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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.

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Preparedness for Unconventional Threats

Hamas utilized innovative and unconventional methods, such as drones, paragliders, motorcycles, and tunnels, to bypass Israel’s advanced security systems. India, facing threats in regions like Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeast, must prepare for similar tactics. Strengthening counter-infiltration measures against tunnel networks and low-tech attacks is crucial.

Balancing Technology with Human Intelligence

Israel’s heavy reliance on advanced technological systems like surveillance and barriers was outmaneuvered by Hamas’s blend of low-tech and creative approaches. For India, integrating human intelligence and traditional reconnaissance with modern technology is essential to ensure comprehensive security coverage.

Enhanced Intelligence Integration

The attack exposed gaps in intelligence sharing and coordination in Israel. India, with multiple security agencies such as the Armed Forces, Border Security Forces, and Central Armed Police Forces under different ministries, must focus on seamless intelligence integration. Establishing a unified command structure can preempt threats effectively.

Political Stability and Security Vigilance

Israel’s internal political divisions may have distracted its focus on external threats, highlighting the importance of domestic stability. India must prioritize minimizing internal divisions to maintain a vigilant and cohesive approach to national security.

Conclusion

The Hamas attack underscores the importance of a multi-layered approach to border security, combining technology, human intelligence, and political stability. By learning from Israel’s experience, India can enhance its border management to address emerging threats effectively.

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Challenges in Controlling Drug Trafficking in India

India faces several challenges in controlling drug trafficking due to its geographical location, technological advancements, and porous borders.

1. Proximity to Opium-Producing Regions: India lies between two major global opium-producing regions—the Golden Triangle and the Golden Crescent. These areas meet nearly 90% of global drug demand, making India a major transit route for trafficking activities.
2. Border Management Issues: India shares porous borders with neighboring countries such as Pakistan and Myanmar, where rebel groups and ineffective governance contribute to illegal trafficking. These challenges make it difficult to monitor and control the flow of drugs across the border regions.
3. Technological Advancements: The rise of encrypted communication, cryptocurrencies for anonymous transactions, and drones used for smuggling have made it harder for law enforcement to track and disrupt trafficking networks. For instance, 62% of the darknet is involved in illicit drug trade due to its anonymity and minimal risks
4. Global Drug Networks: International drug cartels operate complex networks, making it difficult for Indian authorities to manage and disrupt drug trafficking activities.

Multi-Pronged Strategy to Combat Drug Trafficking

1. Curbing Supply: Strengthening law enforcement and breaking the nexus between local police, smugglers, and politicians is crucial. Measures such as providing protection to whistleblowers, establishing fast-track courts, and enforcing strong penal provisions would help reduce trafficking.
2. Use of Technology: Upgrading technological resources, such as advanced surveillance systems (e.g., long-range cameras, motion sensors), would improve border monitoring and detection of trafficking attempts.
3. Improving De-Addiction Infrastructure: Expanding and regulating de-addiction centers, along with offering comprehensive treatment options, can help reduce drug demand and prevent new users.
4. Regional and Global Cooperation: India should strengthen collaboration with international organizations such as BRICS and the SCO to combat cross-border trafficking.
5. Raising Awareness: Implementing educational programs that promote healthy lifestyles, coping skills, and resilience could help in preventing drug use.

By addressing both supply and demand sides of the drug trafficking issue, India can make significant strides toward controlling this pressing problem.