At 11th round of military talks, India and China have agreed to jointly maintain stability on the ground, and avoid any new incidents in eastern Ladakh.

India-China LAC Standoff: Both sides discuss further disengagement in Ladakh

India and China will hold the 11th round of Corps Commander talks today (Friday) at Chushul, Ladakh to discuss the disengagement process at remaining friction points on the LAC.

India, China to hold 11th round of talks for disengagement in eastern Ladakh

India, China to hold 11th round of Corps Commander talks today

(The New New World)

In China, don’t question the heroes.

At least seven people over the past week have been threatened, detained or arrested after casting doubt over the government’s account of the deaths of Chinese soldiers during a clash last year with Indian troops. Three of them are being detained for between seven and 15 days. The other four face criminal charges, including one man who lives outside China.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-china-lie-about-eradicating-poverty-366304/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

“The internet is not a lawless place,” said the police notices issued in their cases. “Blasphemies of heroes and martyrs will not be tolerated.”

Their punishment might have gone unnoticed if it wasn’t for an online database of speech crimes in China. A simple Google spreadsheet open for all to see, it lists nearly 2,000 times when people were punished by the government for what they said online and offline.

The list — which links directly to publicly issued verdicts, police notices and official news reports over the past eight years — is far from complete. Most punishment takes place behind closed doors.

Still, the list paints a bleak picture of a government that punishes its citizens for the slightest hint of criticism. It shows how random and merciless China’s legal system can be when it punishes its citizens for what they say, even though freedom of speech is written into China’s Constitution.

The list describes dissidents sentenced to long prison terms for attacking the government. It tells of petitioners, those who appeal directly to the government to right the wrongs against them, locked up for making too loud a clamor. It covers nearly 600 people punished for what they said about COVID-19, and too many others who cursed out police, often after receiving parking tickets.

The person behind the list is a bit of a mystery. In an interview, he described himself as a young man surnamed Wang. Of course, if the government found out more about him, he could end up in prison.

Wang said he decided to compile the list after reading about people who were punished for supposedly insulting the country during celebrations of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic, in October 2019. Although he is young, he told me, he remembers more freedom of expression before Xi Jinping became the Communist Party’s leader in late 2012.

“I knew that there were speech crimes in China, but I’ve never thought it’s so bad,” Wang posted in August on his Twitter account, where he writes in both English and Chinese. He wrote that he had become depressed after reading more than 1,000 verdicts.

“Big Brother is watching you,” he wrote. “I tried to look for the eyes of Big Brother and ended up finding them everywhere.”

The list, bluntly titled “An Inventory of Speech Crimes in China in Recent Years,” detailed what happened to those who questioned Beijing’s official account of the June clash between Chinese and Indian forces at their disputed border in the Himalayas. The Indian government said then that 20 of its soldiers had died. Last week, the Chinese government finally said four of its troops had died.

State-run media in China called them heroes, but some people had questions. One, a former journalist, asked whether more had died, a question of intense interest both in and out of the country. According to the notice the spreadsheet linked to, the former journalist was charged with picking quarrels and provoking trouble — a common accusation by the authorities against those who speak up — and faces up to five years imprisonment.

Reading the list, it becomes clear how well Xi and his government have tamed the Chinese internet. People once thought the internet was uncontrollable, even in China. But Xi has long seen the internet as both a threat to be contained and a tool for guiding public opinion.

“The internet is the biggest variant we’re facing,” he said in a 2018 speech. “Whether we can win the war over the internet will have a direct impact on national political security.”

Liberal-leaning voices and media were among the first to be silenced. Then internet platforms themselves — the Chinese versions of Twitter and YouTube, among many others — were punished for what they allowed.

Now, Chinese internet companies brag about their ability to control content. Nationalistic online users report speech they deem offensive. Out of the seven people who were accused of insulting the heroes and martyrs, six were reported by other users, according to the police notices. In some ways, the Chinese internet polices itself.

China’s police, who are widely disliked for their broad powers to lock people up indefinitely, are big beneficiaries. According to the spreadsheet, people have been detained for calling the police “dogs,” “bandits” and “bastards.” Most are locked up for only a few days, but one man in Liaoning province was sentenced to 10 months in jail for writing five offensive posts on his WeChat timeline.

Petitioners are among those who suffer the most. In one case on the spreadsheet, a woman in Sichuan province whose son died suddenly at school and whose husband committed suicide was sentenced to three years in prison for charges that included spreading false information. The verdict listed the headlines of 10 articles she posted and the page views they garnered. The most got 1,615 views, while the least got only 18.

Perhaps the most depressing items are those about people who were punished for what they said about the COVID-19 pandemic. On top of the list is Dr. Li Wenliang, who was reprimanded Jan. 1, 2020, along with seven others for trying to warn the country about the coronavirus. He died in early February last year of the virus and is remembered as the whistleblower who tried to warn the world about the coronavirus outbreak. But the spreadsheet lists 587 other cases.

Even cheesy skits by aspiring online influencers can be deemed offensive. Two men in northwestern Shaanxi province livestreamed a funeral they held for a sheep. In the video, one man cried over a photo of the sheep while the other dug the grave. They were detained 10 days for violating social customs.

The spreadsheet also highlights inspiring cases in which people spoke out to challenge authority.

In 2018, a 19-year-old man in the northwestern city of Yinchuan decided to test the newly passed law that prohibits questioning and criticizing heroes and martyrs. He posted on Weibo that two famous martyrs died meaningless deaths and that he wanted to see if he would be arrested, showing a lack of free speech in China. He was detained for 10 days and fined $70.

One man, Feng Zhouguan, criticized Xi and was charged with picking quarrels by the local police in the city of Xiamen. He was detained for five days but appealed after his release, arguing that the police had improperly interfered in a potential libel case between two individuals. The local police, he argued, are “not the military bodyguards or family militia of the national leader.” The court upheld the sentence.

Many people pay a steeper price.

Huang Genbao, 45, was a senior engineer at a state-owned company in the eastern city of Xuzhou. Two years ago he was arrested and sentenced to 16 months in jail for insulting the national leader and harming the national image on platforms like Twitter. He shared a cell with a large group and had to follow a strict routine, including toilet breaks. He and his wife lost their jobs, and he delivers meals to support his family.

“My life in the detention center reminded me of the book ‘1984,’” he said in an interview. “Many of the experiences are probably worse than the plots in the book.” 
&nbsp;

(The New New World) In China, don’t question the heroes. At least seven people over the past week have been threatened, detained or arrested after casting doubt over the government’s account of the deaths of Chinese soldiers during a clash last year with Indian troops.

