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| Disputed Arunachal Pradesh located in shaded box top right |
A war of words between India and China has increased over exiled Tibetan leader's visit to Arunachal Pradesh.
New Delhi (Sputnik) — India has increased its activities along the Indo-China border amid China's strong opposition to a recent visit of the US ambassador and exiled Tibetan leader Dalai Lama to Tawang, an area which the Chinese claim is disputed. The Indian Army Chief also reviewed the operational preparedness along the border.
"The Chief of the Army Staff, Gen Dalbir Singh reviewed the operational preparedness along the Indo-China border in areas of Puh & Sumdo in Himachal Pradesh on 28 October 2016. He also interacted with troops on ground & expressed satisfaction at the high operational standards achieved," reads a statement released by the Indian Ministry of Defense.
The Army chief's visit happened a day before a high profile tour by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval at the Indo-China border on October 29. Modi will spend time with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) in Mana Gaon during a local festival to boost the morale of the army personnel.
Meanwhile, China has reiterated its opposition to the visit of exiled Tibetan leader Dalai Lama to the border state of Arunachal Pradesh. China also expressed its concern over the visit of US Ambassador Richard Verma to Arunachal Pradesh. In a strongly worded statement, China urged the US to stop meddling in territorial disputes between China and India and do more to enhance regional peace and stability.
On the other hand, India has also announced a new a high altitude medal for personnel serving above 9000 feet. It had been a long time demand of ITBP forces who serve in the tough terrain and adverse climate conditions along the Indo-China border.
This story first appeared on Sputnik & is reposted here with permission.