India to boost infrastructure and roads along China border

In light of the two-month standoff between the Indian and the Chinese military near Doklam, the defence ministry has reportedly announced its decision to boost infrastructure along the border. This was decided in the Army Commander’s conference where the security challenges along the border were discussed. The army is also considering providing more funds to the Border Road for infrastructure and road development. This decision entails construction of more roads along the Sino-India border. As per reports, the four passes to Lipulekh, Thangalal, Niti and Tsangchokla will be connected on priority by 2020. Some organisational changes were also discussed at the conference including enhancing the army’s operational preparedness. The defence minister has also emphasised on the need to make the sector more reliant. Furthermore, the army will also be modernising and upgrading its military stations, keeping with the centre’s Smart Cities plan.