(The New New World) In China, don’t question the heroes. At least seven people over the past week have been threatened, detained or arrested after casting doubt over the government’s account of the deaths of Chinese soldiers during a clash last year with Indian troops. Three of them are being detained for between seven and 15 days. The other four face criminal charges, including one man who lives outside China. Watch | “The internet is not a lawless place,” said the police notices issued in their cases. “Blasphemies of heroes and martyrs will not be tolerated.” Their punishment might have gone unnoticed if it wasn’t for an online database of speech crimes in China. A simple Google spreadsheet open for all to see, it lists nearly 2,000 times when people were punished by the government for what they said online and offline. The list — which links directly to publicly issued verdicts, police notices and official news reports over the past eight years — is far from complete. Most punishment takes place behind closed doors. Still, the list paints a bleak picture of a government that punishes its citizens for the slightest hint of criticism. It shows how random and merciless China’s legal system can be when it punishes its citizens for what they say, even though freedom of speech is written into China’s Constitution. The list describes dissidents sentenced to long prison terms for attacking the government. It tells of petitioners, those who appeal directly to the government to right the wrongs against them, locked up for making too loud a clamor. It covers nearly 600 people punished for what they said about COVID-19, and too many others who cursed out police, often after receiving parking tickets. The person behind the list is a bit of a mystery. In an interview, he described himself as a young man surnamed Wang. Of course, if the government found out more about him, he could end up in prison. Wang said he decided to compile the list after reading about people who were punished for supposedly insulting the country during celebrations of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic, in October 2019. Although he is young, he told me, he remembers more freedom of expression before Xi Jinping became the Communist Party’s leader in late 2012. “I knew that there were speech crimes in China, but I’ve never thought it’s so bad,” Wang posted in August on his Twitter account, where he writes in both English and Chinese. He wrote that he had become depressed after reading more than 1,000 verdicts. “Big Brother is watching you,” he wrote. “I tried to look for the eyes of Big Brother and ended up finding them everywhere.” The list, bluntly titled “An Inventory of Speech Crimes in China in Recent Years,” detailed what happened to those who questioned Beijing’s official account of the June clash between Chinese and Indian forces at their disputed border in the Himalayas. The Indian government said then that 20 of its soldiers had died. Last week, the Chinese government finally said four of its troops had died. State-run media in China called them heroes, but some people had questions. One, a former journalist, asked whether more had died, a question of intense interest both in and out of the country. According to the notice the spreadsheet linked to, the former journalist was charged with picking quarrels and provoking trouble — a common accusation by the authorities against those who speak up — and faces up to five years imprisonment. Reading the list, it becomes clear how well Xi and his government have tamed the Chinese internet. People once thought the internet was uncontrollable, even in China. But Xi has long seen the internet as both a threat to be contained and a tool for guiding public opinion. “The internet is the biggest variant we’re facing,” he said in a 2018 speech. “Whether we can win the war over the internet will have a direct impact on national political security.” Liberal-leaning voices and media were among the first to be silenced. Then internet platforms themselves — the Chinese versions of Twitter and YouTube, among many others — were punished for what they allowed. Now, Chinese internet companies brag about their ability to control content. Nationalistic online users report speech they deem offensive. Out of the seven people who were accused of insulting the heroes and martyrs, six were reported by other users, according to the police notices. In some ways, the Chinese internet polices itself. China’s police, who are widely disliked for their broad powers to lock people up indefinitely, are big beneficiaries. According to the spreadsheet, people have been detained for calling the police “dogs,” “bandits” and “bastards.” Most are locked up for only a few days, but one man in Liaoning province was sentenced to 10 months in jail for writing five offensive posts on his WeChat timeline. Petitioners are among those who suffer the most. In one case on the spreadsheet, a woman in Sichuan province whose son died suddenly at school and whose husband committed suicide was sentenced to three years in prison for charges that included spreading false information. The verdict listed the headlines of 10 articles she posted and the page views they garnered. The most got 1,615 views, while the least got only 18. Perhaps the most depressing items are those about people who were punished for what they said about the COVID-19 pandemic. On top of the list is Dr. Li Wenliang, who was reprimanded Jan. 1, 2020, along with seven others for trying to warn the country about the coronavirus. He died in early February last year of the virus and is remembered as the whistleblower who tried to warn the world about the coronavirus outbreak. But the spreadsheet lists 587 other cases. Even cheesy skits by aspiring online influencers can be deemed offensive. Two men in northwestern Shaanxi province livestreamed a funeral they held for a sheep. In the video, one man cried over a photo of the sheep while the other dug the grave. They were detained 10 days for violating social customs. The spreadsheet also highlights inspiring cases in which people spoke out to challenge authority. In 2018, a 19-year-old man in the northwestern city of Yinchuan decided to test the newly passed law that prohibits questioning and criticizing heroes and martyrs. He posted on Weibo that two famous martyrs died meaningless deaths and that he wanted to see if he would be arrested, showing a lack of free speech in China. He was detained for 10 days and fined $70. One man, Feng Zhouguan, criticized Xi and was charged with picking quarrels by the local police in the city of Xiamen. He was detained for five days but appealed after his release, arguing that the police had improperly interfered in a potential libel case between two individuals. The local police, he argued, are “not the military bodyguards or family militia of the national leader.” The court upheld the sentence. Many people pay a steeper price. Huang Genbao, 45, was a senior engineer at a state-owned company in the eastern city of Xuzhou. Two years ago he was arrested and sentenced to 16 months in jail for insulting the national leader and harming the national image on platforms like Twitter. He shared a cell with a large group and had to follow a strict routine, including toilet breaks. He and his wife lost their jobs, and he delivers meals to support his family. “My life in the detention center reminded me of the book ‘1984,’” he said in an interview. “Many of the experiences are probably worse than the plots in the book.”

China punishes those who question 'martyrs.’ A sleuth keeps track.

Indian Army Chief General Manoj Naravane has made a statement after the disengagement process at the Eastern Ladakh border. He called the disengagement process a 'win-win situation'.

WION Dispatch: Indian Army Chief called the disengagement a 'win-win situation'

In continuation with the dialogue held to resolve situation in Ladakh, 10th round of military talks between India and China last for around 16 hours on Sunday. The Corps Commander-level talks at the Moldo border point on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control began at around 10 am on Saturday and ended at 2 am on Sunday, they said.

PTI quoted sources to say that focus of the talks was to take the disengagement process ahead in friction points like Hot Springs, Gogra and Depsang in eastern Ladakh. It has been reported that India insisted on a faster disengagement process.

However, there was no official word on the talks so far.

This round of talks took place two days after Indian and Chinese military concluded withdrawal of troops and weapons from north and south banks of Panging Tso.

On Saturday evening, sources had said that bringing down the tension in the region was the broad priority of the talks. India has all along been maintaining that disengagement at all the friction points was necessary to de-escalate the situation in the region.

On February 11, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced in Parliament that India and China reached an agreement on disengagement in the North and South banks of Pangong lake that mandates both sides to "cease" forward deployment of troops in a "phased, coordinated and verifiable" manner.

Under the agreement, he said China will pull back its troops to east of Finger 8 areas in the northern bank of Pangong lake while the Indian personnel will be based at their permanent base at Dhan Singh Thapa Post near Finger 3 in the region. Similar action would take place on the south bank of the lake as well, he said.

The sources said troops of both sides have retreated to positions in line with the agreement.

The disengagement process began on February 10.

Indian delegation was led by Lt Gen PGK Menon, the Commander of the Leh-based 14 Corps.

The border standoff between the Indian and Chinese militaries erupted on May 5 following a violent clash in the Pangong lake areas and both sides gradually enhanced their deployment by rushing in tens of thousands of soldiers as well as heavy weaponry even as the two sides continued military and diplomatic talks.

Last year, the Chinese military built several bunkers and other structures in the areas between Finger 4 and 8 and had blocked all Indian patrols beyond Finger 4, triggering strong reaction from the Indian Army.

In the nine rounds of military talks, India had specifically insisted on withdrawal of Chinese troops from Finger 4 to Finger 8 on the North bank of Pangong Lake. The mountain spurs in the area are referred to as Fingers.

(With PTI Inputs)

In continuation with the dialogue held to resolve situation in Ladakh, 10th round of military talks between India and China last for around 16 hours on Sunday. The Corps Commander-level talks at the Moldo border point on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control began at around 10 am on Saturday and ended at 2 am on Sunday, they said.

In continuation with the dialogue held to resolve situation in Ladakh, 10th round of military talks between India and China last for around 16 hours on Sunday. The Corps Commander-level talks at the Moldo border point on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control began at around 10 am on Saturday and ended at 2 am on Sunday, they said. PTI quoted sources to say that focus of the talks was to take the disengagement process ahead in friction points like Hot Springs, Gogra and Depsang in eastern Ladakh. It has been reported that India insisted on a faster disengagement process. However, there was no official word on the talks so far. This round of talks took place two days after Indian and Chinese military concluded withdrawal of troops and weapons from north and south banks of Panging Tso. On Saturday evening, sources had said that bringing down the tension in the region was the broad priority of the talks. India has all along been maintaining that disengagement at all the friction points was necessary to de-escalate the situation in the region. On February 11, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced in Parliament that India and China reached an agreement on disengagement in the North and South banks of Pangong lake that mandates both sides to "cease" forward deployment of troops in a "phased, coordinated and verifiable" manner. Under the agreement, he said China will pull back its troops to east of Finger 8 areas in the northern bank of Pangong lake while the Indian personnel will be based at their permanent base at Dhan Singh Thapa Post near Finger 3 in the region. Similar action would take place on the south bank of the lake as well, he said. The sources said troops of both sides have retreated to positions in line with the agreement. The disengagement process began on February 10. Indian delegation was led by Lt Gen PGK Menon, the Commander of the Leh-based 14 Corps. The border standoff between the Indian and Chinese militaries erupted on May 5 following a violent clash in the Pangong lake areas and both sides gradually enhanced their deployment by rushing in tens of thousands of soldiers as well as heavy weaponry even as the two sides continued military and diplomatic talks. Last year, the Chinese military built several bunkers and other structures in the areas between Finger 4 and 8 and had blocked all Indian patrols beyond Finger 4, triggering strong reaction from the Indian Army. In the nine rounds of military talks, India had specifically insisted on withdrawal of Chinese troops from Finger 4 to Finger 8 on the North bank of Pangong Lake. The mountain spurs in the area are referred to as Fingers. (With PTI Inputs)

Ladakh disengagement: India-China talks last for 16 hours

Chinese state media on Friday posted a propaganda video, claiming it to be the footage from the Galwan Valley clash last year in which 20 Indian soldiers had lost their lives.

