Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction (50-75 words) Briefly introduce the IMO’s decision to move the high-risk piracy area from 65° East to 78° East. Highlight the importance of this change in relation to India’s maritime security. Relevant Facts: The shift occurred in 2012, as ...
Model Answer Introduction Illegal trans-border migration into India, particularly in states like Assam and Tamil Nadu, poses significant security threats. India's diverse geography and economic opportunities attract illicit migration. A report by the Ministry of Home Affairs in 2020 estimated over 2Read more
Model Answer
Introduction
Illegal trans-border migration into India, particularly in states like Assam and Tamil Nadu, poses significant security threats. India’s diverse geography and economic opportunities attract illicit migration. A report by the Ministry of Home Affairs in 2020 estimated over 2 million illegal immigrants in India, with a substantial number residing in Assam and Tamil Nadu.
Security Threats Posed by Illegal Trans-Border Migration
Terrorism and Infiltration
Illegal migration can facilitate terrorist infiltration. The 2008 Mumbai attacks highlighted how militants exploited vulnerabilities in border security. Concerns have also been raised regarding connections between illegal Sri Lankan immigrants and militant groups like the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
Crime and Insurgency
There is a notable correlation between illegal migration and a rise in criminal activities. The India-Bangladesh border has become a hotspot for smuggling and human trafficking. In the North-Eastern states, unchecked migration has exacerbated insurgency issues.
Social Unrest
Rapid demographic changes due to illegal immigration have led to social tensions. Historical incidents, such as the Assam Agitation in the 1980s and recent violence against Sri Lankan refugees in Tamil Nadu, underscore the potential for unrest.
Strategies to Curb Illegal Trans-Border Migration
Enhanced Surveillance
India has improved border security through initiatives like the Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS), which employs technology for better monitoring. Coastal security in Tamil Nadu has also been strengthened to prevent illegal maritime migration.
Legal Measures
The government has implemented legal frameworks, such as the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). However, these measures have sparked debate regarding their humanitarian implications.
Bilateral Cooperation
Strengthening cooperation with neighboring countries is crucial. The 2015 Land Boundary Agreement with Bangladesh represents a significant step towards addressing migration issues collaboratively.
Factors Driving Illegal Trans-Border Migration
Economic Opportunity
India’s relatively better economic prospects serve as a significant pull factor for migrants from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
Political Unrest and Conflict
Political instability, exemplified by the Sri Lankan Civil War, has driven many to seek refuge in India.
Environmental Factors
Climate change and associated disasters, particularly in Bangladesh’s low-lying regions, are increasingly influencing migration patterns.
Socio-Cultural Ties
Shared linguistic and cultural connections facilitate the integration of migrants, as seen with Sri Lankan Tamils in Tamil Nadu.
Conclusion
Addressing illegal trans-border migration requires a nuanced approach that balances security needs, socio-economic dynamics, and humanitarian concerns. The complexity of this issue highlights the necessity for comprehensive and sustainable solutions.
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Model Answer Introduction The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2012 decision to shift the high-risk piracy area’s longitudinal marking from 65° East to 78° East in the Arabian Sea has significant implications for India’s maritime security. Impact on India’s Maritime Security Increased SurRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2012 decision to shift the high-risk piracy area’s longitudinal marking from 65° East to 78° East in the Arabian Sea has significant implications for India’s maritime security.
Impact on India’s Maritime Security
Increased Surveillance Burden
The shift expanded the high-risk area closer to India’s western coast, thereby increasing India’s responsibility for surveillance and anti-piracy operations. This has led to heightened patrolling by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard to monitor and protect vessels operating in these waters.
Threat to Commercial Interests
The redefinition places Indian commercial vessels within the high-risk zone, which raises the risks for India’s shipping industry. This situation could potentially lead to increased insurance premiums for these vessels, affecting the overall cost of maritime trade.
Impact on Fishing Activities
The new high-risk area includes parts of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which could significantly impact the operations of Indian fishing vessels. Safety concerns may deter fishermen from operating in these waters, affecting their livelihoods and food security.
Potential for Increased Cooperation
On a positive note, the shift also presents an opportunity for enhanced international cooperation in tackling maritime piracy. India has already engaged in collaborative efforts with neighboring countries like the Maldives and Seychelles to strengthen maritime security in the region.
Conclusion
The IMO’s decision to shift the piracy high-risk area’s longitudinal marking closer to India significantly increases India’s maritime security responsibilities and commercial vulnerabilities. However, it also provides an impetus for stronger international cooperation in securing the Arabian Sea against piracy.
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