Abstract

India's expanding economy and complex 15,106.7 km border with seven neighbouring countries - Bangladesh, China, Pakistan, Nepal, Myanmar, Bhutan, and Afghanistan - pose unique challenges in border security. This is an extant review of the existing literature that builds on previous studies which suggest that with long and diverse boundary, often lacking natural demarcations, makes it vulnerable to illegal migration, smuggling, trafficking, and the circulation of counterfeit currency. The study found that as a policy matter, the Indian government is taking major initiatives to build a robust and modern border management infrastructure as it shares its borders with the neighbours with whom the country has historically a range of conflicts. As a critical policy tool to control infiltration, smuggling and illegal trade, the Indian government has initiated numerous projects to secure the borders, including fences, roads, floodlights, border posts, helipads, and footpaths, however, this fall short of the countermeasures to control the illegal activities at the borders.

Various studies have suggested that to enhance the security along the borders of the country, the Government of India is implementing several projects for the development of border infrastructure. Border management is a security function that calls for coordination and concerted action by various government agencies and the coordination of Central and State government to strengthen the border security. The recent development of the newly-formed West Bengal government’s initiative to hand over the acquired land to Border Security Forces (BSF) for fencing using barbed wires and deployment of modern surveillance tools alongside the West Bengal border is expected to facilitate both traditional and modern methods of securing the borders.

Globally, countries like the U.S. have pioneered "smart borders" using advanced technology to enhance security and streamline operations. These technologies, equipped with AI and sensors, operate autonomously and detect objects from great distances, providing real-time data to border agents. The Indian government is now exploring similar technologies, such as virtual fencing, satellite surveillance, and movement detection sensors, to address its border challenges.

Keywords: surveillance, border management, smart borders