close-to-lac-326902">China</a> through diplomatic channels that the attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo were in violation of the bilateral agreements,"&nbsp;Rajnath Singh stated in Lok Sabha.

"Both India and China agree that to maintain peace and tranquillity in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-china-denies-reports-of-troops-laying-cables-at-lac-327669"> India-China border</a> areas, it is essential for the further development of bilateral relations," India's defence minister added.

"In the meeting with Chinese defence minister, I clearly stated that while our troops had always taken a responsible approach towards border management, but at same time there should be no doubt about our determination to protect India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity," India's defence minister told the lower house of parliament on the standoff at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-indian-army-gains-upper-hand-and-control-of-commanding-heights-in-ladakh-326703">LAC</a>.

"I request this house to pass a resolution that we stand shoulder to shoulder with our armed forces who are guarding our borders to safeguard India's sovereignty and integrity," the minister said, adding,"I want to assure you that we are ready to deal with any situation."

"In past too, we have had situations of prolonged standoffs in border areas with China which were resolved peacefully. Even though situation this year is very different both in terms of scale of troops involved and the number of friction points, we remain committed to peaceful resolution," he said.

"I want to assure that the morale of our armed forces is high. No one should doubt it,"&nbsp;he added.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke on the India-China border standoff in Parliament today asserting that both sides have different perceptions about the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke on the India-China border standoff in Parliament today asserting that both sides have different perceptions about the Line of Actual Control(LAC). Watch: "China doesn't recognise the traditional and customary alignment of the boundary. We consider that this alignment is based on well established geographical principals," Rajnath Singh said in Parliament, adding, "India and China border issue remains unresolved. Till now, there has been no mutually acceptable solution. China disagrees on the border." "China has mobilised a huge number of Army battalions and armaments along LAC and inner areas. There are many friction points in eastern Ladakh, Gogra, Kongka La, Pangong Lake's north and south banks. Indian Army has made counter deployments in these areas," Rajnath Singh said. "The Chinese side created a violent face-off on June 15 at Galwan. Our brave soldiers laid down their lives and also inflicted costs including casualties on the Chinese side," Rajnath Singh said in Parliament Rajnath Singh said PM Modi's Ladakh visit instilled confidence while insisting that he is taking stock of the situation at the LAC himself in the midst of the India-China standoff at the border. Also Read: India defeats China, becomes member of United Nations' ECOSOC The defence minister informed the House that India's border with China is well established but highlighted that China says the border is still to be decided. "China continues to be in illegal occupation of approximately 38,000 sq. kms in Ladakh. In addition, under the so-called Sino-Pakistan 'Boundary Agreement' of 1963, Pakistan illegally ceded 5,180 sq. km. of Indian territory in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir to China," Rajnath Singh said. "Violent conduct of Chinese troops is a violation of all past agreements. Our troops have done counter deployments in the area to safeguard our borders," he said. "We have told China through diplomatic channels that the attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo were in violation of the bilateral agreements," Rajnath Singh stated in Lok Sabha. "Both India and China agree that to maintain peace and tranquillity in the India-China border areas, it is essential for the further development of bilateral relations," India's defence minister added. "In the meeting with Chinese defence minister, I clearly stated that while our troops had always taken a responsible approach towards border management, but at same time there should be no doubt about our determination to protect India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity," India's defence minister told the lower house of parliament on the standoff at the LAC. "I request this house to pass a resolution that we stand shoulder to shoulder with our armed forces who are guarding our borders to safeguard India's sovereignty and integrity," the minister said, adding,"I want to assure you that we are ready to deal with any situation." "In past too, we have had situations of prolonged standoffs in border areas with China which were resolved peacefully. Even though situation this year is very different both in terms of scale of troops involved and the number of friction points, we remain committed to peaceful resolution," he said. "I want to assure that the morale of our armed forces is high. No one should doubt it," he added.

India-China standoff: China has mobilised huge number of Army battalions and armaments along LAC, says Rajnath Singh in Parliament

Amid tensions with India along the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">Line of Actual Control(LAC)</a>, China's foreign ministry on Tuesday denied reports that Chinese troops are laying fibre optic cables at a western Himalayan flashpoint.

In a&nbsp;news briefing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said ''China and India will remain in communication through diplomatic and military channels''.

