Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Border disputes are a persistent feature of international relations, often stemming from historical legacies, differing interpretations of treaties, and strategic competition. For India, a country with extensive land borders with multiple neighbours, these disputes pose significant challenges to its security and regional stability. Recent developments, such as the ongoing standoff with China in the Himalayas and periodic ceasefire violations along the Line of Control with Pakistan, underscore the urgency of addressing these issues. Understanding the root causes and exploring viable remedies is crucial for fostering peaceful and cooperative relations with its neighbours.
India’s Border Disputes: Reasons and Remedies
1. India-China Border Dispute
Reasons: The primary dispute concerns the Line of Actual Control (LAC), which is not clearly demarcated. Differing perceptions of the LAC, particularly in the western (Ladakh) and eastern (Arunachal Pradesh) sectors, lead to frequent transgressions. Historical claims, strategic considerations (control over key passes and river valleys), and China’s broader regional ambitions also contribute. The 1962 war remains a significant point of contention.
Remedies:
- Diplomacy: Continued dialogue through Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs.
- Infrastructure Development: Strengthening border infrastructure (roads, bridges, tunnels) to improve connectivity and logistical support. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) plays a vital role.
- Military Preparedness: Enhancing military capabilities and maintaining a strong presence along the LAC.
- Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs): Implementing CBMs to reduce tensions and prevent escalation.
2. India-Pakistan Border Dispute
Reasons: The core dispute revolves around Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Pakistan claims the entire J&K region, while India maintains that J&K is an integral part of India. The Line of Control (LoC) in J&K is a de facto border, but remains heavily militarized. Cross-border terrorism sponsored by Pakistan is a major source of conflict.
Remedies:
- Diplomacy: While currently strained, dialogue remains a potential long-term solution.
- Counter-Terrorism Measures: Strengthening counter-terrorism efforts to curb cross-border infiltration and terrorist activities.
- Strengthening Border Security: Enhancing border security through fencing, surveillance technology, and increased patrolling.
- Ceasefire Agreements: Adherence to ceasefire agreements (though frequently violated) to reduce tensions.
3. India-Myanmar Border Dispute
Reasons: The dispute primarily concerns the unfenced border areas, which are vulnerable to insurgent activities and illegal cross-border movements. The presence of ethnic groups straddling the border adds complexity. Concerns over drug trafficking and smuggling also contribute.
Remedies:
- Border Fencing: Implementing border fencing to regulate movement and enhance security.
- Bilateral Cooperation: Strengthening cooperation with Myanmar on counter-insurgency operations and border management.
- Economic Development: Promoting economic development in border areas to address socio-economic grievances that fuel insurgency.
4. India-Bangladesh Border Dispute
Reasons: Historically, disputes revolved around enclaves (small pockets of territory belonging to one country within the other). These were largely resolved through the Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) of 2015. Current issues include illegal immigration, smuggling, and border killings.
Remedies:
- Implementation of LBA: Ensuring full implementation of the LBA.
- Border Management: Strengthening border management to curb illegal immigration and smuggling.
- Coordinated Border Patrols: Conducting coordinated border patrols with Bangladesh to enhance security.
5. India-Nepal Border Dispute
Reasons: Disputes concern the Kalapani region, Lipulekh Pass, and Susta. Differing interpretations of historical treaties and maps are the root cause. Nepal claims these areas as part of its territory.
Remedies:
- Diplomatic Dialogue: Engaging in diplomatic dialogue to resolve the dispute through mutual understanding.
- Joint Boundary Survey: Conducting a joint boundary survey to clarify the alignment of the border.
- Respect for Historical Treaties: Re-examining historical treaties and maps to arrive at a mutually acceptable solution.
Overarching Remedies
Beyond country-specific solutions, several overarching remedies can contribute to resolving India’s border disputes:
- Strengthening Border Infrastructure: Investing in infrastructure development along all borders to improve connectivity and logistical support.
- Enhanced Surveillance Technology: Deploying advanced surveillance technology (drones, satellites, sensors) to monitor border areas.
- Border Area Development Programme (BADP): Implementing the BADP to improve socio-economic conditions in border areas and win the trust of local communities.
- Promoting People-to-People Contact: Encouraging people-to-people contact through cultural exchanges and trade to foster understanding and goodwill.
Conclusion
India’s border disputes are complex and multifaceted, stemming from historical legacies, strategic competition, and differing perceptions. While diplomatic solutions are paramount, a comprehensive approach encompassing infrastructure development, military preparedness, and enhanced border security is essential. Addressing these disputes requires sustained engagement with neighbouring countries, a commitment to peaceful resolution, and a long-term vision for regional stability. The focus should be on transforming borders from lines of conflict into corridors of cooperation.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.