“There is Nothing Called Buffer Zones” said Indian Army Chief

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi stated on Monday that India continues to deploy troops at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in a “robust” manner, maintaining readiness for “any kind of situation.” Speaking at his first annual press conference, Gen. Dwivedi confirmed that patrolling has resumed in key areas such as Depsang Plains and the Demchok region, marking a significant step towards normalizing the situation in Eastern Ladakh. Regarding the standoff in the Chushul region of Eastern Ladakh, Gen. Dwivedi clarified the misunderstanding surrounding buffer zones.

Buffer Zones Misconception

Gen. Dwivedi clarified the confusion regarding the standoff in the Chushul region of Eastern Ladakh, specifically addressing the concept of buffer zones. “There is nothing called buffer zones… The right terminology is ‘temporary moratorium,'” he explained. He further mentioned that these temporary measures were necessary due to high levels of violence in the region. The Army Chief highlighted that trust between the two sides is critical to determining troop deployment along the LAC.

“Trust between both sides has to have a new understanding… Troop deployment is directly dependent on the trust factor,” the Army Chief said.

Troops Remain Robust at LAC

Gen. Dwivedi emphasized that the situation along the northern borders remains “sensitive but stable.” He noted that in October 2024, tensions in the Demchok and Depsang areas were resolved, with patrolling and grazing activities resuming. However, he assured that troop deployment at the LAC remains “robust” and fully prepared for any eventuality. This decision to resume patrolling followed diplomatic and military discussions, including a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir

Gen. Dwivedi also addressed the rise in terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, stressing that Pakistan remains the “epicentre of terrorism.” He noted that approximately 60% of terrorism in North Kashmir and 80% in the Jammu region has been carried out by terrorists from Pakistan. Despite this, he pointed to positive developments, including the peaceful conduct of elections and growing tourism in the region. “The Indian Army’s bid to take the region from ‘terrorism to tourism’ is materializing gradually,” he said.

Myanmar Border and Fencing Progress

Finally, Gen. Dwivedi touched upon the security situation at the India-Myanmar border, where he acknowledged that a “spillover is taking place.” He confirmed that fencing efforts along the border are progressing, addressing potential threats from the region.