Earlier, two Indian officials had said that&nbsp;China is laying a network of cables to bolster communications at the line of actual control (LAC).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-says-china-laying-cables-to-bolster-communications-at-border-flashpoint-327610">India says China laying cables to bolster communications at border flashpoint</a>

According to the officials, the PLA intends to stay on the border for a long time and hence it is trying to strengthen its communication system.

Such cables, which would provide forward troops with secure lines of communication to bases in the rear, have recently been spotted to the south of Pangong Tso lake in the Himalayan region of Ladakh, a senior government official said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-indian-army-gains-upper-hand-and-control-of-commanding-heights-in-ladakh-326703">India-China standoff: Indian Army gains upper hand and control of commanding heights in Ladakh</a>

Thousands of Indian and Chinese troops backed by tanks and aircraft are locked in an uneasy stalemate along a 70 km-long front to the south of the lake. Each country has accused the other of escalating the standoff.

Indian Army has gained the upper hand and control of commanding heights in Ladakh close to the Chinese positions.&nbsp;

Despite the LAC continues to escalate despite a&nbsp;meeting between India's external affairs minister S.Jaishankar&nbsp;and Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in Moscow.

Tensions have increased between the two neighbouring countries&nbsp;after the Galwan incident of June in which India lost 20 of its soldiers.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid tensions with India along the Line of Actual Control(LAC), China's foreign ministry on Tuesday denied reports that Chinese troops are laying fibre optic cables at a western Himalayan flashpoint.

Amid tensions with India along the Line of Actual Control(LAC), China's foreign ministry on Tuesday denied reports that Chinese troops are laying fibre optic cables at a western Himalayan flashpoint. In a news briefing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said ''China and India will remain in communication through diplomatic and military channels''. Earlier, two Indian officials had said that China is laying a network of cables to bolster communications at the line of actual control (LAC). Also read: India says China laying cables to bolster communications at border flashpoint According to the officials, the PLA intends to stay on the border for a long time and hence it is trying to strengthen its communication system. Such cables, which would provide forward troops with secure lines of communication to bases in the rear, have recently been spotted to the south of Pangong Tso lake in the Himalayan region of Ladakh, a senior government official said. Also read: India-China standoff: Indian Army gains upper hand and control of commanding heights in Ladakh Thousands of Indian and Chinese troops backed by tanks and aircraft are locked in an uneasy stalemate along a 70 km-long front to the south of the lake. Each country has accused the other of escalating the standoff. Indian Army has gained the upper hand and control of commanding heights in Ladakh close to the Chinese positions. Despite the LAC continues to escalate despite a meeting between India's external affairs minister S.Jaishankar and Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in Moscow. Tensions have increased between the two neighbouring countries after the Galwan incident of June in which India lost 20 of its soldiers. (With inputs from agencies)

India-China standoff: China denies reports of troops laying cables at LAC

Two Indian officials on Tuesday said soldiers from the&nbsp;People's Liberation Army were laying a network of optical fibre cables at a western Himalayan flashpoint in&nbsp;India.

According to the officials, the PLA intends to stay on the border for a long time and hence it is trying to strengthen its communication system.

Such cables, which would provide forward troops with secure lines of communication to bases in the rear, have recently been spotted to the south of Pangong Tso lake in the Himalayan region of Ladakh, a senior government official said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/days-after-india-china-foreign-ministry-level-talks-situation-remains-unchanged-at-lac-327417" hreflang="en">Days after India, China foreign ministry-level talks, situation remains unchanged at LAC</a>

China's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to questions on the matter, while defence officials could not immediately be reached for comment.

However,&nbsp;a statement posted on the Chinese embassy's website on Monday, Ambassador Sun Weidong was quoted as saying: "... Indian ministries had claimed that Indian troops "pre-empted" Chinese military activity on the south bank of Pangong Tso Lake, which obviously revealed that they are illegally trespassing (along) the LAC and (trying to) change status quo in border areas."

Days after Indian and Chinese foreign ministers met in Moscow, situation remains unchanged at the line of actual control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.

Thousands of Indian and Chinese troops backed by tanks and aircraft are locked in an uneasy stalemate along a 70 km-long front to the south of the lake. Each country has accused the other of escalating the standoff.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-defeats-china-becomes-member-of-united-nationss-ecosoc-327590" hreflang="en">India defeats China, becomes member of United Nations's ECOSOC</a>

A third Indian official said on Monday that there had been no significant withdrawals or reinforcements on either side since the foreign ministers of the two countries met last week.

"It is as tense as earlier," he said.

