Indian, Chinese disengagement along LAC ‘almost complete’: Rajnath

The disengagement process involving the Indian and Chinese militaries in certain areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) was "almost complete", Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced on Thursday (October 31).

But the two countries will have to wait “a little longer” to take their bilateral relations beyond the disengagement, he said in Tezpur in Assam.

Sino-Indian broad consensus

"India and China have been holding talks at both diplomatic and military levels to resolve the differences in some areas along the LAC. As a result, a broad consensus was developed on the basis of equal and mutual security,” he said.

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“The consensus includes the rights of patrolling and grazing in traditional areas.

"Based on this consensus, the process of disengagement is almost complete. Our efforts will be to take the matter beyond disengagement; but for that, we will have to wait a little longer," the minister added.

Virtual inauguration 

Rajnath Singh was to fly to Arunachal Pradesh but inclement weather forced him to unveil virtually a Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel statue and open the Major Ralengnao 'Bob' Khating Museum of Valour at Tawang.

He lauded Major Bob Khating's crucial role in establishing the Indian administration up to the McMahon Line in February 1951, highlighting Tawang's strategic significance. Tawang is located in the western part of Arunachal Pradesh.

"Major Khathing not only led the peaceful integration of Tawang into India but also established essential military and security frameworks, including the Sashastra Seema Bal, Nagaland Armed Police and the Naga Regiment,” he said.

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Rajnath praises Army

“The 'Museum of Valour' now stands as a tribute to his bravery and foresight, inspiring generations to come.”

Singh also commended the Indian Army and local communities for their initiative in creating the museum.

The minister underscored the North-East region's unique role in the nation's identity.

On border infrastructure

"Holistic development of the nation is possible only when the North East prospers. We will create such a North East which is strong and prosperous not only naturally and culturally but also economically."

Singh highlighted the crucial role of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in the region.

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He made a special mention of the Sela tunnel which links Assam and Tawang.

Arunachal Frontier Highway

"In the times to come, the Arunachal Frontier Highway project will play a major role in connecting the entire North East region, especially the border areas. This 2,000-km long highway will prove to be an important strategic and economic asset for the region as well as the entire nation."

Arunachal Pradesh governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd), chief minister Pema Khandu, Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh and Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi were among other present at Tawang.

Rajanath Singh later flew back to New Delhi, ending a two-day visit to the Gajraj Corps headquarters at Tezpur.