Indian Geographical Extent , Boundaries and Border Disputes

Geographical Extent of India

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• Location: India is located in the Northern Hemisphere, in the south-central part of Asia. The mainland of India lies between latitudes 8°4’N and 37°6’N and longitudes 68°7’E and 97°25’E. The country’s location gives it a unique geographical identity, bridging the Middle East and Southeast Asia and playing a crucial role in trade and cultural exchange.
• Size and Global Rank: India is the seventh-largest country in the world, covering an area of 3,287,263 square kilometers. The country accounts for about 2.4% of the total land area of the Earth and ranks after countries like Russia, Canada, the United States, China, Brazil, and Australia.
• Extent from North to South: The north-south length of India is approximately 3,214 km, stretching from the icy Himalayan ranges in the north to the tropical coastline of Kanyakumari in the south. This vast extent results in significant variation in climate, biodiversity, and cultures across the country.
• Extent from East to West: The east-west width of India is approximately 2,933 km, spanning from Arunachal Pradesh in the east to the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat in the west. Despite the width being lesser than the north-south length, it encompasses diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to arid deserts.

Latitude and Longitude

• Tropic of Cancer: The Tropic of Cancer (23°30’N) runs almost through the middle of the country, dividing India into two distinct halves:
  • The northern part falls in the subtropical zone, while the southern part lies in the tropical zone. This division influences the country’s climate patterns, agricultural practices, and biodiversity.
  • The Tropic of Cancer passes through eight Indian states: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura, and Mizoram. This imaginary line plays a crucial role in marking the northern limit of the tropical zone, impacting solar radiation and temperature distribution.
• Time Zone and Standard Meridian: India’s vast longitudinal extent creates a time difference of nearly two hours between the eastern and western parts of the country. To maintain a uniform time across the nation, the Standard Meridian of India (82°30’E) is used, passing through Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh. As a result, the Indian Standard Time (IST) is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). This standardization ensures uniformity in timekeeping across India.
• Geopolitical Significance: The geographical location of India, between the Arabian Sea to the west and the Bay of Bengal to the east, gives it a strategic maritime advantage. The country’s peninsular shape, with a long coastline of 7,516.6 km, facilitates trade and connectivity with West Asia, Africa, Southeast Asia, and beyond.
  • The Indian Ocean, which is named after India, highlights the country’s dominance in this strategically important maritime region, influencing regional and global geopolitics.
• Geographical Isolation and Connectivity: India is naturally protected by the Himalayan mountain range in the north, which acts as a barrier against cold winds from Central Asia and influences the Indian monsoon. The Thar Desert in the northwest and the dense forests of the northeast also form natural barriers. However, India is well-connected through various passes like the Khyber Pass and Shipki La Pass, which have historically been routes for trade and cultural exchange.
• Influence on Day Length and Climate: The latitudinal extent affects the duration of day and night across the country. For instance, the northern regions experience significant variations in day length between summer and winter, while the southern regions have a more uniform duration of daylight throughout the year. Additionally, the geographical extent influences the diverse climate zones, from tropical in the south to temperate and alpine in the north.
• Maritime Boundaries: The peninsular shape of India divides the Indian Ocean into two major water bodies: the Arabian Sea on the west and the Bay of Bengal on the east. The extensive coastline is dotted with major ports like Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata, which play a crucial role in international trade and maritime security..

