Major issues between India and Myanmar | India-Myanmar relations

Major issues between India and Myanmar

India-Myanmar relations

India and Myanmar share a border spanning over 1,600 kilometers in the northeastern region. Over the years, there have been several issues and challenges related to the border between the two countries. Some of the major issues include:

1. Insurgency and Cross-Border Movements: Insurgent groups from Northeast India have historically used Myanmar as a safe haven to carry out their activities. These groups have taken advantage of the porous border to carry out attacks in India and then retreat to Myanmar. This has been a significant security concern for both countries.
   
   
2. Drug Trafficking: The border region has been used for the smuggling of narcotics and illicit drugs. Myanmar is one of the largest producers of illegal drugs, such as opium and methamphetamine (meth). These drugs find their way into India, leading to social and health challenges, including addiction and organized crime.
   
   
3. Illegal Cross-Border Trade: Informal and illegal trade takes place across the India-Myanmar border, including smuggling of goods and commodities. This trade is often unregulated and can have economic implications for both countries.
   
   
4. Border Infrastructure and Connectivity: The border areas between India and Myanmar have lacked adequate infrastructure, including roads and bridges. This has hindered connectivity and trade between the two countries. Improving border infrastructure is crucial for enhancing bilateral trade and people-to-people exchanges.
   
   
5. Rohingya Refugee Crisis: The Rohingya refugee crisis, which primarily affected Myanmar's Rakhine state, has had an impact on the India-Myanmar border. There have been reports of Rohingya refugees attempting to cross the border into India, leading to challenges related to immigration and humanitarian concerns.
   
   
6. India's Connectivity Projects in Myanmar: The discussion also touched upon India's grant-in-aid connectivity projects in Myanmar aimed at infrastructure development and the economic well-being of the people of Myanmar. These projects contribute to enhancing connectivity and trade between the two countries.
   
   
7. Conducive Conditions for the Return of Myanmar Nationals: The creation of conducive conditions for the return of Myanmar nationals who have taken shelter in India was discussed. This highlights the importance of addressing the refugee situation and finding sustainable solutions for those who have sought refuge in neighboring countries.
   
   
8. Combating Transnational Crimes: Both countries discussed the need to combat drug trafficking and other transnational crimes that occur across the border. Strengthening people-to-people exchanges in the bordering areas, implementing Free Movement Regime, and augmenting border trade were also part of the discussions.

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To address these issues and strengthen bilateral relations, India and Myanmar have engaged in various initiatives, including border management agreements, joint operations against insurgent groups, intelligence-sharing, and efforts to enhance connectivity and trade through infrastructure development.