External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that while the recent agreement with China on patrolling along the LAC is a significant breakthrough, it does not imply a complete resolution of all issues between the two nations. The disengagement achieved paves the way for further steps to be taken.

He commended the military for their unwavering dedication in challenging conditions and highlighted the role of astute diplomacy in reaching this agreement.

During an event in Pune, Jaishankar outlined the importance of the understanding reached on October 21, specifically concerning patrolling in areas like Depsang and Demchok. This development signals progress but does not signify the end of all challenges. The disengagement marks the initial phase towards a potential resolution.

Addressing a query from students, Jaishankar mentioned that while steps have been taken towards normalisation, it will take time to fully restore trust and cooperation between India and China. The decision for the foreign ministers and National Security Advisors of both countries to meet reflects a commitment to chart a path forward.

Reflecting on the developments, Jaishankar acknowledged the diligent efforts made by India to enhance its border infrastructure over the past decade. The increased investment in infrastructure has significantly strengthened the military’s capabilities, complemented by effective diplomacy, contributing to the current progress.

The meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit in Kazan laid the groundwork for further engagements at diplomatic levels. The concerted efforts from both sides have culminated in the current positive developments.

The recent agreement on patrolling along the LAC in eastern Ladakh marks a crucial breakthrough after the prolonged military standoff. The situation since 2020 has posed challenges to the bilateral relationship, prompting negotiations to seek resolutions.

Primarily focusing on disengagement and de-escalation due to the proximity of troops, the ongoing discussions are vital for managing the border effectively. The recent progress in patrolling agreements signifies a significant step towards normalisation.

The agreement reached on October 21 specifically addresses the resumption of patrolling in crucial areas like Depsang and Demchok, enhancing mutual understandings and potentially easing tensions further.

As both countries initiate troop disengagement at the identified friction points, the process is expected to conclude shortly, fostering a more stable environment along the LAC.

On the strategic implications of the “string of pearls” concept, emphasising Chinese military and commercial expansions, Jaishankar highlighted the need for India to be vigilant and prepared to effectively respond to such strategic developments.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut took a jibe at Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday over the stampede at Bandra station here, saying he was too busy with the bullet train project while passengers in Mumbai were being ignored.

According to officials, nine individuals sustained injuries, two of whom are in critical condition, following a stampede while attempting to board a Gorakhpur-bound train at Bandra Terminus in Mumbai on Sunday morning.

Raut expressed concern over the lack of facilities for passengers in Mumbai, despite it being the highest revenue-generating city for the Union government.

He criticised the Railway Minister for being preoccupied with the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project and failing to address the poor infrastructure and problems faced by common railway passengers.

“The Railway Minister is too involved with the bullet train project and people are left to die because of the poor infrastructure as the railway minister is disconnected with their problems,” he claimed.

Raut noted that the bullet train project, which aims to reduce travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad, is currently under construction.

Although the Railway Minister is highly educated and associated with prestigious institutes like IITs, Raut stated that the minister has not resolved the issues faced by common railway passengers.

Furthermore, he emphasised the significant number of suburban passengers in Mumbai and the lack of steps taken by the Railway Minister to address their problems.

“Mumbai city not only gives maximum revenue but has the highest number of suburban passengers. However, the Railway Minister has not taken any steps to solve the problems,” the Rajya Sabha member charged.

Raut also slammed the NDA government over the occurrence of numerous railway accidents during its tenure, questioning the government’s response to these incidents and demanding accountability for passenger injuries, particularly the stampede at Bandra station.

“Since the third term of this new Union government has commenced, at least 25 major railway accidents have taken place,” he claimed.

“What solution did the government provide to address them?” Raut asked.

In a post on X, party leader Aaditya Thackeray said the incident at Bandra only reflects how incapable the current Railways Minister is.

“Wish the reel minister was a rail minister for once. The incident at Bandra only reflects how incapable the current Railways Minister is. The BJP has made Ashwini Vaishnav ji a Prabhari for BJP Maharashtra for elections, but every week there are some incidents and accidents that occur with the railways. Such a shame that our country has been forced under such incapable ministers,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday discussed the cyber crime of digital arrests, noting that it has affected all sections of society and urged people to adopt the mantra of stop, think, and take action when faced with such a scam.

During his Mann ki Baat broadcast, Modi highlighted the collaboration between probe agencies and states to address the issue, emphasizing the importance of awareness in protecting oneself from this crime.

He played a representative video demonstrating how criminals pose as probe agency officials to exploit people’s fear, gathering detailed information about potential victims.

Modi cautioned, “Beware of Digital Arrest frauds. No investigative agency will ever contact you by phone or video call for such an investigation.”

PM Modi gave three steps of digital security in his address, saying stop, think and take action.

He said: “As soon as you receive the call, wait, don’t panic, stay calm, don’t take any hasty steps, don’t give your personal information to anyone, and if possible take a screenshot and make a recording.”

“The second step is to think — No government agency threatens over the phone like this, nor does it interrogate over a video call, nor does it demand money like this. If you feel scared, then understand that something is wrong,” he said.

In the third step, PM Modi urged people to dial 1930 to connect with the national cyber helpline, inform the police about such crimes, and record conversations and take screenshots, given the frequency of such reported crimes.

In addition, during the broadcast, the Prime Minister commended the increasing impact of Indian talents in the animation industry, noting a surge of creative energy in India.

He emphasised that ‘Made in India’ and ‘Made by India’ are shining brightly in the world of animation. Furthermore, Modi highlighted the popularity of Indian animation characters like Chhota Bheem, Krishna, and Motu Patlu, stating that Indian content and creativity are being well-liked worldwide.

He underlined that India is on the path to revolutionising animation, with Indian games also gaining popularity.

Additionally, he mentioned the progress of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ in various sectors, highlighting that the country is now exporting its defense products to over 85 countries.