Quick Short Notes

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Coastline of India

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• India is surrounded by water on three sides, with the coastal plains divided into two main types:
  • Eastern Coastal Plains
  • Western Coastal Plains

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Eastern Coastal Plains of India

• The Eastern Coastal Plains extend from West Bengal in the north to Tamil Nadu in the south, passing through Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
• Key Features:
  • Deltas: The plains are home to the deltas of major rivers like the Mahanadi, Krishna, Godavari, and Cauvery, making the land fertile and agriculturally productive. The Krishna delta is famously called the ‘Granary of South India’.
  • Sub-Divisions:
    • Utkal Coast: Located between Chilika Lake and Kolleru Lake, this region receives heavy rainfall and supports crops like rice, coconut, and banana.
    • Andhra Coast: Lies between Kolleru Lake and Pulicat Lake and forms the basin for the Krishna and Godavari rivers.
    • Coromandel Coast: Stretches from Pulicat Lake to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. It remains dry in summer and receives rainfall from the northeast monsoons.
  • Important Lagoons: Chilika Lake and Pulicat Lake are significant geographical features of the eastern coast.

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Western Coastal Plains of India

• The Western Coastal Plains extend from Kerala in the south to Gujarat in the north, passing through Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra.
• Characteristics:
  • Length and Width: These plains stretch for about 1,500 km from north to south, with a width varying from 10 to 25 km.
  • Continental Shelf: The West Continental Shelf is widest off the Bombay coast and is rich in oil reserves.
  • Lagoon Tourism: The Malabar Coast is known for its beautiful lagoons, attracting tourists.
• Sub-Divisions:
  • Kachchh and Kathiawar Coast: The Kachchh region, once a gulf, is divided into the Great Rann in the north and the Little Rann in the east, formed by the silt deposits of the Indus River. Kathiawar lies south of Kachchh.
  • Konkan Coast: Stretches from Daman in the north to Goa in the south. Major crops include rice and cashew.
  • Kanada Coast: Extends from Marmagaon to Mangalore, known for its iron ore deposits.
  • Malabar Coast: Runs from Mangalore to Kanyakumari, relatively broader than other sections. This area also features parallel lagoons in southern Kerala.
• Regional Names:
  • Konkan Coast: Includes the coasts of Maharashtra and Goa.
  • Malabar Coast: Encompasses the coasts of Kerala and Karnataka.

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Standard Time (Time Zone)

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• Reference Point: Every location on Earth is measured in terms of distance from the prime meridian at Greenwich, London. Time zones are calculated based on 15° intervals from the prime meridian, with each interval representing a one-hour difference.
• Indian Standard Time (IST): The Standard Meridian of India (82°30’E), passing through Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh, is used as the reference for IST. This places India 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

India: Tropical or Temperate Country?

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• Geographical Classification: Though the area north of the Tropic of Cancer (temperate zone) is twice the area south of it (tropical zone), India is generally treated as a tropical country. This classification is based on both physical and cultural factors.

Physical Geographical Reasons

• Himalayan Barrier: The Himalayas separate India from the rest of Asia and act as a climatic barrier. They prevent the cold temperate air masses from the north from influencing the climate of most of India.
• Dominance of Tropical Monsoons: The climate of India is primarily influenced by the tropical monsoons. The Himalayan barrier blocks temperate influences, ensuring that the country experiences tropical weather patterns.
• Temperature Variations: Although night temperatures in winter in North India may drop to levels typical of temperate regions, the clear skies and intense insolation during the day bring temperatures back up to tropical levels.

Cultural Geographical Reasons

• Settlements and Lifestyle: The settlements, agricultural practices, and economic activities across India are consistent with those of tropical regions.
• Tropical Diseases: The occurrence and spread of diseases are also influenced by the tropical climate, and economic activities such as primary agriculture are shaped by tropical conditions.

Geological Past

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Indian Plate and Gondwanaland:

• India is situated entirely on the Indian Plate.
• The Indian Plate is a major tectonic plate.
• It was formed when it split off from the ancient continent Gondwanaland.
• Gondwanaland was a landmass consisting of the southern part of the supercontinent Pangea.
• The Indo-Australian Plate is subdivided into the Indian Plate and the Australian Plate.

Movement During the Late Cretaceous Period:

• Approximately 90 million years ago, during the late Cretaceous Period, the Indian Plate began moving north.
• The movement speed of the Indian Plate was about 15 cm/year (6 inches per year).
• This northward movement covered a significant distance over time.

