GS3 PYQ 2016 (Mains Answer Writing): Border management | UPSC Mains: Internal Security & Disaster Management PDF Download

Border management is a complex task due to difficult terrain and hostile relations with some countries. Elucidate the challenges and strategies for effective border management. (UPSC MAINS GS3 2016)

India has a very large and complex border covering around 15106.7km, which it shares with Bangladesh, China, Pakistan, Nepal, Myanmar, Bhutan as well as small portion with Afghanistan. Challenges in the effective border management particular to some neighbours are: Varied Terrain: India-China Border as comprising of difficult Himalayan terrain that is reason for difficulty in border management. 

• Climatic Condition: Due to Himalayan polar condition, it is tough to guard border due to adverse climatic conditions. Ex: China, Pakistan Bitter relations with some of the neighbouring countries. Ex: Pakistan Porous nature of border with some countries that provides safe route to human traffickers, illegal arms dealers, drug smugglers etc. Ex: Myanmar Owing to such peculiarities, having infrastructure and technology does not alone suffice for effective border management. Following strategies can be adopted for effective border management. 
• Co-ordination among various agencies such as customs, immigration, armed forces, border security and intelligence agencies is required that will strengthen the border guarding and management. 
• Smart border management to identify and implement controls which aim to improve border security by enabling effective communication and coordination. Use of Drone, Night vision cameras, sensors to check the illegal migration, terrorist movement can help in effective border management. Border fencing along the border such as with Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal can help in better border management. Coordination among neighbouring countries would also strengthen the measures taken for border management.

Topics Covered - Border Management