Roadmap for Answer Writing
1. Introduction
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- Briefly introduce the context of insurgency in North-East India and the significance of the decline in violence.
2. Current Situation
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- Present relevant statistics to illustrate the reduction in violence, such as the 80% decrease in insurgency incidents since 2014 and the record low in 2020 .
3. Key Factors Contributing to the Decline
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- Civil Society Initiatives: Discuss the role of civil society organizations in promoting peace and reconciliation among communities.
- Effective Counter-Insurgency Operations: Highlight the intelligence-driven operations conducted by security forces and the importance of coordination and technology in these efforts .
- Fatigue and Fading Leadership: Explain how prolonged conflict and the aging leadership of insurgent groups have contributed to their decline.
- India’s Foreign Policy: Mention the impact of improved cooperation with neighboring countries in countering insurgency, including specific examples .
4. Conclusion
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- Summarize the importance of a multi-faceted approach in achieving the reduction of violence and emphasize the need for continued efforts to maintain peace.
Relevant Facts
- According to the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Annual Report 2020-2021, incidents of insurgency in six out of eight North-Eastern states have reduced by 80% since 2014, with 2020 recording the lowest number of incidents and casualties in two decades .
- Civil society organizations like the North East Network and Naga Mothers’ Association have been pivotal in fostering dialogue and reconciliation .
- Intelligence-driven counter-insurgency operations, such as the 2015 surgical strike in Myanmar against the NSCN-Khaplang faction, have disrupted insurgent networks .
- The deaths of key leaders like Isak Chishi Swu and S.S. Khaplang have weakened the resolve of insurgent groups .
- Improved foreign relations, particularly with Bangladesh, have facilitated the arrest of top insurgent leaders, aiding in the reduction of cross-border insurgency .
Model Answer
1. Civil Society Initiatives
Civil society organizations have played a crucial role in fostering peace and reconciliation in the region. Groups such as the North East Network and the Naga Mothers’ Association have been instrumental in bridging gaps between communities and the state, promoting dialogue and development initiatives that contribute to stability .
2. Effective Counter-Insurgency Operations
The Indian security forces have implemented intelligence-driven operations that have successfully disrupted insurgent networks. Enhanced coordination between central and state forces, along with the use of advanced technology, has significantly improved operational effectiveness. A notable example is the cross-border surgical strike in Myanmar against the NSCN-Khaplang faction in 2015, which showcased the proactive measures taken to combat insurgency.
3. Fatigue and Fading Leadership
Prolonged conflicts with minimal gains have led to fatigue within some insurgent groups. The aging leadership and internal dissent have further weakened their resolve. The deaths of prominent leaders, such as Isak Chishi Swu and S.S. Khaplang, have notably diminished the strength of groups like NSCN-IM and NSCN-Khaplang, contributing to a decline in insurgency activities .
4. India’s Foreign Policy
A significant shift in India’s foreign policy has fostered better cooperation with neighboring countries in countering insurgency. For instance, Bangladesh’s assistance in apprehending top leaders of insurgent organizations, such as the National Democratic Front of Bodoland, has been pivotal in reducing cross-border insurgent activities .
Overall, the decline in insurgency-related violence in North-East India reflects a comprehensive approach by the government, combining military action, community engagement, and diplomatic efforts. This positive trend requires ongoing commitment and collaboration at all levels to ensure lasting peace.