India Considers Snakes and Crocodiles to Deter Border Intrusions

India’s Border Security Force (BSF) is reportedly exploring the possibility of deploying snakes and crocodiles along riverine border areas with Bangladesh to prevent illegal crossings and criminal activity. An internal BSF directive reveals that field units have been instructed to examine the operational feasibility of using such reptiles.

The directive, issued on March 26 from the BSF headquarters, aligns with guidance from India’s Home Minister Amit Shah. Officials emphasized that the plan is still in the exploratory stage and has not yet been implemented. Challenges include the capture, maintenance, and ecological impact of the reptiles, as well as safety concerns for residents living near the border.

The BSF manages security along the 4,096.7 km stretch of India-Bangladesh border. Currently, 3,326.14 km have approved fencing, with 2,954.56 km completed and around 371 km remaining unfenced. Much of the eastern border passes through flood-prone rivers and difficult terrain, making traditional barriers and patrolling challenging.

To address these challenges, the BSF is also considering technology-driven “non-physical barriers” and mapping border outposts in mobile network dead zones. Field units are instructed to provide data on local incidents and legal cases involving border residents to strengthen operational readiness.
 

This unconventional approach reflects India’s ongoing efforts to enhance border security while navigating geographical and logistical constraints.