Because of the length of India’s coastline, coastal security is an essential component of the country’s security framework. Talk about it. Draw attention to the weaknesses in India’s current coastal security framework. (Answer in 250 words)
Model Answer Introduction The India-Myanmar border is a complex region facing numerous security challenges, including insurgent activities, drug trafficking, and human trafficking. These issues are exacerbated by the porous nature of the border, making effective policing difficult. Security ChallengRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The India-Myanmar border is a complex region facing numerous security challenges, including insurgent activities, drug trafficking, and human trafficking. These issues are exacerbated by the porous nature of the border, making effective policing difficult.
Security Challenges
Insurgent Activities
Groups such as the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-K) exploit the border for insurgent activities, as highlighted by the 2015 ambush in Manipur. Other groups like the Kuki Liberation Front (KLF) and the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) also utilize this region for arms smuggling and as a sanctuary for their operations.
Drug Trafficking
The border serves as a critical route for drug trafficking, particularly due to its proximity to Myanmar’s Golden Triangle, a notorious area for opium production. Numerous seizures of yaba tablets and heroin have been reported, indicating the scale of this issue.
Human Trafficking
The region is a hotspot for human trafficking, with victims often subjected to forced labor or sexual exploitation. This crime is facilitated by the lack of stringent border controls.
Arms Smuggling
Illegal arms smuggling remains a persistent problem, with insurgent groups sourcing weapons from across the border, further complicating the security landscape.
Illegal Immigration
The porous border allows for significant illegal immigration, which adds to the demographic complexities and strains local resources.
Wildlife Trafficking
The border is also misused for illegal wildlife trade, threatening biodiversity and conservation efforts in the region.
Steps to Counter Challenges
Enhanced Surveillance
Utilizing advanced technologies such as drones and satellite imagery can improve real-time surveillance and early detection of suspicious activities. For instance, the Bharat drone has been effective in monitoring the border.
Improved Infrastructure
Developing infrastructure like Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) and border roads can enhance access and control. The ICP at Moreh in Manipur has notably improved border management.
Increased Border Personnel
Strengthening border forces, particularly the Assam Rifles, through increased deployment can deter illegal activities and enhance security.
Bilateral Cooperation
Collaborative efforts with Myanmar, such as ‘Operation Sunrise,’ have shown promise in managing border security and combating insurgent groups.
Socio-economic Development
Implementing development projects in border areas can reduce the allure of illegal activities and insurgency. Programs under the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) aim to address these socio-economic issues.
Conclusion
Addressing the security challenges along the India-Myanmar border requires a multifaceted approach that combines advanced surveillance, improved infrastructure, increased personnel, bilateral cooperation, and socio-economic development. By implementing these strategies, the region can become safer and more secure.
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India has a long coastline of 7516 km, which makes the significance of coastal security paramount. India's development is closely linked to its maritime and therefore it is critical to ensure the security of coastal areas. India's coastal architecture has taken a more robust shape after the 26/11 atRead more
India has a long coastline of 7516 km, which makes the significance of coastal security paramount. India’s development is closely linked to its maritime and therefore it is critical to ensure the security of coastal areas. India’s coastal architecture has taken a more robust shape after the 26/11 attack and includes the Indian Coast Guard, Coastal Surveillance Network, Marine Police, and National Committee for Strengthening Maritime and Coastal Security, etc. Coastal security is an indispensable part of India’s security architecture due to the following reasons:
India could safeguard its internal and external interests only if it enhances its capability by strengthening its coastal as well as maritime security. However, there remain certain loopholes in India’s present coastal security architecture:
However, to address these gaps, the government has undertaken a few steps. In 2022, the country’s first National Maritime Security Coordinator (NMSC) was appointed. It will ensure cooperation and harmonized functioning between the various agencies and stakeholders tasked to ensure the protection of India’s vast coastline.
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