November 08th Current Affairs
Table of Contents
Participant and Non-Participant Observation
Home / Participant and Non-Participant Observation Participant Observation Meaning and Nature of Participant Observation Participant observation is a qualitative research
Schedule as a Data Collection Tool in Sociology
Home / Schedule as a Data Collection Tool in Sociology In sociological research, the accuracy and reliability of data depend
Interview as a Data Collection Method in Sociology
Home / Interview as a Data Collection Method in Sociology In sociological research, understanding human behavior, attitudes, and social processes
Questionnaire as a Quantitative Method
Home / Questionnaire as a Quantitative Method In social science research, the questionnaire is one of the most widely used
Census as a Quantitative Method
Home / Census as a Quantitative Method The census is one of the most comprehensive quantitative tools used in social
Survey as a Quantitative Method
Home / Survey as a Quantitative Method In sociological research, quantitative methods are essential for studying social phenomena in a
Techniques of Data Collection in Sociology
Home / Techniques of Data Collection in Sociology Techniques of data collection constitute one of the most significant components of
Qualitative Research Method in Sociology
Home / Qualitative Research Method in Sociology Qualitative research refers to an approach to social research that focuses on non-quantitative
Quantitative Research Method in Sociology
Home / Quantitative Research Method in Sociology Quantitative research refers to a systematic investigation of social phenomena through the collection
Research Methodology in Sociology
Home / Research Methodology in Sociology Research refers to a systematic, objective, and critical investigation of social reality with the
Indian national captured by RSF militia in Sudan; New Delhi in touch with authorities to secure release
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper II: International Relations
- Highlights India’s diplomatic engagement and crisis management efforts in conflict zones like Sudan, showcasing proactive foreign policy and citizen protection abroad.
- Demonstrates India’s coordination with foreign governments and non-state actors (RSF) to ensure the safety of its nationals.
- Reflects India’s commitment to safeguarding its diaspora through diplomatic and humanitarian channels, strengthening bilateral and regional goodwill.
- Reinforces India’s global image as a responsible nation prioritising citizens’ welfare in volatile international environments.
- Indicates India’s diplomatic outreach in Africa, aligning with broader foreign policy goals under South–South cooperation and Africa partnership initiatives.
More About the News
- An Indian national, 36-year-old from Odisha, was captured by RSF fighters when they seized the city of El Fasher in Sudan.
- The Indian Embassy in Port Sudan and Sudan’s embassy in New Delhi are coordinating closely with India’s External Affairs Ministry for his release.
- The Sudanese ambassador acknowledged the situation and expressed hope the individual isn’t harmed, recognising the unpredictability of militia actions.
Sudan’s Civil War
The ongoing civil war in Sudan represents one of Africa’s most severe humanitarian and political crises, rooted in deep military rivalries, ethnic divisions, and historical instability since independence.
Why in the News?
- The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) recently launched a large-scale offensive against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum and Bahri, reigniting long-dormant hostilities.
- The civil war, continuing for over 18 months, has caused 20,000+ deaths and displaced nearly 11 million people as of October 2024.
Origin of the Civil War in Sudan
- The war stems from a power struggle between SAF chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF leader Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti).
- Initially centred in Khartoum, the conflict has spread to Omdurman, Bahri, Port Sudan, and regions of Darfur and Kordofan.
Historical Background
- Colonial Legacy: Sudan was a joint Anglo-Egyptian protectorate until independence in 1956.
- Post-independence tensions: Conflict persisted between the Arab-Muslim north and Christian/Animist south, sparking two major civil wars (1955-1972, 1983-2005).
- The Second Civil War ended with the 2005 peace deal, paving the way for South Sudan’s secession in 2011.
- Despite this, ethnic and regional conflicts—especially in Darfur—continued.
Omar al-Bashir’s Regime
- Seized power in a 1989 coup, ruling for three decades under strict Islamic law.
- Used militias such as the Janjaweed to suppress rebels and minorities.
- Accused of genocide and crimes against humanity in Darfur, targeting non-Arab groups like Fur, Zaghawa, and Masalit.
Bashir’s Overthrow and the Transitional Phase
- In 2019, public uprisings and joint military pressure led to Bashir’s ouster.
- A Transitional Sovereignty Council combining military and civilian leaders was formed under PM Abdalla Hamdok.
- The 2021 coup by the SAF and RSF disrupted the fragile transition, leaving Sudan without effective civilian rule.
