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29 June 2026

India-China diplomatic relations

This topic concerns the ongoing diplomatic normalization process between India and China, which is a core aspect of India's foreign policy and neighborhood relations frequently tested in the UPSC Mains.

1 min read Day 3 of 17 2 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • Indian Embassy officials in Beijing held a meeting with representatives of China's state-run Xinhua news agency on June 24, 2026.
  • The meeting is part of ongoing bilateral efforts to normalise relations following the 2020 Eastern Ladakh conflict.
  • Current status of bilateral normalisation includes the resumption of the Kailash-Manasarovar Yatra, visa services, and direct flights.
  • Media engagement remains a key point of contention and negotiation, with China advocating for the restoration of visas for its journalists.
  • Historical context: In April 2023, China froze visas for two Indian journalists; subsequent visa renewals for Indian correspondents in China were restricted.
  • Recent development: China has issued a journalist visa to a correspondent from The Hindu to operate from Beijing.
  • High-level diplomatic engagement: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval in New Delhi during the BRICS NSA meeting to discuss promoting exchanges across various sectors, including media.

Part of a longer story

This is day 3 of 17 in India-China diplomatic engagement and border relations, which has been running since 24 June 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. The normalisation of India-China relations requires addressing structural bottlenecks beyond border disputes. In the context of recent diplomatic efforts, discuss the role of media and people-to-people exchanges in fostering strategic trust between the two nations. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The post-2020 Eastern Ladakh conflict phase has necessitated a calibrated approach to India-China bilateral relations. Critically examine the challenges in restoring normalcy in diplomatic, economic, and cultural spheres, and evaluate the significance of institutional engagement in managing long-term geopolitical competition. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. Which of the following events is currently part of the ongoing normalisation process between India and China?