Not an inch of Indian territory could be touched by anyone: Rajnath Singh's message to China from Ladakh

Singh, who is on a two-day visit to Ladakh and Srinagar, landed in Leh on Friday and witnessed T-90 tanks and combat vehicles exercises at Stakna in Leh.

While addressing the troops of Indian Army, Indian Air Force and ITBP at Lukung forward base, Singh said, "Talks are underway to resolve the border dispute but to what extent it can be resolved I cannot guarantee.

"I can assure you, not one inch of our land can be taken by any power in the world. If a solution can be found by talks, there is nothing better."

Talking about the Galwan valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops, he paid tribute to the fallen soldiers and said, "Recently what happened between troops of India and China at PP14, how some of our personnel sacrificed their lives protecting our border.

"I am happy to meet you all but also saddened because of their loss. I pay my tributes to them."

The Defence Minister was scheduled to visit Ladakh on Jul 3.

However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took everybody by surprise and visited Ladakh to signal the country's firmness in dealing with border row with China. He also addressed troops and met soldiers who were injured during scuffle with China troops at Galwan valley.

'Era of expansionism gone': PM Modi's strong message to China from Leh

Indian and Chinese troops were locked in a bitter standoff at multiple locations in Eastern Ladakh for over eight weeks since May 5. However, the tension escalated manifold after the violent clashes in Galwan Valley in which 20 Indian Army personnel were killed.

The situation improved following a series of diplomatic and military talks, the two sides began a mutual disengagement process on Jul 6 and withdrew troops from most of the friction points.