RSF’s Rise and Power Base
- Originated from the Janjaweed militias, formalised as the Rapid Support Forces in 2013.
- Amassed wealth through control of gold mines and foreign backing, gaining near-autonomous power.
The December 2022 Agreement
- Aimed to restore civilian rule within two years, but disagreements emerged over the RSF’s integration into the national army.
- Burhan and Hemedti clashed over control and timelines, reigniting violence.
- Foreign actors—notably the Wagner Group, UAE, and regional proxies—further complicated peace efforts.
Reasons for the Persistent Conflict
- Power Rivalry: Competing ambitions of SAF and RSF to control political and military authority.
- Weapons Flow: Despite a UN arms embargo (2004), arms enter through channels linked to Russia, China, and UAE.
- Ethnic Polarisation: Arab groups back the RSF, while non-Arab communities support the SAF, worsening sectarian rifts.
- External Interference: Global and regional powers provide material and political support, reducing incentives for compromise.
- Failed Peace Efforts: Ceasefire initiatives like the 2023 Jeddah Declaration (led by the US and Saudi Arabia) have repeatedly collapsed.
Way Forward
- Inclusive Dialogue: Facilitate UN-AU-led peace negotiations involving all domestic and regional stakeholders.
- Ceasefire Enforcement: Deploy international monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance and disarm militias.
- Humanitarian Corridors: Guarantee safe aid delivery and protect civilians through UN-supervised humanitarian routes.
- Institutional Reforms: Build civilian-led democratic governance with balanced civil-military relations.
- Regional Cooperation: Engage IGAD and African Union to contain external interference and stabilise the Horn of Africa.
- Accountability & Justice: Pursue war-crime investigations and transitional justice to address atrocities and deter impunity.
- Economic Reconstruction: Mobilise international aid and debt relief to rebuild infrastructure and revive livelihoods post-conflict.
A peaceful, democratic Sudan requires inclusive governance, regional cooperation, and strong international engagement to rebuild institutions, restore stability, and transform decades of militarised rivalry into sustainable national unity.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements: (PYQ 2022)
1. Bidibidi is a large refugee settlement in north-western Kenya.
2. Some people who fled from the South Sudan civil war live in Bidibidi.
3. Some people who fled from the civil war in Somalia live in Dadaab refugee complex in Kenya.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. Analyse internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan borders including Line of Control (LoC). Also discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. (PYQ 2020)
India brightest spot in world, NITI Aayog CEO says update on India-US trade deal likely by end of month
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper III: Indian Economy, Trade & Investment
- Focuses on bilateral trade policy and its implications for domestic industry, exports, and investment flows.
- Highlights India’s efforts to boost manufacturing and attract global investors under the “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives.
- Demonstrates economic reforms aimed at raising the manufacturing share of GDP and integrating India into global value chains.
- Underlines India’s strategy to secure favourable terms in trade agreements while maintaining policy space for developmental priorities.
- Reflects the interplay between trade negotiations, economic growth, and employment generation in key sectors like technology, energy, and manufacturing.
More About the News
- NITI Aayog CEO B. V. R. Subrahmanyam stated an update on the proposed Indo-US bilateral trade agreement may arrive by end-November.
- He described India as the “brightest spot in the world” for investment, citing American firms opening global capability centres in India despite global headwinds.
- He linked the trade talks to India’s broader reform push, including the National Manufacturing Mission to raise manufacturing’s share of GDP from 15-17 % to around 25 %.
India-USA Trade Relations
India–USA trade relations represent one of the world’s fastest-growing economic partnerships, reflecting strategic convergence, technological cooperation, and mutual interests in global supply chain diversification and sustainable economic growth.
Highlights of India–USA Trade
- Bilateral trade crossed $190 billion in 2024, making the U.S. India’s largest trading partner.
- Major Indian exports: pharmaceuticals, textiles, gems & jewellery, IT services, and machinery.
- Major U.S. exports: aerospace, defence equipment, energy (LNG, crude oil), and high-tech goods.
- Trade-in-services accounts for nearly 40% of total trade, driven by IT, R&D, and financial services.
- Both nations are exploring a limited trade agreement to resolve tariff and market-access disputes.
Potential of Trade Between India and USA
- India’s large consumer base and digital transformation present vast opportunities for American investors.
- The U.S. seeks to diversify supply chains away from China — India offers a democratic alternative.
