China reduced its military deployment along the Line of Actual Control in 2025, with around 10 Combined Arms Brigade-sized formations positioned opposite the LAC and in traditional training areas, according to the Indian Army’s Annual Report 2025-26.
The Army said the reduction, along with renewed political, diplomatic and military engagement between India and China, contributed to greater stability along the Northern Borders. However, Indian forces continue to maintain strong deployments across the LAC and remain prepared to respond to potential security challenges.
Military dialogue between the two countries resumed during the year, including the 23rd Corps Commander-level or Senior Highest Military Commander-level meeting held in Eastern Ladakh in October 2025. Border Personnel Meetings also continued across sectors in a cordial environment, providing a mechanism for both sides to address concerns.
The report highlighted lessons from Operation Sindoor, saying the operation demonstrated India’s multi-domain capabilities, intelligence strength, technological advantages and joint operational readiness. The Army subsequently reviewed capability gaps, with greater emphasis on restructuring, jointness and emerging technologies.
In Jammu and Kashmir, the Army assessed that the overall security situation remained firmly under control, with violence and protests declining. It reported no incidents of stone-pelting during the year and said local participation in government and Army-led development initiatives had increased.
Six infiltration attempts were recorded in 2025, during which 12 Pakistani terrorists were neutralised while attempting to cross the Line of Control. Although infiltration declined, the Army said terrorists were increasingly attempting to use the International Border for smuggling narcotics and war-like material.
Ceasefire violations, however, rose sharply, with 163 incidents recorded along the LoC in 2025 compared with two in 2024. Of these, 124 occurred during Operation Sindoor.
The report also flagged a growing drone threat along India’s western border. It recorded 863 drone intrusions, including 854 across Punjab and Rajasthan and nine along the Jammu and Kashmir International Border. Indian forces brought down 237 drones, including those carrying weapons or narcotics.
Security forces also recovered arms and 281.41 kg of contraband near the International Border, highlighting the increasing use of drones for surveillance and cross-border smuggling.
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