Pahalgam Attack Exposes Gaps in Border Security
(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained, Page – 17)
| Topic: GS3 – Internal Security |
| Context |
|
Analysis of the news:
Tactical Challenges in the Pir Panjal Terrain
- The Pir Panjal range, with its thick forest cover and inhospitable conditions, offers terrorists natural camouflage.
- Their use of stealth tactics, advanced communication gear, and minimal interaction with locals makes them exceptionally difficult to detect and engage.
- The Indian Army has already lost over 50 personnel in similar pursuits across regions like Poonch, Rajouri, and Doda.
Counter-Infiltration: A Strategic Priority
- Given the difficulties in tracking terrorists once they cross over, strengthening the anti-infiltration grid is critical.
- This includes advanced fencing, robust intelligence networks, and skilled manpower.
- As infiltration from within Kashmir has reduced, external infiltrators now pose the primary threat, accounting for 60% of terrorists neutralized in 2024.
Effectiveness and Status of Border Fencing
- The LoC is mostly fenced, and the 2003 ceasefire saw a sharp drop in successful infiltration attempts.
- However, challenges remain — particularly in plugging riverine gaps and maintaining fences during harsh winters.
- Progress on the Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS), designed to modernize surveillance, has been slower than expected.
Operational Difficulties and Technological Gaps
- Snow, fog, and rugged terrain severely impact physical infrastructure and soldier deployment.
- Repairing damaged fences can take months, during which terrorists exploit gaps.
- While high-tech tools like night-vision devices and ground sensors help, they are hampered by weather, power shortages, and limited durability.
Need for Smart Surveillance and Investment
- Experts emphasize the need for smart fencing solutions, such as sensor-enabled barriers that notify command centers upon breach.
- Developing snow-resistant infrastructure, tunnel detection systems, and real-time aerial surveillance is vital.
- Though expensive, such upgrades are deemed necessary to secure India’s borders effectively.
| Practice Question: The recent Pahalgam terror attack highlights the persistent challenges of cross-border infiltration and the limitations of existing border security infrastructure. Critically examine the effectiveness of India’s counter-infiltration measures along the Line of Control. What reforms are needed to strengthen border security in difficult terrains like the Pir Panjal range? (250 Words /15 marks) |
