Army sets up three new garrisons near the strategic Siliguri Corridor, Pg11

Key Highlights:

• Indian Army established three new garrison locations near the Siliguri Corridor: Lachit Borphukan Military Station in Assam, forward bases at Kishanganj in Bihar, and Chopra in West Bengal.
• The move aims to reinforce India's eastern frontier amid concerns over China's growing presence and shifting regional dynamics after the change of regime in Bangladesh.
• The new stations will enhance surveillance and improve coordination with the Border Security Force along the India-Bangladesh border.
• Lt.-Gen. R. C. Tiwari, GOC-in-C, Eastern Command, visited the new garrisons, emphasizing vigilance and high preparedness.

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Detailed Insights:

• The Siliguri Corridor is a strategically crucial, narrow land link connecting India's eight northeastern states to the rest of the country.
• The Lachit Borphukan Military Station is named after the Ahom commander known for his leadership, with the Army acknowledging support from the Assam government.
• Concerns over demographic changes in border districts due to illegal immigration from Bangladesh have been repeatedly expressed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
• China's infrastructure development along the Line of Actual Control in Arunachal Pradesh and trilateral consultations with Pakistan and Bangladesh are significant concerns.
• The Tri-Shakti Corps already has defensive assets, including Rafale jets at Hashimara, BrahMos missiles, and advanced air-defence systems, guarding Sikkim and the corridor.
• Recent events include a Pakistan Navy ship visit to Chattogram port in Bangladesh and discussions on defence cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
• India is increasing military activity in the Northeast, including air force displays in Assam and the Poorvi Prachand Prahar exercise near the LAC in Arunachal Pradesh.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Siliguri Corridor: A narrow strip of land connecting the northeastern states of India to the rest of the country.
• Line of Actual Control (LAC): The de facto border between India and China.
• Garrison: A military post or station where troops are quartered.