India-China to Complete Troop Withdrawal in Ladakh’s Demchok and Depsang Regions by October 29

In a historic step toward resolving long-standing border tensions, India and China are completing troop withdrawals and dismantling temporary structures in Ladakh’s friction zones, specifically the Demchok and Depsang plains. This phased disengagement is expected to conclude by October 29, enabling the two nations to reinstate armed patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in these areas.

The agreement, cited by PTI, marks the first significant development in de-escalating the border conflict since the 2020 clashes. Both countries have initiated troop and structural withdrawals in the Demchok and Depsang regions, with discussions underway to address other contested areas. Structures like temporary sheds and tents are being dismantled, aligning patrolling zones to pre-April 2020 levels, which is expected to reduce potential future confrontations.

This accord is seen as a substantial move toward improved border management and stability along the LAC. It also reflects a renewed commitment by both nations to peaceful resolutions. This effort could potentially lay the groundwork for more comprehensive agreements that extend to additional regions under dispute.

As both India and China navigate the path toward peace, further diplomatic discussions are anticipated to broaden disengagement to other strategic areas, further reinforcing their commitment to maintaining peace along the LAC.