The video, released by Global Times, comes on a day when Beijing for the first time acknowledged that five of its security personnel were also killed in the violent confrontation.&nbsp;

Watch |

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinas-galwan-admission-beijings-propaganda-push-364921/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Without directly naming India, the 3 minutes 20 seconds video started that since April 2020 "foreign military" violated previous agreements and tried to change the status quo "unilaterally".&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-disengagement-complete-at-pangong-tso-lake-commander-level-talks-on-saturday-364704">India-China standoff: Disengagement complete at Pangong Tso lake; commander-level talks on Saturday</a>

It said Chinese soldiers "fought bravely" and paid tributes to security personnel who lost their lives in the clash.&nbsp;

However, the video is a clear attempt by Beijing to push forward its propaganda as the footage does not provide any evidence that India incited the heated confrontation.&nbsp;

The background music in the video is also kept dramatic.&nbsp;

Earlier on Friday, Senior Colonel Ren Guoqiang, a Defense Ministry spokesperson, called the Galwan Valley skirmishes "Indian military's responsibility".

Beijing also awarded Qi Fabao with the title of "Hero Regimental Commander for defending the border" and Chen Hongjum with "Hero for defending the border".

<h2>Questions remain</h2>

One of the main questions is: why did Beijing take so long in giving a number? Last year in July, the South China Morning Post had published some insights, reporting how China remains sensitive about military casualties.

It also said how the numbers had to be approved by Chinese President Xi Jinping himself before they are released.

China's claims come just ahead of the 10th round of military-level talks with India on Saturday. Both sides will meet to discuss de-escalation from other friction areas just ahead of the planned talks.

The Chinese state media has begun spreading propaganda and is trying to paint India as the aggressor. The video released calls Indian soldiers "foreign military". In its daily press conference, China's foreign ministry amplified the narrative of Global Times.

These words lead us to only one question: if China really respects its martyrs, why did it wait for eight months to speak about them? &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Chinese state media on Friday posted a propaganda video, claiming it to be the footage from the Galwan Valley clash last year in which 20 Indian soldiers had lost their lives.

Chinese state media on Friday posted a propaganda video, claiming it to be the footage from the Galwan Valley clash last year in which 20 Indian soldiers had lost their lives. The video, released by Global Times, comes on a day when Beijing for the first time acknowledged that five of its security personnel were also killed in the violent confrontation. Watch | Without directly naming India, the 3 minutes 20 seconds video started that since April 2020 "foreign military" violated previous agreements and tried to change the status quo "unilaterally". Also read | India-China standoff: Disengagement complete at Pangong Tso lake; commander-level talks on Saturday It said Chinese soldiers "fought bravely" and paid tributes to security personnel who lost their lives in the clash. However, the video is a clear attempt by Beijing to push forward its propaganda as the footage does not provide any evidence that India incited the heated confrontation. The background music in the video is also kept dramatic. Earlier on Friday, Senior Colonel Ren Guoqiang, a Defense Ministry spokesperson, called the Galwan Valley skirmishes "Indian military's responsibility". Beijing also awarded Qi Fabao with the title of "Hero Regimental Commander for defending the border" and Chen Hongjum with "Hero for defending the border". Questions remain One of the main questions is: why did Beijing take so long in giving a number? Last year in July, the South China Morning Post had published some insights, reporting how China remains sensitive about military casualties. It also said how the numbers had to be approved by Chinese President Xi Jinping himself before they are released. China's claims come just ahead of the 10th round of military-level talks with India on Saturday. Both sides will meet to discuss de-escalation from other friction areas just ahead of the planned talks. The Chinese state media has begun spreading propaganda and is trying to paint India as the aggressor. The video released calls Indian soldiers "foreign military". In its daily press conference, China's foreign ministry amplified the narrative of Global Times. These words lead us to only one question: if China really respects its martyrs, why did it wait for eight months to speak about them?

China releases propaganda video of Galwan Valley clash

China has withdrawn 150 tanks and nearly 5,000 soldiers at Pangong Tso. The first phase of disengagement could end this week. But, what is India's post-Ladakh plan? WION's Palki Sharma tells you how India is upgrading its military processes, procurements & partnerships.

Gravitas: As Chinese troops withdraw, what is India's post-Ladakh plan?

What should be India's strategy for the future - now that China is off its back for the moment? WION's Palki Sharma says India must focus on preparing for a leadership role in the post-pandemic work. Here's how

Gravitas: India's strategies for the future

After a months-long stand-off that began last April, India and China have agreed to disengage at the Pangong Tso lake in Ladakh.

China vacating military camps along Pangong Tso; Here are the first images

After a nine-month-long standoff, the satellite images from the banks of Pangong Tso show India and China are pulling back troops. The area has been one of the flashpoints for a long time. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In late January, the Chinese military had built multiple camps, along with the deployment of soldiers and placement of military equipment. All of these have been removed. &nbsp;

China has already withdrawn 150 tanks and nearly 5,000 soldiers. And more will follow but this will not end the standoff as some flashpoints still remain. And China has not really had a change of heart. It is just the change of tactics. &nbsp;

So, what should India do? What should be Delhi's post-Ladakh strategy? &nbsp;

India is revamping its defence strategy in three broad ways - processes, procurement and partnerships. It is integrating its armed forces, upgrading weapons and strengthening its military alliances. &nbsp;

First, the reorganisation of the armed forces. It began with the appointment of the Chief of Defence Staff. A position that was created by Modi Government. Besides being the single point military adviser to the defence minister, the CDS was given another critical job, which is the integration of the operations of the Indian Army, Air Force and Navy. &nbsp;

General Bipin Rawat was appointed as India's first CDS last year. A year into the job, he is now ready with a plan. According to a report, the first joint commands are ready for a roll out. &nbsp;&nbsp;

What are joint commands? &nbsp;

They are units and resources from different branches of the armed forces. They are combined under a single branch with a dedicated commander. This commander takes care of what is called a geographical theatre. The air defence command and the maritime theatre command could be launched by May. &nbsp;

Both of these commands will pay a critical role in boosting India's defences against Pakistan And China. The air defence command will be set up in Prayagraj. This command will control all the air defence resources of all three services. &nbsp;

The maritime theatre command will be headquartered in Karwar on the west coast. Its job will be to protect the Indian ocean, India's island territories and to keep the sea lanes free and open. It is essential, not just for India but the country’s allies too. &nbsp;

The maritime command will have assets from the Indian Army and Air Force. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-pm-modis-visit-indian-foreign-minister-s-jaishankar-to-visit-bangladesh-on-march-4-364229">Ahead Of PM Modi's visit, Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh on March 4</a>&nbsp;

India plans to reorganise its forces into five theatre commands by 2022. So, we expect three more to come in by next year. The reports say there will be one command each for China and Pakistan. India's defence resources will be integrated into these commands. &nbsp;

Secondly, the country will also be procuring the much-needed weapons upgrades. The work on this front already began last year. In the last six months, India has signed at least 10 defence deals. It includes 83 new light combat aircraft Tejas, 118 Arjun Mark-1a tanks, and tactical drones worth $20 million. &nbsp;&nbsp;

A $200 Million deal was also struck for Israeli spice bombs. These were used by the Indian Air Force during the Balakot air strike. &nbsp;

Even in the budget this year, the focus was on procurement. &nbsp;

While the overall defence budget was hiked by just over one per cent, the budget for military modernisation has been hiked by almost 19 per cent. &nbsp;

The Indian defence minister said this is the highest-ever increase in capital outlay for defence in 15 years. New and better weapons will improve India's defences. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/foreign-envoys-reach-union-territory-of-jammu-and-kashmir-364193">Foreign envoys reach Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir</a>

Thirdly, closer ties with like-minded countries could be a booster shot for India's defence strategy. One of the possibilities could be The Quad and India is already on the track. &nbsp;

In a recent interview, Japanese ambassador to India Sato Shi Suzuki said both allies, India and Japan, had collaborated within India's neighbourhood countries, such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Maldives. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It is to strengthen the Quad under the Indo-Pacific framework and this would be welcome news in the US. The new Biden administration is serious about the Quad. It wants this informal grouping to evolve into a formal alliance. Biden's biggest challenge is China and he will need India's help to deal with Beijing.&nbsp;

After a nine-month-long standoff, the satellite images from the banks of Pangong Tso show India and China are pulling back troops. The area has been one of the flashpoints for a long time.

