PLA troop deployment along LAC reduced in 2025, but 10 combined arms brigades remain: MoD report
The Indian Defence Ministry's 2025-2026 report notes a reduction in Chinese PLA troop deployments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Despite this, the report confirms that 10 combined arms brigades remain stationed in the region, while diplomatic and military dialogues continue to stabilize bilateral relations.
Why it matters
The report provides an official assessment of the India-China border situation, signaling a shift toward de-escalation while maintaining strategic vigilance.
There was a significant reduction in the deployment of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) along India’s northern borders in 2025, even as Beijing continued to maintain 10 combined arms brigade-sized formations in areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and in traditional training areas, according to the Defence Ministry’s annual report for 2025-2026, released on Sunday (September 13, 2026).
The report said the Indian Army’s deployment across all sectors along the LAC remained robust, well poised, and prepared to deal with any emerging contingency.
On India-China engagements, the Ministry said sustained political, diplomatic, and military interactions between the two countries have facilitated positive developments along the northern borders and contributed to stability.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in