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Introduction            

The Indo-Bangladesh border, spanning 4,096 kilometres, continues to remain porous despite ongoing efforts. This porosity poses significant challenges to the security and stability of both countries, as it facilitates illegal immigration and smuggling. Recently 3.5 kg of gold with a market value of over Rs 2 crore was seized near Indo-Bangladesh border.

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Challenges faced in securing the Indo-Bangladesh border against illegal immigration and smuggling:

• Geographic Complexity: The Indo-Bangladesh border stretches over diverse landscapes. For instance, in the Sundarbans mangrove forest region, the dense and swampy terrain poses immense difficulties in establishing surveillance and patrolling mechanisms.
• Riverine Border: Smugglers often exploit these waterways to transport contraband goods and illegal immigrants. For example, BSF personnel seized 600 kg of Hilsa fish during river patrolling along the India-Bangladesh border in 2020.
• Corruption: Instances of corruption within border security agencies can undermine efforts to secure the border. Eg: In 2017, several BSF personnel were arrested for their involvement in cattle smuggling, shedding light on the issue of corruption among law enforcement officials.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Inadequate infrastructure, such as roads and fencing, in certain border areas hinders the establishment of a secure barrier. Eg: 3,180 km of border has been covered by physical fencing, & 916 km still lacks proper fencing.
• Human Trafficking: The border region is a hotspot for human trafficking. For instance, the number of women caught on the International Border between India and Bangladesh was 936 in 2019, 1,107 in 2018, and 572 in 2017.
• Cross-Border Trade: Legal trade and commerce across the border can sometimes be misused for smuggling activities. On the India-Bangladesh border, smuggling of fake currency is on the rise, with Rs 2.87 crore in 2015 and Rs 1.53 crore in 2016 under the guise of legitimate trade, showcasing how illicit operations can exploit legal channels.

Strategies for securing the Indo-Bangladesh border:

• Technological Surveillance: Implement advanced surveillance technologies like drones, ground sensors, and thermal imaging cameras to monitor the border’s vast and challenging terrain. Eg: India has been using Israeli-made Heron drones for aerial surveillance along the border.
• Riverine Patrol Boats: Enhance riverine border security by using specialized patrol boats equipped with radar and sonar systems. Eg: India’s Introduction of Fast Interceptor Boats (FIBs) equipped with advanced communication systems and night vision equipment to patrol the Brahmaputra River exemplifies this.
• Community Engagement & public awareness: Foster cooperation and trust with borderland communities through educational initiatives and skill development programs. Eg: The Border Security Force (BSF) can initiate vocational training programs, India’s “Border Haat” initiative; for local youth along the border to offer them alternative livelihoods.
• Border Infrastructure Development: Invest in improving border infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and border check-posts. On the India-Bangladesh border, smuggling of fake currency is on the rise, with Rs 2.87 crore in 2015 and Rs 1.53 crore in 2016 under the guise of legitimate trade, showcasing how illicit operations can exploit legal channels.
• Biometric Identification: Implement biometric identification systems at border crossings to verify the identity of individuals. Eg: India’s Aadhar-based identification system being used to confirm the identity of individuals in border areas is a good step to prevent illegal immigration.
• Cross-Border Intelligence Sharing: Strengthen intelligence sharing with Bangladesh authorities to exchange information on smuggling networks, human trafficking, and other cross-border crimes. The strengthening of Joint Border Working Groups (JBWGs) can facilitate such cooperation.
• Smart Fencing: Install smart fencing systems equipped with sensors, alarms, and cameras along vulnerable border stretches. The Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS) along the India-Pakistan border exemplifies how using technology can enhance border security.
• Counter-Currency Smuggling: Implement advanced currency tracking and detection systems at border crossings to identify counterfeit currency and curb its smuggling. India’s demonetization efforts in 2016 aimed at reducing the circulation of counterfeit currency was a step in the right direction.
• Diversify Border Economy: Encourage legal cross-border trade and commerce by simplifying trade procedures and reducing tariffs. Initiatives like the India-Bangladesh Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade can be used to promote legal trade and economic development along the border.

Conclusion 

Overall, securing the Indo-Bangladesh border demands a dynamic approach that integrates technology, community engagement, and international cooperation. By building on recent initiatives and continually adapting strategies, India can better protect its border while fostering regional stability and development.

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