In a significant step toward de-escalation along the disputed India-China border, troops from both nations have completed the disengagement process in the Depsang and Demchok regions of Eastern Ladakh.
This development, confirmed by Indian Army sources to NDTV, signals a return to a calmer stance after over three years of tension. Troops are set to commence patrolling soon, and Diwali will see a symbolic exchange of sweets between Indian and Chinese forces.
Army sources revealed that verification of the disengagement is ongoing, and ground commanders will establish the modalities of joint patrolling. Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Fiehong echoed this progress, stating that both countries have reached a “point of common understanding,” which he described as a positive step for regional peace.
India first announced the agreement on October 21, which includes both sides returning to pre-2020 positions in the contentious areas. This disengagement included dismantling structures and restoring the landscape to its original state. The agreement holds strategic importance for both nations, which had been in a standoff since the border tension began in 2020.
Satellite Imagery Confirms Withdrawal
Shortly after the announcement, satellite images obtained by NDTV confirmed the removal of Chinese structures in Depsang. One image from October 11 showed four vehicles and two tents near the ‘Y Junction’ — a critical area where Chinese forces had previously prevented Indian soldiers from accessing their designated patrolling points. By October 25, the tents were gone, and the vehicles were seen moving away, affirming the start of the disengagement process.
Another set of images also confirmed the dismantling of semi-permanent structures in Demchok, further indicating progress in restoring areas affected by the long-standing military buildup.
Background and Importance of Patrolling Points
The return to patrolling routines holds significance as patrolling points (PPs) serve as indicators of India’s claimed territory along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The disengagement from Demchok and Depsang will help Indian forces restore regular access to these areas, affirming territorial claims while maintaining peace.
As both countries move toward normalizing relations, the symbolic exchange of sweets on Diwali signifies a gesture of goodwill amid long-standing geopolitical challenges.
