In a significant announcement, Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared the Indian government’s decision to fence the entire 1,643 km border with Myanmar. This move aims to bolster border surveillance and establish a patrol track, reinforcing the commitment of the Modi government to secure the nation’s borders.
Strengthening Border Security
Shah emphasized that the fencing initiative is part of a broader strategy to create unbreachable borders. Notably, a 10 km stretch in Moreh, Manipur, has already been fenced, marking the initial phase of this ambitious project.
Hybrid Surveillance System Pilot Projects
Furthermore, the government has launched two pilot projects utilizing a Hybrid Surveillance System (HSS). These projects will involve fencing 1 km each in Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur. Additionally, plans are underway to sanction fence works for approximately 20 km in Manipur, set to commence soon.
Transforming Border Villages: The Vibrant Village Programme
In parallel with the fencing initiative, the government has introduced the ‘Vibrant Village’ programme for border villages across India. This initiative signifies a paradigm shift in perspective, redefining these villages as the first line of defence near the borders, rather than viewing them as the country’s last villages.
Prime Minister Modi’s Vision
Prime Minister Modi has articulated the significance of border villages, symbolizing the nation’s connection with the rising and setting sun. This vision underscores the crucial role these villages play in safeguarding India’s borders and ensuring their prosperity.
Addressing Vulnerabilities along the India-Myanmar Border
The decision to fence the India-Myanmar border is a response to the vulnerabilities and threats posed by the unfenced 1,643 km stretch, spanning Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram.
Security Challenges
The challenging terrains of hills and forests along the border have posed significant challenges for Indian security forces. Extremist groups operating from concealed bases in Myanmar’s Chin and Sagaing regions have been conducting hit-and-run operations, exacerbating security concerns.
Smuggling and Civil Unrest
In addition to security threats, the border region has grappled with issues such as drug smuggling and wildlife trafficking. The clash between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in Manipur in May 2023 highlighted tensions exacerbated by ethnic divisions and the influx of Myanmar nationals seeking refuge.
Managing Influx and Ethnic Tensions
Over the past decade, the Manipur government has expressed apprehension regarding the influx of Myanmar nationals, attributing it to ethnic violence and civil unrest. Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has urged the Ministry of Home Affairs to address the challenges posed by the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and the suspension thereof during the COVID-19 lockdown and the subsequent military coup in Myanmar in February 2021.
Conclusion
The decision to fence the entire India-Myanmar border signifies a proactive approach by the Indian government to address security vulnerabilities and enhance surveillance in the region. By bolstering border infrastructure and implementing innovative surveillance systems, India aims to mitigate security threats and promote stability along its eastern frontier.
-Prisha Jaiswal