Skirmishes along the Sino-Indian Border – Strategic Options for India

Abstract

In the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic, the clash in the Galwan Valley (June 15, 2020) between the Chinese and Indian troops, that killed twenty Indian soldiers, is undoubtedly a watershed moment in India-China relations. While both the Asian giants seek to avoid war, India and China have sharpened the political rhetoric; meanwhile, troops from both sides continue to be amassed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The process of disengagement of troops and de-escalation of tensions have worked, albeit limitedly. Furthermore, the growing support of China to Taliban controlled Afghanistan (August 2021), will impact the course of Sino-India relations. The current stand-off between
India and China marks the beginning of a new phase of relations where its repercussions will be felt in their immediate periphery and beyond. This article focuses on the strategic options for India. The transgression of China across the LAC will continue to cast its shadow over the relations between the two Asian giants. The earlier “spirit” and “connect” between the two nations stand broken and mending the same will test the institutions and leadership of both the countries.