Answer

Introduction

Border regions frequently become vulnerable to militant activities due to persistent socio-economic neglect, feelings of alienation, and recurring security disturbances. The survival of hostile elements often relies on local support or indifference, highlighting the urgent need to address the trust gap between the state and its border communities.

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Measures to Eliminate Local Support for Militants

• Strengthening Ground Level Intelligence: A well-coordinated intelligence network helps detect militant movements and disrupt attacks before execution.
  Eg: In 2023, timely local intelligence helped the Army foil a major infiltration attempt in the Machil sector of J&K.
• Curbing Online Radicalisation: Monitoring and blocking social media platforms used for indoctrination prevents ideological influence on vulnerable youth.
  Eg: The Cyber Police in Srinagar shut down several Telegram and Facebook pages used for militant propaganda.
• Community Engagement and Youth Rehabilitation: Engaging communities through education, skill training, and support programs helps reintegrate vulnerable youth and curb militant recruitment.
  Eg: Mission Youth in Jammu & Kashmir offers skill training and startup aid to at-risk youth, reducing their susceptibility to militancy.
• Breaking Narco Terror Networks: Drug trafficking not only funds terror but also creates a cycle of local criminal support for militants.
• Neutralisation of Overground Workers (OGWs): Identifying and acting against those who assist militants with logistics or shelter disrupts the base of terror operations.
  Eg: The J&K Police arrested OGWs in Pulwama who helped militants with movement and supplies.

While suppression of militant networks is essential, building a secure environment in border regions requires winning public trust. Constructive engagement with local communities helps shift loyalties away from militancy and towards democratic governance.

Strategies to Build a Positive Perception Among the Local Population

• Timely Delivery of Welfare Schemes: Implementing housing, health, and subsidy schemes fosters trust in the state’s presence and intent.
  Eg: Kupwara built over 4,700 houses under PMAY-G in 2022–23, earning the Best Performer District title and boosting rural welfare.
• Vibrant Villages Development (VVP): Upgrading basic infrastructure in remote villages fosters a sense of inclusion and national integration.
  Eg: Kibithu in Arunachal Pradesh now has 4G internet, solar lighting, and better roads under VVP.
• Recruitment into Security Forces: Local youth employed in the army, CAPFs, or police gain a sense of ownership over national security.
  Eg: Tribal youth in Rajouri and Poonch were recruited into the Indian Army’s territorial units.
• Skill Development and Livelihood Training: Vocational training reduces youth unemployment and prevents recruitment by insurgents.
  Eg: BADP-funded centres in Barmer trained locals in tailoring, solar panel repair, and agri-skills.
• Digital and Residential Education Access: Establishing schools and hostels helps retain students and uplift educational standards in isolated areas.
  Eg: A girls’ hostel in Kargil improved safety and school attendance for border students.

Conclusion 

Border security begins with empowering local communities, who act as the “eyes and ears” of security forces. A sustained strategy based on development, dignity, and dialogue can turn vulnerable regions into resilient zones, where people actively contribute to national security rather than remain passive recipients of state protection.

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