- Growing cooperation in defence production, semiconductors, AI, and clean energy strengthens economic ties.
- Startup and innovation ecosystems offer new collaboration areas under initiatives like iCET (Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies).
- India’s focus on ‘Make in India’ aligns with U.S. goals for friend-shoring and resilient trade networks.
Factors for Imposing Tariff on India
- Trade imbalance: India runs a surplus with the U.S., leading to tariff concerns.
- Market access restrictions: U.S. firms face regulatory barriers in sectors like agriculture, e-commerce, and data localization.
- Intellectual property rights (IPR) concerns raised by the U.S. in pharmaceuticals and software.
- Subsidies and protectionist measures in India’s agriculture and manufacturing sectors.
- Withdrawal of GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) in 2019 over market access issues.
Positive Implications of Tariffs on India
- Encourages domestic industries to innovate and reduce dependence on U.S. markets.
- Promotes self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) through diversification of export destinations.
- Pushes India to negotiate balanced trade agreements with multiple global partners.
Negative Implications of Tariffs on India
- Reduces competitiveness of Indian exports in U.S. markets.
- Affects sectors like textiles, engineering goods, and pharmaceuticals.
- May lead to job losses and decline in foreign exchange earnings.
- Could strain strategic relations if trade frictions persist.
Way Forward
- Resume talks for a comprehensive trade agreement focusing on tariff rationalization.
- Strengthen regulatory transparency and ease of doing business for U.S. investors.
- Promote joint R&D and technology transfer in green tech, defence, and digital sectors.
- Seek mutual recognition agreements (MRAs) to ease standards compliance.
- Expand cooperation under iCET and Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) to build resilient supply chains.
A future-oriented India–U.S. trade partnership must balance strategic interests with equitable market access, fostering innovation-driven, sustainable, and inclusive growth that supports global economic stability and technological advancement.
Prelims MCQ
Q. With reference to Trade-Related Investment Measures (TRIMS), which of the following statements is/are correct? (PYQ 2020)
1. Quantitative restrictions on imports by foreign investors are prohibited.
2. They apply to investment measures related to trade in both goods and services.
3.They are not concerned with the regulation of foreign investment.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Mains Question
Q. What introduces friction into the ties between India and the United States is that Washington is still unable to find for India a position in its global strategy, which would satisfy India’s National self-esteem and ambitions. Explain with suitable examples. (PYQ 2019)
India joins Brazil-led forest fund as observer, calls for stronger ambition 10 yrs after Paris pact
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper III: Environment, Biodiversity & Climate Change
- Relates to India’s climate policy framework and its forest-cover ambitions, linking domestic action with global partnerships in sustainable development.
- Connects to issues of climate finance, technology transfer and adaptation capacity in developing countries, where India emphasises affordable finance and support.
- Underlines the linkage between forest conservation, carbon sinks, biodiversity and India’s commitments to its NDCs and broader climate targets.
More About the News
- India announced it will join Brazil’s new Tropical Forests Forever Facility as an observer, signalling its support for the global forest-conservation fund.
- Speaking at COP30, India reaffirmed its commitment to multilateral climate action and called developed countries to accelerate emissions cuts and fulfil promised finance.
- India highlighted its domestic achievements: forest and tree cover at over 25 % of geographical area and non-fossil installed capacity exceeding half of total.
Tropical Rainforests
Tropical forests, located near the Equator, are biodiversity hotspots vital for regulating global climate, conserving species, and sustaining livelihoods — serving as critical carbon sinks essential for Earth’s ecological balance.
Characteristics of Tropical Forests
- Found between Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn, receiving over 200 cm annual rainfall.
- Experience high humidity (77–88%) and temperature (20–30°C) year-round.
- Characterized by dense canopy layers — emergent, canopy, understory, and forest floor.
- Rich in biodiversity — home to more than half of the world’s plant and animal species.
- Possess nutrient-poor soil due to heavy leaching despite dense vegetation.
Why They Are Called the “Lungs of the Planet”
- Absorb vast amounts of CO₂ and release oxygen, contributing significantly to global air purification.
- Store over 250 billion tonnes of carbon, moderating greenhouse gas concentration.
- Play a vital role in global water cycles and rainfall generation through transpiration
Role in Maintaining Ecosystem Balance
- Climate Regulation – Maintain global temperature and precipitation patterns.
- Biodiversity Conservation – Support genetic diversity vital for resilience and evolution.
