India’s Official Stand
India Reaffirms Claim Over Shaksgam Valley: India has firmly reiterated that Shaksgam Valley is an integral part of its sovereign territory. The statement was issued by the Ministry of External Affairs in response to media queries in January 2026. New Delhi clearly rejected any foreign infrastructure activity passing through the region.
The government emphasised that India does not recognise any third-party agreements affecting this territory. It reaffirmed that sovereignty claims cannot be diluted by bilateral arrangements between other countries.
Shaksgam Valley and Ladakh
The MEA clarified that Shaksgam Valley forms part of the Indian Union Territory of Ladakh. India maintains that the region is under illegal occupation and remains legally Indian territory. This position has been consistently upheld since Independence.
Static GK fact: Shaksgam Valley lies to the north of the Siachen Glacier, making it strategically significant in the greater Kashmir region.
Rejection of the 1963 Boundary Agreement
India categorically rejects the China–Pakistan Boundary Agreement of 1963. According to New Delhi, Pakistan had no legal authority to cede any part of Indian territory to another country. Hence, the agreement is considered illegal and void.
The MEA reiterated that agreements signed by Pakistan concerning territories under its illegal occupation have no legal standing. This position has been conveyed to China on multiple diplomatic occasions.
Static GK Tip: India follows the principle that territorial sovereignty cannot be altered without consent of the legitimate owner state.
Opposition to China-Pakistan Economic Corridor
India also restated its strong objection to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The project is a flagship component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. New Delhi opposes CPEC as parts of it pass through Indian territory under Pakistani occupation.
India has urged Beijing to respect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Development projects, India argues, cannot legitimise disputed territorial claims.
Static GK fact: CPEC connects China’s Xinjiang region to Pakistan’s Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea.
Strategic and Diplomatic Significance
India’s renewed assertion reflects continuity in its foreign policy approach. By consistently placing its claims on record, New Delhi seeks to prevent international legitimisation of disputed arrangements. It also signals that sovereignty concerns override economic or connectivity initiatives.
The statement reinforces India’s broader diplomatic strategy of safeguarding territorial integrity. It underscores that international law and established borders remain central to India’s engagement with neighbouring countries.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India Reaffirms Claim Over Shaksgam Valley:
| Topic | Detail |
| Shaksgam Valley | Claimed by India as part of Ladakh, under illegal occupation |
| 1963 Agreement | China-Pakistan Boundary Agreement rejected by India |
| CPEC | Infrastructure corridor opposed by India on sovereignty grounds |
| Strategic Location | Region lies north of Siachen Glacier |
| Diplomatic Position | India does not recognise third-party agreements on its territory |
