India and Neighbouring Countries: China

About China

• China is one of the key players in Asia geopolitics and its immediate neighbors which share borders with Indian states like  Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, and Arunachal Pradesh.

Focus Areas

1. Historical Background 
   • Ancient Times: India and China had historical trade and cultural exchanges via the Silk Route and Buddhism spread from India to China.
   • Modern Times
     • Diplomatic relations were established in 1950.
       The 1954 Panchsheel Agreement emphasized peaceful coexistence.
       The 1962 Sino-Indian War significantly strained relations.
     • 1976: Diplomatic ties restored after the 1962 war.
       1988: PM Rajiv Gandhi’s visit marked the beginning of economic and diplomatic engagement.
     • 2025 marks 75 years of bilateral relations.
2. Political Cooperation
   • BRICS, SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation), RIC (Russia-India-China), G20, and BRICS are platforms for diplomatic engagement.
   • Climate Change & Global Trade Negotiations – Both collaborate in forums like WTO & Paris Climate Agreement.
3. Economic Relations
   • Despite tensions, economic ties remain strong.
   • India exports iron ore, cotton, and pharmaceuticals to China.
   • China is a major supplier of electronics, machinery, APIs for medicines, and telecom equipment.
4. People-to-People Ties
   • Tourism, academic exchanges, and cultural events strengthen ties.
   • Yoga & Traditional Medicine Cooperation.

Concerns in India – China Relation

1. Border Disputes
   • Border Disputes in Regions like
     • Western Sector (Aksai Chin, Ladakh) – China controls Aksai Chin, which India claims.
     • Middle Sector (Himachal, Uttarakhand) – Less disputed but still sensitive.
     • Eastern Sector (Arunachal Pradesh) – China claims Arunachal Pradesh as “South Tibet”.
   • Recent Clashes: Doklam (2017), Galwan (2020), Tawang (2022) – Increasing Chinese aggression.
   • China’s Infrastructure Development Near LAC – Roads, military bases, and airstrips near Indian borders.
2. China’s Expansionist Policies
   • China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC): Passes through Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), violating India’s sovereignty.
   • String of Pearls Strategy: China developing military bases in India’s neighboring countries (Gwadar, Hambantota, Kyaukpyu, Chittagong).
   • Belt and Road Initiative (BRI): India opposes Chinese projects in South Asia due to sovereignty concerns.
3. Water Disputes
   • China controls the Brahmaputra River (Yarlung Tsangpo) and has built dams, impacting India’s water security.
   • India fears water diversion & flash floods due to sudden releases.
4. Diplomatic
   • China blocking India’s entry into NSG (Nuclear Suppliers Group) & opposing India’s UN Security Council bid.

Counter Measures by India Against China

1. Strengthening Border Security & Defense
   • Infrastructure Development: Strategic roads, bridges, and tunnels (e.g., Atal Tunnel, Sela Tunnel).
   • Enhanced Military Presence: Increased troop deployment along LAC (Line of Actual Control).
   • Defense Modernization: Acquisition of Rafale jets, BrahMos missiles, and UAVs.
   • Formation of Mountain Strike Corps: Specialized units for Himalayan warfare.
2. Economic & Trade Countermeasures
   • Reducing Dependence on Chinese Imports: ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ & PLI Scheme for Manufacturing.
   • Banning Chinese Apps: 300+ apps (e.g., TikTok, PUBG, UC Browser) were banned for cybersecurity reasons.
   • Investment Restrictions: Tighter FDI rules to prevent Chinese takeovers.
3. Strategic & Diplomatic Measures
   • Boost Indo-Pacific strategy through engagement in QUAD (India-USA-Japan-Australia) for regional security.
   • Stronger ties with Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Maldives.
   • Investments in Chabahar Port (Iran), and Sabang Port (Indonesia) to counter China’s String of Pearls.
   • Defense partnerships with the USA, France, Vietnam, Russia, and Australia.