- Soil and Water Conservation – Prevent erosion and regulate river flow.
- Carbon Sequestration – Mitigate climate change by storing atmospheric carbon.
- Cultural and Livelihood Support – Indigenous communities rely on forests for sustenance and heritage.
Popular Rainforests in India
- Western Ghats – Silent Valley, Agasthyamalai, Periyar.
- Northeast India – Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya.
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands – Tropical evergreen forests.
Popular Rainforests in the World
- Amazon Rainforest – Brazil, Peru, Colombia.
- Congo Basin – Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon.
- Southeast Asian Forests – Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand.
- Daintree Rainforest – Australia.
Popular Flora and Fauna
- Flora – Teak, mahogany, rosewood, bamboo, lianas, epiphytes.
- Fauna – Jaguars, orangutans, hornbills, elephants, leopards, poison dart frogs, butterflies
Challenges Faced by Tropical Forests
- Deforestation due to agriculture, logging, mining.
- Climate Change causing habitat loss and altered rainfall.
- Illegal Wildlife Trade and poaching.
- Infrastructure Expansion – Roads, dams, and settlements.
- Forest Fires and Land Degradation.
- Weak Governance and lack of enforcement.
Government Initiatives (India)
- National Afforestation Programme (NAP).
- Green India Mission (GIM) under NAPCC.
- CAMPA Funds for compensatory afforestation.
- Forest Rights Act (2006) for community participation.
- Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) around protected areas.
Global Initiatives
- REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) by UNFCCC.
- Amazon Fund (Brazil) for forest conservation.
- UN Forum on Forests (UNFF) and Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
- Global Forest Finance Pledge (2021 COP26) – $12 billion for forest protection.
Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF)
- Objective: To promote sustainable tropical forest management and halt deforestation globally.
- Launched by: Brazil (2024) with support from India, Indonesia, Congo, and other tropical nations.
- Funding Mechanism: Based on voluntary contributions from developed countries, carbon credit systems, and forest conservation incentives.
- Focus Areas:
- Protect biodiversity-rich tropical regions.
- Facilitate South-South cooperation in forest conservation.
- Ensure equitable benefit-sharing with indigenous communities.
- Linked to: Paris Agreement and Global Biodiversity Framework.
Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF)
- Objective: To promote sustainable tropical forest management and halt deforestation globally.
- Launched by: Brazil (2024) with support from India, Indonesia, Congo, and other tropical nations.
- Funding Mechanism: Based on voluntary contributions from developed countries, carbon credit systems, and forest conservation incentives.
- Focus Areas:
- Protect biodiversity-rich tropical regions.
- Facilitate South-South cooperation in forest conservation.
- Ensure equitable benefit-sharing with indigenous communities.
- Linked to: Paris Agreement and Global Biodiversity Framework.
Way Forward
- Strengthen international cooperation for forest finance and technology transfer.
- Promote community-based forest management and livelihood alternatives.
- Enforce zero-deforestation supply chains.
- Enhance afforestation using native species and restore degraded landscapes.
- Integrate forest conservation with climate adaptation and carbon markets.
Safeguarding tropical forests is essential for global climate resilience and biodiversity survival; a future-oriented, cooperative approach ensuring ecological, economic, and social sustainability can secure planetary health for generations.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements: (PYQ 2023)
Statement-I: The soil in tropical rain forests is rich in nutrients.
Statement-II: The high temperature and moisture of tropical rain forests cause dead organic matter in the soil to decompose quickly.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Mains Question
Q. Effective management of tropical forests requires balancing ecological preservation with developmental needs. Discuss the challenges and strategies for sustainable tropical forest management in the context of global climate change.
Operation Pimple: Two terrorists killed by Army in Jammu-Kashmir’s Kupwara
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper III: Internal Security
- Relates directly to counter-terrorism and border security operations in the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir, focusing on intelligence-led prevention of infiltration.
- Shows the importance of intelligence, surveillance, cordon-and-search operations and inter-agency coordination in managing insurgency and militancy.
- Demonstrates operational readiness and the dynamics of security forces engaging militants in challenging terrain, underscoring preparedness, rules of engagement and neutrality of civilians.
More about the News
- On 7 November 2025, based on specific intelligence of infiltration, a joint security operation named Operation Pimple was launched in the Keran sector of Kupwara.
- Alert troops detected suspicious movement, challenged infiltrators who opened fire; contact was established and two terrorists were neutralised in the encounter.
