Introductory Memo
India’s border dispute with China remains a serious concern. It swings between calm and sudden standoffs. China’s maps are not just technical documents, but they are tools of political signalling and psychological warfare. This pattern is not new. Communist China revealed its expansionist intent when it took control of Tibet. Since then, it has used “cartographic aggression” to assert its claims. These maps are designed to pressure neighbours. They are often used to gain leverage in negotiations. India understands this strategy. It is now more vigilant and responds swiftly to unilateral maps and attempts to rename places within its territory.