India and Bangladesh have recently agreed on measures to improve border security. This decision came during the biannual director general-level talks between the Border Security Force (BSF) of India and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). The discussions took place from February 18 to February 20, 2025, marking the first such meeting after the political changes in Bangladesh.
New Communication Links Established
A key outcome of the talks was the establishment of a new communication link. This hotline will connect the additional director general of the BSF’s eastern command in Kolkata with his counterpart in Dhaka. The aim is to facilitate real-time communication and enhance coordination between the two forces.
Fencing Initiatives Along the Border
The two countries identified 99 new patches for fencing along their 4,096-kilometre border. Currently, 864.48 km of the border remains unfenced, with 174.51 km classified as “non-feasible.” The fencing initiative aims to strengthen security and prevent cross-border crimes.
Joint Patrolling and Vigilance Measures
Both sides agreed to enhance joint patrolling efforts. The BGB has committed to increasing vigilance, especially during nighttime. This cooperative approach aims to deter illegal crossings and improve the safety of border personnel.
Addressing Security Breaches
The BSF brought into light concerns regarding attacks on its personnel and Indian civilians. The Indian delegation urged the BGB to take stringent measures against Bangladeshi criminals attempting to cross the border. The BGB assured its commitment to addressing these concerns.
Progress on Previous Agreements
Fencing work is already in progress at 92 previously agreed-upon patches, covering approximately 95.8 km. The new patches identified will further enhance border security. This collaborative effort reflects a mutual recognition of the importance of a secure border.
Future Engagements
The next round of talks is scheduled for July 2025 in Bangladesh. Both sides expressed a commitment to ongoing dialogue and cooperation to address border security challenges effectively.
Importance of Border Security
Border security is vital for both nations. It helps prevent illegal immigration, smuggling, and cross-border crime. Strengthening communication and cooperation between the BSF and BGB is essential for maintaining peace and security in the region.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of effective border management on India-Bangladesh relations.
- Explain the significance of joint patrolling in maintaining border security between India and Bangladesh.
- What are the implications of cross-border crime on national security? Discuss with suitable examples.
- What measures can be adopted to enhance communication between security forces of neighbouring countries? Critically analyse.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of effective border management on India-Bangladesh relations.
- Effective border management encourages trust and cooperation between India and Bangladesh.
- It reduces instances of cross-border crime, enhancing security for both nations.
- Improved communication links facilitate timely resolution of border disputes.
- Joint initiatives, like fencing, demonstrate a collaborative approach to border issues.
- A secure border can lead to better trade relations and economic cooperation.
2. Explain the significance of joint patrolling in maintaining border security between India and Bangladesh.
- Joint patrolling enhances surveillance and reduces illegal crossings.
- It encourages cooperation and trust between the BSF and BGB personnel.
- Increased vigilance during night hours helps deter criminal activities.
- Shared responsibilities in patrolling can lead to more effective resource utilization.
- It strengthens the overall security framework along the 4,096 km border.
3. What are the implications of cross-border crime on national security? Discuss with suitable examples.
- Cross-border crime can lead to increased violence and instability in border areas.
- Examples include smuggling of drugs and arms, which threaten public safety.
- Attacks on security personnel can escalate tensions between nations.
- Human trafficking undermines national security and violates human rights.
- Effective border management is crucial to mitigating these security threats.
4. What measures can be adopted to enhance communication between security forces of neighbouring countries? Critically analyse.
- Establishing dedicated hotlines for real-time communication can improve coordination.
- Regular joint training exercises can enhance mutual understanding and operational efficiency.
- Creating shared intelligence databases can facilitate quicker responses to threats.
- Formal agreements on communication protocols can streamline interactions during crises.
- Engaging in diplomatic dialogues can help address underlying tensions and build trust.
