Army chief reviews border readiness in Uttarakhand amid continuing India-China tensions

Indian Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth has visited Joshimath and Mana in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal sector to assess operational preparedness along the middle sector of the Line of Actual Control (LAC), as reports of continued face-offs with Chinese troops emerge from Arunachal Pradesh.

According to an Army statement issued on Tuesday, the Chief of Army Staff received briefings on combat readiness, operational capabilities and infrastructure development in the region. During his interaction with personnel, he stressed the importance of integrating advanced technology, strengthening capabilities and maintaining vigilance in response to changing security challenges.

The visit follows an agreement reached during talks between Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing in August. Under the understanding, Joshimath and Tawang were identified as meeting locations for Corps Commander-level discussions concerning the middle and eastern sectors of the border, respectively.

The two countries also agreed to establish two additional military hotlines for the eastern and middle sectors. These communication links are intended to connect India’s Eastern and Central Army Commands with their Chinese counterparts.

Existing Border Personnel Meeting points include Chushul and Daulat Beg Oldi in Ladakh, Nathu La in Sikkim, and Bum La and Kibithu in Arunachal Pradesh.

Meanwhile, tensions have continued near Asaphila in Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Subansiri district, where a standoff has reportedly persisted since late July. Indo-Tibetan Border Police Director General Shatrujeet Kapur said last week that confrontations with the People’s Liberation Army were continuing at several locations along the border.

General Seth’s visit comes amid efforts to maintain operational readiness while military and diplomatic channels remain important to managing tensions between the two countries.