Question
“In light of the Galwan Valley clashes (2020) and subsequent developments, critically analyse whether India should overlook boundary issues while normalising ties with China. Discuss the strategic risks and opportunities of such an approach.”
(Answer in 250 words)
Model Answer (≈250 words)
India–China relations are marked by deep economic interdependence but persistent mistrust along the boundary. Since the 1988 Rajiv Gandhi visit, both sides agreed to pursue cooperation in other areas while keeping the border issue in abeyance, provided peace and tranquility prevailed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This framework held until the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes, which ruptured trust and revealed the fragility of prior arrangements.
On one hand, overlooking boundary issues could provide opportunities:
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Resumption of trade and air connectivity aids India’s growth and integration in regional supply chains.
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Cooperation in multilateral forums like the SCO, BRICS and G20 helps balance U.S. and Western dominance.
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Joint management of climate change, health, and critical minerals offers practical benefits.
On the other hand, there are serious risks:
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China’s military build-up on the Tibetan Plateau threatens India’s security, forcing costly defence spending.
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Repetition of a “Galwan-2” could derail ties abruptly.
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China’s South Asia strategy, including trilaterals with Pakistan and Bangladesh, directly undercuts India’s regional influence.
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Over-dependence on Chinese imports undermines India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat and manufacturing ambitions.
Therefore, India cannot overlook boundary issues entirely. A calibrated approach is needed: continued dialogue to reduce tensions, insistence on restoration of pre-2020 status quo, while selectively engaging in trade and multilateral cooperation. Strategic autonomy demands neither confrontation nor complacency but a balance of security preparedness with pragmatic engagement.
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