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Module - III Geo-Politics

Security and Geo-Strategy
cooperation with ASEAN countries and has set up a separate diplomatic mission for
ASEAN.

Intext Questions 8.3

1. Explain the term 'treaties'.
Note
2. Provide two examples each of bilateral and multilateral treaties.

3. Name the members of SAARC and ASEAN.

8.4 Issues Between India and its Neighbours

India follows a policy of friendly cooperation with its neighbours. However, this has
been difficult to achieve. There have been several hindrances in the past decades that
have hampered bilateral ties. Here, in this section, you will learn how this has happened
in three broad areas viz: political and diplomatic issues, and defence and economic
issues. Political and diplomatic cooperation with neighbouring countries have been
generally cordial with most of the neighbouring countries. However, as with the case
of any two individuals, differences do crop up between countries. Let us examine each
country and understand the issues.

8.4.1 Bangladesh

It was in 1971 that Bangladesh got its independence from West Pakistan with the help
of India's military intervention. Thereafter relations have been cordial on all fronts as
we share common cultural and language bonds. However, there are certain issues that
have also affected thirelations. These are:
• Illegal migration from Bangladesh: The migrants have become an economic,

political and security problem for India. Economically they have to be supported
with food, shelter and medicines and security wise there is a possibility of these
people turning to anti-India activities.

• Porous Border: A porous border means that the border is not fenced or manned.
India shares the longest boundary with Bangladesh, most of which are riverine
plains. Hence it has been difficult to fence them and easy for illegal smuggling to
take place. Moreover, the border between India and Bangladesh is porous
leading to smuggling of goods including gold and other goods that affect security.
• Presence of terrorist outfits like Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami, Jamat-e-Islam are

active in those bordering areas. Drug dealers are increasingly using Bangladesh
as a transit point. They smuggle heroin and opium to India from Burma and
other countries through Bangladesh.

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