3 Things PM Modi's China visit, Punjab floods, and special underwater vehicles
Sep 3, 2025
In this discussion, Shubhajit Roy, Diplomatic Affairs Editor for The Indian Express, shares insights from Prime Minister Modi's crucial visit to China, addressing the state of India-China relations amid ongoing tensions. Raakhi Jagga, who reports on floods in Punjab, details the devastating impact of flooding in over a thousand villages and the community's efforts for recovery. They also touch on Gujarat's innovative use of remotely operated vehicles for rescue operations, showcasing new technology in disaster management.
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Visit Marked A Push Toward Normalisation
- PM Modi's Tianjin visit signalled a shift from confrontation to cautious normalisation with China after the 5½-year border standoff.
- Leaders framed India and China as partners, opening space for resumed visas, flights and calmer border management.
Partnership Framing Vs. Ground Reality
- Officials acknowledged the border remains heavily militarised despite calmer talks and disengagement progress.
- The diplomatic framing of partnership reflects leaders' aspirations more than an immediate ground-level demilitarisation.
Strategic Autonomy Emphasised
- India urged bilateral dealings without viewing ties through a third-country lens, stressing strategic autonomy.
- This approach aims to separate India–China relations from India–US and China–Pakistan triangular tensions.