UPSC Mains Answer: How does illegal transborder migration pose a threat to India's security? Discuss the strategies to curb this, bringing out the factors Which give impetus to such migration.

Difficulty Level: Hard

Pre-requisite: Understanding of India’s border management challenges, historical conflicts (e.g., Assam agitation), and geopolitical dynamics with neighboring countries (Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal). Familiarity with post-independence treaties (e.g., Indira-Mujib Agreeme

Sub-category: Internal Security (GS-III)

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Illegal transborder migration presents multifaceted security threats to India, necessitating a robust policy response. Introduction: India shares porous borders with several nations, making it vulnerable to unchecked migration. This phenomenon undermines national security by facilitating terrorism, organized crime, and demographic imbalances. Body: Historically, illegal migration from Bangladesh and Myanmar has altered regional demographics, particularly in Assam and West Bengal, leading to ethnic tensions and conflicts like the Nellie massacre. Security threats include infiltration by terrorist groups (e.g., ULFA, Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh), drug trafficking, and human smuggling networks that exploit weak border controls. Factors driving such migration include economic disparities, political instability in neighboring countries (e.g., Rohingya crisis), and climate-induced displacement. Strategies to Curb Migration: Strengthening border infrastructure with fencing, surveillance drones, and increased patrolling (e.g., BOLD-QIT project) is critical. Diplomatic engagement with neighboring countries to address root causes, such as the India-Bangladesh Land Boundary Agreement, has yielded positive results. Domestic measures like the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Aadhaar-based verification help identify illegal migrants. Conclusion: A multi-pronged approach—combining border security, diplomatic efforts, and socio-economic development—is essential to mitigate the security risks posed by illegal transborder migration while addressing humanitarian concerns.