- The search of the area continues, highlighting persistent threat of infiltration attempts along the LoC during pre-winter conditions in J&K.
Jammu & Kashmir Militancy
Militancy in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) stems from political, religious, and cross-border tensions since 1947, posing complex challenges to India’s sovereignty, internal security, and socio-economic stability in the region.
Origin of Militancy in J&K
- Post-Partition Dispute (1947): Accession of J&K to India opposed by Pakistan, leading to the first Indo-Pak war.
- 1950s–1970s: Growing alienation due to political instability and perceived erosion of autonomy (Article 370 issues).
- 1987 Elections: Alleged rigging of state elections triggered public resentment and armed insurgency.
- 1989 Onwards: Pakistan began providing training, arms, and ideological support to militants via ISI.
- Emergence of Groups: Organizations like JKLF, Hizbul Mujahideen, and Lashkar-e-Taiba became prominent.
Timeline of Major Incidents
- 1989–1990: Outbreak of militancy; exodus of Kashmiri Pandits.
- 1999: Kargil War — infiltration by Pakistani forces and militants.
- 2001: Indian Parliament attack by JeM.
- 2008–2010: Amarnath land row protests and unrest.
- 2016: Killing of Burhan Wani, leading to renewed militancy.
- 2019: Pulwama attack — major suicide bombing killing CRPF personnel.
- 2019 (Aug): Abrogation of Article 370; reorganization of J&K into Union Territories.
- 2023–2025: Targeted killings of minorities and intensified counter-insurgency operations.
Causes of Militancy in J&K
- Cross-Border Terrorism: Pakistan-sponsored infiltration and radicalization.
- Political Alienation: Perceived loss of autonomy and limited political representation.
- Socio-Economic Deprivation: Unemployment and lack of development opportunities.
- Religious Radicalization: Spread of extremist ideology through madrassas and online propaganda.
- Human Rights Issues: Allegations of excesses by security forces fuel resentment.
- External Influence: Support from global jihadist networks like Al-Qaeda and ISIS affiliates.
Challenges in Curbing Militancy
- Cross-border Infiltration: Difficult terrain and porous LoC.
- Radicalization of Youth: Online recruitment through social media.
- Local Support Networks: Sympathizers providing shelter and logistics.
- Political Instability: Delay in elections and absence of local governance.
- Human Rights and Perception Issues: Balance between security operations and civilian trust.
- Foreign Influence: Persistent ISI involvement and funding.
Government Initiatives Taken
- Abrogation of Article 370 (2019): Integrated J&K into India’s legal and administrative framework.
- NIA and UAPA Enforcement: Crackdown on terror financing and separatist networks.
- Development Focus: Projects under PM Development Package; investment summits and infrastructure upgrades.
- Operation All-Out: Coordinated security operation against militant groups.
- Community Engagement: De-radicalization programs and youth employment schemes.
- Diplomatic Pressure on Pakistan: FATF compliance and international isolation.
Way Forward
- Inclusive Dialogue: Engage all regional stakeholders for political reconciliation.
- Rehabilitation Programs: Support surrendered militants and reintegrate them socially.
- Intelligence Coordination: Strengthen multi-agency information sharing.
- Border Management: Use drones, thermal sensors, and fencing to stop infiltration.
- Counter-Radicalization: Promote education, digital literacy, and moderate religious discourse.
- Economic Empowerment: Focus on tourism, skill development, and industry-led employment.
Lasting peace in Jammu & Kashmir requires a holistic approach combining security, dialogue, and development fostering inclusive governance, trust, and prosperity to transform militancy into long-term stability.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following countries: (PYQ 2022)
1. Azerbaijan
2. Kyrgyzstan
3. Tajikistan
4. Turkmenistan
5. Uzbekistan
Which of the above have borders with Afghanistan?
Mains Question
Q. Winning of ‘Hearts and Minds’ in terrorism-affected areas is an essential step in restoring the trust of the population. Discuss the measures adopted by the Government in this respect as part of the conflict resolution in Jammu and Kashmir. (PYQ 2023)
India fortifies Chicken's Neck: 3 new garrisons set up on Bangladesh border
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper III: Internal Security & Strategic Defence Capabilities
- Relates to strengthening military readiness, surveillance and logistic networks in a geopolitically sensitive corridor connecting India’s northeast.
- Highlights how terrain, connectivity and border proximity influence defence planning and infrastructure deployment for internal security.
