Q18. How does illegal trans-border migration pose a threat to India’s security? Discuss the strategies to curb this, bringing out the factors which give impetus to such migration.

Model Answer:

Introduction

Illegal trans-border migration is a significant concern for India, impacting security, socio-economic stability, and demographics. Migrants often cross into India from neighbouring countries due to political instability, poverty, and limited opportunities in their home nations. This migration poses various security risks, which India must address through strategic measures and policy interventions.

Body

Threats Posed by Illegal Trans-Border Migration

• National Security Risks: Infiltration by anti-national elements among migrants can lead to potential terror activities, smuggling, and espionage, posing a direct threat to India’s security.
• Strain on Resources: Illegal migration places immense pressure on India’s infrastructure, healthcare, education, and employment sectors, especially in border states, leading to resource shortages for citizens.
• Social and Demographic Impact: Large-scale migration can alter the demographic composition in sensitive regions, causing social tensions, communal conflicts, and political instability.
• Human Trafficking and Organized Crime: Illegal migration routes are often used by organised crime networks, leading to human trafficking, drug smuggling, and other illicit activities.

Factors Fueling Trans-Border Migration

• Economic Disparity: Widespread poverty, unemployment, and limited economic opportunities in neighbouring countries encourage migration to India, perceived as a land of better prospects.
• Political Instability: Conflicts, persecution, and unstable regimes drive people to seek refuge in safer countries like India.
• Environmental Displacement: Natural disasters and climate change-induced issues like flooding and drought force people to migrate across borders in search of livelihood and security.

Strategies to Curb Illegal Migration

• Strengthen Border Security: Deploy advanced surveillance technology, including drones and thermal cameras, to enhance border security and prevent unauthorised crossings
• Improve Intelligence Sharing: Collaborate with neighbouring countries on intelligence sharing to monitor migration patterns and address root causes like human trafficking.
• Implement Stringent Immigration Policies: Enforce strict policies, including biometric registration, to monitor migrant entry and residence, ensuring accountability and legal compliance.
• Socio-Economic Development in Border Areas: Invest in border regions to improve infrastructure and provide livelihood opportunities, reducing local support for illegal migration.
• Bilateral and Regional Cooperation: Engage in diplomatic talks and agreements with neighbouring countries to address economic and environmental issues driving migration.

Conclusion

‍Illegal trans-border migration poses significant security, economic, and social challenges for India. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach that combines stronger border control, policy enforcement, regional cooperation, and targeted socio-economic development. By implementing these strategies, India can better safeguard its national security while managing migration responsibly.

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