Borders neglected in past, top priority for Modi government now: Rijiju on claims of Chinese intrusion in Arunachal
Kiren Rejiju, who represents Arunachal West in the Lok Sabha, come amid renewed concerns over Chinese military activity in the Upper Subansiri region of Arunachal Pradesh
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Context
Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju reiterated the government's focus on developing border infrastructure, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh, countering claims of recent Chinese incursions. This highlights a strategic shift from a historical policy of maintaining underdeveloped borders as a defense mechanism to actively building capabilities along the to counter China's advanced infrastructure.
UPSC Perspectives
Internal Security
The article highlights the critical issue of Border Management along the . Historically, India's strategy involved keeping border areas underdeveloped, assuming that difficult terrain would deter incursions. However, this asymmetric infrastructure development has allowed China to gain a tactical advantage, facilitating rapid troop deployment. The current government's emphasis on initiatives like the and the 's projects signifies a paradigm shift. UPSC aspirants must understand this evolution in border strategy and the challenges of infrastructure development in hostile terrains. Questions may focus on comparing India's and China's border infrastructure capabilities and evaluating the effectiveness of recent border development programs in securing the LAC.
International Relations
The situation in Arunachal Pradesh is inextricably linked to Bilateral Relations between India and China. The explicitly linked peace on the border to the overall state of bilateral ties, emphasizing that border disputes cannot be compartmentalized from broader diplomatic engagement. China's repeated claims over Arunachal Pradesh, which it refers to as 'Zangnan' or South Tibet, and its tactic of 'salami slicing' (incremental territorial grabs) remain major friction points. For UPSC, it is crucial to analyze the historical context of the , the strategic importance of the , and the implications of these frequent border tensions on regional geopolitics and India's 'Act East' policy.
Governance
The development of border areas is also a significant Governance challenge. Beyond military strategy, developing these regions is crucial for integrating remote populations and preventing out-migration, which can create security vacuums. The historical neglect acknowledged by former Defence Minister A.K. Antony reflects past policy limitations. The shift towards inclusive development, prioritizing the needs and concerns of local residents in areas like the Upper Subansiri region, is essential for national integration. Aspirants should consider how governance deficits in border areas impact internal security and the role of comprehensive development programs in fostering a sense of belonging and resilience among border communities.