Above Leh, Ladakh's main city, Indian fighter planes flew throughout the morning, their engines booming and echoing across the valley surrounded by brown, barren mountains.

"Our biggest worry is that they have laid optical fibre cables for high-speed communications," the first official said, referring to the lake's southern bank, where Indian and Chinese troops are only a few hundred metres apart at some points.

"They have been laying optical fibre cables on the southern bank at breakneck speed," he said.

Indian intelligence agencies noted similar cables to the north of the Pangong Tso lake around a month ago, the second government official said.

The first Indian government official said the authorities were alerted to such activity after satellite imagery showed unusual lines in the sand of the high-altitude deserts to the south of Pangong Tso.

These lines were judged by Indian experts,&nbsp;and corroborated by foreign intelligence agencies - to be communication cables laid in trenches, he said, including near the Spanggur gap, among hilltops where soldiers fired in the air recently for the first time in decades.

Indian officials say a build-up in border infrastructure on their side is also likely to have played a part in the months-long confrontation.

The Chinese have complained about India building roads and air strips in and around their disputed border, and Beijing says this triggered tensions along the border.

A former Indian military intelligence official, who declined to be named because of the sensitivity of the matter, said optical fibre cables offered communications security as well as the ability to send data such as pictures and documents.

"If you speak on radio, it can get caught. Communications on optical fibre cables is secure," he said.

Two Indian officials on Tuesday said soldiers from the People's Liberation Army were laying a network of optical fibre cables at a western Himalayan flashpoint in India.

Two Indian officials on Tuesday said soldiers from the People's Liberation Army were laying a network of optical fibre cables at a western Himalayan flashpoint in India. According to the officials, the PLA intends to stay on the border for a long time and hence it is trying to strengthen its communication system. Such cables, which would provide forward troops with secure lines of communication to bases in the rear, have recently been spotted to the south of Pangong Tso lake in the Himalayan region of Ladakh, a senior government official said. Also read: Days after India, China foreign ministry-level talks, situation remains unchanged at LAC China's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to questions on the matter, while defence officials could not immediately be reached for comment. However, a statement posted on the Chinese embassy's website on Monday, Ambassador Sun Weidong was quoted as saying: "... Indian ministries had claimed that Indian troops "pre-empted" Chinese military activity on the south bank of Pangong Tso Lake, which obviously revealed that they are illegally trespassing (along) the LAC and (trying to) change status quo in border areas." Days after Indian and Chinese foreign ministers met in Moscow, situation remains unchanged at the line of actual control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. Thousands of Indian and Chinese troops backed by tanks and aircraft are locked in an uneasy stalemate along a 70 km-long front to the south of the lake. Each country has accused the other of escalating the standoff. Also read: India defeats China, becomes member of United Nations's ECOSOC A third Indian official said on Monday that there had been no significant withdrawals or reinforcements on either side since the foreign ministers of the two countries met last week. "It is as tense as earlier," he said. Above Leh, Ladakh's main city, Indian fighter planes flew throughout the morning, their engines booming and echoing across the valley surrounded by brown, barren mountains. "Our biggest worry is that they have laid optical fibre cables for high-speed communications," the first official said, referring to the lake's southern bank, where Indian and Chinese troops are only a few hundred metres apart at some points. "They have been laying optical fibre cables on the southern bank at breakneck speed," he said. Indian intelligence agencies noted similar cables to the north of the Pangong Tso lake around a month ago, the second government official said. The first Indian government official said the authorities were alerted to such activity after satellite imagery showed unusual lines in the sand of the high-altitude deserts to the south of Pangong Tso. These lines were judged by Indian experts, and corroborated by foreign intelligence agencies - to be communication cables laid in trenches, he said, including near the Spanggur gap, among hilltops where soldiers fired in the air recently for the first time in decades. Indian officials say a build-up in border infrastructure on their side is also likely to have played a part in the months-long confrontation. The Chinese have complained about India building roads and air strips in and around their disputed border, and Beijing says this triggered tensions along the border. A former Indian military intelligence official, who declined to be named because of the sensitivity of the matter, said optical fibre cables offered communications security as well as the ability to send data such as pictures and documents. "If you speak on radio, it can get caught. Communications on optical fibre cables is secure," he said.

India says China laying cables to bolster communications at border flashpoint

Ahead of the Monsoon session of the Indian Parliament, Indian PM Narendra Modi spoke briefly and said that the Parliament unanimously stands firmly behind the Indian Armed Forces.

