Jaishankar Highlights Abnormal Military Presence at LAC, Stresses on India's Security

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated on Tuesday that the deployment of forces at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China is abnormal and should not be disregarded. He mentioned that India responded to the Galwan clash by counter-deploying forces there. Since 1988, peace and tranquillity on the border have been maintained while discussing boundary differences with China. However, in 2020, China violated multiple agreements by bringing a large number of forces to India's border during the COVID lockdown.The Galwan Valley clash resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers and is considered the worst in over four decades at the India-China border. Jaishankar highlighted that forces have been deployed ahead of normal base positions at Galwan for four years now, calling it a "very abnormal deployment along the LAC." He also discussed the economic challenge posed by India's dependence on Chinese goods and emphasised the importance of national security obligations.Regarding Russia, Jaishankar said that India's relations with Russia have been positive, with Russia providing natural resources such as oil, coal, and metals. He also acknowledged that proper focus was not given to manufacturing and infrastructure sectors earlier, leading to a culture of hostility to growth in many states.At another event, Jaishankar stated that Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir has always been an integral part of India. He also commented on various conflicts such as the Ukraine-Russia war, Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, Israel-Iran problem, and South China Sea issue, saying that India is performing its role adroitly and is seen with respect by other countries.Jaishankar also addressed demographic changes in some states due to trans-border migration, stating that "the basic obligation of a state is to protect its borders." He emphasised the importance of good governance and rectifying issues through it. Additionally, he discussed the dependence of Indian students on foreign universities and suggested focusing on skills and employability to retain the flow in the country.