After a nine-month-long standoff, the satellite images from the banks of Pangong Tso show India and China are pulling back troops. The area has been one of the flashpoints for a long time. In late January, the Chinese military had built multiple camps, along with the deployment of soldiers and placement of military equipment. All of these have been removed. China has already withdrawn 150 tanks and nearly 5,000 soldiers. And more will follow but this will not end the standoff as some flashpoints still remain. And China has not really had a change of heart. It is just the change of tactics. So, what should India do? What should be Delhi's post-Ladakh strategy? India is revamping its defence strategy in three broad ways - processes, procurement and partnerships. It is integrating its armed forces, upgrading weapons and strengthening its military alliances. First, the reorganisation of the armed forces. It began with the appointment of the Chief of Defence Staff. A position that was created by Modi Government. Besides being the single point military adviser to the defence minister, the CDS was given another critical job, which is the integration of the operations of the Indian Army, Air Force and Navy. General Bipin Rawat was appointed as India's first CDS last year. A year into the job, he is now ready with a plan. According to a report, the first joint commands are ready for a roll out. What are joint commands? They are units and resources from different branches of the armed forces. They are combined under a single branch with a dedicated commander. This commander takes care of what is called a geographical theatre. The air defence command and the maritime theatre command could be launched by May. Both of these commands will pay a critical role in boosting India's defences against Pakistan And China. The air defence command will be set up in Prayagraj. This command will control all the air defence resources of all three services. The maritime theatre command will be headquartered in Karwar on the west coast. Its job will be to protect the Indian ocean, India's island territories and to keep the sea lanes free and open. It is essential, not just for India but the country’s allies too. The maritime command will have assets from the Indian Army and Air Force. Also Read: Ahead Of PM Modi's visit, Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh on March 4 India plans to reorganise its forces into five theatre commands by 2022. So, we expect three more to come in by next year. The reports say there will be one command each for China and Pakistan. India's defence resources will be integrated into these commands. Secondly, the country will also be procuring the much-needed weapons upgrades. The work on this front already began last year. In the last six months, India has signed at least 10 defence deals. It includes 83 new light combat aircraft Tejas, 118 Arjun Mark-1a tanks, and tactical drones worth $20 million. A $200 Million deal was also struck for Israeli spice bombs. These were used by the Indian Air Force during the Balakot air strike. Even in the budget this year, the focus was on procurement. While the overall defence budget was hiked by just over one per cent, the budget for military modernisation has been hiked by almost 19 per cent. The Indian defence minister said this is the highest-ever increase in capital outlay for defence in 15 years. New and better weapons will improve India's defences. Also Read: Foreign envoys reach Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir Thirdly, closer ties with like-minded countries could be a booster shot for India's defence strategy. One of the possibilities could be The Quad and India is already on the track. In a recent interview, Japanese ambassador to India Sato Shi Suzuki said both allies, India and Japan, had collaborated within India's neighbourhood countries, such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Maldives. It is to strengthen the Quad under the Indo-Pacific framework and this would be welcome news in the US. The new Biden administration is serious about the Quad. It wants this informal grouping to evolve into a formal alliance. Biden's biggest challenge is China and he will need India's help to deal with Beijing.

After Ladakh, India revamps defence strategy

India's post-Ladakh strategy must focus on the post-pandemic world order. Along with its borders, India must also secure its alliances, its economy, and the future of one of the world's youngest population. India's strategy must be pillared on strategic autonomy and strategic alliances.

Can the do be achieved together?

Strategic alliances are partnerships that go beyond trade and defence procurement. They are about combining and connecting expertise with a focus on mutual growth. In the Cold War-era India believed in non-alignment. Today, India is building strategic alliances by strengthening diplomatic ties in a changing world order.

India's ties with West Asia are no longer anchored on oil or diaspora. The two sides are also working towards economic and strategic goals. Saudi Arabia has invested its sovereign funds in India. The money fuels India's growth, while helping Saudi Arabia diversify its economy, marking a symbiosis for the new world order.

The strengthening of the alliance is paralleled by changing geo-politics. West Asia is distancing itself from Pakistan, considered India’s foe. At the same time, Pakistan is also growing closer to China. India and Saudi Arabia signed the strategic partnership council agreement in October 2019.

Besides common foes and common goals, strategic alliances are also built on mutual support for domestic and foreign policies. For instance India and France have had trade and defence ties over the years. The relationship has now graduated into a strategic alliance. Now, France openly supports India's desire for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council. France has used its position at the world body to back India on Kashmir. India, too stood by France when it was being attacked over the Prophet's caricature. The two countries have also cooperated in the space sector.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-requests-india-to-provide-covid-19-vaccines-364362" hreflang="en">Iran requests India to provide COVID-19 vaccines</a>

Common values are also crucial in a strategic alliance; case in point - India's alliance with Australia. Both believe in democracy and sovereignty, and remain opposed to Chinese aggression. Additionally, both back stability in the Indo-Pacific. In June 2020, India and Australia announced the elevation of bilateral ties to a ”common strategic partnership”.

India has strategic partnership agreements with over 30 countries, and is running an outreach programme. India must also steer clear of taking sides in tussles involving allies, and continue its policy of de-hyphenation which has proven to be a huge diplomatic success.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was India's first head of government to visit Israel. He was also the first Indian PM to visit Palestine. Today, India and Israel and working together in various fields including science, technology, and agriculture. At the same time, India is calling for a two-state solution.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-focus-on-africa-indias-exim-bank-extends-5th-line-of-credit-to-sierra-leone-364324" hreflang="en">With focus on Africa, India's Exim Bank extends 5th line of credit to Sierra Leone</a>

India buys weapons from Russia but continues to partner with the US in securing the Indo-Pacific. The US and Russia have been foes for long. Now, India has found a way to work with both.

As India chalks out its strategic alliances for the years ahead, it must ensure that ties are built on mutual respect for autonomy, aversion for expansionism, hawk-eye diplomacy, and provocation.

Solving the Ladakh stalemate was India's strategic priority. With China off its back, India can now focus on its outreach programs, cement its alliances, and rebuild its economy.

India's post-Ladakh strategy must focus on the post-pandemic world order. Along with its borders, India must also secure its alliances, its economy, and the future of one of the world's youngest population.

India's post-Ladakh strategy must focus on the post-pandemic world order. Along with its borders, India must also secure its alliances, its economy, and the future of one of the world's youngest population. India's strategy must be pillared on strategic autonomy and strategic alliances. Can the do be achieved together? Strategic alliances are partnerships that go beyond trade and defence procurement. They are about combining and connecting expertise with a focus on mutual growth. In the Cold War-era India believed in non-alignment. Today, India is building strategic alliances by strengthening diplomatic ties in a changing world order. India's ties with West Asia are no longer anchored on oil or diaspora. The two sides are also working towards economic and strategic goals. Saudi Arabia has invested its sovereign funds in India. The money fuels India's growth, while helping Saudi Arabia diversify its economy, marking a symbiosis for the new world order. The strengthening of the alliance is paralleled by changing geo-politics. West Asia is distancing itself from Pakistan, considered India’s foe. At the same time, Pakistan is also growing closer to China. India and Saudi Arabia signed the strategic partnership council agreement in October 2019. Besides common foes and common goals, strategic alliances are also built on mutual support for domestic and foreign policies. For instance India and France have had trade and defence ties over the years. The relationship has now graduated into a strategic alliance. Now, France openly supports India's desire for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council. France has used its position at the world body to back India on Kashmir. India, too stood by France when it was being attacked over the Prophet's caricature. The two countries have also cooperated in the space sector. Also read: Iran requests India to provide COVID-19 vaccines Common values are also crucial in a strategic alliance; case in point - India's alliance with Australia. Both believe in democracy and sovereignty, and remain opposed to Chinese aggression. Additionally, both back stability in the Indo-Pacific. In June 2020, India and Australia announced the elevation of bilateral ties to a ”common strategic partnership”. India has strategic partnership agreements with over 30 countries, and is running an outreach programme. India must also steer clear of taking sides in tussles involving allies, and continue its policy of de-hyphenation which has proven to be a huge diplomatic success. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was India's first head of government to visit Israel. He was also the first Indian PM to visit Palestine. Today, India and Israel and working together in various fields including science, technology, and agriculture. At the same time, India is calling for a two-state solution. Also read: With focus on Africa, India's Exim Bank extends 5th line of credit to Sierra Leone India buys weapons from Russia but continues to partner with the US in securing the Indo-Pacific. The US and Russia have been foes for long. Now, India has found a way to work with both. As India chalks out its strategic alliances for the years ahead, it must ensure that ties are built on mutual respect for autonomy, aversion for expansionism, hawk-eye diplomacy, and provocation. Solving the Ladakh stalemate was India's strategic priority. With China off its back, India can now focus on its outreach programs, cement its alliances, and rebuild its economy.

