Imphal, August 21: India’s policy towards Myanmar reflects its own strategic interests and recognition of the established authority in the neighbouring country, said Dr. Om Prakash Das, Research Fellow at the South Asia & Oceania Centre of the MP-IDSA, New Delhi.
Speaking at a one-day lecture on “Geo-Political Developments in Myanmar and Its Impact on the Indo-Myanmar Border with Special Focus on Manipur”, organised by IGAR (South) under an MoU with Manipur University, Dr. Das underlined India’s approach of non-interference while prioritising national security and connectivity projects.
He noted that while global powers such as China, Russia, the US, and Thailand pursue their own stakes in Myanmar, India remains focused on safeguarding its interests. Highlighting the fallout of the 2021 crisis, Dr. Das said millions were displaced in Myanmar, with 60,000 to 100,000 people crossing into India. He also flagged concerns over illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and arms smuggling through the porous border, stressing the urgent need to review the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and advance border fencing.
Director General of Assam Rifles, Lt. General Vikas Lakhera, also addressed the event, detailing the force’s role in guarding the 1,600 km Indo-Myanmar border with 20 battalions. He admitted to the operational challenges but assured that Assam Rifles continues to strengthen border management.
The programme, held at the VC Court Hall of Manipur University, was attended by the Vice Chancellor, IGAR (South), Security Advisor to the Manipur Government, senior officers, scholars, and media representatives.