Indian PM Narendra Modi: 'Soldiers are standing firm at the border'

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi met in Moscow on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) Foreign Ministers meet.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-corps-commander-level-talks-soon-forces-just-300-meters-away-in-some-places-326671">Also Read:&nbsp;India-China corps commander level talks soon; forces just 300 meters away in some places</a>

It is the first in-person meet between the two ministers since the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">India-China tension</a> started in May.

Both FMs had spoken to each other after the Galwan incident of June in which India lost 20 of its soldiers. China also suffered casualty but never came out with the figures.

During that conversation, the Indian side had told the Chinese side that "Chinese side took pre-meditated and planned action that was directly responsible for the resulting violence and casualties", ministry of external affairs readout said.

Both FMs have seen face-to-face three times in Moscow on Thursday - first at SCO FMs meet, then for the Russia, India and China FMs Lunch and now for the bilateral meet.

Last week saw the defence ministers of the two countries meeting on the sidelines of SCO Defence Ministers meet in Moscow.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi met in Moscow on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) Foreign Ministers meet.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi met in Moscow on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) Foreign Ministers meet. Also Read: India-China corps commander level talks soon; forces just 300 meters away in some places It is the first in-person meet between the two ministers since the India-China tension started in May. Both FMs had spoken to each other after the Galwan incident of June in which India lost 20 of its soldiers. China also suffered casualty but never came out with the figures. During that conversation, the Indian side had told the Chinese side that "Chinese side took pre-meditated and planned action that was directly responsible for the resulting violence and casualties", ministry of external affairs readout said. Both FMs have seen face-to-face three times in Moscow on Thursday - first at SCO FMs meet, then for the Russia, India and China FMs Lunch and now for the bilateral meet. Last week saw the defence ministers of the two countries meeting on the sidelines of SCO Defence Ministers meet in Moscow.

India, China foreign ministers meet in Moscow amid standoff at LAC

India and China have agreed to hold corps commanders' levels talks soon amid rising tensions at the Line of Actual Control(LAC). While the date and time of the meet is yet to be decided, it will be the sixth such meet since June.

India and China have agreed to hold corps commanders' levels talks soon amid rising tensions at the Line of Actual Control(LAC). While the date and time of the meet is yet to be decided, it will be the sixth such meet since June. Watch: India-China Lt Gen-level or corps commander talks have taken place five times so far - June 6, 22 and 30, July 14 & August 2. Meanwhile on the ground situation remain tense even as at some places Indian and Chinese forces are just 300 meters of each other. Indian and Chinese brigade commander and commanding officers interacted on Thursday for 3 hours from 11 am to 2 pm and the status quo continues. A government source told WION the aim is to, "keep lines of communication open" between the two sides. No fresh aggressive action has been observed by the Chinese side which on Monday and Tuesday indulged in "provocative" action according to the Indian army. Indian army in its release on Tuesday said,"PLA troops fired a few rounds in the air" and "despite the grave provocation, own troops exercised great restraint and behaved in a mature and responsible manner". India has occupied several dominating heights close to China's existing positions at finger 4, north bank of Pangong lake. The development gives the Indian Army an edge over the Chinese even as PLA troops continue to indulge in provocative actions. The Chinese have occupied finger 4 to finger 8 in the north bank of Pangong lake. As part of disengagement, India has repeatedly asked Chinese forces to go on its side of LAC and vacate the area.

India-China corps commander level talks soon; forces just 300 meters away in some places

According to China's state-run Global Times, People's Liberation Army (PLA) has deployed "bombers, air defence troops, artillery, armoured vehicles, paratroopers, special forces and infantry units in the bordering plateau region" amid tensions with India along the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">Line of Actual Control(LAC)</a>.

China's mouthpiece said H-6 bombers and Y-20 large transport aircraft have been deployed attached to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/foreign-ministers-of-russia-india-china-to-meet-in-moscow-chinese-foreign-ministry-326308">PLA</a> Central Theater Command Air Force for "training missions".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-indias-tibetan-special-frontier-forces-beat-back-chinas-pla-at-black-top-326288">In Pics: How India's Tibetan Special Frontier Forces beat back China's PLA at Black Top</a>

The report said, "HJ-10 anti-tank missile systems attached to the PLA 71st Group Army recently travelled from east China's Jiangsu province to northwest China's Gobi desert over thousands of kilometers, while the PLA Tibet military command conducted round-the-clock combined brigade strike exercises."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/history-will-repeat-itself-if-india-makes-same-border-mistake-says-chinas-mouthpiece-global-times-326217">Also Read:&nbsp;History will repeat itself if India makes same border mistake, says China's mouthpiece Global Times</a>

The latest Global Times report comes after the newspaper quoted a PLA spokesperson and tweeted that India "again illegally crossed the Line of Actual Control in Shenpao mountain near the south bank of Pangong Tso Lake on Monday."

