Roadmap for Answer Writing
1. Introduction: Define Key Terms
- Internal Security Threats: Define internal security threats as challenges like insurgencies, terrorism, arms smuggling, narcotics trafficking, and other criminal activities that threaten a nation’s stability from within.
- Transborder Crimes: Crimes that occur across borders, such as drug trafficking, arms smuggling, human trafficking, and illegal immigration.
- Focus: Introduce the three critical borders (Myanmar, Bangladesh, Pakistan/LoC) where these issues are prominent.
Fact: India shares a 15,106 km land border with seven countries. Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Pakistan/LoC regions are particularly vulnerable to security threats due to difficult terrain, insurgencies, and smuggling routes.
2. Border-wise Analysis of Internal Security Threats and Crimes
A. Myanmar Border (Northeast Region)
- Key Threats: Insurgency (Nagaland, Manipur), arms smuggling, drug trafficking (Golden Triangle), human trafficking, and cross-border militant groups.
- Geography: Dense forests, mountains, porous borders (approx. 1,643 km).
- Issue: Myanmar’s internal conflict fuels cross-border crimes.
Fact: Over 2,200 insurgency-related incidents occurred in Northeast India between 2014-2020, with Myanmar-based insurgent groups playing a major role. (Source: South Asia Terrorism Portal (SATP))
B. Bangladesh Border
- Key Threats: Illegal immigration, cattle smuggling, human trafficking, fake currency circulation, and drug trafficking (especially Phensedyl).
- Geography: Riverine terrain, dense population areas (approx. 4,096 km).
- Issue: Socio-economic factors lead to continuous illegal movements.
Fact: In 2020, over 1,100 cases of cattle smuggling and 150 cases of human trafficking were reported along the Indo-Bangladesh border. (Source: BSF (Border Security Force) Annual Report, 2021)
C. Pakistan Border and Line of Control (LoC)
- Key Threats: Terrorism, arms and drug trafficking, infiltration by militants, and cross-border shelling.
- Geography: Harsh terrain, deserts, and snow-covered regions (approx. 3,323 km including LoC).
- Issue: Persistent cross-border terrorism and ceasefire violations.
Fact: Between 2016-2020, there were over 5,000 ceasefire violations along the LoC, with significant infiltration attempts by Pakistan-based militant groups. (Source: Ministry of Defence, Government of India)
3. Role of Security Forces
A. Assam Rifles (Myanmar Border)
- Primary Role: Guard the Indo-Myanmar border, counter-insurgency, and maintain peace in the Northeast region.
- Operation Example: Operation Sunrise (2019) was conducted jointly with Myanmar to target insurgent groups.
B. Border Security Force (BSF) (Bangladesh and Pakistan Borders)
- Primary Role: Control illegal cross-border activities, prevent smuggling, and secure the borders.
- Operation Example: BSF has successfully reduced cattle smuggling by 90% along the Bangladesh border between 2015-2020 through surveillance and fencing.
C. Indian Army (LoC)
- Primary Role: Defend against cross-border terrorism, neutralize infiltration attempts, and safeguard sovereignty.
- Operation Example: Operation All Out (2017) was initiated in Jammu and Kashmir to target terrorists and reduce infiltration.
Fact: The Indian Army neutralized over 200 infiltrators in 2021 along the LoC as part of counter-terrorism operations. (Source: Ministry of Defence Annual Report, 2021)
4. Challenges and Policy Suggestions
- Challenges: Porous borders, socio-economic disparities, lack of infrastructure, and coordination issues between agencies.
- Policy Suggestions: Enhance surveillance with technology (drones, sensors), improve border fencing, and strengthen bilateral cooperation with neighboring countries.
5. Conclusion
- Summarize the importance of securing borders for internal stability.
- Emphasize a multi-dimensional approach involving security forces, technology, and international cooperation.
This roadmap organizes the response by first clearly defining the scope of the threats, followed by a border-specific analysis and detailing the role of the respective security forces. The use of factual data reinforces the argument and provides concrete examples to substantiate claims.
Internal Security Threats and Transborder Crimes Along Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Pakistan Borders
1. Threats and Crimes Along the Myanmar Border
Internal Security Threats: The India-Myanmar border is fraught with ethnic insurgency and militant activities. Groups like the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) use the border as a base for their operations. For instance, the NSCN(K) faction has been involved in cross-border attacks and has utilized Myanmar’s territory to evade Indian security forces.