Collision with Asia:

• About 50 to 55 million years ago, during the Eocene Epoch of the Cenozoic Era, the Indian Plate collided with the Eurasian Plate.
• The collision happened after the Indian Plate had traveled a distance of 2,000 to 3,000 km (1,243 to 1,864 miles).
• The Indian Plate had moved faster than any other known tectonic plate.

Geological Research Findings:

• In 2007, German geologists determined reasons for the rapid movement of the Indian Plate.
• They found that the Indian Plate is only half as thick as other plates that were once part of Gondwanaland.
• This reduced thickness enabled the Indian Plate to move quickly.

Formation of the Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau:

• The collision between the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate formed an orogenic belt.
• This orogenic belt led to the creation of the Tibetan Plateau and the Himalayas.
• The geological impact is still significant today.

Current Movement and Rates:

• As of 2009, the Indian Plate is still moving northeast at a speed of 5 cm/year (2 inches/year).
• The Eurasian Plate moves north at a slower rate of 2 cm/year (0.8 inches/year).
• The continuous movement results in deformation of the Eurasian Plate.
• The Indian Plate compresses at a rate of 4 cm/year (1.6 inches/year).

India as the “Fastest Continent”:

• Due to its rapid movement, India is referred to as the “fastest continent.”
• The ongoing collision and compression affect the geological structure of the region.
• This process causes continuous uplift of the Himalayas and significant tectonic activity.

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India’s Boundaries

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• Land and Maritime Boundaries: India has a land boundary of 15,106.7 km running through 92 districts across 17 states, and a coastline of 7,516.6 km (including islands) touching 13 states and Union Territories.
• Frontline States: Except for states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Delhi, Haryana, and Telangana, most Indian states have either international borders or a coastline, classifying them as frontline states for border management.

Border Lengths with Neighboring Countries

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• Bangladesh: India shares its longest border with Bangladesh, stretching 4,096 km.
• China: The second-longest border, running 3,488 km, touches Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.
• Pakistan: India shares a 3,323 km border with Pakistan, running along states like Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.
• Nepal: The 1,751 km border with Nepal touches Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Sikkim.
• Myanmar: India shares a 1,643 km border with Myanmar, running through Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram.
• Bhutan: A 699 km border exists between India and Bhutan, touching Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya.
• Afghanistan: The shortest border is with Afghanistan, a mere 106 km stretch in Jammu and Kashmir.
• Sri Lanka: India is separated from Sri Lanka by the Palk Strait and Adam’s Bridge (a chain of limestone shoals).

Border Disputes and Important Regions

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India-China Border

• Divided into Three Sectors: Western , Middle and Eastern Sector

Western Sector

• Location: This sector lies in the Union Territory of Ladakh, stretching from the Karakoram Pass in the north to Demchok in the south.
• Length: Approximately 1,597 km.
• Key Dispute:
  • The primary area of contention is Aksai Chin, which is a high-altitude desert region covering approximately 38,000 square kilometers. India claims Aksai Chin as part of Ladakh, while China administers it as part of Xinjiang.
  • Aksai Chin’s Importance: The region is crucial for China because it connects Tibet and Xinjiang through the China National Highway 219, a major strategic roadway.
• Strategic Locations:
  • Pangong Lake: This saltwater lake, divided into “fingers,” has seen frequent military stand-offs. The Finger 4 to Finger 8 area is a contested zone.
  • Depsang Plains: Another critical area where Chinese troops have encroached in the past, potentially threatening Indian access to Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) airstrip.
• Historical Background:
  • The boundary dispute stems from differing British-era maps, with the Johnson Line (proposed in 1865) placing Aksai Chin under Indian control, while the McDonald Line (proposed in 1893) placed it under Chinese control.
  • Line of Actual Control (LAC): Established post the 1962 Sino-Indian War, the LAC in this sector remains an undefined and contentious boundary.
• Strategic Military Significance:
  • The DBO airstrip is one of the highest and northernmost airstrips in India, close to the Karakoram Pass. Control over this area is crucial for India to counter any Chinese threats to the strategic Siachen Glacier.