Global Times claimed that “history will repeat itself if India makes same border mistake” referring to the India-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/israel-hopes-india-china-will-sort-things-peacefully-326245">China</a> war in 1962.

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On Wednesday, the newspaper quoting CCTV reported that "air defence brigade under the PLA 72nd group army also mobilized to the northwest region in autumn and held live-fire confrontational drills with anti-aircraft guns".

CCTV said that paratroopers and heavy equipment onboard the Air Force's transport aircraft recently conducted a "multidimensional area capture and control exercises".

According to China's state-run Global Times, People's Liberation Army (PLA) has deployed "bombers, air defence troops, artillery, armoured vehicles, paratroopers, special forces and infantry units in the bordering plateau region" amid tensions with India along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

According to China's state-run Global Times, People's Liberation Army (PLA) has deployed "bombers, air defence troops, artillery, armoured vehicles, paratroopers, special forces and infantry units in the bordering plateau region" amid tensions with India along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). China's mouthpiece said H-6 bombers and Y-20 large transport aircraft have been deployed attached to the PLA Central Theater Command Air Force for "training missions". In Pics: How India's Tibetan Special Frontier Forces beat back China's PLA at Black Top The report said, "HJ-10 anti-tank missile systems attached to the PLA 71st Group Army recently travelled from east China's Jiangsu province to northwest China's Gobi desert over thousands of kilometers, while the PLA Tibet military command conducted round-the-clock combined brigade strike exercises." Also Read: History will repeat itself if India makes same border mistake, says China's mouthpiece Global Times The latest Global Times report comes after the newspaper quoted a PLA spokesperson and tweeted that India "again illegally crossed the Line of Actual Control in Shenpao mountain near the south bank of Pangong Tso Lake on Monday." Global Times claimed that “history will repeat itself if India makes same border mistake” referring to the India-China war in 1962. × On Wednesday, the newspaper quoting CCTV reported that "air defence brigade under the PLA 72nd group army also mobilized to the northwest region in autumn and held live-fire confrontational drills with anti-aircraft guns". CCTV said that paratroopers and heavy equipment onboard the Air Force's transport aircraft recently conducted a "multidimensional area capture and control exercises".

India-China standoff: Bombers, paratroopers and special forces deployed in 'plateau region amid border tensions', says Global Times

First pictures have emerged of the September 7 incident at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">Line of Actual Control</a>(LAC) in eastern Ladakh. On Monday, Chinese Army PLA troops attempted to close-in on one of the Indian forward positions and undertook "provocative activities to escalate" according to Indian Army statement.

Watch:

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Pictures show <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinas-pla-confirmed-missing-youths-from-arunachal-pradesh-found-on-their-side-government-326017">PLA </a>soldiers carrying weapons, spears and machete. Sources told WION that around 40 PLA soldiers came on September 7 evening. The incident occurred around the heights of Rezang La at LAC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-military-closed-in-on-indian-positions-fired-in-the-air-army-rejects-pla-claims-325901">Also Read:&nbsp;Chinese military closed in on Indian positions, fired in the air: Army rejects PLA claims</a>

Chinese Army had claimed in a midnight statement on Monday that Indian side had fired shots. It was rebutted by the Indian army in a statement on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The Indian army said, "PLA troops fired a few rounds in the air" and "despite the grave provocation, own troops exercised great restraint and behaved in a mature and responsible manner".

Some conversation between Indian &amp; Chinese side happening via hotline in the aftermath of the incident.

The developments come days before India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar is expected to meet Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation FMs meet in Moscow.

First pictures have emerged of the September 7 incident at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh. On Monday, Chinese Army PLA troops attempted to close-in on one of the Indian forward positions and undertook "provocative activities to escalate" according to Indian Army statement.

