UPSC Mains 2016 GS3 Q19 — Border Management
Border management is a complex task due to difficult terrain and hostile relations with some countries. Elucidate the challenges and strategies for effective border management. (Answer in not more than 200 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Elucidate
- Scope keywords
- Border managementcomplex taskdifficult terrainhostile relationschallengesstrategies
- Implicit sub-parts
- Categorization of borders based on terrain (Himalayan, Riverine, Swamplands) and threat perception (friendly vs. hostile).
- Specific technological and infrastructural bottlenecks in difficult terrains.
- Integrated management strategies including 'One Border One Force' and CIBMS.
- The role of community engagement and development in border areas as a security strategy.
- Common pitfalls
- Writing a general essay on India's neighbors without linking it back to the specific physical difficulty of the terrain.
- Ignoring maritime borders; aspirants often focus only on the LoC and LAC and forget the 7,516 km coastline.
- Failing to mention specific government initiatives like the Vibrant Villages Programme or CIBMS, making the answer too theoretical.
- Over-emphasizing historical wars instead of focusing on current management 'strategies' and modern technology.
- Dimensions required
- Geographical/TopographicalGeopolitical/DiplomaticTechnologicalAdministrative/InstitutionalSocio-economic (Border Area Development)
- Marks allocation hint
Dedicate 30 words to the intro defining border complexity. Allocate 75 words to 'Challenges' specifically mapped to terrain and hostility. Use 75 words for 'Strategies' focusing on technological and institutional reforms. Spend the final 20 words on a forward-looking conclusion.
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