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Middle Sector

• Location: The 625 km boundary runs through Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, following the watershed of the Himalayas.
• Key Features:
  • This sector is relatively less contentious compared to the Western and Eastern sectors, with fewer incidents of military confrontations.
  • Mountain Passes: Important passes in this sector include the Shipki La Pass in Himachal Pradesh and Lipulekh Pass and Niti Pass in Uttarakhand.
• Territorial Disputes:
  • There is some disagreement over areas like Barahoti Plains in Uttarakhand, where both nations occasionally accuse each other of transgressions.
• Strategic Importance:
  • The passes in this sector are significant for trade and strategic military operations, and both sides have been increasing their military presence and infrastructure in these areas.
  • The Indian side has developed road and communication networks to improve access and ensure better defense mechanisms.

Eastern Sector

• Location: The 1,140 km long boundary in the Eastern Sector covers the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim.
• Key Dispute:
  • China claims the entire state of Arunachal Pradesh, calling it South Tibet. This claim is based on historical and cultural ties to the Tibetan region.
  • The most contentious area is Tawang, a culturally significant monastery town that is crucial for Tibetan Buddhism. Tawang is strategically important, as it is close to the Siliguri Corridor (Chicken’s Neck), a narrow strip of land connecting mainland India to the northeastern states.
• McMahon Line:
  • Drawn in 1914 as part of the Simla Accord between British India and Tibet, the McMahon Line serves as the boundary, which China does not recognize. The disagreement over this line is a significant factor in the Eastern Sector dispute.
• Strategic Locations:
  • The region includes several critical passes, such as Bum La, Tawang Pass, and Se La. These passes have historically been important routes for trade and military operations.
  • The area is heavily fortified, with both sides enhancing their infrastructure, including roads, airstrips, and military bases.
• Military Standoffs:
  • The Doklam Plateau standoff in 2017, though geographically located near the Bhutan-China-India tri-junction, underscored the tensions in the broader Eastern Sector and India’s strategic concerns over China’s road construction projects near sensitive areas.

• Disputed Territories:
  • Aksai Chin: Claimed by India but controlled by China. The border dispute stems from conflicting interpretations of the Johnson Line and McDonald Line drawn during British rule.
  • Tawang: An area in Arunachal Pradesh claimed by China, which disputes the legitimacy of the McMahon Line.

The Indo-Pakistan Boundary

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• Total Length: 3,323 km.
• States/UTs Sharing the Border: Jammu and Kashmir (now Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh), Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.

Partition and Creation of the Boundary

• The Radcliffe Line, named after Sir Cyril Radcliffe, was drawn in 1947 during the partition of India. It was designed to demarcate the borders between the newly formed dominions of India and Pakistan.
• The boundary line divided the provinces of Punjab and Bengal, causing massive population migrations and communal violence.
• Sir Cyril Radcliffe, who had never been to India before, was given only five weeks to draw the boundary, resulting in long-term disputes and hostility between the two nations.

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Segments of the India-Pakistan Border