First pictures have emerged of the September 7 incident at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh. On Monday, Chinese Army PLA troops attempted to close-in on one of the Indian forward positions and undertook "provocative activities to escalate" according to Indian Army statement. Watch: Pictures show PLA soldiers carrying weapons, spears and machete. Sources told WION that around 40 PLA soldiers came on September 7 evening. The incident occurred around the heights of Rezang La at LAC. Also Read: Chinese military closed in on Indian positions, fired in the air: Army rejects PLA claims Chinese Army had claimed in a midnight statement on Monday that Indian side had fired shots. It was rebutted by the Indian army in a statement on Tuesday. The Indian army said, "PLA troops fired a few rounds in the air" and "despite the grave provocation, own troops exercised great restraint and behaved in a mature and responsible manner". Some conversation between Indian & Chinese side happening via hotline in the aftermath of the incident. The developments come days before India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar is expected to meet Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation FMs meet in Moscow.

India-China face-off on September 7: Pictures emerge of Chinese soldiers with spears, machete

China's ministry of defence said today that responsibility of the current tension "lies entirely with India" along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

Watch:&nbsp;

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"The cause and truth of the current tension on the border between China and India are very clear and the responsibility lies entirely with India," Wei Fenghe, State Councillor and minister of defence, said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-defence-minister-holds-talks-with-chinese-counterpart-in-moscow-amid-lac-row-325283">Also Read:&nbsp;India's defence minister holds talks with Chinese counterpart in Moscow amid LAC row</a>

Fenghe has been participating in the joint meeting of ministers of defence at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization(SCO) in Moscow. Fenghe had held a meeting with India's defence minister Rajnath Singh on Friday.

Meanwhile, India's defence ministry said that "the actions of the Chinese troops, including amassing of a large number of troops and their aggressive behaviour including attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo was in violation of the bilateral agreements."

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Raksha Mantri conveyed that the two sides should continue their discussions, including through diplomatic and military channels, to ensure complete disengagement and de-escalation and full restoration of peace and tranquillity along the LAC at the earliest.
— रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia/status/1302133698343518208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The defence ministry said that India "categorically" conveyed to the Chinese side the country's position on developments along the LAC in the last few months including the Galwan Valley in the western sector of the India-China border.

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RM advised that it was important therefore that Chinese side should work with the Indian side for complete disengagement at the earliest from all friction areas including Pangong Lake as well as de-escalation in border areas in accordance with the bilateral agreements &amp; protocols
— रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia/status/1302133475814846465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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RM further said that the current situation should be handled responsibly and that neither side should take any further action that could either complicate the situation or escalate matters in the border areas.
— रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia/status/1302133608367271936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, Fenghe said both sides should "earnestly implement the important consensus reached by Jinping and PM Modi" and insist on solving problems through "dialogue and consultation".

"China's territory cannot be lost, and the Chinese military is fully determined, capable and confident to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity," China's defence minister&nbsp;said.

"It is hoped the Indian side will strictly abide by the series of agreements reached by the two sides and refrain from provocation in the current Line of Actual Control," he said.

"Refraining from any actions that may cause the situation to heat up and refraining from deliberately hyping and spreading negative information," the Chinese defence minister said.

Fenghe said the two sides should "focus on the overall situation of Sino-Indian relations and regional peace and stability" and "work together and meet each other halfway".

China's ministry of defence said today that responsibility of the current tension "lies entirely with India" along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). Watch: "The cause and truth of the current tension on the border between China and India are very clear and the responsibility lies entirely with India," Wei Fenghe, State Councillor and minister of defence, said.

China's ministry of defence said today that responsibility of the current tension "lies entirely with India" along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). Watch: "The cause and truth of the current tension on the border between China and India are very clear and the responsibility lies entirely with India," Wei Fenghe, State Councillor and minister of defence, said. Also Read: India's defence minister holds talks with Chinese counterpart in Moscow amid LAC row Fenghe has been participating in the joint meeting of ministers of defence at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization(SCO) in Moscow. Fenghe had held a meeting with India's defence minister Rajnath Singh on Friday. Meanwhile, India's defence ministry said that "the actions of the Chinese troops, including amassing of a large number of troops and their aggressive behaviour including attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo was in violation of the bilateral agreements." Raksha Mantri conveyed that the two sides should continue their discussions, including through diplomatic and military channels, to ensure complete disengagement and de-escalation and full restoration of peace and tranquillity along the LAC at the earliest. — रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) September 5, 2020 × The defence ministry said that India "categorically" conveyed to the Chinese side the country's position on developments along the LAC in the last few months including the Galwan Valley in the western sector of the India-China border. RM advised that it was important therefore that Chinese side should work with the Indian side for complete disengagement at the earliest from all friction areas including Pangong Lake as well as de-escalation in border areas in accordance with the bilateral agreements & protocols — रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) September 5, 2020 × RM further said that the current situation should be handled responsibly and that neither side should take any further action that could either complicate the situation or escalate matters in the border areas. — रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) September 5, 2020 × However, Fenghe said both sides should "earnestly implement the important consensus reached by Jinping and PM Modi" and insist on solving problems through "dialogue and consultation". "China's territory cannot be lost, and the Chinese military is fully determined, capable and confident to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity," China's defence minister said. "It is hoped the Indian side will strictly abide by the series of agreements reached by the two sides and refrain from provocation in the current Line of Actual Control," he said. "Refraining from any actions that may cause the situation to heat up and refraining from deliberately hyping and spreading negative information," the Chinese defence minister said. Fenghe said the two sides should "focus on the overall situation of Sino-Indian relations and regional peace and stability" and "work together and meet each other halfway".

