Is Northeast Successfully Insulated from Myanmar's Spillover Effects? Manipur Shows Improvement in 2025
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Jan 13 (NationPress) General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), addressed the annual press conference of the Indian Army on Tuesday, highlighting that the situation in the Northeast, particularly in Manipur, has improved significantly due to the neutral, transparent, and decisive actions taken by security forces.
In light of the unrest in neighboring Myanmar, the security forces have been diligently working to protect the northeastern region from potential spillover effects.
Speaking to the media, the Army chief stated, "Concerning the Northeast, the neutral, transparent, and decisive measures undertaken by security forces, along with various proactive government initiatives, have contributed to a noticeable improvement in the situation in Manipur during 2025."
He further mentioned, "The peaceful execution of the Durand Cup, the revival of cultural festivals, and the renewal of the suspension of operations (SoO) with Kuki insurgent groups in September 2025 have all been significant indicators of stability."
General Dwivedi added that the Indian Army, alongside the Assam Rifles and the Ministry of Home Affairs, is making concerted efforts to secure the northeastern front from the challenging conditions currently faced in Myanmar.
He remarked, "In reaction to the turmoil in Myanmar, a comprehensive multi-agency security framework, which includes the Assam Rifles, Army, and Home Ministry, is actively working to insulate the Northeast from spillover effects. Following the successful completion of phase two elections in Myanmar, we anticipate a more effective engagement from now on."
Additionally, he pointed out that the situation along the northern and northwestern borders remains stable and under firm control, while emphasizing the importance of constant vigilance.
He also indicated that Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has experienced a significant positive transformation in 2025, noting that the "transition from terrorism to tourism is gradually taking shape" in the region. He further reported that in the past year, security forces have neutralized 31 terrorists, 65 percent of whom were of Pakistani origin, including those responsible for the Pahalgam terror attack.