Trade through Shipki La Pass to commence from June 1

Trade between India and China is set to resume from June 1 through the Shipki La Pass, with authorities undertaking significant preparations to operationalise the route.

Location and Features: Shipki La Pass, located in Kinnaur district, lies at an altitude of 3,930 metres and is one of the few motorable mountain passes facilitating cross-border connectivity.

Historical Background: Indo-Tibetan trade through this route dates back centuries. In 1697, a treaty between Tibet (Ganden Phodrang) and Raja Kehari Singh of Bushahar ensured safe passage and promoted barter-based trade along the historic Hindustan-Tibet road.

Disruptions and Resumption: Trade was halted after the Sino-Indian War but resumed in a limited, regulated manner in 1994. However, it was again suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Strategic and Economic Importance: The reopening of Shipki La is expected to boost cross-border trade, strengthen local economies, and revive traditional trade networks in the region.

Boost to Religious Tourism: The route could significantly reduce travel time from Delhi to Mansarovar by nearly 14 days, making it a potential game-changer for pilgrimage and tourism.