India-China Stand-off in Ladakh triggers Andaman build up

India and China have been facing stand-off along Line of Actual Control, especially in the Pangong Tso lake in the Ladakh region. Even after several rounds of peace talks between the army high commands of both the countries, the situation remains tensed across the border.

This has triggered India to fast track plans in the Andaman and Nicobar Archipelago to counter China expanding its presence in the Indian Ocean Region.

What is the issue?

The Andaman and Nicobar Command that was set up in 2001 has till now suffered from fund crunches, crippling turf wars among the three services and lack of environmental clearance to build infrastructure. The ANC involves all the three forces (land, sea and air) operating under one operational commander.

What is the plan?

India is to extend the runways at both INS Kohassa and INS Bazz in the south of the Archipelago. A plan for “phased military force accretion” at ANC by 2027 is also being finalized.

With the expansion, India will base additional aircrafts, warships, infantry soldiers in the Islands. India is planning a 10-year infrastructure plan at Rs 5,650 crores.

Month: Current Affairs - July, 2020