1. Jammu and Kashmir Boundary:
   • Length: Approximately 1,225 km, including the Line of Control (LoC).
   • Line of Control (LoC):
     • The LoC was established following the 1947-48 war between India and Pakistan. It serves as the de facto border but is not internationally recognized as a permanent boundary.
     • Major flashpoints include Uri, Kargil, Poonch, and Siachen Glacier.
   • Siachen Glacier Conflict:
     • Located in the eastern Karakoram range, the Siachen Glacier has been a site of military conflict since 1984 (Operation Meghdoot), when Indian forces established control.
     • Siachen is the world’s highest battlefield, with extreme weather and terrain conditions.
   • Aksai Chin Dispute: Though primarily a dispute between India and China, it has implications for the India-Pakistan conflict over Jammu and Kashmir, especially in areas like Gilgit-Baltistan.
2. Punjab Boundary:
   • Length: Approximately 553 km.
   • The border is heavily fenced and patrolled, with iconic and highly symbolic locations such as the Wagah-Attari border.
   • The Wagah Border Ceremony: A daily military practice between Indian and Pakistani forces, drawing tourists on both sides, symbolizes both rivalry and shared cultural heritage.
   • Important rivers like the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej cross this boundary, playing a crucial role in the region’s agriculture and also in water-sharing disputes, governed by the Indus Waters Treaty (1960).
3. Rajasthan Boundary:
   • Length: Approximately 1,170 km.
   • Runs through the Thar Desert, where the terrain consists of sand dunes and arid regions. The Great Rann of Kutch and marshlands influence this border segment.
   • The Indira Gandhi Canal, which brings water from the Sutlej and Beas Rivers to the desert region, runs close to the border and plays a strategic role in securing and developing the frontier.
   • The boundary is heavily guarded, and infrastructure such as border roads and outposts have been developed to monitor movements and prevent infiltration.
4. Gujarat Boundary:
   • Length: Approximately 506 km.
   • The border runs through the Rann of Kutch, a vast salt marsh. The Sir Creek dispute is a significant unresolved issue in this area.
   • Sir Creek Dispute:
     • A 96 km estuary in the Rann of Kutch marshlands. The disagreement revolves around the demarcation of the maritime boundary.
     • India claims the mid-channel as the boundary, while Pakistan claims the eastern bank. This disagreement has implications for the maritime territorial limits and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Arabian Sea.

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Key Disputes Along the India-Pakistan Boundary

1. Jammu and Kashmir:
   • Historical Background: The princely state of Jammu and Kashmir acceded to India in 1947, but Pakistan laid claim to it, leading to multiple wars and continuing disputes.
   • Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK): Pakistan controls a part of Kashmir, which it calls Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.
   • Kargil Conflict (1999): A major military confrontation occurred in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir, when Pakistani troops and militants infiltrated Indian territory.
2. Sir Creek Dispute:
   • The dispute over this marshy strip of water remains unresolved. The region is strategically important due to the potential presence of oil and gas reserves.
   • Impact on Maritime Boundaries: The resolution of the Sir Creek dispute will determine the maritime boundary and access to fishing and mineral resources in the Arabian Sea.

Fencing and Security Measures

• India has constructed a comprehensive border security fence along large portions of the India-Pakistan border to prevent smuggling, infiltration, and militant activities.
• Floodlights and Border Outposts (BOPs): The entire fence is illuminated, and BOPs are set up at regular intervals for constant surveillance.
• The Border Security Force (BSF) is responsible for patrolling and guarding the international border, while the Indian Army is deployed along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir.

Significance of the India-Pak Border

• The India-Pakistan border is one of the most militarized international boundaries in the world, with frequent skirmishes, cross-border firing, and infiltration attempts.
• Cultural and Economic Ties: Despite the hostility, there are cultural and economic exchanges, such as trade through the Wagah-Attari border and the presence of cross-border bus and train services, though these are often disrupted by political tensions.
• Water Disputes: The Indus Waters Treaty (1960), brokered by the World Bank, governs the use of the Indus River system’s waters. Despite occasional disagreements, the treaty has largely withstood the strains of conflict between the two nations.

The India-Bangladesh Border

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• Longest Border: India shares a 4,096 km-long border with Bangladesh, the longest for both countries. This boundary was finalized under the Radcliffe Award during the partition of Bengal in 1947.
• Resolution of Disputes: The Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) of 2015 resolved longstanding border disputes by exchanging enclaves. India transferred 111 enclaves to Bangladesh, while Bangladesh transferred 51 enclaves to India.

