Patna, Sep 19: A special lecture on India’s eastern frontier, focusing on the evolving political and security situations in Myanmar and Bangladesh, was organised at Bihar Lok Bhavan under the ‘Pataliputra Pragya Pravah’ lecture series.

The session featured insights from two senior retired military officers. Lieutenant General P.C. Nair spoke on Myanmar, while Major General J.S. Nanda discussed developments in Bangladesh and their implications for India.
Speaking on Myanmar, Lt Gen Nair underlined the country’s importance to India’s Act East Policy and connectivity between the Northeast and ASEAN nations. He discussed challenges related to the India-Myanmar border, insurgency, cross-border movement, drug trafficking and connectivity, while also highlighting China’s growing influence in Myanmar.
He stressed the need to strengthen India’s trade, cultural and spiritual ties with Myanmar alongside security cooperation to safeguard the country’s strategic interests.
On Bangladesh, Maj Gen Nanda discussed the changed political circumstances following the ouster of the Sheikh Hasina government and the challenges emerging for India. He referred to concerns over radicalisation in Bangladeshi politics and its possible impact on the country’s security environment.
Nanda emphasised the need for greater engagement with Bangladeshi youth and an adjustment in India’s diplomatic approach in response to the changing political landscape. He said India should engage with Bangladesh as a responsible and cooperative neighbour rather than adopt a “Big Brother” approach, while remaining proactive in shaping public perceptions.
Opening the discussion, Bihar Governor Lieutenant General Syed Ata Hasnain (Retd.) said Bihar Lok Bhavan provides a platform for informed dialogue on issues of national importance. He stressed the need to view developments along India’s eastern frontier through a long-term strategic and comprehensive perspective.
Additional Chief Secretary to the Governor, Deepak Kumar Singh, welcomed the guests and participants and highlighted the Lok Bhavan’s efforts to promote intellectual dialogue and meaningful discussions on important subjects.
The session was moderated by Prof. Chintamani Mahapatra of Nalanda International University. During the post-lecture interaction, participants raised questions on the issues discussed, which were addressed by both speakers.
Senior government officials, faculty members, researchers, university students and other participants attended the programme.