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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Coastal Surveillance Network: A chain of sensors, including radars, Automatic Identification System (AIS), and cameras, is deployed at 46 coastal locations for surveillance.
4. 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.

Model Answer

Role of Border Infrastructure in Strengthening Security

1. Enhanced Border Outposts (BOPs):
   • Advanced BOPs with high-tech fencing, sensor-based systems, and UAVs provide better monitoring and act as physical deterrents.
   • Example: India employs high-tech border fences along the Pakistan and Bangladesh borders for effective surveillance.
2. Improved Road and Rail Networks:
   • Roads and railways enable rapid troop movement, steady supply chains, and effective deployment during crises.
   • Example: During the Kargil War, the Srinagar-Leh highway proved critical for operations despite targeted attacks by Pakistani forces.
3. Modernized Air Infrastructure:
   • Airfields and helipads ensure logistical support in areas where roads are vulnerable or inaccessible.
   • Example: Heavy-lift helicopters are pivotal for supplying remote military posts in border regions.
4. Upgraded Communication Systems:
   • Reliable communication networks facilitate real-time intelligence sharing, enhancing the ability to preempt threats.

Impact on Regional Development

1. Connectivity Boost:
   • Seamless road networks link remote border areas to the mainland, promoting trade, tourism, and access to healthcare and education.
   • Example: The Atal Tunnel has increased tourist traffic inflow by 400%, driving regional development.
2. Economic Growth and Employment:
   • Infrastructure projects generate jobs and stimulate the local economy by attracting industries and businesses.
   • Example: The Vibrant Villages Programme focuses on employment generation alongside infrastructure improvement.
3. Cross-Border Trade:
   • Improved infrastructure fosters trade with neighboring countries, benefiting border communities.
   • Example: Border haats along the India-Bangladesh border create livelihood opportunities for rural populations.
4. Digital Connectivity:
   • Expansion of internet access supports digital literacy, e-governance, and integration into the digital economy.
   • Example: A 4G tower in Lumpo village near the LAC has empowered locals to participate in the digital age.

Key Initiatives by the Government

• Vibrant Villages Programme aims to revitalize border areas through infrastructure and economic development.
• Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS) leverages technology for effective border management.

By addressing security challenges and fostering regional growth, border infrastructure development not only safeguards national sovereignty but also empowers border communities.

Model Answer

1. Investment in Counter-Drone Technology

India should prioritize the development and deployment of advanced counter-drone technologies capable of detecting, tracking, and neutralizing unauthorized drones. For example, Russia has successfully utilized electronic warfare capabilities against small drones in Ukraine, demonstrating effective countermeasures that India could emulate .

2. Capacity Building

Enhancing the capabilities of security forces and law enforcement agencies through specialized training programs is crucial. These programs should focus on drone detection, identification, and response strategies. Additionally, the establishment of dedicated drone battalions for border security could significantly improve operational readiness .

3. Inter-Agency Coordination

Institutionalizing inter-agency coordination is essential for a comprehensive understanding of hostile drone activities. This coordination should mirror successful frameworks used in counter-terrorism and narcotics control, facilitating timely sharing of actionable intelligence among various security agencies .

4. Database Management

Maintaining a detailed database of micro and small drones, both imported and domestically produced, will enhance monitoring capabilities. This database should track drones that are susceptible to modification by criminal networks, thereby improving the ability of security agencies to deter potential threats .

5. Public-Private Partnerships

Fostering collaboration between government agencies, private companies, and research institutions can accelerate the development of indigenous drone technologies. Such partnerships can pool resources and expertise, strengthening national capabilities against drone threats .

6. International Collaboration

Engaging with international partners, particularly those with advanced counter-drone technologies like Israel and the United States, can provide India with valuable insights and expertise. This collaboration can play a significant role in developing effective countermeasures against drone threats .

As drone technology becomes increasingly accessible, it is imperative for India to implement these strategies to safeguard its borders effectively.