Responsibility lies entirely with India, claims China on LAC standoff

India on Tuesday said that China engaged in provocative military manoeuvres in the late night of August 29 and August 30 in an attempt to change the status quo in the South Bank area of Pangong Lake.&nbsp;

In a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs informed that "on August 31, even as ground commanders of two sides were in discussions to de-escalate the situation, Chinese troops again engaged in provocative action. Due to timely defensive action, the Indian side was able to prevent these attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo."

Watch:

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The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that India was able to prevent unilaterally attempts by China to alter the status quo once again after a similar incident had taken place on the intervening night of August 29-30 along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-demands-india-withdraw-troops-from-border-to-avoid-escalation-324316">Also Read:&nbsp;China demands India withdraw troops from border to avoid escalation</a>

Here's the full statement by the government

As you are aware, India and China have been closely engaged through diplomatic and military channels over the past three months to resolve the situation along the India-China border. It would also be recalled that earlier the two Foreign Ministers and the two Special Representatives had agreed that the situation should be handled in a responsible manner and either side should not take any provocative action or escalate matters and ensure peace and tranquillity as per bilateral agreements and protocol. 
&nbsp; 
The Chinese side, however, violated this understanding and engaged in provocative military manoeuvres in the late night of 29th and on 30th August in an attempt to change the status quo in the South Bank area of Pangong Lake. As stated yesterday by the Indian Army, the Indian side responded to these provocative actions and took appropriate defensive measures along the LAC in order to safeguard our interests and defend the territorial integrity. Furthermore, yesterday on 31st August, even as the ground commanders of the two sides were in discussions to de-escalate the situation, the Chinese troops again engaged in provocative action. Due to the timely defensive action, the Indian side was able to prevent these attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo. 
&nbsp; 
The actions and behaviour of the Chinese side since earlier this year along the LAC has been in clear violation of the bilateral agreements and protocols concluded between the two countries to ensure peace and tranquillity on the border. Such actions are also in complete disregard to the understandings reached between the two Foreign Ministers as also the Special Representatives. 
&nbsp; 
We have taken up the matter of recent provocative and aggressive actions with the Chinese side through both diplomatic and military channels and have urged them to discipline and control their frontline troops from undertaking such provocative actions. 
&nbsp; 
The Indian side is firmly committed to resolving all outstanding issues along the LAC in the Western Sector through peaceful dialogue. In this context, we expect the Chinese side to sincerely abide by the understanding reached earlier and earnestly work with India to resolve the situation and to restore peace and tranquillity in the border areas.

India on Tuesday said that China engaged in provocative military manoeuvres in the late night of August 29 and August 30 in an attempt to change the status quo in the South Bank area of Pangong Lake.

