Border Disputes Heat Up: India and Bangladesh Clash Over Controversial Fencing at Bengal's Frontier

Rising tensions at the Indo-Bangla border emerge as Border Security Force (BSF) fencing work meets resistance from the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). Local villagers show their support for the BSF, complicating the already sensitive situation.

Uttam Mondal, a 41-year-old farmer residing in Sabdalpur village, located in the Malda district of West Bengal, shared his vivid recollection of a tense confrontation that took place on January 5. This incident involved the Border Security Force (BSF) from India and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), drawing villagers from both sides of the border to witness a conflict fueled by the ongoing construction of a fence along the Indian side of the Indo-Bangladesh border. "In my lifetime, I have never experienced anything like this. Hundreds of locals from Sabdalpur and Sukhdevpur congregated along the road adjacent to the border fence, fervently chanting Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” Mondal expressed, his enthusiasm palpable as he recounted the events in these border villages, situated approximately 50 kilometers south of Malda town.

According to officials from the BSF, any establishment of a permanent structure, such as a border fence, within 150 yards of the international border must receive mutual consent from the border security agencies of both nations, following a thorough joint verification process. This protocol underscores the importance of collaboration and communication between the two countries in maintaining border integrity and peace.

In contrast to the border disputes, initiatives like IIM Kozhikode’s General Management Programme are paving the way for future leaders, equipping them with essential skills in business strategy and artificial intelligence. The rapidly changing landscape of today's business world demands that leaders possess a robust understanding of various business domains and the capability to adapt to technological advancements. Over a span of 11 months, the Certificate in General Management Programme offers participants a well-rounded education in finance, marketing, human resources, and operations, with a particular focus on leveraging AI to gain insightful perspectives.

What distinguishes this programme is its emphasis on integrating emerging technologies and fostering digital transformation, with a keen focus on Generative AI. Unlike conventional leadership courses that may only skim the surface of technological aspects, this curriculum is designed to empower participants with the skills necessary to utilize AI as a strategic asset. By incorporating AI into their decision-making processes, graduates will enhance their leadership capabilities, enabling them to address complex business challenges with confidence and proficiency.

Furthermore, as the adoption of generative AI expands, it underscores the urgency of reskilling and upskilling the workforce, a necessity for both employees and employers alike. A report from McKinsey titled "Upskilling and Reskilling Priorities for the Gen AI Era" highlights that the surge of generative AI innovations calls for a fresh perspective on how organizations attract, engage, and retain talent. The findings suggest that companies that have embraced generative AI early on prioritize talent development; indeed, two-thirds have implemented strategic approaches to meet their forthcoming talent and skill demands.

Similarly, PWC's Annual CEO Survey for 2024 indicates a positive trend in employment, with Indian CEOs planning to increase their workforce by 5% over the next year. This reflects a growing recognition of the importance of adapting to technological advancements and the subsequent impact on workforce development.