Transborder Crimes: The border is also a conduit for illegal smuggling of goods, including drugs and arms. The narcotics trade between Myanmar and India, particularly through the Manipur border, has been a significant issue, exacerbating local drug abuse problems.
2. Threats and Crimes Along the Bangladesh Border
Internal Security Threats: The India-Bangladesh border experiences illegal immigration and cross-border terrorism. Issues like infiltration by extremists and the movement of terrorist groups such as the Jamatul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) have been reported. The JMB has used the border to infiltrate and establish sleeper cells in India.
Transborder Crimes: The border is notorious for human trafficking and smuggling of goods, including fake currency. The Dhubri-Kurigram region has been highlighted for its smuggling activities.
3. Threats and Crimes Along the Pakistan Border, Including LoC
Internal Security Threats: The India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control (LoC) are heavily affected by cross-border terrorism and militant infiltration. Groups like the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operate from Pakistan and target Indian territories, including recent incidents of cross-border shelling and attacks in Jammu and Kashmir.
Transborder Crimes: The border also faces challenges from smuggling and illegal activities. The smuggling of arms and drugs across the LoC has been a persistent problem, with Pakistan-based groups facilitating these operations.
Role of Security Forces
1. Border Security Force (BSF): The BSF is tasked with guarding the borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar. It plays a crucial role in preventing illegal immigration, smuggling, and cross-border crime. The BSF’s initiatives include surveillance, border fencing, and community engagement to curb transborder crimes.
2. Assam Rifles: Deployed along the Myanmar border, the Assam Rifles focus on counter-insurgency operations, border patrolling, and countering drug trafficking. They are instrumental in maintaining security in the northeast states and coordinating with Myanmar authorities.
3. Indian Army: On the Pakistan border and LoC, the Indian Army is primarily involved in counter-terrorism operations and defense against infiltration and militant activities. The Army conducts coordinated strikes against terrorist camps and is involved in cross-border surveillance and strategic operations.
4. National Investigation Agency (NIA): The NIA plays a significant role in investigating and tackling terrorist activities and transborder crimes. It coordinates with various state and central agencies to address the threats posed by cross-border terrorism and organized crime.
In conclusion, the internal security threats and transborder crimes along the Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Pakistan borders require a multi-faceted approach involving comprehensive border management, effective counter-terrorism strategies, and international cooperation. The role of security forces is critical in mitigating these threats and maintaining national security.
Model Answer
Introduction
India’s extensive borders with Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, including the sensitive Line of Control (LoC), present numerous internal security threats and transborder crimes. Maintaining a robust security infrastructure is essential for national safety and peace.
Security Threats and Transborder Crimes
1. Terrorism
Cross-border terrorism, particularly from Pakistan along the LoC, poses a significant threat. Notable incidents include the 2008 Mumbai attacks and the 2019 Pulwama attack, which highlighted the persistent risk of militant infiltration.
2. Insurgency
The India-Myanmar border is frequently affected by insurgent activities from groups such as the NSCN-K and ULFA, which exploit the porous border for their operations.
3. Drug and Arms Trafficking
The illicit drug and arms trade is rampant, especially along the Golden Crescent (Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan) and the Golden Triangle (Myanmar, Laos, Thailand). These activities significantly impact the India-Pakistan and India-Myanmar borders.
4. Human Trafficking
Human trafficking remains a critical issue, particularly along the India-Bangladesh border, where victims are often forced into labor, sex trade, or domestic servitude.
5. Illegal Immigration
The influx of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh has led to socio-political challenges in states like Assam and West Bengal, as evidenced by the Assam NRC exercise.
6. Cattle Smuggling
Cattle smuggling is a persistent problem along the India-Bangladesh border, contributing to economic and social tensions.
7. Counterfeit Currency Infiltration
Counterfeit currency, primarily trafficked through the India-Bangladesh and India-Nepal borders, aims to destabilize India’s economy.
8. Maritime Security Threats
India’s vast coastline is vulnerable to maritime threats, including terrorist landings and smuggling operations, as seen in the 26/11 attacks.
Role of Security Forces and Technological Initiatives
Security Forces
Technological Initiatives
The deployment of advanced technologies, such as laser fences, thermal imagers, night vision devices, and radars, enhances the capabilities of security forces. The Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS) aims to secure borders in challenging terrains.
Conclusion
The diverse threats along India’s borders necessitate a comprehensive response involving vigilant security forces, technological advancements, and socio-economic initiatives. By addressing these challenges, India can enhance its national security and stability