Q. What are the major challenges to internal security and peace process in the North-Eastern States? Map the various peace accords and agreements initiated by the government in the past decade.

Model Answer:

Major Challenges to Internal Security and Peace Process in North-Eastern States

The North-Eastern region, sharing 98% of its borders with five countries, faces multifaceted security challenges stemming from historical grievances, ethnic diversity, and economic disparities. Despite declining violence, the peace process remains complex due to overlapping issues requiring sustained dialogue and development initiatives.

Major Internal Security Challenges:

• Persistent Insurgency: Multiple armed groups continue operating despite peace efforts – ULFA-I in Assam, NSCN factions in Nagaland, and Meitei extremist groups in Manipur. Their nexus with criminal networks involving extortion and illegal trade compounds security threats.

• Ethnic Conflicts: The region’s 200+ ethnic groups face competing claims over resources and representation. Recent Meitei-Kuki violence in Manipur exemplifies these deep-seated tensions, causing displacement and casualties.

• Inter-State Border Disputes: Colonial-era demarcations created disputes between Assam-Mizoram, Assam-Nagaland, and Assam-Meghalaya, often escalating into violent clashes over territorial control.

• Economic Underdevelopment: Poor infrastructure, limited industrialization, and high unemployment create recruitment grounds for insurgents, fostering alienation among youth vulnerable to radical ideologies.

• Porous International Borders: The 5,182 km international boundary facilitates arms trafficking, drug trade (Golden Triangle proximity), and cross-border sanctuary for insurgents, particularly along Myanmar-Bangladesh borders.

Key Peace Accords (2015-2025):

The government’s intensified dialogue approach yielded significant breakthroughs:

• Naga Framework Agreement (2015): Recognized unique Naga history, negotiations ongoing
• Bodo Peace Accord (2020): Created BTR, rehabilitated 1,600+ NDFB cadres
• Bru-Reang Agreement (2020): Settled 34,000 displaced people in Tripura
• Karbi Anglong Agreement (2021): ₹1,000 crore package, 1,000 cadres surrendered
• Assam-Meghalaya Border Settlement (2022): Resolved six disputed areas
• UNLF Peace Agreement (2023): Historic Manipur breakthrough

These accords demonstrate progress through inclusive dialogue, rehabilitation packages, and autonomy provisions addressing ethnic aspirations.

Conclusion:
Sustained implementation of accords with development initiatives remains crucial for transforming North-East into India’s growth engine.