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The red flag as China’s expansionist strategy rolls on

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 8)

Topic : GS2 – International Relation – Bilateral Relations

Context:

Chinese Aggression: India is facing threats from China’s territorial claims and hydropower projects that compromise its sovereignty, regional stability, and water security.

 


Recent Incidents of Aggression

  • Dam Announcement: China recently announced a dam on the Yarlung Zangbo river (known as the Brahmaputra in India).
  • New Counties Created: China established two new counties in northeastern Ladakh.
  • India’s Response: India condemned these actions as illegal and a direct threat to its sovereignty.
  • Concerns Over Hydropower Projects: India is actively monitoring China’s hydropower projects to protect its national interests.
  • Troop Disengagement Agreements: These developments come after troop disengagement agreements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), showcasing China’s unpredictable nature.

Transboundary Water Issues

  • Regional Impact: China’s actions affect not only India but also South Asian neighbors like Nepal and Bhutan, leading to territorial encroachments.
  • Threat to Water Security: China’s unilateral management of critical rivers like the Brahmaputra and Indus poses risks to water security in India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Pakistan.
  • Dam Risks: The proposed Chinese dam could generate up to 300 billion kilowatt-hours annually but threatens water and silt flow.
    • Impacts: This could harm agriculture, fisheries, and biodiversity in India and Bangladesh.
    • Flood Risks: Uncontrolled water release during monsoons or geopolitical tensions could lead to devastating floods in India.
  • Counteraction: India is investing $1 billion to speed up 12 hydropower projects in Arunachal Pradesh as a proactive measure.

Border Disputes and Cartographic Aggression

  • Increased Cartographic Claims: China has intensified cartographic aggression by renaming locations, establishing new counties, and claiming disputed regions in its maps.
  • Control Over Territories: In Ladakh, these actions aim to assert control over contested areas; China also claims Arunachal Pradesh, considered an integral part of India.
  • Broader Territorial Claims: China’s claims extend to Nepal and Bhutan, complicating regional borders.
  • Legal Validity: China’s cartographic assertions lack legitimacy under international law, yet the establishment of settlements in disputed areas complicates sovereignty issues.

South Asian Response

  • Bilateral vs. Multilateral: South Asian nations, including India, tend to address disputes with China on a bilateral basis, unlike Southeast Asian nations that utilize multilateral mechanisms (e.g., Mekong River Commission, ASEAN).
  • Regional Leadership: India should promote a collective South Asian response to counter China’s aggressive actions regarding territorial claims and water resources.
  • Strengthening Position: Employing regional forums and diplomatic coordination could fortify South Asia’s stance against China.
  • Unified Approach: A united effort is crucial to protect India’s sovereignty and regional security in the face of China’s increasing assertiveness.

Conclusion

  • Expansionist Policies: China’s actions underscore its expansionist policies, threatening India’s sovereignty and stability in the region.
  • Call for Unity: A cohesive South Asian response and stronger diplomatic initiatives are essential to address China’s assertiveness and ensure regional security.