The Indian Express has learned that as part of the Army’s winter posture in the region, troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) will be redeployed, potentially reducing the overall number of troops while maintaining adequate reserves in depth areas.

According to top government sources, the border will be strongly dominated using the latest surveillance devices, winter air surveillance operations by helicopters, and limited patrolling when necessary in the coming months.

Following the lack of progress in the recent military talks between India and China, the Army is gearing up for its fourth consecutive winter in eastern Ladakh since the standoff began in May 2020.

Sources revealed that the Army’s winter posture will involve troops at smaller satellite posts moving closer to company locations, as well as a limited reduction in formations that have been undergoing training.

Plans to reassess the overall number of troops deployed are being carried out against the backdrop of increased deployment of new platforms and equipment, as well as improvements in logistics capability.

Compared to previous winters, there has been a rise in the deployment of surveillance equipment, providing Indian troops with a comprehensive picture and reducing the need for additional troop deployment.

Adequate stocking and habitat improvements for the thousands of troops deployed in the region have been carried out and will continue after the winter months.

There are expectations for another round of military talks during the winter, with local commanders continuing to interact regularly to prevent any incidents.

In the 19th round of Corps Commander-level talks, disengagement of troops and overall de-escalation in Ladakh were discussed, along with plans for limited troop deinduction which were not implemented.

While some friction points have seen resolution, legacy friction points like Depsang Plains and Demchok still await disengagement, with around 50,000-60,000 troops remaining deployed on both sides of the India-China boundary.