One Mountain Two Tigers: India, China and the Himalayas

The India-China standoff in Ladakh surprised the world because of the Covid-19 pandemic. It explores the historical links, geostrategic importance, and internal tensions between the two countries. The book also asks if India has internalized the lessons of 1962 and if there are other critical dimensions to the relations where China may be at a disadvantage.

Format: Hardback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2020
Publisher: Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers

The unexpected confrontation between the Indian Army and the Chinese PLA in Ladakh in May-June 2020 not only caught India off guard but also drew global attention amidst the ongoing efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. This military standoff between the two Asian giants has raised several intriguing questions about China's aggressive stance, the historical disputes between India and China, India's claim to Aksai Chin, the geostrategic importance of Ladakh, and the potential factors that led to the breakdown of relations between India and China.

Historical Links with the Indian Mainland:

Ladakh has a rich historical connection with the Indian mainland. It has been an integral part of the ancient Silk Road trade route, connecting India with Central Asia and beyond. The region has been ruled by various empires and kingdoms over the centuries, including the Tibetan Empire, the Mughal Empire, and the British Empire. The strategic importance of Ladakh has been recognized by both India and China, with both countries having established military bases in the region.

Geostrategic Importance of Ladakh:

Ladakh is located at a critical juncture between India and China, with control over the region providing access to important trade routes and resources. The region is also strategically important for India's defense, as it borders Pakistan and China, both of which are nuclear-armed countries. The confrontation between the Indian Army and the Chinese PLA in 2020 highlighted the importance of maintaining stability and peace in the region.

Internal Tensions within the Chinese Communist Party:

It is believed that internal tensions within the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) may have played a role in the deteriorating relations between China and India. The CCP has been facing challenges in recent years, including economic stagnation, social unrest, and tensions with other countries, such as the United States and Japan. These internal tensions could have led to a more assertive stance by China in its relations with India.

India's Internalization of the Lessons of 1962:

The 1962 Sino-Indian War, which resulted in a Chinese victory, taught India a valuable lesson about the importance of maintaining a strong military presence in the region. India has since significantly increased its military capabilities and has established a strong presence in Ladakh. The confrontation in 2020 was a reminder to India of the need to be vigilant and prepared to defend its interests in the region.

India's Military Position in Ladakh:

India has established a strong military presence in Ladakh, with a significant number of troops and military equipment deployed in the region. The Indian Army has also conducted several military exercises in the region to enhance its capabilities and prepare for any potential conflict. However, the confrontation in 2020 highlighted the limitations of India's military capabilities in the region, particularly in terms of logistics and air support.

Has India Fundamentally Misunderstood China?

There are concerns that India may have fundamentally misunderstood China's intentions and goals in the region. Some analysts argue that India may have overestimated China's military capabilities and underestimated its willingness to engage in conflict. This misunderstanding could have led to the escalation of tensions in the region.

The Wuhan Spirit and the Chennai Connect:

In an attempt to improve relations between India and China, the two countries initiated the Wuhan Spirit and the Chennai Connect initiatives. These initiatives aimed to promote bilateral cooperation in various areas, including trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchange. However, these initiatives have not been successful in resolving the underlying tensions between India and China.

Other Critical Dimensions to the India-China Relations:

There are several other critical dimensions to the India-China relations where China may be at a disadvantage. For example, China's growing economic and military power has led to concerns among other countries in the region, particularly in Southeast Asia. China's aggressive stance in the South China Sea and its territorial claims in the region have also contributed to tensions.

In conclusion, the May-June standoff in Ladakh between the Indian Army and the Chinese PLA has raised several important questions about China's aggressive stance, the historical disputes between India and China, India's claim to Aksai Chin, the geostrategic importance of Ladakh, and the potential factors that led to the breakdown of relations between India and China. This book aims to address these questions in detail and provide a comprehensive analysis of the India-China relations.

Weight: 416g
Dimension: 163 x 238 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789390095100