Q.20 Cross-Border movement of insurgents is only one of the several security challenges facing the policing of the border in North-East India. Examine the various challenges currently emanating across the India-Myanmar border. Also, discuss the steps to counter the challenges.

Model Answer:

Introduction

The India-Myanmar border, spanning 1,643 kilometres, is a complex and porous frontier that poses significant security challenges. While cross-border insurgency is a major concern, the region faces multiple security threats, including smuggling, human trafficking, and illegal migration. Addressing these issues is crucial for ensuring stability in India’s northeastern states and maintaining friendly relations with Myanmar.

Body

1. Cross-Border Insurgency

• Safe Havens for Insurgents: Several insurgent groups from India's northeastern states, such as Nagaland and Manipur, operate from bases across the Myanmar border. These groups use the difficult terrain for shelter, regrouping, and launching attacks.
• Weak Border Infrastructure: The difficult and mountainous terrain along the border makes it hard for Indian security forces to monitor and prevent the movement of insurgents, making policing more challenging.

2. Smuggling and Trafficking

• Drug Smuggling: The India-Myanmar border is part of the "Golden Triangle," a notorious region for the production and trafficking of opium, heroin, and methamphetamines. Smuggling of drugs into India poses a major threat to local communities.
• Arms Smuggling: Insurgent groups often receive arms and ammunition smuggled through Myanmar, further complicating the internal security situation in the Northeast.
• Human Trafficking: The border region is also a hotbed for human trafficking, with women and children being trafficked for labour and prostitution.

3. Illegal Migration

• Unregulated Border Movement: Ethnic communities like the Nagas and Kukis straddle both sides of the border, leading to frequent movement across the boundary. This creates issues related to illegal migration, impacting the local demographic and economic balance.

Steps to Counter Challenges

• Enhanced Border Security: Strengthening border infrastructure by constructing roads, outposts, and surveillance systems will improve monitoring and control along the border.
• Bilateral Cooperation: Increasing cooperation with Myanmar, including joint military operations and intelligence sharing, can help dismantle insurgent bases and curb cross-border activities.
• Deployment of Specialized Forces: Deploying specialised units like the Assam Rifles and more personnel from the Border Security Force (BSF) to patrol sensitive areas can prevent smuggling and illegal activities.
• Community Engagement: Involving local communities in border management, through incentives and development initiatives, can enhance intelligence gathering and reduce insurgent recruitment.

Conclusion

The India-Myanmar border faces a range of security challenges beyond insurgency, including smuggling, human trafficking, and illegal migration. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that includes enhancing border security, fostering bilateral cooperation with Myanmar, and engaging local communities. By implementing comprehensive strategies, India can better secure its northeastern borders and promote regional stability.

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