Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Objective: Define effective border area management and its importance in countering militancy. Key Points: Highlight the need for strategies to deny local support to militants and foster positive perceptions among local communities. 2. Steps to Deny Local Support ...
Model Answer Vulnerability of India's Coasts to Unlawful Activities India’s vast coastline of over 7,516 km, spanning nine states and four union territories, makes it highly vulnerable to unlawful activities that threaten national security. These activities include: Smuggling and Illegal Trade: CoasRead more
Model Answer
Vulnerability of India’s Coasts to Unlawful Activities
India’s vast coastline of over 7,516 km, spanning nine states and four union territories, makes it highly vulnerable to unlawful activities that threaten national security. These activities include:
- Smuggling and Illegal Trade: Coastal routes are often exploited for smuggling drugs, gold, electronics, and counterfeit currency. For instance, in 2021, 2,988 kilograms of heroin were seized at Gujarat’s Mundra port.
- Terrorism: The porous nature of the coastline poses a security risk as it can serve as an entry point for terrorists. A notable example is the 2008 Mumbai attacks, where terrorists infiltrated the city via sea routes.
- Piracy: Piracy, particularly in the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean, threatens maritime trade routes. A recent example is the rescue of the hijacked vessel MV Ruen by INS Kolkata, which captured 35 pirates.
- Human Trafficking: The coastlines also serve as routes for human trafficking and illegal immigration, with individuals from Bangladesh and Myanmar illegally entering India through its eastern coast.
Current Coastal Security System
To address these security threats, India has implemented a robust security framework:
- Three-Tier Coastal Security Ring:
- The Indian Navy patrols the International Maritime Boundary Line.
- The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ensures surveillance up to 200 nautical miles.
- State Coastal Police handles boat patrols in shallow coastal areas.
- Joint Coastal Security Exercises: The bi-annual Sagar Kavach exercises involve multiple agencies, such as the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Police, to validate coastal security effectiveness against asymmetric threats from the sea.
- Coastal Surveillance Network: A chain of sensors, including radars, Automatic Identification System (AIS), and cameras, is deployed at 46 coastal locations for surveillance.
- Community Interaction Programs: ICG engages with local fishers and coastal populations to increase awareness of security issues, making them the “Eyes and Ears” of coastal security.
Challenges
Despite these measures, challenges persist. A CAG report highlighted issues such as:
- Lack of nighttime patrolling.
- Inadequate training for marine police.
- Under-utilization of funds for basic infrastructure.
These gaps point to the need for continuous improvements to strengthen India’s coastal security system.
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Model Answer Introduction Effective border area management in India requires a multifaceted approach to deny local support to militants and foster positive relationships with local communities. This strategy is essential for maintaining security in border regions characterized by diverse geographiesRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Effective border area management in India requires a multifaceted approach to deny local support to militants and foster positive relationships with local communities. This strategy is essential for maintaining security in border regions characterized by diverse geographies and cross-border issues.
Steps to Deny Local Support to Militants
1. Robust Intelligence Network
Establishing a strong intelligence network is crucial for preempting militant activities. The intelligence efforts during the 2016 Uri attack exemplify how timely information can thwart potential threats.
2. Development Initiatives
Government projects like the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) aim to improve the livelihoods of border communities, thereby reducing their vulnerability to militant influence.
3. Civic Action Programmes
Initiatives such as the ‘Sadbhavana’ program by the Indian Army focus on bridging the trust deficit between locals and security forces, promoting social harmony.
4. Strict Border Controls
Effective management measures, including fencing and technological solutions at the Punjab-Pakistan border, can deter cross-border militant activities.
5. Conflict Resolution Mechanisms
Implementing mechanisms to resolve local grievances can significantly reduce support for militants. The Bodo Peace Accord in Assam serves as an example of successful conflict resolution.
Ways to Manage Favorable Perceptions Among Locals
1. Community Engagement
Programs like ‘Bharat Darshan’ for youth in Jammu & Kashmir foster a sense of national integration and belonging.
2. Local Recruitment in Security Forces
Recruiting locals into security forces, such as the Assam Rifles, enhances cooperation and a sense of ownership within the community.
3. Cultural Sensitivities
Respecting local cultural practices helps build trust. The CRPF’s efforts to learn the Kashmiri language demonstrate this commitment.
4. Transparency in Operations
Ensuring transparency in security operations, such as the investigation of the Shopian case in Jammu & Kashmir, fosters trust among locals.
Conclusion
An effective border area management strategy hinges on proactive intelligence, developmental initiatives, cultural sensitivity, transparency, and community engagement. By ensuring the welfare of border communities, the government can promote active participation in maintaining peace and security, thereby countering militancy effectively.
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