Hindu Editorial Analysis : 8-May-2024

Myanmar’s army recently announced that it has successfully regained control of Myawaddy, an important hub in the trade route connecting Myanmar to Thailand. This is significant not only for Myanmar but also for neighboring countries like India.

Background of the Conflict

In February 2021, Myanmar’s military took over the government, claiming that the November 2020 election, which was won by Aung San Suu Kyi’s party, was fraudulent. However, election monitoring groups reported no evidence of widespread fraud. The military coup has led to unrest, with ethnic communities in Myanmar fighting for their rights and a return to democratic governance.

Unrest at the India-Myanmar Border

On the Indian side of the border, ethnic groups are also struggling for their rights. Here are some key points about the situation:

  • Ethnic communities are fighting for their sociocultural and economic rights.
  • The conflict has resulted in significant instability, affecting both countries.

Importance of Stability in Myanmar for India

Myanmar shares a 1,643 km-long unfenced border with India, which is crucial for regional stability. Many people on both sides have familial and ethnic ties.

Free Movement Regime (FMR)
  • In 1968, a government notification allowed free movement of people up to 40 km from the border.
  • This was reduced to 16 km in 2004 and last revised in 2016.
  • Hill tribe members from either country can cross the border with a pass, valid for a year, allowing them to stay for up to two weeks.

The border runs through several Indian states:

  • Arunachal Pradesh: 520 km
  • Nagaland: 215 km
  • Manipur: 398 km
  • Mizoram: 510 km

Stability in Myanmar is crucial for India’s northeastern region and various connectivity projects like the Kaladan Multi-modal Transit Transport Project (KMTTP). These projects aim to improve regional connectivity and counter Chinese influence.

Challenges and Concerns

The political turmoil in Myanmar has led to:

  • Increased human trafficking and exploitation of vulnerable people.
  • Criminal syndicates profiting from the chaos.
  • A porous border that facilitates smuggling of goods, drugs, and arms.
  • Limited cooperation from Myanmar authorities, making it hard to address these issues.

ASEAN’s Role

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has struggled to manage the regional challenges effectively. Meanwhile, China is deepening its involvement in Myanmar’s internal affairs, complicating the situation further.

Government Response

In response to these challenges, the Indian government has decided to:

  • Abolish the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the Myanmar border to enhance internal security.
  • Initiate smart fencing along the 1,643 km border, with a completion target of under five years.

Why In News

Recently, Myanmar’s army claimed success in retaking Myawaddy, a critical node in the bustling trade route with its eastern neighbor, Thailand, which underscores the ongoing struggle for control and influence in the region amidst significant political unrest.

MCQs about The Current Situation in Myanmar and Its Implications for India

  1. What significant event occurred in Myanmar in February 2021?
    A. Aung San Suu Kyi won a re-election
    B. Myanmar’s military staged a coup
    C. The Free Movement Regime was abolished
    D. ASEAN mediated peace talks
    Correct Answer: B. Myanmar’s military staged a coup
    Explanation: In February 2021, Myanmar’s military took control of the government, claiming fraud in the November 2020 election won by Aung San Suu Kyi’s party.
  2. What is the Free Movement Regime (FMR)?
    A. A trade agreement between India and Myanmar
    B. A system allowing citizens to cross the border freely up to a certain distance
    C. A military strategy implemented by Myanmar
    D. An initiative by ASEAN to promote stability
    Correct Answer: B. A system allowing citizens to cross the border freely up to a certain distance
    Explanation: The FMR allowed members of hill tribes living within 16 km of the border to cross into each other’s countries with a pass, facilitating movement between India and Myanmar.
  3. Why is the stability of Myanmar important for India?
    A. It impacts India’s agricultural exports
    B. It affects the connectivity projects in India’s northeastern region
    C. It determines India’s military alliances
    D. It is essential for cultural exchanges
    Correct Answer: B. It affects the connectivity projects in India’s northeastern region
    Explanation: The political stability in Myanmar is crucial for projects like the Kaladan Multi-modal Transit Transport Project (KMTTP), which aims to enhance regional connectivity and counter Chinese influence.
  4. What recent action did the Indian government decide to take concerning the Myanmar border?
    A. Increase trade tariffs
    B. Establish a military base
    C. Scrap the Free Movement Regime (FMR)
    D. Enhance cultural exchange programs
    Correct Answer: C. Scrap the Free Movement Regime (FMR)
    Explanation: In response to security concerns and instability, the Indian government decided to abolish the FMR along the Myanmar border to enhance internal security and maintain the demographic structure of its northeastern states.

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