INDIA’S CONFLICT WITH CHINA (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – IR)

Context: India recently rejected China's senseless renaming of certain places in Arunachal Pradesh, emphasizing that such "invented" names do not change the fact that the state has always been and will remain an integral part of India.

India’s Conflict with China

• Renaming of Disputed Areas: China's renaming of disputed areas aims to bolster its territorial claims and potentially manipulate evidence for future disputes in international courts.
• Persistent Border Tensions: Despite formal talks and disengagement efforts post-Galwan deaths in 2020, rumors suggest Chinese attempts to cross borders, maintaining persistent tensions.
• Indian Military Upgrades: India has significantly enhanced weaponry along the LAC in Arunachal Pradesh, especially after the 2020 Ladakh standoff, and has intensified infrastructure development in forward sectors like Tawang.
• Infrastructure Development: Eastern Arunachal is currently undergoing substantial infrastructure development, potentially signifying strategic preparations in response to border disputes.

Why is China interested in Arunachal Pradesh?

• Strategic Location: Arunachal Pradesh's proximity to China enables it to be a potential launching point for Indian missiles and a strategic location for air defense systems, giving China a tactical advantage if controlled.
• Geopolitical Claims: Arunachal Pradesh's vast size and borders with Tibet, Bhutan, and Myanmar make it strategically significant, acting as a buffer to the northeast and providing control over key territories.
• Tactical Entry in Tawang: Tawang's strategic location as a gateway to northeastern India makes it a focal point for China's interest, particularly as it connects Tibet with the Brahmaputra Valley.
• Cultural Connections: Arunachal Pradesh shares cultural ties with Tibet, particularly through tribes like the Monpa who follow Tibetan Buddhism, strengthening China's cultural influence in the region.