Shipki-La Pass

• China has agreed in principle to resume border trade through Shipki-La Pass, located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India.

Background:

• This agreement was reached during the recent visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to India.

• The decision reflects an ongoing effort to normalise diplomatic and economic relations between India and China after years of tension.

Reason for Suspension:

• Trade through Shipki-La was suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and increased border tensions, especially following the Galwan Valley clash.

About Shipki-La Pass

Location & Geography:

• Shipki-La is a motorable mountain pass situated at an altitude of 3,930 meters.

• It lies on the India–China border in the tribal district of Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh.

Historical Name:

• Earlier known as Pema La, meaning “Shared Gate” or “Shared Pass”, symbolising its role in ancient Indo-Tibetan trade.

Strategic Importance:

• Declared as part of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) after the 1962 India-China war.

• The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) currently monitors and patrols the pass.

River Origin:

• The Sutlej River (known as Langqen Zangbo in Tibet) enters India through this pass.

• This makes it not just a political boundary, but also a geographical landmark.

Economic and Strategic Significance

Historical Trade Corridor:

• Shipki-La has long served as a key trade route between India and Tibet, allowing the movement of:

  • Wool, salt, and dry fruits from Tibet.

  • Grains, clothes, tea, and utensils from India.

• This trans-Himalayan trade was vital for local communities on both sides.

Border Area Development:

• The reopening is part of a broader development strategy aimed at:

  • Reviving local economies in Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti.

  • Enhancing border connectivity in remote tribal areas.

• These regions share a 240 km-long border with China.

Potential Tourist Access:

• Himachal Pradesh has proposed to open Shipki-La to tourists, as part of border tourism development.

• Could serve as a new route for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in future, easing the journey for pilgrims.