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UPSC Mains 2025Question 19General Studies 3Internal Security250 words

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. (Answer in 250 words)

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- 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. (Answer in 250 words)
Introduction
The North-Eastern region of India, known for its ethnic diversity and strategic location, has faced persistent challenges to internal security due to insurgency, ethnic conflicts, illegal migration, and underdevelopment. The government has sought to address these through dialogue, peace accords, and inclusive governance.
Body
1. Major Challenges:
- Ethnic Insurgencies: Multiple armed groups (e.g., NSCN factions in Nagaland, ULFA in Assam, NDFB in Bodo areas) demand autonomy or sovereignty.
- Inter-Ethnic and Inter-State Conflicts: Clashes over resources and boundaries (e.g., Assam–Mizoram border conflict, Kuki–Naga tensions).
- Illegal Migration: Cross-border infiltration from Bangladesh alters demographics and fuels identity-based tensions.
- Underdevelopment and Alienation: Poor infrastructure, unemployment, and perceived neglect of local aspirations sustain unrest.
- External Influence: Support networks from neighboring countries like Myanmar and China exacerbate insurgency.
2. Peace Accords and Agreements (Past Decade):
| Year | Accord/Agreement | Key Stakeholders | Objective/Outcome |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 2015 | Framework Agreement | GoI & NSCN (IM) | Basis for Naga peace process. |
| 2020 | Bodo Accord | GoI, Assam Govt, Bodo groups | Creation of Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR). |
| 2021 | Karbi Anglong Agreement | GoI, Assam Govt, Karbi groups | Grant of autonomy, development funds. |
| 2022 | Assam–Meghalaya Border Agreement | Both state govts | Resolution of 6 out of 12 border disputes. |
| 2023 | Dimasa Accord | GoI, Assam Govt, Dimasa groups | Development and political representation assurances. |
Conclusion
The North-East’s peace process reflects a shift from militarized control to negotiated political settlement. Sustained peace depends on inclusive development, inter-ethnic reconciliation, and socio-economic integration with the national mainstream.
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