China Cuts PLA Deployment Along LAC as Dialogue Resumes

China’s People’s Liberation Army significantly reduced its troop deployment along the Northern Borders in 2025, with around 10 Combined Arms Brigade-sized forces now positioned opposite the Line of Actual Control and in traditional training areas, according to the Indian Army’s Annual Report 2025-26. The assessment comes amid renewed military and diplomatic engagement between India and China following years of heightened tensions along the disputed frontier.

The Army’s report said the reduction in Chinese deployment was accompanied by a gradual improvement in stability along the Northern Borders. It attributed the change to positive political, diplomatic and military engagements between the two countries, suggesting that sustained dialogue had helped ease some of the tensions that had persisted along the LAC.

Despite the reported reduction in Chinese forces, the Indian Army said its own deployment across all sectors of the Line of Actual Control remains robust and well-positioned to respond to any emerging contingency. The force continues to maintain operational preparedness while monitoring developments along the border and assessing possible changes in the PLA’s posture.

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The report indicated that military dialogue between the two sides resumed during the period under review. Border Personnel Meetings with the PLA also continued across all sectors in a cordial environment, providing both sides with a mechanism to raise concerns, address local issues and prevent misunderstandings from escalating into larger confrontations.

However, the Army maintained that the improved situation along the Northern Borders should not be interpreted as an end to security challenges. Indian forces continue to remain prepared, particularly in view of persistent threats from the western front and the possibility of changes in the regional security environment.

The assessment reflects a cautious improvement in India-China border conditions, with reduced PLA deployment and continued engagement contributing to greater stability. At the same time, the Indian Army’s emphasis on maintaining strong deployments and readiness indicates that New Delhi continues to view the LAC as a sensitive area requiring sustained vigilance and military preparedness.

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