- Shows how India is transforming defence posture from reactive to forward-leaning in vulnerable land-corridor zones.
More about the News
- India has established three new military garrisons at Bamuni (Assam), Kishanganj (Bihar) and Chopra (West Bengal) along the Bangladesh-border to fortify the Chicken’s Neck.
- The move addresses tactical gaps, boosts rapid-response capability, surveillance and logistics for the sensitive corridor linking India’s northeast to mainland.
- The decision comes amid Bangladesh’s changing foreign-policy orientation with China/Pakistan, prompting India to strengthen defense posture in the region.
Border Management in India
India’s extensive and diverse borders, spanning varied terrains and geopolitical sensitivities, demand effective border management to ensure national security, prevent infiltration, and promote peaceful cross-border cooperation and development.
Countries Sharing Boundaries with India
Country | Length of Border (Approx. in km) | Type of Border |
Bangladesh | 4,096 km | Land & Riverine |
China (Tibet) | 3,488 km | Land (Himalayan) |
Pakistan | 3,323 km | Land (Western) |
Nepal | 1,751 km | Land (Open Border) |
Myanmar | 1,643 km | Land & Hill Border |
Bhutan | 699 km | Land (Mountainous) |
Afghanistan | 106 km (PoK region) | Land (Disputed Segment) |
Total Border Length: ~15,106 km (Land)
Coastline: ~7,516 km (including island territories)
Need for Border Management
- Prevent illegal immigration, smuggling, and terrorist infiltration.
- Ensure territorial integrity and national sovereignty.
- Manage ethnic ties and trans-border communities (e.g., Indo-Nepal, Indo-Myanmar borders).
- Promote cross-border trade and connectivity (BBIN, IMT Highway).
- Facilitate disaster management and humanitarian cooperation.
- Strengthen internal security and curb insurgency and narcotics trade.
Agencies Involved in Border Management
- Border Security Force (BSF): Indo-Pakistan and Indo-Bangladesh borders.
- Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP): Indo-China border.
- Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB): Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders.
- Assam Rifles: Indo-Myanmar border.
- Indian Army: High-altitude and conflict-sensitive areas (LoC, LAC, Siachen).
- Coast Guard & Indian Navy: Maritime borders.
- Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA): Nodal authority for land border management.
Challenges Faced in Border Management
- Porous Borders: Especially with Nepal, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
- Cross-border Terrorism: From Pakistan-occupied regions.
- Illegal Migration: From Bangladesh and Myanmar.
- Drug and Human Trafficking: Via Golden Triangle and Golden Crescent.
- Smuggling of Arms and Fake Currency.
- Difficult Terrain: Himalayas, deserts, and riverine areas hinder surveillance.
- Lack of Coordination: Among multiple security and intelligence agencies.
Government Initiatives Taken
- Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS): Smart fencing, sensors, radars, and drones.
- Border Area Development Programme (BADP): Socio-economic upliftment of border villages.
- One Border, One Force Policy: Clarified jurisdiction of security forces.
- Smart Fence Project (BOLD-QIT): Indo-Bangladesh border surveillance.
- Infrastructure Development: Roads, bridges, and forward posts through BRO.
- Fencing and Floodlighting: Indo-Pak and Indo-Bangladesh borders.
- Land Port Authority of India (LPAI): For managing Integrated Check Posts (ICPs).
Way Forward
- Strengthen inter-agency coordination and real-time intelligence sharing.
- Expand CIBMS to all sensitive sectors.
- Enhance border diplomacy with neighbouring nations.
- Integrate local communities in border vigilance.
- Invest in modern surveillance technology and climate-resilient infrastructure.
- Improve training and living conditions for border personnel.
A secure and well-managed border system is essential for India’s sovereignty, regional stability, and development blending technology, diplomacy, and cooperation for a peaceful, connected, and resilient frontier future.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding India’s land borders with neighbouring countries:
1. The longest international boundary that India shares is with Bangladesh, and it also includes a riverine portion.
2. The only Indian state sharing borders with five countries is Arunachal Pradesh.
3. The India–China border, officially known as the Line of Actual Control (LAC), is demarcated and mutually agreed upon by both nations.
4. The India–Afghanistan border lies entirely within territory under Pakistan’s occupation.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Mains Question
Q. The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by our adversaries across the borders to ferry arms/ammunitions, drugs, etc., is a serious threat to the internal security. Comment on the measures being taken to tackle this threat. (PYQ 2023)