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India-Myanmar Boundary

• Geographical Features: The boundary runs along the watershed between the Brahmaputra and Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) rivers. It passes through forested regions and hills, including the Mizo Hills, Manipur Hills, Nagaland Hills, and the Chin and Kachin Hills on the Myanmar side.
• States Sharing the Border: Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram.
• Border Characteristics: The border region is known for its thick forests and rugged terrain, making it one of the most challenging borders for surveillance and management.

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India-Sri Lanka Boundary

• Separation by Water: India and Sri Lanka are separated by the Palk Strait and Adam’s Bridge (also known as Rama’s Bridge or Rama Setu), a chain of limestone shoals.
• Closest Points: Dhanushkodi on the Indian coast in Tamil Nadu is only 32 km away from Talaimanar in Sri Lanka. These two points are connected by the submerged Adam’s Bridge.
• Border Issues: While largely peaceful, there has been some tension over Kachchatheevu Island, which was ceded by India to Sri Lanka in 1974. The island is a focal point of dispute, especially concerning fishing rights in the surrounding waters.

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Key Disputed Territories and Strategic Locations

Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), and Gilgit-Baltistan

• Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK): Pakistan has been in control of PoK since the first Indo-Pak war in 1947-48. The area includes Muzaffarabad and Mirpur and is of strategic importance due to its proximity to China.
• Gilgit-Baltistan: This region is part of the greater Jammu and Kashmir area claimed by India but under Pakistan’s administration. It serves as a vital link between Pakistan and China through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
• Siachen Glacier and Saltoro Ridge: Control over the Siachen Glacier and the Saltoro Ridge gives India a strategic advantage over Pakistan, as it provides a vantage point overlooking key northern routes.

Sir Creek Dispute

• Strategic Waterway: Sir Creek’s strategic significance lies in its location in the Rann of Kutch and its impact on maritime boundaries in the Arabian Sea.
• Differing Claims: Pakistan’s claim is based on the creek’s eastern bank, while India claims the mid-channel. The dispute also affects the determination of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

India-Nepal Boundary

• Length and Geography: The India-Nepal border stretches for 1,751 km, running through Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Sikkim. It is an open and porous boundary, allowing for free movement of goods and people.
• Cultural and Economic Ties: The open border between India and Nepal reflects the close cultural and historical ties shared by the two nations. People from both sides of the border often intermarry and share cultural festivals.
• Geographical Features: The boundary mostly runs along the foothills of the Shiwalik Range and crosses through thickly forested and hilly terrain.

Disputed Territories with Nepal

1. Kalapani:
   • Location: Kalapani is a valley in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand and is situated on the Kailash Mansarovar route.
   • Claim Dispute: The region is claimed by Nepal as part of its westernmost territory, but India administers it as part of Uttarakhand. The Kali River, which demarcates the border, is the focal point of the dispute.
   • Historical Basis: The Treaty of Sugauli (1816), signed between Nepal and British India, placed the Kali River as the boundary. The disagreement arises from differing interpretations of the river’s origin.
2. Susta:
   • Location: Susta is a disputed area on the banks of the Gandak River (known as Narayani River in Nepal), located in Uttar Pradesh, India.
   • Reason for Dispute: The Gandak River’s shifting course has led to conflicting claims. The Treaty of Sugauli established the Gandak as the boundary, but over time, the river changed its path, placing Susta on the Indian side.

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India-Bhutan Boundary

• Peaceful Relations: The India-Bhutan border spans 699 km and is one of the most peaceful boundaries in the region. The two countries share strong cultural, economic, and strategic ties.
• Geographical Features: The boundary traverses through the Eastern Himalayas, passing through dense forests, rivers, and mountainous terrain. The border regions are known for their rich biodiversity and natural beauty.
• Strategic Importance: Bhutan serves as a crucial buffer state between India and China, and the Doklam Plateau is a strategic area where India and Bhutan coordinate to counter Chinese territorial ambitions.

