#SikkimStandoff: Indian troops unlikely to pull-out amid Chinese military exercises
What's the story
It is unlikely that Indian troops will pull-out from the India-Bhutan-China tri-junction border area near Sikkim unless certain terms are agreed upon with China. Indian troops are locked in a standoff with Chinese soldiers in the strategically-located area, where China is trying to build a road. There are reports that the Chinese army is conducting exercises in Tibet simulating a real-battle scenario with India.
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Brahma Chellaney: 'China can't give India a bloody nose'
"Militarily, given the geography, logistics, possible weapon deployments and a vigilant Indian Army, China cannot give India a bloody nose over Doklam standoff," said strategic expert Brahma Chellaney "If anything, if it attacks, it might suffer a military reverse."
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What the Chinese military exercise includes
The Chinese army's exercise is taking place at high-altitude areas on Tibet, according to the state-run Xinua news agency. The drills include live-fire exercises, combat operations command, combat synergies and comprehensive inspection of arms integration. It also includes both offensive and defensive training. New equipment, including a light battle tank, is also being tested for potential deployment against India.
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Significance of Chinese army exercises
The exercise in Tibet could be aimed at instilling confidence in Chinese forces to fight in high-altitudes, especially in areas such as the tri-junction where Indian and Chinese troops are facing off. This may be the first time it is holding a drill in the "complex high altitude environment of the Tibetan plateau," Xinhua News has reported.
Information
Sikkim standoff leads to stalemate
The Sikkim standoff appears to have reached a stalemate with both India and China holding their ground. More serious diplomatic engagement is expected. Chinese talk of ejecting Indian troops seem unlikely as both sides aren't keen on letting matters get out of hand.