Department of Political Science at LPU’s School of Humanities organized an expert guest lecture on the topic ‘Border Management and National Security Challenges’. For necessary awareness, guidance and interactions thereupon; Former General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Western Command Lieutenant General (Retired) Kamal Jit Singh, PVSM, AVSM & Bar was specially invited by the school.
The highly decorated officer informed that India shares approximately 15,000kms of land borders and 7,500kms of maritime boundaries with 11 countries. Only five Indian states do not have any borders. He emphasised that when it comes to ‘Border Management and National Security Challenges, it is important to have basic knowledge about the borders.
Mr Singh opines that good management of borders is extremely important for national safety. In India, borders are extended to different portions which create many issues and these issues must be appropriately addressed. These problems have become intensified recently with illegal drugs trafficking, cross-border terrorism and of course with the anti-India political stands of immediate neighbours. The increase of infiltration, cross-border terrorism has been targeted to weaken India and also pose main challenges for border management strategy.
The expert guest also elaborated on the historical evolution of India’s border management in the region. Responding to the questions raised by political science and public administration students related to the porous geography and border management, the expert stressed on the defects and timely updating of the border management policies. He also cited the example of Kargil Review Committee which mentioned land borders too. He also wished every student an excellent academic future and desired more of the students to opt army and allied services as career which would enhance the iron frame of India.
Superannuated after 39 years of distinguished service, Lt Gen KJ Singh commanded the daunting Western Command, an operationally committed Corps in the North East having borders with four countries, an armoured division in the strike corps, a T-90 armoured brigade, and an elite armoured regiment-63 Cavalry.
