India Strengthens 'Chicken's Neck' Amid Strategic Interest from Bangladesh and China
- MGMMTeam
- Apr 7
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 8
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on a two-day visit to Thailand for the BIMSTEC Summit, New Delhi is closely tracking key developments in the region. Sources reveal that Bangladesh has requested a meeting between its Chief Advisor, Muhammad Yunus, and PM Modi. While it remains unclear whether the two leaders held a private discussion, they were seen seated together at a state dinner hosted by the Thai Prime Minister.
Should a bilateral meeting occur, it will mark the first face-to-face interaction between PM Modi and Yunus since Yunus took office in August of last year. The context for this diplomatic engagement includes Yunus's recent comments on India’s northeast and Bangladesh's outreach to China for potential investments, which has raised concerns in India about the security of the strategically significant Siliguri Corridor, also known as the 'Chicken's Neck.'
This narrow land corridor in West Bengal links India’s northeastern states with the rest of the country, bordered by Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and China. In light of recent geopolitical shifts, India has strengthened security around this vital corridor.
Fortifying the Chicken's Neck
The Indian Army has referred to the Siliguri Corridor as its most robust defense line, effectively countering potential threats through advanced military readiness. The Trishakti Corps, based at Sukna near the corridor, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the area. This corps is armed with cutting-edge weaponry, such as Rafale fighter jets, BrahMos missiles, and advanced air defense systems.
Recent remarks by the Indian Army Chief have reaffirmed India's commitment to the corridor's security. He stressed that instead of being a weak point, the 'Chicken's Neck' is India’s most formidable military region, allowing rapid mobilization of forces from West Bengal, Sikkim, and the Northeast in response to any threat.
Comprehensive security framework
The Indian Armed Forces have taken significant measures to bolster regional security:
Deployment of advanced military assets: The Indian Air Force has stationed a squadron of Rafale fighter jets at Hashimara Airbase, alongside MiG aircraft.
BrahMos missile regiment: A regiment of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles has been positioned in the corridor to deter potential threats.
Surface-to-air missile systems: The S-400 missile system has been deployed to prevent aerial incursions in the region.
MRSAM and Akash air defence systems: These systems add an extra layer of protection, ensuring the security of airspace against any threats.
Regular military drills: The Trishakti Corps conducts frequent combat exercises, including live-fire drills with T-90 tanks, to maintain operational readiness.
Cautious Strategy
India remains alert to the shifting regional threats. The recent comments from Bangladesh's interim Chief Advisor, Muhammad Yunus, along with China's expanding influence in Bangladesh through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), are under close scrutiny. Security analysts warn that Dhaka’s increasing ties with Beijing could present strategic challenges for India, particularly regarding the security of the Siliguri Corridor.
In response, India has strengthened its defence posture in the region. Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan recently visited North Bengal to assess operational readiness, reaffirming India's dedication to protecting its territorial integrity. The visit included inspections of forward bases and high-level discussions on security strategies.
Historical Perspective and Future Preparedness
The significance of safeguarding the 'Chicken's Neck' was highlighted during the 2017 Doklam standoff when Indian forces successfully thwarted Chinese efforts to build a road in Bhutanese territory, which could have endangered the Siliguri Corridor. Drawing lessons from previous confrontations, India has consistently strengthened its defense infrastructure and readiness.
Through the deployment of advanced weaponry, strategic positioning, and unwavering vigilance, India has fortified the 'Chicken's Neck' against external threats. As regional dynamics evolve, India remains steadfast in its commitment to securing and stabilizing this crucial corridor, bolstering its status as a powerful force in South Asia.
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