Strategies for Effective Border Management

Introduction

India’s border expanse is very diverse, and manning it is a difficult task. India has been facing a number of challenges due to inefficient border management, but it is high time, especially in light of recent tensions and violence, that the entire security gamut and border management infrastructure be revisited and made more effective. 

Strategies for Effective Border Management

• Smart and effective border management: There is a need to establish integrated command and control centre to keep a 24*7 vigil without any error with the application of technologies. The use of drone, night-vision cameras, sensors etc., can be employed to check the illegal migration, terrorist movements, etc.
• Coordination among various agencies: Coordination among various security and civil agencies such as customs, immigration, armed forces, border security and intelligence agencies are required that will strengthen the border guarding and management.
• Border fencing: Border fencing along the border, such as with Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Nepal, can help in better border management. Borders need not be fenced with physical wires; they can be done with the use of ultra-modern technologies and various other gadgets. Border issues with countries like China need to be addressed and resolved ASAP to ensure low no conflicts during patrol. 
• Improved coordination and intelligence sharing with neighbouring countries: Coordination with neighbouring countries would help in monitoring cross border illegal migration, arms and drugs smuggling etc. Such kind of initiative can be taken with friendly countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. 
• Countering drones: Nowadays, Pakistan and Pakistan based terrorist organisations are using drones for their logistics support in J&K. India needs to make effective policy on this emerging threat and strengthen the Border Security Force to counter-drone attacks. 

• Improved maritime patrolling and use of technology to identify intruding boats.