Army Chief: Situation along India's northern border 'stable but sensitive'

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Monday described the situation along the northern border as "stable but sensitive", while outlining key updates on border management and security measures during his annual press conference in the national capital.

- SIMONTINI BHATTACHARJEE

He focused extensively on the developments in eastern Ladakh, where critical steps have been taken to address issues arising since the standoff with Chinese forces in 2020.

General Dwivedi noted that traditional patrolling and grazing activities have resumed in sensitive areas like Depsang and Demchok, reflecting significant progress in reducing tensions.

He emphasised that both sides have reverted to their traditional patrolling zones and have completed multiple verification patrols to ensure compliance with disengagement agreements. Grazing grounds previously off-limits to locals have also been reopened, signalling a return to normalcy for the local communities.

However, he clarified that the region has no permanent buffer zones. Instead, temporary distances are maintained at specific points to avoid inadvertent conflicts. The focus remains on dialogue and ground-level resolutions, with core commanders empowered to address minor disputes swiftly to prevent escalation.