Sweets for Peace: An India-China Border Gesture

India and China troops exchanged sweets along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) during Diwali, marking a positive step following the disengagement at Demchok and Depsang Plains in eastern Ladakh. The traditional gesture aligns with efforts to de-escalate tensions since the 2020 Galwan Valley conflict.

On Diwali, Indian and Chinese troops exchanged sweets at multiple border posts along the Line of Actual Control, including strategic locations in eastern Ladakh. This customary practice came a day after both nations completed troop disengagement at two critical points, Demchok and Depsang Plains.

The exchange occurred at all five Border Personnel Meeting points on the LAC: Bum La and Kibithu in Arunachal Pradesh, Chushul-Moldo and Daulat Beg Oldi in Ladakh, and Nathu La in Sikkim. Additionally, sweets were shared at Kongk La, KK Pass, and Hot Springs in eastern Ladakh.

This gesture follows the recent agreement negotiated by India and China, finalizing troop disengagement to resolve the issues stemming from the 2020 standoff. The agreement aims to reduce tensions significantly, especially after the Galwan Valley clash marking a severe military conflict in decades.

(With inputs from agencies.)