A statement on the details of the infrastructure and building works being undertaken by the government in response to the military modernisation programmes of the neighbouring countries is as under :
China disputes the International Boundary between India and China. There is no commonly delineated Line of Actual Control (LAC) between the two countries. Both sides patrol up to their respective perceptions of LAC. From time to time, on account of differences in the perception of the LAC, situations have arisen on the ground that could have been avoided if we had a common perception of the LAC. The number of such incidents in last three years have generally been as per established pattern.
It is understood that China is undertaking infrastructure development programme in Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) which include construction of roads, railways and airfields. The total road network in TAR is assessed at 58,000 kms in the year 2010. Extension of Qinghai Tibet Railway (OTR) to Xigaze is in progress. Another railway line from Kashgar to Hotan in Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region (XUAR) is under construction. Five airfields in TAR have become operational (i.e. Gongar, Pangta, Linchi, Hoping and Gar Gunsa).
Specific cases of infrastructure development by the Chinese in close proximity to the LAC are taken up with their authorities through the established mechanism of Hot Lines, Flag Meeting and Border Personnel Meetings.
Necessary steps as required have been initiated for ensuring that national security concerns are adequately addressed through development of infrastructure, including rail, roads and forward air fields, as well as operational capabilities of the Armed forces.
Military capacity enhancement and modernization of armed forces is a dynamic process, which takes into account the cumulative challenges envisaged by the nation. Our infrastructure development, force restructuring and modernization is being implemented in consonance with our threat perception to secure our borders and protect national interests.
This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a reply to Shri Vishwa Mohan Kumar, Shri Chandrakant Khaire and others in Lok Sabha today.
DM/NN
(Release ID :70618)
Press Information Bureau
