Watch it here:
https://youtu.be/aM_U18P7D-4?si=zRZBm6SdStXSKOGD
https://youtu.be/nTwPQFcKyF0?si=fQHM2pAXFzbfUdv-
With Claude Arpi
The Fault Lines is a series by FNVA that discuss developments occurring on our Indian
frontiers. Engaging extensively with the Universities on these regions and bringing them to
the fore.
The episode of the Fault Lines unfolds a riveting exploration into the historical context of the
Sino-Indian boundary, with a particular focus on the Ladakh sector. Claude Arpi, an
esteemed author, Tibet expert, Advisor at FNVA, and Director of the Pavilion of Tibetan
Culture at Auroville, takes center stage as he delves into the intricacies of the region.
Moderated by Professor Sonam Joldan from the University of Ladakh, the episode serves as
a crucial discourse addressed to the academic community, shedding light on the nuanced
dynamics of the Sino-Indian boundary.
The session is divided into two parts on our YouTube handle.
Part 1: Historical Background and Significance of Ladakh in the India-China Boundary: In the
initial part of the episode, Claude Arpi provides a comprehensive overview of the historical
background and significance of Ladakh in the context of the India-China boundary.
Previously part of the India-Tibet border, Ladakh holds a pivotal position in the geopolitical
landscape. Arpi, skillfully navigates through the historical developments, tracing the
evolution of the boundary and setting the stage for a deeper understanding of the Ladakh
sector.
Part 2: Tibet and Tibetans in the Ladakh Sector – Recent Developments and the Dalai Lama’s
Central Role: The second part of Claude Arpi’s discourse delves into the role of Tibet and
Tibetans in the Ladakh sector of the Indian border. He sheds light on recent developments
in the region, unravelling the intricate connections between the current geopolitical
scenario and the erstwhile independent Tibet. He emphasizes the central role played by the
Dalai Lama in this region, adding a layer of complexity to the dynamics between Ladakh,
Tibet, and contemporary China.
Some Key Highlights from this episode:
1. Historical Evolution: He skillfully traces the historical evolution of Ladakh’s
significance in the India-China boundary, offering a nuanced perspective on the
region’s geopolitical importance.
2. Ladakh’s Transition: The discourse unveils Ladakh’s transition from being the India-
Tibet border to its current status in the India-China boundary, providing insights into
the changing dynamics of the region.
3. Tibet’s Influence: He elucidates the role of Tibet and Tibetans in the Ladakh sector,
connecting the historical threads to contemporary developments and highlighting
the enduring influence of Tibet on the region.
4. Dalai Lama’s Central Role: The episode underscores the central role of the Dalai
Lama in shaping the dynamics of the Ladakh sector, emphasizing his continued
significance in the context of the evolving Sino-Indian boundary.
Claude Arpi’s insightful discourse in “The Fault Lines” second episode not only enriches our
understanding of the historical background and significance of Ladakh but also brings to the
forefront the intricate connections between Ladakh, Tibet, and the contemporary
geopolitical landscape. The report encapsulates the multi-faceted dimensions explored by
Arpi, providing a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and enthusiasts seeking a
deeper comprehension of the fault lines in the Sino-Indian boundary, particularly in the
Ladakh sector.
