China Escalates Tensions with Military Drills Near LAC: What's the Dragon’s Plan?

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): As the nation prepares to celebrate Army Day, China has initiated a combat drill near the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The exercise, led by the regiment of the Xinjiang Military Command of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) featured advanced military technologies including all-terrain vehicles, unmanned systems and drones. This development comes at a time when India and China are striving to maintain peace and stability in the region.

Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, China continues its provocative actions. The latest military drill raises questions about Beijing's intentions. On October 21, 2024, India and China reached an agreement to withdraw troops along the LAC and resume patrolling in sensitive areas such as Depsang and Demchok. This accord marked a significant step toward easing tensions that escalated following the Galwan Valley clash in 2020. However, mistrust persists and both nations have continued deploying substantial forces under challenging conditions.

China's military drills appear to go beyond routine training. Strategically mobilizing troops in disputed areas the PLA has utilized advanced technologies, such as exoskeletons to enhance their operations in high-altitude regions. These capabilities give Chinese forces an advantage, enabling them to conduct exercises with ease. In response, India must remain vigilant and continue modernizing its military capabilities, particularly in Ladakh. The Indian Army is already conducting winter maneuvers, upgrading infrastructure and bolstering its surveillance systems to counter potential threats.

While the resumption of patrolling in areas like Depsang and Demchok signals progress in India-China relations, China’s ongoing military exercises underscore that achieving lasting peace remains a complex and challenging endeavor.