Recently, the Chinese military has introduced new militia units formed primarily of the local Tibetan youth. These units, known as Mimang Cheton, are currently under training and are primarily expected to be deployed in the upper regions of the Himalayan ranges, covering both the eastern and western sectors of the India-China border.
The Mimang Cheton units are receiving diverse training that encompasses high-tech equipment usage, like drones, and conventional methods of transportation such as mules and horses to reach places within the Himalayan range that modern means can’t access. The units have been raised close to Eastern Ladakh, the site of most recent border tensions at the Line of Actual Control (LAC), and near the China-Sikkim and China-Bhutan borders.
Deployment of Trained Units
Trained Mimang Cheton units have been dispatched to various regions in the Chumbi Valley and Rutog in Tibet, near the Pangong Tso in Eastern Ladakh. The formation and deployment of these units is a reflection of India’s Special Frontier Force (SFF). Similar to the SFF, the Mimang Cheton units utilize local Tibetan knowledge and have a high resistance to high-altitude sickness, a common issue in alpine warfare.
Unit Objectives and Sociocultural Impact
The newly-formed units aim to bolster high-altitude warfare capabilities and perform intensive surveillance tasks. Notably, upon completion of their training, Buddhist monks in Tibet bless these units, symbolizing an increased sociocultural engagement from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) with the Tibetan population.
Recent Chinese Infrastructure Development along the Border
China’s recent border developments include the initiation of its first bullet train line in Tibet, the construction of a critical highway providing better access to disputed border areas, and the construction of three villages near the Bum La pass in January 2021.
Implications for India
These advancements, along with the strategic location of the Chumbi Valley, pose certain concerns for India. Particularly, the Siliguri Corridor, also known as the chicken’s neck, could be a potential target due to its geographic significance connecting the northeastern states with the rest of India.
India’s Actions to Fortify its Border
In response to these developments, India has amplified its investments in its High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS) and allocated 10% of the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) budget to enhance infrastructure along the China border.
About the Special Frontier Force
The SFF was established in the immediate aftermath of the 1962 Sino-India war. Headed by an Inspector General at the rank of Major General, the SFF is known for its highly skilled personnel adept at undertaking a range of special force tasks. Initially, the force was made up of Tibetan refugees from the Khampa community, but now comprises a mix of Tibetans and Gorkhas. Women soldiers also form part of this force and perform specialized tasks.
Conclusion
In light of these developments, it is imperative for India to remain vigilant about any new development in China near its border to protect its interests effectively. In addition, building robust infrastructure in challenging border areas within its territory is crucial to ensure efficient mobility of personnel and logistical supplies.