Uttar Bharat Area to be transformed into Corps
Currently, the UB Area primarily serves administrative, training, and peace-time functions. However, with the proposed transformation, it will emerge as a robust corps equipped with additional infantry, artillery, aviation, air defense, and engineer brigades. This transformation aims to better guard the middle sector of the 3,488-km long Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.According to a source within the Army, the final approval for this transformation is pending. The new corps, likely to be designated as the 18 Corps, will bridge the gap between the 14 Corps stationed in Ladakh and the 33 Corps based in West Bengal.
Indian Army’s Plan to Counter China
This initiative is part of the Army’s ongoing efforts to reinforce its presence across all sectors along the LAC. Since the escalation of tensions with China in May 2020, additional formations have been deployed in the western, middle, and eastern sectors. For instance, the Mathura-based 1 Strike Corps was redirected from its previous role on the western front with Pakistan to the LAC.
In addition to the pivot corps, there are now two strike corps dedicated to the LAC: the 1 Corps for the northern sector, including Ladakh, and the 17 Corps based in Panagarh for the eastern sector.
Over the past few years, the UB Area has already witnessed reinforcement with the addition of one division and three independent brigades to counter the evolving security challenges posed by China. The impending transformation into a corps signifies further upgrades in readiness and capabilities.
Despite ongoing diplomatic talks, China has shown reluctance to disengage troops from key flashpoints such as the Depsang Plains and the Charding Ninglung Nallah (CNN) track junction in Ladakh. This refusal to revert to the status quo ante has persisted despite numerous rounds of corps commander-level discussions between India and China.
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