India mulls use of snakes, crocodiles along border with Bangladesh as deterrent to infiltration

India's Border Security Force (BSF) is exploring the possibility of using snakes and crocodiles as a natural deterrent to infiltration and cross-border crime in vulnerable riverine and marshy areas.

"The feasibility of using reptiles like snakes or crocodiles in vulnerable riverine gaps is to be explored and examined from an operational perspective," The Hindu reported today (6 April), citing a copy of an official communication that the newspaper claims to have seen.

The strategy reportedly aligns with Indian Home Minister Amit Shah's directions, with the idea of deploying reptiles being considered in areas where fences cannot be erected.

A BSF official said the directive on reptile deployment has not yet been implemented.

The official, according to The Hindu, noted several challenges, including the potential impact on local populations along the riverine stretches.

Meanwhile, India Today, citing sources, reported that BSF officials have been asked to identify river stretches that may be suitable for such a plan.

According to the Indian home ministry's annual report for 2024-25, the 4,960.7km India-Bangladesh border passes through difficult terrain, including rivers, hills, and marshy swamps. Only 175km of the border remains unfenced.

The Indian government has approved fencing for 3,326.14km, of which 2,954.56km has been completed.

The country's home ministry report states that the remaining unfenced portions of the border will be secured through technological solutions.