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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 03/03/2025

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (03-03-2025).

Mains Question

“The Siliguri Corridor, or the Chicken’s Neck, is India’s most strategically vulnerable region. Analyze the security challenges it faces and suggest measures to enhance India’s preparedness in the region.” (GS Paper 3: Internal Security, Border Management)

Model Answer

Introduction

The Siliguri Corridor, commonly known as Chicken’s Neck, is a 22 km wide narrow strip of land in West Bengal that connects mainland India to the Northeast. Due to its geopolitical location, it is highly vulnerable to external aggression, insurgency, illegal migration, and infrastructure challenges. Recent Chinese military activities near Doklam and increasing insurgency in the Northeast have heightened security concerns.

Security Challenges Facing the Siliguri Corridor

1. Chinese Military Threat and Border Tensions

The Doklam Plateau, adjacent to the Siliguri Corridor, has witnessed Chinese incursions.
China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in Nepal and Bhutan poses a strategic challenge to India.
Any Chinese military advancement in Doklam could cut off the Northeast from the rest of India.

2. Cross-Border Insurgency and Smuggling

Insurgent groups like ULFA-I, NSCN-K, and Bodo militants use the region for arms trafficking.
Smuggling of drugs, gold, and counterfeit currency from Myanmar and Bangladesh.
The Bangladesh border remains porous, leading to illegal infiltration.

3. Infrastructure Gaps and Poor Connectivity

The corridor relies heavily on NH-27 (formerly NH-31), which gets disrupted by floods and landslides.
Limited railway and air connectivity to Northeast India affects military mobilization.
Lack of alternate routes to bypass the corridor during emergencies.

4. Demographic and Political Challenges

Illegal migration from Bangladesh has altered local demography, leading to ethnic tensions.
Political instability in neighboring Nepal and Bhutan adds to security risks.

Measures to Enhance India’s Preparedness in the Region

1. Strengthening Border Security and Surveillance

Deployment of additional Assam Rifles and ITBP personnel in the region.
Smart fencing along the India-Bangladesh border to prevent infiltration.
Increased use of drones, satellite surveillance, and electronic sensors.

2. Enhancing Military Readiness

Establishment of new airbases and forward military stations near the corridor.
Fast-tracking the development of the Sela Tunnel and alternative roads.
Joint military exercises with Bhutan and Nepal to secure the northern front.

3. Boosting Infrastructure and Alternate Connectivity Routes

Strengthen Northeast-Bangladesh trade corridors as alternative supply routes.
Completion of Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Project to connect the Northeast via Myanmar.
Expansion of rail links between Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Tripura.

4. Diplomatic Engagement with Bhutan and Nepal

Securing border agreements with Bhutan to prevent Chinese encroachments in Doklam.
Strengthening economic ties with Nepal to counter China’s influence.

5. Socio-Economic Development and Counter-Insurgency Measures

Creating Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in North Bengal to provide employment and reduce insurgency recruitment.
Integrating rehabilitated insurgents into mainstream society through skill programs.
Encouraging Northeast tourism and cultural exchange to strengthen national integration.

Conclusion

The Siliguri Corridor is India’s most critical strategic chokepoint, requiring multi-dimensional security measures, infrastructure upgrades, and diplomatic engagement. Strengthening military presence, securing borders, and developing alternative connectivity routes will ensure the corridor remains well-defended and operationally resilient in times of crisis.

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