Strategic Importance of the Chicken’s Neck
Securing the Siliguri Corridor: The Siliguri Corridor, popularly known as the Chicken’s Neck, is a narrow stretch of land in West Bengal connecting mainland India with its northeastern states. Measuring just 20–22 kilometres at its narrowest point, this corridor is surrounded by Nepal on the west, Bangladesh on the east, and Bhutan to the north. Its geography makes it one of the most strategically sensitive regions in South Asia.
Static GK fact: The corridor lies in the Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts of West Bengal and serves as the only land link to eight northeastern states.
Defence Reinforcement Along the Border
To strengthen security, India has initiated the establishment of new garrisons at Bamuni, Kishanganj, and Chopra along the Indo-Bangladesh border. These military outposts aim to protect the corridor from potential encirclement and infiltration risks. The move signifies India’s intent to maintain uninterrupted connectivity with its Northeast and ensure readiness against any regional instability.
Static GK Tip: The Indian Army’s Eastern Command, headquartered in Kolkata, oversees the security of the Siliguri Corridor.
Connectivity and Alternative Routes
India is pursuing infrastructure projects to diversify connectivity routes. A key proposal involves linking Jogbani (Bihar) to Biratnagar (Nepal) and further to New Mal Junction (West Bengal) via rail. This alternative network aims to reduce dependency on the corridor and enhance logistical resilience. The project also aligns with India’s Act East Policy, promoting greater trade and mobility with neighbouring nations.
Emerging Geopolitical Concerns
India’s strategic moves come amid growing unease over Bangladesh’s interim government warming up to Pakistan. The visit of General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Pakistan’s Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman, to Dhaka raised alarms in New Delhi over potential defence cooperation. Statements by some retired Bangladeshi military officers hinting at China-Bangladesh cooperation against India have further intensified these apprehensions.
Static GK fact: Diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh were officially established on 18 December 1971, shortly after Bangladesh’s independence.
Muhammad Yunus and Regional Reactions
Bangladesh’s Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who currently heads the interim administration, referred to Northeast India as “landlocked” and termed Bangladesh as the “guardian of the ocean” during his March visit to China. India viewed these remarks as undermining its sovereignty. In response, New Delhi has reinforced its military infrastructure and surveillance around the corridor, reaffirming its commitment to safeguard national integrity and maintain strategic dominance in the region.
Static GK Tip: The Siliguri Corridor is just 60 km from the China border in Sikkim, highlighting its strategic vulnerability.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Securing the Siliguri Corridor:
| Topic | Detail |
| Location of Siliguri Corridor | West Bengal, connecting mainland India to the Northeast |
| Width of Corridor | Approximately 20–22 km |
| Bordering Nations | Nepal (west), Bangladesh (east), Bhutan (north) |
| New Indian Garrisons | Bamuni, Kishanganj, and Chopra |
| Key Connectivity Project | Jogbani–Biratnagar–New Mal Junction railway link |
| Overseen by | Indian Army’s Eastern Command, Kolkata |
| Strategic Policy Link | Act East Policy |
| Recent Diplomatic Concern | Bangladesh’s engagement with Pakistan and China |
| Interim Leader of Bangladesh | Muhammad Yunus |
| Statement Impact | Sparked India’s reinforcement of corridor security |
