What is the Difference Between LOC and LAC?

Why is LOC in News?

The Line of Control often appears in the news because of security issues and tensions between India and Pakistan, especially in the Jammu and Kashmir area. These problems usually happen due to ceasefire violations, like shooting across the border or possible terrorist actions. To improve safety, the Indian Army now using AI technology to monitor and respond faster.

Introduction

India faces complex border disputes with both Pakistan and China. These disputes often lead to tense situations. Recently, the abrogation of Article 370 has led to frequent firing along the Line of Control (LOC) by Pakistan, while the Line of Control (LAC) has been clashes between India and China. In this article, we will look at the key differences between the LOC and LAC.

What is the Line of Actual Control?

The Line of Actual Control (LAC) is the unofficial border between India and China. It stretches about 3,488 kilometers, from Ladakh in the west to Arunachal Pradesh in the east. Unlike the LOC, the LAC is not a clearly defined line and remains a subject of dispute.

History and Conflicts

The LAC became a significant border after the 1962 Sino-Indian war. In that war, China took control of Aksai Chin, a region claimed by India. The most recent clash along the LAC occurred in June 2020 in the Galwan Valley, where 20 Indian soldiers were killed.

LAC Regions

• Western Sector (Ladakh): Includes Aksai Chin, which remains a disputed area.
• Middle Sector (Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand): This area is less contentious.
• Eastern Sector (Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh): Arunachal Pradesh is claimed by China as ”South Tibet.”

What is the Line of Control (LOC)?

The Line of Control (LOC) is the de facto border between Indian-administered and Pakistani-administered regions of Jammu and Kashmir. The LOC was established after the 1971 Indo-Pakistani war, following the Simla Agreement and it stretches for about 740 to 776 kilometers.

History and Conflicts

The LOC was created after the first Indo-Pakistani war (1947-1948). It was initially called the ”ceasefire line” and was later renamed the LOC in 1972. Over time, the LOC has become heavily militarized due to continuous skirmishes between India and Pakistan.

Key Difference Between LOC and LAC

The Line of Control (LOC) and Line of Actual Control (LAC) are two different borders India shares with Pakistan and China, often linked to conflicts.

Here are the key differences between LOC and LAC:

Basis of Difference	Line of Actual Control (LAC)	Line of Control (LOC)
Length	3,488 kilometers	740 to 776 kilometers
Location	Separates India and China	Separates India and Pakistan
Recognition	Not officially recognized as a border	Not internationally recognized as a border
Key areas	Aksai Chin (disputed)	Jammu & Kashmir (divided between India and Kashmir)
Security	Military presence and surveillance	Military ports, fencing and surveillance
Recent Tensions	Galwan Valley clash (2020)	Frequent ceasefire violations by Pakistan

Security Measures Along the LAC

To secure the LAC, India has taken several steps:

• Infrastructure Development: Building roads, bridges and airstrips for better troop movement.
• Surveillance: Using drones and satellites for constant monitoring.
• Military Deployment: India has stationed many troops and weapons along the LAC.

Security Measures Along the LOC

Similarly, India has also reinforced its security along the LOC:

• Fencing: A 550 km-long fence with motion sensors and alarms to prevent infiltration.
• Military Deployment: Strong military presence with fortified posts and bunkers.
• Surveillance: Drones and satellites monitor the LOC, ensuring timely response to threats.