What should India's post-Ladakh strategy focus on?

Complete disengagement at the Pangong lake as agreed between India and China last week is expected to be over by end of this week. Last week, it was agreed that as part of disengagement, Chinese forces will move east of finger 8 of the north bank of the lake, while India will base its troops at the permanent base -- Dhan Singh Thapa post near finger 8.&nbsp;

Right now, on the ground, between finger 4 and finger 8, things are in various stages of dismantlement. As part of the agreement, it was agreed that any structure built by both sides after April 2020 will be removed. April 2020 was the month when Chinese attempts to change things on the ground unilaterally started.&nbsp;

Once the disengagement is over at Pangong, no patrolling will take place in the area from Finger 4 to finger 8 till both sides agree via diplomatic and military talks.&nbsp;

The 10th round of military talks, which was agreed to happen 48 hours after complete disengagement will happen, expectedly by next week. The talks will focus on disengagement on Gogra, Depsang, and hot spring. &nbsp;&nbsp;

2020 saw heightened tensions between India and China due to aggressive actions by Chinese forces at the Line of actual control in eastern Ladakh. The Galwan incident saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers, and while China also suffered casualties, it did not come up with any number.

Complete disengagement at the Pangong lake as agreed between India and China last week is expected to be over by end of this week. Last week, it was agreed that as part of disengagement, Chinese forces will move east of finger 8 of the north bank of the lake, while India will base its troops at the permanent base -- Dhan Singh Thapa post near finger 8.

Complete disengagement at the Pangong lake as agreed between India and China last week is expected to be over by end of this week. Last week, it was agreed that as part of disengagement, Chinese forces will move east of finger 8 of the north bank of the lake, while India will base its troops at the permanent base -- Dhan Singh Thapa post near finger 8. Right now, on the ground, between finger 4 and finger 8, things are in various stages of dismantlement. As part of the agreement, it was agreed that any structure built by both sides after April 2020 will be removed. April 2020 was the month when Chinese attempts to change things on the ground unilaterally started. Once the disengagement is over at Pangong, no patrolling will take place in the area from Finger 4 to finger 8 till both sides agree via diplomatic and military talks. The 10th round of military talks, which was agreed to happen 48 hours after complete disengagement will happen, expectedly by next week. The talks will focus on disengagement on Gogra, Depsang, and hot spring. 2020 saw heightened tensions between India and China due to aggressive actions by Chinese forces at the Line of actual control in eastern Ladakh. The Galwan incident saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers, and while China also suffered casualties, it did not come up with any number.

Disengagement at Pangong to be over by this week

Congress senior leader Rahul Gandhi hits out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over disengagement at Ladakh by Chinese People Liberation Army. He alleges PM Modi of compromising with India's integrity and giving away nation's territory to China. The govt of India in its reply lashes out at Rahul Gandhi and says to 'first must ask Jawaharlal Nehru (India's Former PM) about giving away land to China'.

'PM Modi gave away Indian territory to China', alleges Congress leader Rahul Gandhi

Indian govt on Friday said it has 'not conceded any territory as a result of the agreement finalised with China for disengagement of troops in Pangong lake areas in eastern Ladakh'. Amid Disengagement activity around the LAC, the major opposition party Congress claimed that PM has compromised India's integrity and gave away territory to China.

Indian Govt Says 'Not conceded any territory to China'

India: Union defence minister Rajnath Singh will make a statement in the Rajya Sabha tomorrow about the situation in Eastern Ladakh, where India is engaged in a standoff with China.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to address Rajya Sabha over Ladakh situation tomorrow

The Chinese and Indian armed forces at the south and north banks of the Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh have started disengagement simultaneously; confirmed sources

India, China begin disengagement at Pangong Tso in Ladakh: Sources

The Central government on Thursday said that it has raised the matter of the wrong depiction of the map on India on the WHO's website "strongly" following which the global health body has put a disclaimer on its portal.&nbsp;

Responding to a question in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House), Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said the matter was brought to the notice of WHO.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-distortion-of-indias-map-356775/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-raises-inaccurate-depiction-of-indian-map-with-who-chief-tedros-calls-for-immediate-removal-356667">Government raises inaccurate depiction of Indian map with WHO chief Tedros; calls for immediate removal</a>

Last month, the map of India on WHO's portal showed Indian territories in different colours, with Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh coloured in grey, while the rest of India was depicted in blue.&nbsp;

"The issue of wrong depiction of the map of India on the WHO`s website has been raised strongly with the WHO. In response the WHO has informed Permanent Mission of India in Geneva that they have put a disclaimer on the portal," the minister said.&nbsp;

"The disclaimer says 'designations employed and presentation of these materials do not imply the expression of any opinion on part of the WHO concerning the legal status of any country, territory or area or of its authorities or concerning legal status of any country, territory or area of its authorities or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries dotted/dashed lines on maps represent approx border lines for which there may not be full agreement'."&nbsp;

The minister added that India's stand on the right depiction of boundaries is "unambiguously reiterated" to the global health body.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Central government on Thursday said that it has raised the matter of the wrong depiction of the map on India on the WHO's website "strongly" following which the global health body has put a disclaimer on its portal.

The Central government on Thursday said that it has raised the matter of the wrong depiction of the map on India on the WHO's website "strongly" following which the global health body has put a disclaimer on its portal. Responding to a question in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House), Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said the matter was brought to the notice of WHO. Watch | Also read | Government raises inaccurate depiction of Indian map with WHO chief Tedros; calls for immediate removal Last month, the map of India on WHO's portal showed Indian territories in different colours, with Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh coloured in grey, while the rest of India was depicted in blue. "The issue of wrong depiction of the map of India on the WHO`s website has been raised strongly with the WHO. In response the WHO has informed Permanent Mission of India in Geneva that they have put a disclaimer on the portal," the minister said. "The disclaimer says 'designations employed and presentation of these materials do not imply the expression of any opinion on part of the WHO concerning the legal status of any country, territory or area or of its authorities or concerning legal status of any country, territory or area of its authorities or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries dotted/dashed lines on maps represent approx border lines for which there may not be full agreement'." The minister added that India's stand on the right depiction of boundaries is "unambiguously reiterated" to the global health body.

WHO puts disclaimer after Indian govt 'strongly' complains wrong depiction of map

Pointing out that India China ties being at a "crossroad", India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "choices that are made will have profound repercussion" not just for 2 countries, but also the entire world.

Indian External Affairs Minister: Ladakh incident 'profoundly disturbed' India-China ties

Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) soldiers celebrated the 72nd Republic Day at a high-altitude Border Outpost in Ladakh. ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’ echoes from Ladakh across India. Today, India is celebrating its 72nd Republic Day on January 26.

Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) soldiers celebrate 72nd Republic Day

Over a year after the state of Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into the Union Territories of J&amp;K and Ladakh, a tableau representing the Union Territory of Ladakh took part in the Republic Day Parade this year for the first time ever.

The tableau highlighted the 'Vision' for Ladakh to be carbon neutral and exemplary for the world.

It showcased the future prospects and development of green Ladakh by using natural resources and generating horticulture produce in apricot and organic farming, besides development of tourism.

The tableau displayed composite culture and communal harmony besides art and architecture, languages and dialects, customs and costumes, fairs and festivals, literature, crafts and music of Ladakh.

The Indian Astronomical Observatory located in Hanle near Leh, one of the world's highest sites for optical, infrared and gamma-ray telescopes, was also featured in the tableau.

In August 2019, the central government scrapped the provision of article 370, bifurcating the state into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

(With inputs from agencies)

Over a year after the state of Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into the Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh, a tableau representing the Union Territory of Ladakh took part in the Republic Day Parade this year for the first time ever.

