Q19. India has a long and troubled border with China and Pakistan fraught with contentious issues. Examine the conflicting issues and security challenges along the border. Also give out the development being undertaken in these areas under the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) and Border Infrastructure and Management (BIM) Scheme.

Approach

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Introduction

India shares extensive and complex borders with China and Pakistan, spanning approximately 3,488 km and 3,323 km respectively. These borders are fraught with contentious issues that pose significant security challenges.

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Conflicting Issues and Security Challenges:

• China Border:some text
  • Territorial Disputes: The Line of Actual Control (LAC) is not clearly demarcated, leading to frequent standoffs, such as the Doklam standoff in 2017 and the Galwan Valley clash in 2020.
  • Transgressions and Standoffs: Regular incursions by Chinese troops into Indian territory create tension and instability.
  • Infrastructure Competition: China’s rapid infrastructure development in border areas, including roads and military installations, necessitates a matching response from India.
  • Unpredictability: The lack of a clear and agreed upon boundary increases the unpredictability of Chinese actions.
• Pakistan Border:some text
  • Land Disputes: The Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB) are hotspots for skirmishes and ceasefire violations.
  • Infiltration and Terrorism: Pakistanbased terrorist groups frequently infiltrate into India, as seen in the 2016 Uri attack and the 2019 Pulwama attack.
  • CrossBorder Incidents: Regular shelling and firing across the LoC result in civilian and military casualties.
  • Unlawful Activities: Smuggling of arms, drugs, and counterfeit currency is rampant along the border.

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Development Initiatives being undertaken: 

• Border Area Development Programme (BADP): Aims to promote the socio-economic development of border areas, which are often underdeveloped and face unique challenges.some text
  • Infrastructure Development: BADP emphasizes building essential infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and communication networks. For instance, the construction of the Naharani Bridge in Arunachal Pradesh significantly improved connectivity for remote communities.
  • Community Engagement: The program also involves local communities in planning and execution, ensuring that development meets the specific needs of residents. For example, initiatives like Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP) to promote skill development, vocational training and connectivity have empowered local youth, reducing unemployment and fostering a sense of belonging.
• Border Infrastructure and Management (BIM) Scheme: Aims to enhance infrastructure along India’s borders, focusing on both security management and the facilitation of rapid troop movement.some text
  • Road and Base Construction: The BIM scheme prioritizes the construction of border roads and forward bases to improve logistical capabilities. For example, the Ladakh Border Road Project aims to develop a network of roads that connect remote areas to major military hubs, ensuring that forces can be deployed quickly in response to any security threat.
  • Advanced Communication Systems: In addition to physical infrastructure, the BIM scheme includes the establishment of advanced communication systems. Projects like the Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) network along the Indo-China border enhance communication capabilities, enabling real-time coordination and response during emergencies.

Conclusion

Efficient border management and holistic development are vital for ensuring national security and promoting the welfare of border residents. A comprehensive strategy involving infrastructure development, surveillance, diplomatic negotiations, and socioeconomic development is essential to address the challenges arising from the borders with China and Pakistan.

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