India on Tuesday said that China engaged in provocative military manoeuvres in the late night of August 29 and August 30 in an attempt to change the status quo in the South Bank area of Pangong Lake. In a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs informed that "on August 31, even as ground commanders of two sides were in discussions to de-escalate the situation, Chinese troops again engaged in provocative action. Due to timely defensive action, the Indian side was able to prevent these attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo." Watch: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that India was able to prevent unilaterally attempts by China to alter the status quo once again after a similar incident had taken place on the intervening night of August 29-30 along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Also Read: China demands India withdraw troops from border to avoid escalation Here's the full statement by the government As you are aware, India and China have been closely engaged through diplomatic and military channels over the past three months to resolve the situation along the India-China border. It would also be recalled that earlier the two Foreign Ministers and the two Special Representatives had agreed that the situation should be handled in a responsible manner and either side should not take any provocative action or escalate matters and ensure peace and tranquillity as per bilateral agreements and protocol. The Chinese side, however, violated this understanding and engaged in provocative military manoeuvres in the late night of 29th and on 30th August in an attempt to change the status quo in the South Bank area of Pangong Lake. As stated yesterday by the Indian Army, the Indian side responded to these provocative actions and took appropriate defensive measures along the LAC in order to safeguard our interests and defend the territorial integrity. Furthermore, yesterday on 31st August, even as the ground commanders of the two sides were in discussions to de-escalate the situation, the Chinese troops again engaged in provocative action. Due to the timely defensive action, the Indian side was able to prevent these attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo. The actions and behaviour of the Chinese side since earlier this year along the LAC has been in clear violation of the bilateral agreements and protocols concluded between the two countries to ensure peace and tranquillity on the border. Such actions are also in complete disregard to the understandings reached between the two Foreign Ministers as also the Special Representatives. We have taken up the matter of recent provocative and aggressive actions with the Chinese side through both diplomatic and military channels and have urged them to discipline and control their frontline troops from undertaking such provocative actions. The Indian side is firmly committed to resolving all outstanding issues along the LAC in the Western Sector through peaceful dialogue. In this context, we expect the Chinese side to sincerely abide by the understanding reached earlier and earnestly work with India to resolve the situation and to restore peace and tranquillity in the border areas.

China's provocation at LAC is a clear violation of agreements: India

Amid tensions between India and China along the Line of Actual Control(LAC), the Chinese embassy in India said today that "India has grossly violated China's territorial sovereignty" and that China has made "representations to the Indian side".

Watch:

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Chila alleged that Indian troops crossed the LAC.

"On August 31, Indian troops violated the consensus reached in previous multi-level engagements and negotiations between China and India, illegally trespassed the Line of Actual Control again at the southern bank of Pangong Tso lake and near the Reqin Pass in the western sector of China-India border,"&nbsp;the Chinese embassy said in a statement.

The Chinese embassy said "Indian troops illegally trespassed LAC again at southern bank of Pangong Tso."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-demands-india-withdraw-troops-from-border-to-avoid-escalation-324316">Also Read:&nbsp;China demands India withdraw troops from border to avoid escalation</a>

"What India has done runs counter to the efforts made by both sides&nbsp;for a period of time to ease and cool down the situation on the ground, and China is resolutely opposed to this," it added.

The statement said&nbsp;it has urged the "Indian side to strictly control and restrain its frontline troops" and "earnestly honour its commitments, immediately stop all provocative actions, immediately withdraw its troops illegally trespassing the LAC, immediately stop any actions leading to the escalations and complications of the situation."

Amid the border row, newswire ANI quoting official sources said that the Indian Army and Chinese Army will hold brigade commander level talks in Chushul to discuss issues related to the situation on the southern bank of Pangong lake today.&nbsp;

Amid tensions between India and China along the Line of Actual Control(LAC), the Chinese embassy in India said today that "India has grossly violated China's territorial sovereignty" and that China has made "representations to the Indian side".

Amid tensions between India and China along the Line of Actual Control(LAC), the Chinese embassy in India said today that "India has grossly violated China's territorial sovereignty" and that China has made "representations to the Indian side". Watch: Chila alleged that Indian troops crossed the LAC. "On August 31, Indian troops violated the consensus reached in previous multi-level engagements and negotiations between China and India, illegally trespassed the Line of Actual Control again at the southern bank of Pangong Tso lake and near the Reqin Pass in the western sector of China-India border," the Chinese embassy said in a statement. The Chinese embassy said "Indian troops illegally trespassed LAC again at southern bank of Pangong Tso." Also Read: China demands India withdraw troops from border to avoid escalation "What India has done runs counter to the efforts made by both sides for a period of time to ease and cool down the situation on the ground, and China is resolutely opposed to this," it added. The statement said it has urged the "Indian side to strictly control and restrain its frontline troops" and "earnestly honour its commitments, immediately stop all provocative actions, immediately withdraw its troops illegally trespassing the LAC, immediately stop any actions leading to the escalations and complications of the situation." Amid the border row, newswire ANI quoting official sources said that the Indian Army and Chinese Army will hold brigade commander level talks in Chushul to discuss issues related to the situation on the southern bank of Pangong lake today.

Now, China accuses India of 'trespassing' LAC at southern bank of Pangong Tso