The central government is working on building three new military bases on the Siliguri Corridor, also known as ‘Chicken Neck’. This corridor is a thin strip about 22 kilometers wide connecting the North-East states of India with the rest of the country.
This major decision has been taken at a time when China, along with Bangladesh, is increasing its influence in this sensitive region. This step of India indicates a major change in strategic position.
Where are the new bases being built?
India is building these three new military bases Lachit Borphukan Military Station (near Dhubri, Assam), Forward Base (Kishanganj, Bihar) and Forward Base (Chopra, West Bengal) to strengthen its eastern border.
These bases are not just for defense. These will be equipped with Rapid Deployment Force, Intelligence Unit and Para Special Force. Their main objective is to ensure that the security of this vital corridor is never compromised.
The installation being built in Chopra is less than 1 kilometer from the Bangladesh border. This will make cross-border surveillance and faster mobilization of the army easier if needed.
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Bangladesh’s inclination towards China-Pakistan
This major military buildup by India has come in response to the recent political changes in Bangladesh. Sheikh Hasina’s pro-India government has been replaced by an interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus. The foreign policy of the new government is increasingly leaning towards China and Pakistan.
According to reports, Bangladesh is planning to buy Chinese J-10C fighter jets worth $2.2 billion and collaborate with Beijing to produce drones. Pakistan has also offered JF-17 Block C Thunder jets.
For India, Bangladesh’s overreach towards its rivals on a sensitive border is a major strategic threat. The Siliguri Corridor connects more than 45 million people of the North-East to the mainland, any disruption in it can create big problems for the country.
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India’s preparation
Apart from the new military base, India has also deployed Rafale fighter jets, BrahMos missiles and advanced air defense systems to enhance its strength in the region. This indicates that India is now moving from merely reactive defense to proactive dominance.