Vantage Point Vol. 2 Issue 4: A Newsletter on Non-Traditional Security
Vantage Point Vol. 2 Issue 4: A Newsletter on Non-Traditional Security
Issue Commentary – Narratives from the North-East by Pratyush Pran Sarma | Building Energy Resilience by Maaya V | Border Security – A Non-Traditional Approach by Lakshitha S | Book Review by Jaagruthi Adka
The fourth issue of Vantage Point continues its exploration of non-traditional security challenges in India and Asia. This edition focuses on the human dimensions of security expenditure, energy resilience, border trade, and regional cooperation. It also includes a review of a comprehensive book on Asia’s evolving security landscape, offering insights into the interconnected nature of modern threats.
The Human Security Aspect of the Security Related Expenditure (SRE)
Pratyush Pran Sarma examines the Security Related Expenditure (SRE) scheme, which funds security operations and rehabilitation efforts in conflict-affected regions like the North-East and Left Wing Extremism areas. The article highlights the recent peace accord with the UNLF-P in Manipur and the establishment of Peace Camps for surrendered insurgents. While the initiative is promising, challenges remain in terms of funding, space, and long-term sustainability. The piece calls for better planning and expansion of such rehabilitation models across the region.
Energy Resilience as a Non-Traditional Security Imperative
Maaya V discusses India’s energy security as a critical non-traditional security issue. Despite progress in renewable energy and nuclear power, India remains heavily reliant on coal and imported fossil fuels. Bureaucratic delays, environmental concerns, and infrastructure gaps hinder energy project implementation. The article recommends a task force for streamlined approvals, investment in storage and grid systems, and diversification through nuclear and bioenergy. Energy resilience is framed as essential for economic stability, digital infrastructure, and national security.
Border Trade and Commerce – India-Myanmar Border Trade
Lakshitha S explores the India-Myanmar border as both a security challenge and an economic opportunity. The porous border is exploited for arms smuggling, insurgency, and illegal trade. While bilateral trade has grown, infrastructure gaps and insurgent opposition hinder formal trade routes. The article advocates for improved customs operations, skill development for local traders, and infrastructure upgrades like the Imphal-Moreh road. Strengthening border trade is seen as a path to regional stability and economic resilience.
Book Review: Non-Traditional Security Challenges in Asia
Jaagruthi Adka reviews a book edited by Shebonti Ray Dadwal and Uttam Kumar Sinha, which offers a comprehensive look at Asia’s non-traditional security threats. Topics include environmental degradation, energy security, public health, cyber threats, and transnational crimes. The book emphasizes the need for regional cooperation, inclusive policy frameworks, and a shift from military-centric to human-centric security models. While broad in scope, the review notes that some chapters could benefit from more region-specific analysis.