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The Indo-Pakistan Boundary

• Length and Origin: The Indo-Pakistan border runs for 3,323 km and was demarcated following the partition of India in 1947 under the Radcliffe Award.
• Geographical Features: The boundary passes through diverse landscapes, including the Thar Desert, the Punjab plains, and the mountainous regions of Jammu and Kashmir.
• Major Disputes:
  • Jammu and Kashmir: The most significant and unresolved conflict between India and Pakistan. The region is divided into three parts: Jammu and Kashmir (Indian-administered), Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), and Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Siachen Glacier: Known as the highest battleground on earth, the Siachen conflict arose in 1984 when India launched Operation Meghdoot to secure the glacier. The region remains under Indian control.
  • Sir Creek: A marshy estuary in the Rann of Kutch, Sir Creek’s importance lies in its impact on the maritime boundary and access to the Arabian Sea. India and Pakistan differ in their interpretations of the boundary, affecting Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) claims.

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India-Bangladesh Border

• Length and Historical Background: The 4,096 km-long border between India and Bangladesh is the longest international boundary that India shares with any country. It was established based on the Radcliffe Award during the partition of Bengal.
• Enclaves and Land Boundary Agreement: The Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) of 2015 resolved longstanding border disputes by exchanging enclaves. India handed over 111 enclaves (17,160 acres) to Bangladesh, while Bangladesh transferred 51 enclaves (7,110 acres) to India.
• Border Fencing and Security: The border is heavily fenced in several areas to prevent illegal immigration, smuggling, and other cross-border activities.

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India-Myanmar Boundary

• Length and Terrain: The India-Myanmar boundary extends for 1,643 km, passing through the northeastern states of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram. The terrain is characterized by thick forests, hills, and rivers, making the border difficult to patrol and monitor.
• Cultural and Economic Ties: The people living along the border share deep cultural and ethnic connections. Cross-border trade and interaction are common, with the border serving as a conduit for commerce and cultural exchange.
• Strategic Importance: Myanmar is a gateway for India to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and plays a crucial role in India’s Act East Policy. The border region is strategically significant for counter-insurgency operations and trade routes.

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India-Sri Lanka Boundary

• Palk Strait and Adam’s Bridge: India and Sri Lanka are separated by the Palk Strait, a narrow body of water, and Adam’s Bridge, a chain of limestone shoals connecting Rameswaram (Tamil Nadu, India) to Mannar Island (Sri Lanka).
• Historical and Cultural Connections: The two nations share deep historical ties, with cultural and religious connections dating back to ancient times. The Tamil population in northern Sri Lanka shares linguistic and cultural affinities with Tamil Nadu in India.
• Border Issues: Though relations have generally been peaceful, the Kachchatheevu Island dispute has been a source of contention. The island was ceded to Sri Lanka by India in 1974, and the issue of fishing rights in the Palk Strait remains a point of tension.

Country	Border Length (km)	States/UTs Sharing the Border	Key Disputes/Features
Bangladesh	4,096	West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram	Longest border; Land Boundary Agreement resolved enclaves
China	3,488	Jammu and Kashmir (Ladakh), Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh	Aksai Chin (Western Sector), McMahon Line (Eastern Sector)
Pakistan	3,323	Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat	Jammu and Kashmir, Siachen Glacier, Sir Creek in Rann of Kutch
Nepal	1,751	Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim	Disputes over Kalapani and Susta regions
Myanmar	1,643	Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram	Runs along the watershed between Brahmaputra and Irrawaddy basins
Bhutan	699	Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh	Peaceful, no major disputes
Afghanistan	106	Jammu and Kashmir	Shortest border, located in the Wakhan Corridor
Sri Lanka	N/A (Separated by Sea)	Tamil Nadu (Dhanushkodi is the closest point)	Palk Strait, Adam’s Bridge; Dispute over Kachchatheevu Island