Over a year after the state of Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into the Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh, a tableau representing the Union Territory of Ladakh took part in the Republic Day Parade this year for the first time ever. The tableau highlighted the 'Vision' for Ladakh to be carbon neutral and exemplary for the world. It showcased the future prospects and development of green Ladakh by using natural resources and generating horticulture produce in apricot and organic farming, besides development of tourism. The tableau displayed composite culture and communal harmony besides art and architecture, languages and dialects, customs and costumes, fairs and festivals, literature, crafts and music of Ladakh. The Indian Astronomical Observatory located in Hanle near Leh, one of the world's highest sites for optical, infrared and gamma-ray telescopes, was also featured in the tableau. In August 2019, the central government scrapped the provision of article 370, bifurcating the state into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. (With inputs from agencies)

First-ever tableau of Union Territory of Ladakh features in Republic Day parade

A Chinese soldier has been arrested on the Indian side of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh. According to the statement by the Indian army, the Chinese soldier has transgressed LAC and is taken into custody by the Indian troops.

News Alert: Indian Army apprehends Chinese soldier in Ladakh

Age is just a number for Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan. The legendary actor recently made a quick trip to Ladakh which is freezing at minus 33 degrees.&nbsp; 
 
Big B, who updates his fans about his daily activities on social media, shared a photo from the trip on Twitter. The actor is seen packed in winter clothes including a white coloured jacket, skull cap, hand gloves and eye gear to foil the snowstorm.&nbsp; 
 
Bachchan, 78, shared how so many winter apparel could not save him from the cold and wrote, "Went to Ladakh and back .. minus 33 degrees .. even this could not save me from the cold."

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T 3774 - ... went to Ladakh and back .. minus 33 degrees .. even this could ot save me from the cold .. !! <a href="https://t.co/I2BduanyYY">pic.twitter.com/I2BduanyYY</a>
— Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) <a href="https://twitter.com/SrBachchan/status/1346563918672535552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Some of his fans expressed concern and commented on the post.&nbsp; 
 
"Dear Amitji! You are working more than any other younger actor. I am very happy you are in such demand. We love you a lot. Please take care of your health. We need you. With lots of love," commented a fan. 
 
"I think you should not risk your life, However, important the assignment is! Chronologically, you are a Septuagenarian. If life is lost, nothing is left. You have earned a lot of money now try not any adventure," suggested another fan. 
 
"Sir, absolutely brilliant work done by you in extreme cold and different and also difficult conditions in Ladakh. It is very risky work in this age for you. It shows your brilliant fitness and dedication of work. You are a true professional in this age. Stay safe and healthy," shared another fan. 
 
"Hats off to your energy levels. But venturing in such weather conditions can take a toll on your health. Be careful," suggested another fan. 
 
Bachchan, who had tested positive for Coronavirus in July 2020, has since then resumed work. The actor regularly updates his fans about his activities and keeps in touch with them via social media.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Age is just a number for Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan. The legendary actor recently made a quick trip to Ladakh which is freezing at minus 33 degrees. Big B, who updates his fans about his daily activities on social media, shared a photo from the trip on Twitter.

Age is just a number for Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan. The legendary actor recently made a quick trip to Ladakh which is freezing at minus 33 degrees. Big B, who updates his fans about his daily activities on social media, shared a photo from the trip on Twitter. The actor is seen packed in winter clothes including a white coloured jacket, skull cap, hand gloves and eye gear to foil the snowstorm. Bachchan, 78, shared how so many winter apparel could not save him from the cold and wrote, "Went to Ladakh and back .. minus 33 degrees .. even this could not save me from the cold." T 3774 - ... went to Ladakh and back .. minus 33 degrees .. even this could ot save me from the cold .. !! pic.twitter.com/I2BduanyYY — Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) January 5, 2021 × Some of his fans expressed concern and commented on the post. "Dear Amitji! You are working more than any other younger actor. I am very happy you are in such demand. We love you a lot. Please take care of your health. We need you. With lots of love," commented a fan. "I think you should not risk your life, However, important the assignment is! Chronologically, you are a Septuagenarian. If life is lost, nothing is left. You have earned a lot of money now try not any adventure," suggested another fan. "Sir, absolutely brilliant work done by you in extreme cold and different and also difficult conditions in Ladakh. It is very risky work in this age for you. It shows your brilliant fitness and dedication of work. You are a true professional in this age. Stay safe and healthy," shared another fan. "Hats off to your energy levels. But venturing in such weather conditions can take a toll on your health. Be careful," suggested another fan. Bachchan, who had tested positive for Coronavirus in July 2020, has since then resumed work. The actor regularly updates his fans about his activities and keeps in touch with them via social media.

78-year-old Amitabh Bachchan braces minus 33 degrees in Ladakh

As India and China continue to face off along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Beijing on Thursday completed the track-laying work for a railway line linking the cities of Lhasa and Nyingchi in Tibet, close to the Indian border in Arunachal Pradesh, official media here reported.

According to the Chinese President Xi Jinping, it would play a key role in safeguarding stability in the border areas.

The Sichuan-Tibet Railway will be the second railway into Tibet after the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/beijing-doesnt-recognize-ladakh-union-territory-and-arunachal-pradesh-chinese-ministry-of-foreign-affairs-334959">Also read | Beijing doesn’t recognize Ladakh Union Territory and Arunachal Pradesh: Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs</a>

It will go through the southeast of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, one of the world's most geologically active areas.

The Sichuan-Tibet Railway starts from Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province and travels through Ya'an and enters Tibet via Qamdo, shortening the journey from Chengdu to Lhasa from 48 hours to 13 hours. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-dictates-terms-to-indian-press-protests-wions-interview-with-taiwan-foreign-minister-joseph-wu-see-letter-inside-337366">Also read |&nbsp;China dictates terms to Indian press, protests WION's interview with Taiwan foreign minister Joseph Wu - see letter inside</a>

Linzhi, also known as Nyingchi, is located close to Arunachal Pradesh border. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-has-got-mail-from-china-337567">Also read | Wion has got mail. From China</a>

Last month, President Xi Jinping instructed officials to expedite construction of the new railway project connecting Sichuan Province and Linzhi in Tibet.

With a designed speed of 160 km per hour, the 435-km rail line passes through 47 tunnels and 120 bridges, according to its constructor Tibet Railway Construction Co. Ltd.

Construction started in 2014 on the railway connecting Lhasa, the regional capital, and Nyingchi in eastern Tibet.

It is the first electrified railroad in Tibet and is slated to begin operations in June 2021, the Xinhua report said.

So far, a total of 31.2 billion yuan (about USD 4.8 billion) has been invested in the project, according to official data.

With more than 90 per cent of the railway built in areas more than 3,000 metres above sea level, the high altitude and complex geological conditions have posed great challenges to the project, the report said.

(With inputs from agencies)

As India and China continue to face off along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Beijing on Thursday completed the track-laying work for a railway line linking the cities of Lhasa and Nyingchi in Tibet, close to the Indian border in Arunachal Pradesh, official media here reported.

As India and China continue to face off along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Beijing on Thursday completed the track-laying work for a railway line linking the cities of Lhasa and Nyingchi in Tibet, close to the Indian border in Arunachal Pradesh, official media here reported. According to the Chinese President Xi Jinping, it would play a key role in safeguarding stability in the border areas. The Sichuan-Tibet Railway will be the second railway into Tibet after the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Also read | Beijing doesn’t recognize Ladakh Union Territory and Arunachal Pradesh: Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs It will go through the southeast of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, one of the world's most geologically active areas. The Sichuan-Tibet Railway starts from Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province and travels through Ya'an and enters Tibet via Qamdo, shortening the journey from Chengdu to Lhasa from 48 hours to 13 hours. Also read | China dictates terms to Indian press, protests WION's interview with Taiwan foreign minister Joseph Wu - see letter inside Linzhi, also known as Nyingchi, is located close to Arunachal Pradesh border. Also read | Wion has got mail. From China Last month, President Xi Jinping instructed officials to expedite construction of the new railway project connecting Sichuan Province and Linzhi in Tibet. With a designed speed of 160 km per hour, the 435-km rail line passes through 47 tunnels and 120 bridges, according to its constructor Tibet Railway Construction Co. Ltd. Construction started in 2014 on the railway connecting Lhasa, the regional capital, and Nyingchi in eastern Tibet. It is the first electrified railroad in Tibet and is slated to begin operations in June 2021, the Xinhua report said. So far, a total of 31.2 billion yuan (about USD 4.8 billion) has been invested in the project, according to official data. With more than 90 per cent of the railway built in areas more than 3,000 metres above sea level, the high altitude and complex geological conditions have posed great challenges to the project, the report said. (With inputs from agencies)

China completes track-laying work for a railway line in Tibet close to Arunachal Pradesh

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh has highlighted China's "unprovoked aggression" at the line of actual control in eastern Ladakh and the present "big build-up" even as the more than 7-month long stalemate continues between the 2 countries.&nbsp;

Speaking at an industry body FICCI event in Delhi, he said, "The unprovoked aggression on our Himalayan frontiers is a reminder of how the world is changing, how existing agreements are being challenged".&nbsp;

He pointed out how "how power is being asserted not just in the Himalayas but across the Indo-Pacific. And how uncertain the future of the region and world could be in this backdrop."

