Operation Sunrise 2 is an operation jointly performed by the armies of India and Myanmar. This three-week-long operation was carried out in the border areas of the respective countries, with the main aim to target multiple militant groups that were operating in areas such as Manipur, Nagaland and Assam.
The Prelude: Operation Sunrise
Operation Sunrise, the precursor to Operation Sunrise 2, took place three months prior along the Indo-Myanmar border. During this operation, the Indian Army specifically targeted members of the Arakan Army. This insurgent group in Myanmar was staunchly opposed to the Kaladan multi-modal transit transport project, a venture seen by India as its gateway to Southeast Asia.
Main Targets of Operation Sunrise 2
In Operation Sunrise 2, the armies of both nations coordinated their actions to bust camps of various militant outfits. This includes groups such as the Kamtapur Liberation Organisation, the National Socialist Council of Nagaland(Khaplang), the United Liberation Front of Assam (I) and the National Democratic Front of Boroland.
Strategic Importance of Myanmar for India
Myanmar holds strategic importance as a neighbour for India. It shares a 1,640-km long border with several north-eastern states of India. Among these are Nagaland and Manipur, states that have been significantly affected by militancy.
Fact Table
| Militant Group | Location |
|---|---|
| Kamtapur Liberation Organisation | Assam |
| National Socialist Council of Nagaland(Khaplang) | Nagaland |
| United Liberation Front of Assam (I) | Assam |
| National Democratic Front of Boroland | Boroland |
| Arakan Army | Myanmar |
The Impact of Operation Sunrise 2
Operation Sunrise 2 demonstrates the strong military cooperation between India and Myanmar. It underlines their joint determination to tackle militant groups operating in both countries, particularly those posing a threat to peace and progress in regions like Nagaland and Manipur. The operation constitutes a significant step towards ensuring stability and security along the Indo-Myanmar border.