Enhanced Security Measures Strengthen Northeast India's Stability
Overview of Security Developments in Northeast India
A file image of India-Myanmar border in Mizoram (Source: @ankushsaikia/ X)
New Delhi, Sept 14: The security landscape in Northeast India has become a crucial aspect of the nation's overall security framework, especially concerning the sensitive borders with China in Arunachal Pradesh and Myanmar.
An annual report from the Defence Ministry reveals that the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and various security agencies have significantly intensified counter-insurgency efforts, improved border infrastructure, and enhanced logistical readiness throughout the Northeast, leading to a remarkable 77 percent reduction in violence in 2025.
This positive trend has fostered a more favorable environment for development and economic activities in this strategically vital region.
The security initiatives are particularly relevant in light of the recent BRICS summit, where India has advocated for increased global collaboration to combat terrorism, organized crime, and other emerging security challenges. The Northeast serves as a vital link for India’s security interests along its borders with China and Myanmar, aligning with its Act East policy.
The report indicates that in 2025, security forces neutralized 33 terrorists, apprehended 1,066 insurgents, and facilitated the surrender of 117 insurgents, while recovering 4,336 weapons in the region. Intelligence-driven joint operations have increasingly targeted insurgent groups to limit their operational capabilities and prevent the resurgence of militant networks.
In Arunachal Pradesh, efforts have focused on enhancing mobility, logistics, and the rapid deployment of security personnel and equipment to forward positions. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) achieved a milestone by completing 123 bridges in 2025, significantly boosting connectivity in critical border areas.
A notable accomplishment was the completion of the 135-meter multi-span Balanced Cantilever Pinjoli Bridge on the Balipara-Charduar-Tawang Road, which has improved access in the Tenga Valley and facilitated quicker movement towards Tawang and other strategic locations along the Line of Actual Control.
The BRO has also been upgrading aviation infrastructure in the region. A new 75-meter by 50-meter PQC helipad was constructed at Anini in Arunachal Pradesh, replacing the previous smaller landing ground. This upgraded facility can accommodate heavier helicopters, enhancing troop movement, supply logistics, and emergency responses during natural disasters.
The government has increased financial support for the BRO, with a record expenditure of Rs 16,690 crore in 2024-25, followed by an enhanced target of Rs 18,700 crore for 2025-26.
Meanwhile, the India-Myanmar border remains sensitive due to ongoing conflicts involving the Myanmar Army and resistance forces. India is working to tighten regulations on cross-border movements while maintaining communication channels with Myanmar.
To manage local movement, twenty border crossing points have been established under the Free Movement Regime, and 12,590 meters of fencing were constructed along the India-Myanmar border in 2025.