Shaksgam Valley: China Defends Work After India’s Protest
Why in the news
The valley drew attention after China justified construction activity there, following a protest from India.
Key facts
- Alternate name: Trans-Karakoram Tract, a high-altitude area.
- India claims it, but China administers it.
- Seen as part of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, run by China’s Xinjiang region.
Location
- Lies to the north of the Siachen Glacier.
- Sits between the Karakoram and Kunlun ranges.
History and dispute
- Originally belonged to the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir.
- The 1963 Sino-Pakistan Agreement: China received 5,180 sq km from Pakistan.
- India called it illegal.
- Article 6 of that agreement treats the boundary as temporary until the Kashmir issue is resolved.
Exam angle
- Other name: Trans-Karakoram Tract.
- Area ceded in 1963: 5,180 sq km.
- Neighbouring features: Siachen Glacier, Karakoram and Kunlun ranges.