2020 saw Chinese forces not only indulging in aggressive and violent acts with India at the line of actual control but also threatening other countries like Japan, Taiwan, Australia, Canada, UK and trying to stake claims in South China sea. With India, at the icy mountains of Himalayas, the situation remains tensed even as Chinese forces continue the build-up despite multiple rounds of diplomatic and military talks.

The Indian defence minister lauded the strong response by the Indian forces so far while dealing with an aggressive China, especially at the Galwan valley.&nbsp;

He said, "In these testing times our forces" have shown "exemplary courage and remarkable fortitude" and "they fought the PLA with utmost bravery and forced them to go back." Adding, "The coming generations of this nation will be proud of what our forces have managed to achieve this year."

At the Galwan incident of June, India lost 20 of its soldiers due to aggressive actions by Chinese forces. While Beijing accepted it suffered casualties, it never came out with figures which shows the opaque governance system led by the Chinese communist party.

The Indian defence minister said, "India is far ahead of China when it comes to leading the world with ideas" citing the country's huge cultural impact in East Asia.

Quoting Chinese thinker Hu Shi, Rajnath Singh said “India has culturally dominated and controlled China for more than 2000 years without sending a single soldier across the border” which he said shows how India as a "civilisational state" has been "inspiring and influencing the world through its culture and soft power for centuries."

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh has highlighted China's "unprovoked aggression" at the line of actual control in eastern Ladakh and the present "big build-up" even as the more than 7-month long stalemate continues between the 2 countries.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh has highlighted China's "unprovoked aggression" at the line of actual control in eastern Ladakh and the present "big build-up" even as the more than 7-month long stalemate continues between the 2 countries. Speaking at an industry body FICCI event in Delhi, he said, "The unprovoked aggression on our Himalayan frontiers is a reminder of how the world is changing, how existing agreements are being challenged". He pointed out how "how power is being asserted not just in the Himalayas but across the Indo-Pacific. And how uncertain the future of the region and world could be in this backdrop." 2020 saw Chinese forces not only indulging in aggressive and violent acts with India at the line of actual control but also threatening other countries like Japan, Taiwan, Australia, Canada, UK and trying to stake claims in South China sea. With India, at the icy mountains of Himalayas, the situation remains tensed even as Chinese forces continue the build-up despite multiple rounds of diplomatic and military talks. The Indian defence minister lauded the strong response by the Indian forces so far while dealing with an aggressive China, especially at the Galwan valley. He said, "In these testing times our forces" have shown "exemplary courage and remarkable fortitude" and "they fought the PLA with utmost bravery and forced them to go back." Adding, "The coming generations of this nation will be proud of what our forces have managed to achieve this year." At the Galwan incident of June, India lost 20 of its soldiers due to aggressive actions by Chinese forces. While Beijing accepted it suffered casualties, it never came out with figures which shows the opaque governance system led by the Chinese communist party. The Indian defence minister said, "India is far ahead of China when it comes to leading the world with ideas" citing the country's huge cultural impact in East Asia. Quoting Chinese thinker Hu Shi, Rajnath Singh said “India has culturally dominated and controlled China for more than 2000 years without sending a single soldier across the border” which he said shows how India as a "civilisational state" has been "inspiring and influencing the world through its culture and soft power for centuries."

India's Defence Minister highlights China's ‘unprovoked aggression’, ‘build-up’ in Ladakh

Amid the ongoing standoff between Indian and Chinese forces in the Line of Actual Control (LAC) &nbsp;region at Ladakh, a top naval officer said on Thursday that Indian Navy has played a crucial role in "deterring" Beijing's aggression.

"The Navy is a silent service and once you sail over the horizon, nobody knows what happens, except those who have communication systems on the ships. The Navy played an important role in deterring the PLA (Navy) at that time and the message has gone across to them very unambiguously that they cannot mess with us at sea or on land," said Vice Admiral Anil Kumar Chawla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command," as quoted by The Indian Express. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indian-navys-marcos-can-change-the-game-along-pangong-lake-in-eastern-ladakh-346930">India-China standoff: How Indian Navy's MARCOS can change the game along Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Chawla also said that the situation had given the forces impetus to focus on developing strengths, including human resource, operation capabilities, among others while talking to reporters on the occasion of Navy Week.&nbsp;

In pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-indian-navys-ins-kora-destroys-target-in-bay-of-bengal-with-anti-ship-missile-339031">How Indian Navy's INS Kora destroys target in Bay of Bengal with anti-ship missile</a>

Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh on Thursday said that the force is ready for various threats in the maritime region, including China.

He also said the Indian Navy's surveillance aircraft P-8I and Heron drones are deployed in the LAC to track Chinese activities.&nbsp;

"Whatever we are doing is in close coordination with the Army and the Indian Air Force," said the chief admiral.&nbsp;

India and China are locked in a tensed border row in eastern Ladakh for about seven months which was escalated by the Chinese military's aggression.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Amid the ongoing standoff between Indian and Chinese forces in the Line of Actual Control (LAC) region at Ladakh, a top naval officer said on Thursday that Indian Navy has played a crucial role in "deterring" Beijing's aggression.

Amid the ongoing standoff between Indian and Chinese forces in the Line of Actual Control (LAC) region at Ladakh, a top naval officer said on Thursday that Indian Navy has played a crucial role in "deterring" Beijing's aggression. "The Navy is a silent service and once you sail over the horizon, nobody knows what happens, except those who have communication systems on the ships. The Navy played an important role in deterring the PLA (Navy) at that time and the message has gone across to them very unambiguously that they cannot mess with us at sea or on land," said Vice Admiral Anil Kumar Chawla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command," as quoted by The Indian Express. In pics | India-China standoff: How Indian Navy's MARCOS can change the game along Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh Chawla also said that the situation had given the forces impetus to focus on developing strengths, including human resource, operation capabilities, among others while talking to reporters on the occasion of Navy Week. In pics | How Indian Navy's INS Kora destroys target in Bay of Bengal with anti-ship missile Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh on Thursday said that the force is ready for various threats in the maritime region, including China. He also said the Indian Navy's surveillance aircraft P-8I and Heron drones are deployed in the LAC to track Chinese activities. "Whatever we are doing is in close coordination with the Army and the Indian Air Force," said the chief admiral. India and China are locked in a tensed border row in eastern Ladakh for about seven months which was escalated by the Chinese military's aggression.

Indian Navy played key role in deterring Chinese forces: Top official

As the current China India standoff in Eastern Ladakh rolls over to harsher winters, under the shadow of multiple rounds talks at various levels, the proposed plan of three-step disengagement from Pangong lake area, discussed during the eight round of talks between military commanders indicates some forward movement.

Both sides in the interim, continue to prepare for prolonged standoff with continued troop build-up, arsenal, equipment, along with information warfare including psychological battle, despite increasing cost in terms of weather casualties besides financial burden and logistics challenges.

In this strategic game of Chinese Chequer on Line of Actual Control (LAC) and elsewhere, both sides have made strategic and operational moves, some of which have gone in their favour and some against them. It's however, evident to Chinese that it may be easy to start a standoff on unsettled borders, but its extremely difficult to get a graceful exit. &nbsp; &nbsp;

How is China looking at Disengagement?&nbsp;

China, having marched in areas, where it was not supposed to be, junking all CBMs, as part of overall ‘Incremental Encroachment Strategy’, to unilaterally alter the status quo along LAC in its favour and expecting India to accept nominal disengagement, while Chinese troops continue to be sitting in Depsang, Finger 8 to Finger 4 &nbsp;was a miscalculation.

