Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Opening sentence: Start by introducing India’s geographical significance and its vast coastline (7,500+ km). Fact: India’s coastline stretches over ...
As of early 2022, India's relationship with its neighbor Bangladesh has seen notable developments across various dimensions—political, economic, and cultural. Political Developments: 1. Bilateral Visits and Diplomatic Engagement: - High-level visits between Indian and Bangladeshi leaders have strengRead more
As of early 2022, India’s relationship with its neighbor Bangladesh has seen notable developments across various dimensions—political, economic, and cultural.
Political Developments:
1. Bilateral Visits and Diplomatic Engagement:
– High-level visits between Indian and Bangladeshi leaders have strengthened bilateral ties. For instance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Bangladesh in 2021 marked the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh’s independence and the establishment of diplomatic relations.
2. Border Management and Security Cooperation:
– Both countries have been cooperating closely on border management to address issues related to illegal migration, cross-border smuggling, and security challenges. Efforts include joint patrols and discussions on enhancing border infrastructure.
3. Water Sharing and Teesta River Agreement:
– Discussions have continued on water sharing, particularly concerning the Teesta River. Despite efforts, a comprehensive agreement has yet to be reached, impacting agricultural practices and regional stability.
Economic Relations:
1. Trade and Investment:
– Economic ties have expanded, with India being one of Bangladesh’s largest trading partners. Efforts have been made to reduce trade barriers and promote investments in sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure.
2. Connectivity and Infrastructure:
– Projects like the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline and cross-border rail links have enhanced connectivity, facilitating trade and people-to-people exchanges.
Cultural and People-to-People Relations:
1. Cultural Exchanges:
– Cultural diplomacy has been robust, with exchanges of art, literature, and music enhancing mutual understanding and strengthening historical ties.
2. People-to-People Contacts:
– Visa facilitation measures and initiatives to promote tourism have fostered greater interaction between Indian and Bangladeshi citizens.
Recent Challenges and Opportunities:
1. Rohingya Refugee Crisis:
– Bangladesh’s hosting of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar has been a humanitarian challenge, with India providing support while emphasizing the importance of a sustainable solution.
2. COVID-19 Pandemic Response:
– Collaboration during the pandemic included vaccine diplomacy efforts and medical assistance, showcasing solidarity in times of crisis.
India and Bangladesh continue to navigate a complex relationship shaped by historical ties, economic interests, and shared security concerns. While progress has been made in various areas, challenges like unresolved water disputes and regional security dynamics pose ongoing tests to the bilateral relationship. Moving forward, sustained dialogue and cooperation will be crucial in harnessing mutual benefits and addressing emerging challenges effectively.
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Model Answer Introduction India, with a coastline exceeding 7,500 km and its pivotal location in the Indian Ocean, faces numerous maritime security challenges. These challenges are growing in importance due to the global relevance of maritime trade, energy transport, and regional geopolitics. MaritiRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
India, with a coastline exceeding 7,500 km and its pivotal location in the Indian Ocean, faces numerous maritime security challenges. These challenges are growing in importance due to the global relevance of maritime trade, energy transport, and regional geopolitics.
Maritime Security Challenges in India:
Terrorism and Piracy
India’s porous maritime borders are susceptible to terrorist infiltration, exemplified by the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, where terrorists exploited vulnerabilities along the Arabian Sea. Piracy originating from the Gulf of Aden also threatens shipping routes near India’s western coast.
Illegal Trafficking
Smuggling of contraband, arms, and human trafficking via maritime routes is a persistent problem. Areas like the Sundarbans Delta and Palk Strait between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka are hotspots for such illicit activities.
Border Disputes
India’s maritime boundaries are contested in certain regions, such as the Sir Creek dispute with Pakistan and the Katchatheevu Island dispute with Sri Lanka, which exacerbate geopolitical tensions.
Natural Disasters
Cyclones and tsunamis pose significant risks to India’s coastline, as demonstrated by Cyclone Amphan (2020) and the 2004 Tsunami, which affected eastern states and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Initiatives to Improve Maritime Security
Organizational
India has developed a robust three-tier security system, consisting of the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Police. The Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) was also established to enhance real-time information sharing.
Technical
Advanced satellite surveillance systems such as ISRO’s Rukmini and GSAT-7A, along with radar and Automated Identification Systems (AIS), have been deployed to monitor coastal activities effectively.
Procedural
Coastal security exercises are regularly conducted to ensure inter-agency coordination. Additionally, biometric ID cards for fishermen are issued to prevent illegal activities and infiltration.
Conclusion
India’s maritime security challenges are diverse and complex, necessitating comprehensive responses. Through organizational, technical, and procedural innovations, India has strengthened its maritime security framework, but continuous efforts are required to keep pace with evolving threats.
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