India is set to bolster its border defenses against China by deploying an additional 10,000 soldiers along the Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand borders, according to reports. These troops were previously stationed along the western border and are now being redeployed to the disputed region amid strained relations with Beijing since the Galwan Valley standoff in June 2020.

This move will consolidate the existing force of 9,000 soldiers already stationed along the disputed border, forming a new dedicated fighting command. The primary objective is to secure the strategically vital 532 km stretch of the Indo-China border in the northern states.

The Indian Army and Ministry of Defense have refrained from commenting on this development, which underscores the growing sensitivity and strategic significance of the region. Over the past decade, there has been substantial infrastructure development in the area, with the government actively promoting tourism.

In response to the deadly border clash in 2020, where 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives, India had previously relocated an additional 50,000 soldiers to patrol the border with China. Both countries have since ramped up military infrastructure and troop presence along the border, reflecting ongoing tensions.

India's Defense Secretary Giridhar Aramane recently acknowledged the persistent threat, stating, "The possibility that we may face a similar situation that we faced in 2020 is keeping us active all the time." Despite 21 rounds of military-diplomatic talks making incremental progress, India has enacted laws to deter Chinese investments and businesses in the country.

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