Indian quick response, and national resolve amidst COVID19 pandemic, combined with proactive posturing for effective domination of some Chushul heights/Kailash Range, in areas South of Pangong Tso and some heights North of Finger 4 surprised them.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Indian determination not to concede unilateral shift of LAC and prepare for ‘Two-Front War’ should the situation so demand, has added to the discomfort of Chinese besides increasing numbers of weather casualties.

Chinese already have better infrastructure on their side and can quickly move into areas, where they moved in May 2020, hence pulling back in winters and retaining an option to replicate similar encroachment in summer months suits its overall strategic design, besides avoiding heavy weather casualties and resultant financial and political cost. Chinese are also concerned that any pullback without a mutual agreement can lead to Indians occupying some important features vacated by them.&nbsp;

Analysis of Three-Step Disengagement Plan &nbsp;&nbsp;

The plan envisages pullback of mechanised elements and heavy arsenal from forward deployment along the LACs, to depth areas to reduce chances of miscalculation on either side as first step.

The second step involves PLA pulling back from Finger 4 to Finger 8, removing all temporary structures and deployments in between since May and then establishing it as a ‘no-patrolling’ zone for both sides in foreseeable future, as against such practice existing before May 2020.

The third and last step involves pulling back from heights South of Pangong Tso including heights occupied by Indian Army on Kailash Range (both shoulders of strategic Spanggur Gap). The proposed plan does not address Chinese encroachment in Depsang plains and Y Junction, and opening that area for Indian patrols, thus helping Chinese aim to provide depth to Karakoram Pass and NH219.&nbsp;

Indian Concerns

Indian decision-makers need to consider some concerns, before agreeing to such proposals so that it doesn’t become another historic mistake. Firstly, the plan must secure Indian interest in Depsang plains and Y Junction and address vulnerability of DBO; hence vacation of the same by PLA must be integral to any disengagement plan.

Secondly, the standoff was started unilaterally by China, and through this disengagement plan, it is seeking a winter break to avoid casualties on their terms, knocking off the advantage which Indian military achieved South of Pangong Tso.

Thirdly, China with better infrastructure can again encroach much faster in Finger and Depsang area than India, forcing it to be reactive once again. Fourthly, vacating Kailash range will be a major strategic and tactical disadvantage to India.&nbsp;

Do we have other options?

While the human, financial and political cost of prolonged standoff is understandable, it needs to be noted that so long LAC is not demarcated, Chinese encroachment and standoff will continue, whenever China wants to give some strategic messaging to India.

Presently, if the standoff is prolonged and some improvement of Indian posturing is carried out in winters, which is tough, but not impossible, it may pay better dividend in negotiating a demarcation of LAC, although troops will have to rough out longer.

A quick fix solution will only postpone the next standoff and may lead to LOCization of LAC, which is almost the same as prolonged standoff, in terms of cost.&nbsp;

It may be prudent, not to run into any quick-fix solution, but endure to create conditions for a long-lasting strategic solution. It will also be in Indian interest, to be in sync with stance of global democracies to withstand Chinese expansionism in Indo-Pacific Region, where Chinese sea lanes of communications are vulnerable, rather than be seen to be compromising with China on bilateral basis, thus reducing its global pressure by dropping one friction point to China’s advantage, too soon. &nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do&nbsp;not represent the views of&nbsp;WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse&nbsp;the views of the writer)

As the current China India standoff in Eastern Ladakh rolls over to harsher winters, under the shadow of multiple rounds talks at various levels, the proposed plan of three-step disengagement from Pangong lake area, discussed during the eight round of talks between military commanders indicates some forward movement.

As the current China India standoff in Eastern Ladakh rolls over to harsher winters, under the shadow of multiple rounds talks at various levels, the proposed plan of three-step disengagement from Pangong lake area, discussed during the eight round of talks between military commanders indicates some forward movement. Both sides in the interim, continue to prepare for prolonged standoff with continued troop build-up, arsenal, equipment, along with information warfare including psychological battle, despite increasing cost in terms of weather casualties besides financial burden and logistics challenges. In this strategic game of Chinese Chequer on Line of Actual Control (LAC) and elsewhere, both sides have made strategic and operational moves, some of which have gone in their favour and some against them. It's however, evident to Chinese that it may be easy to start a standoff on unsettled borders, but its extremely difficult to get a graceful exit. How is China looking at Disengagement? China, having marched in areas, where it was not supposed to be, junking all CBMs, as part of overall ‘Incremental Encroachment Strategy’, to unilaterally alter the status quo along LAC in its favour and expecting India to accept nominal disengagement, while Chinese troops continue to be sitting in Depsang, Finger 8 to Finger 4 was a miscalculation. Indian quick response, and national resolve amidst COVID19 pandemic, combined with proactive posturing for effective domination of some Chushul heights/Kailash Range, in areas South of Pangong Tso and some heights North of Finger 4 surprised them. × Indian determination not to concede unilateral shift of LAC and prepare for ‘Two-Front War’ should the situation so demand, has added to the discomfort of Chinese besides increasing numbers of weather casualties. Chinese already have better infrastructure on their side and can quickly move into areas, where they moved in May 2020, hence pulling back in winters and retaining an option to replicate similar encroachment in summer months suits its overall strategic design, besides avoiding heavy weather casualties and resultant financial and political cost. Chinese are also concerned that any pullback without a mutual agreement can lead to Indians occupying some important features vacated by them. Analysis of Three-Step Disengagement Plan The plan envisages pullback of mechanised elements and heavy arsenal from forward deployment along the LACs, to depth areas to reduce chances of miscalculation on either side as first step. The second step involves PLA pulling back from Finger 4 to Finger 8, removing all temporary structures and deployments in between since May and then establishing it as a ‘no-patrolling’ zone for both sides in foreseeable future, as against such practice existing before May 2020. The third and last step involves pulling back from heights South of Pangong Tso including heights occupied by Indian Army on Kailash Range (both shoulders of strategic Spanggur Gap). The proposed plan does not address Chinese encroachment in Depsang plains and Y Junction, and opening that area for Indian patrols, thus helping Chinese aim to provide depth to Karakoram Pass and NH219. Indian Concerns Indian decision-makers need to consider some concerns, before agreeing to such proposals so that it doesn’t become another historic mistake. Firstly, the plan must secure Indian interest in Depsang plains and Y Junction and address vulnerability of DBO; hence vacation of the same by PLA must be integral to any disengagement plan. Secondly, the standoff was started unilaterally by China, and through this disengagement plan, it is seeking a winter break to avoid casualties on their terms, knocking off the advantage which Indian military achieved South of Pangong Tso. Thirdly, China with better infrastructure can again encroach much faster in Finger and Depsang area than India, forcing it to be reactive once again. Fourthly, vacating Kailash range will be a major strategic and tactical disadvantage to India. Do we have other options? While the human, financial and political cost of prolonged standoff is understandable, it needs to be noted that so long LAC is not demarcated, Chinese encroachment and standoff will continue, whenever China wants to give some strategic messaging to India. Presently, if the standoff is prolonged and some improvement of Indian posturing is carried out in winters, which is tough, but not impossible, it may pay better dividend in negotiating a demarcation of LAC, although troops will have to rough out longer. A quick fix solution will only postpone the next standoff and may lead to LOCization of LAC, which is almost the same as prolonged standoff, in terms of cost. It may be prudent, not to run into any quick-fix solution, but endure to create conditions for a long-lasting strategic solution. It will also be in Indian interest, to be in sync with stance of global democracies to withstand Chinese expansionism in Indo-Pacific Region, where Chinese sea lanes of communications are vulnerable, rather than be seen to be compromising with China on bilateral basis, thus reducing its global pressure by dropping one friction point to China’s advantage, too soon. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

India-China standoff: Not quick-fix but a long-lasting strategic solution is required

Parliamentary panel chairperson Meenakshi Lekhi told newswire PTI on Wednesday that Twitter has apologised in writing for showing Ladakh in China.

Twitter apologises to Indian government for showing Ladakh in 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:

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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.

Indian govt sends notice to Twitter as it shows Leh as part of Jammu Kashmir instead of Ladakh. Notice was sent to global Vice-President of Twitter on the 9th November.

Indian govt sends notice to Twitter as it shows Leh as part of Jammu Kashmir

According to news agency ANI, India and China have agreed to disengagement from the friction points along the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh.

WION Dispatch: India-China to disengage at LAC, China to move to its position beyond finger 8

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