New Delhi: Indian forces deployed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh are increasingly relying on advanced surveillance systems to
manage border security and reduce dependence on risky foot patrols.
As reported in The Indian Express, New Delhi has spent the last five years setting up a comprehensive intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) network across the high-altitude terrain. This system is now being upgraded to provide near-constant monitoring.
“The icy winters of Ladakh make it challenging for troops to go for a larger number of foot patrols. The surveillance infrastructure, which is constantly being upgraded and strengthened, will ease this and reduce the number of troop casualties due to the cold,” a source told The Indian Express.
Shifting patrol model
Traditionally, Indian patrols were the mainstay for detecting unusual activity along the border. But following an agreement reached in October 2023, Indian and Chinese troops have been conducting coordinated patrols to avoid confrontations. Officials say technology will play a growing role in this arrangement.
“The robust ISR infrastructure will also reduce the necessity of sending out additional patrols… to monitor these areas,” another source explained. The approach, they add, is expected to lower stress levels for soldiers and reduce risks arising from delayed patrol returns.
Diplomacy and de-escalation
Despite disengagement at several points since the 2020 standoff, around 50,000 to 60,000 troops remain deployed in depth areas on both sides. Diplomatic talks continue, with the 24th round of the Special Representatives’ dialogue recently agreeing to set up an expert group under the WMCC to work on “early harvest” steps in boundary delimitation.
“The low-hanging fruits can be resolved first, thereby enhancing trust, before moving on to larger issues,” a source noted.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping also discussed patrolling arrangements during their meeting at the BRICS summit in Kazan. Meanwhile, India has begun geotagging patrolling points to reduce ambiguity and support future negotiations.
Looking ahead
While peace has broadly held since last year’s talks, both governments acknowledge that full de-escalation is pending. India’s current twin-track strategy combines bolstering surveillance technology to ease soldiers’ burden with sustained diplomatic engagement to resolve disputes step by step.
