Topic- Security challenges and their management in border areas;
5) The Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS) is touted as a more robust and integrated system that is capable of addressing the gaps in the present system of border security. Discuss.(250 words)
Why this question
India shares a long border with several countries and the difficult nature of the terrain and open border at many poses special challenges for India. In this context it is important to discuss the need and scope of CIBMS.
Directive word
Discuss- this is an all-encompassing directive which mandates us to write in detail about the key demand of the question. we also have to discuss about the related and important aspects of the question in order to bring out a complete picture of the issue in hand.
Key demand of the question.
The question wants us to write in detail about the CIBMS and how it will address the gaps in the present system of border security.
Structure of the answer
Introduction– write a few introductory lines about the Indian border. E.g mention the varied and difficult terrain, hostile neighbours and porous border at many places.
Body-
- Discuss about the CIBMS and how it will help in better border management and control. E.g
- The use of high-tech solutions for border security was being considered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) since 2012 when it released an Expression of Interest (EoI) for a Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS).
- The CIBMS is touted as a more robust and integrated system that is capable of addressing the gaps in the present system of border security by seamlessly integrating human resources, weapons, and high-tech surveillance equipment.
- It has three main components:
- a) new high-tech surveillance devices such as sensors, detectors, cameras, ground-based radar systems, micro-aerostats, lasers as well as existing equipment for round-the-clock surveillance of the international border;
- b) an efficient and dedicated communication network including fibre optic cables and satellite communication for transmitting data gathered by these diverse high-tech surveillance and detection devices; and
- c) a command and control centre to which the data will be transmitted in order to apprise the senior commanders about the happenings on the ground and thus providing a composite picture of the international border.
- A composite picture would help senior commanders analyse and classify the threat and mobilise resources accordingly to assist the field commander in his response.
- The purpose of the CIBMS is to eventually replace manual surveillance/patrolling of the international borders by electronic surveillance and organising the BSF personnel into quick reaction teams to enhance their detection and interception capabilities.
- Other factors such as power back up, training of the BSF personnel in handling the sophisticated equipment, and maintenance of the equipment are incorporated into the CIBMS.
Conclusion– based on your discussion, form a fair and a balanced conclusion on the given issue.
