India faces significant security challenges along its borders (land), coastal regions, and territorial areas due to its vast and sensitive geographical location. These challenges are complex and multidimensional, involving external threats, cross-border terrorism, smuggling, illegal migration, insurgency, and maritime piracy.
Here’s a structured UPSC-ready breakdown of the security challenges in border areas, coastal, and territorial regions of India:
🇮🇳 INDIA’S BORDER, COASTAL & TERRITORIAL SECURITY CHALLENGES
1. 🏞️ Challenges in Border Areas
India shares over 15,000 km of land borders with 7 countries — Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Afghanistan (via PoK).
A. Pakistan Border (West)
- Cross-border terrorism in J&K (e.g., infiltration by LeT, JeM).
- Ceasefire violations and sniper attacks along LoC.
- Smuggling of drugs, arms, counterfeit currency via Punjab and Rajasthan sectors.
- Tunnels and drones used for arms and narcotics delivery.
B. China Border (North & Northeast)
- LAC disputes in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh (e.g., Galwan 2020).
- Infrastructure asymmetry: China has better roads and connectivity.
- Salami slicing tactics: Gradual occupation of strategic areas.
- Cyber-attacks and espionage threats.
C. Nepal & Bhutan Borders
- Open border with Nepal – used for illegal migration, smuggling, and fake currency circulation.
- Rising political tensions and Chinese influence in Nepal.
D. Bangladesh Border (East)
- Illegal migration leading to demographic issues in Assam & Bengal.
- Cattle smuggling, human trafficking, and cross-border crimes.
- Radicalization through outfits like Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB).
E. Myanmar Border (Northeast)
- Insurgency support to groups like NSCN-K, PLA, ULFA.
- Golden Triangle: Narcotics smuggling hub.
- Refugee influx (e.g., Rohingya and Chin refugees in Mizoram).
2. 🌊 Coastal Security Challenges
India has a 7,516 km long coastline touching 9 states and 4 Union Territories, along with 1,200+ islands.
A. Maritime Terrorism
- 26/11 Mumbai attacks were launched via sea route — showed gaps in coastal vigilance.
- Infiltration threats via fishing boats or unregistered vessels.
B. Piracy and Smuggling
- Drug smuggling from the Golden Crescent (Iran-Afghanistan-Pakistan) through the Arabian Sea.
- Arms smuggling, human trafficking, and contraband movements.
C. Lack of Infrastructure
- Inadequate Coastal Police Stations, radar coverage, and maritime surveillance systems.
- Poor coordination between Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Police.
D. Fishermen Issues
- Frequent arrest of Indian fishermen by Sri Lankan and Pakistani authorities.
- Security risks due to mistaken identity near maritime borders.
3. 🗺️ Territorial Security Challenges (Island Territories)
India has two main island groups:
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands (Bay of Bengal)
- Lakshadweep Islands (Arabian Sea)
A. Strategic Vulnerability
- Andaman & Nicobar is close to the Strait of Malacca, a critical trade route.
- Potential surveillance and espionage by China (String of Pearls strategy).
B. Lack of Local Security Presence
- Few naval bases or airstrips for rapid mobilization.
- Risk of terrorist hideouts, smuggling routes.
C. Climate-Induced Security Threats
- Rising sea levels threaten displacement and ecological degradation.
- Can trigger migration, resource competition, and local unrest.
🛡️ INSTITUTIONAL & TECHNICAL MEASURES
🧩 Border Area Management
- Border Infrastructure Development Programme (BIDP)
- Smart Fencing Projects (e.g., CIBMS – Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System)
- Deployment of Border Security Forces (BSF, ITBP, SSB, Assam Rifles)
⚓ Coastal Security Initiatives
- National Committee on Strengthening Maritime and Coastal Security (NCSMCS)
- Sagar Suraksha, SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region)
- Setup of Coastal Police Stations, AIS, and radar chains
🛰️ Technology Use
- UAVs/drones for surveillance
- Satellite monitoring (e.g., RISAT series)
- Data sharing between Navy, Coast Guard, Intelligence agencies
🧾 UPSC MAINS QUESTION EXAMPLES
Q1. “Discuss the challenges to internal security through land borders and coastal lines. Suggest steps to strengthen border management.” (GS-3, 2013)
Q2. “Discuss different types of security threats and their impact on India’s internal security, particularly in the border areas.” (GS-3, 2020)
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