Bhutan-India: Defeating Insurgency Through Strategic Unity

Nov 10, 2023

India-Bhutan Bonhomie: Operations Rhino, Bajrang, and All Clear

Context:

India's North-Eastern region experienced insurgencies.

Militants moved between India and neighboring countries.

Operation Rhino and Bajrang (1990):

Aim: Suppress Assamese separatist groups in India.

Actions: Indian forces' vigorous campaigns.

Result: Militants shifted base to Bhutan.

Bhutan’s Involvement:

Previously: Bhutan was a passive spectator.

Later: Militant presence threatened Bhutan's security.

Operation All Clear (2003-2004):

First: Royal Bhutan Army's major military campaign.

Objective: Eliminate militant camps in Bhutan.

Duration: December 2003 - January 2004.

Area: Southern Bhutan.

India-Bhutan Relationship Post-Operations:

Strengthened: Mutual security concerns.

Collaboration: Enhanced border security.

Agreements: Intelligence sharing and strategic cooperation.

Significance:

Deterrence: Reduced militant activities in the region.

Lesson: Regional cooperation is crucial for counter-insurgency.

SRIRAM’s: These operations highlight the significance of regional cooperation and strategic partnerships in combating insurgencies and maintaining regional stability. The India-Bhutan relationship evolved from passive coexistence to active collaboration, underscoring the importance of diplomatic and military strategies in international relations, especially in the context of South Asia.