Source: NIE
Subject: Defence
Context: Security forces detected suspicious drone activity near the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district, leading to the recovery of a 2-kg IED, ammunition, and narcotics.
About Line of Control (LoC):
What it is?
- The Line of Control (LoC) is the de facto military boundary dividing the former princely state of Jammu and Kashmir between India and Pakistan. It is not an internationally recognised border, but functions as the effective boundary on the ground.
Established in:
- 1949: Originated as the Ceasefire Line after the first India–Pakistan war, following the Karachi Agreement under UN mediation.
- 1972: Renamed the Line of Control after the Simla Agreement signed following the 1971 war.
History:
- Emerged from the 1947–48 conflict over Jammu and Kashmir, when hostilities ended with a UN-brokered ceasefire.
- The Simla Agreement converted the ceasefire line into the LoC and committed both countries to resolve disputes bilaterally, reducing the UN’s role.
- Over time, especially after the 2000s, the LoC has transformed from a thin military line into a heavily militarised and fenced frontier.
Key features:
- Length: Approximately 740 km, running from Jammu to the Siachen Glacier.
- Highly militarised: Frequent ceasefire violations, surveillance, fencing, and patrols.
- Partial fencing: India has constructed fencing along about 550 km of its side to prevent infiltration and smuggling.
- Distinct from LAC: Separate from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China in eastern Ladakh.
Significance:
- Central to India–Pakistan security dynamics and counter-terrorism efforts.
- Acts as a frontline against cross-border infiltration, arms trafficking, and drone-based smuggling.
