The Ministry of Defence in India has emphasized the need to maintain constant vigilance on the northern and western borders, as well as the entire coastline of the country. This was discussed at the Naval Commanders Conference aboard INS Vikrant, where the defence minister stressed the need to re-strategize due to the constantly evolving world order. The meeting highlighted that future conflicts will be unpredictable, and maintaining constant vigilance is necessary.
Importance of Border Vigilance
Border vigilance is essential for several reasons, including national security, preventing illegal activities, protecting sovereignty, economic growth, and disaster management. India shares borders with several countries, some of which have a history of hostile relations, making constant vigilance necessary to ensure national security and prevent any security threats.
Border and coastline areas are often used for illegal activities such as smuggling, human trafficking, and drug trafficking. Vigilance helps to prevent such illegal activities and ensure the safety and security of citizens. Borders and coastline areas are the first line of defense for the country, and maintaining vigilance helps to protect India’s sovereignty.
India’s ports and coastal areas are important for economic growth and development, and vigilance helps to ensure the safety and security of these areas. In the case of natural disasters such as cyclones and tsunamis, coastal vigilance helps to ensure timely evacuation and disaster management.
Challenges of Border Vigilance
Several challenges exist in maintaining constant border vigilance. The northern and western borders of India are characterized by difficult terrain such as mountains, deserts, and forests, which makes it challenging to maintain constant vigilance. The borders are porous, making them vulnerable to infiltration attempts by terrorists, smugglers, and other illegal activities.
The lack of infrastructure in remote border areas makes it challenging to monitor and secure the borders effectively. Harsh climate and weather conditions, such as extreme temperatures, heavy rains, and snowfall, pose challenges to border and coastline surveillance. Vigilance in border and coastline areas requires coordination between multiple agencies, including the military, paramilitary forces, and local law enforcement agencies. The deployment of modern technology and equipment, such as unmanned aerial vehicles, radars, and sensors, is necessary for effective border and coastline surveillance.
Government Steps to Secure Indian Borders
To tackle the challenges in maintaining constant border vigilance, the Indian government has taken several steps as below
- Strengthening border infrastructure
- Using modern technology
- Strengthening border forces
- Implementing smart fencing
- Improving cross-border connectivity
- Implementing the Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS)
- Launching the Border Area Development Programme (BADP)
- Launching the Scheme for Protection and Empowerment of Women in Border Areas (SPARSH)
- Launching the Coastal Security Scheme to enhance coastal surveillance
MCQs on Steps taken by Indian Government to Strengthen Border Security
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What is the primary reason for maintaining constant vigilance on the northern and western borders and entire coastline of India?
A. Ensuring national security
B. Encouraging economic growth
C. Promoting cross-border connectivity
D. Enhancing disaster management
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What is CIBMS?
A. A comprehensive integrated border management system
B. A coastal security scheme
C. A border area development program
D. A scheme for protection and empowerment of women in border areas
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What is the aim of the Border Area Development Programme (BADP)?
A. To improve cross-border connectivity
B. To promote economic activities
C. To enhance coastal security
D. To strengthen border forces
