The India-Myanmar border Free Movement Regime (FMR) is a bilateral agreement between India and Myanmar, implemented in 2018 as part of India's Act East policy. Under this arrangement, tribes residing along the border on either side are allowed to travel up to 16 kilometres inside the other country without the need for a visa.

The implementation of the Free Movement Regime was motivated by several factors:

1. Historical Border Demarcation: The border between India and Myanmar, demarcated by the British in 1826, divided people of the same ethnicity and culture into two nations without their consent. This arrangement disrupted the natural flow of people and separated communities with strong ethnic and familial ties across the border.
2. Cultural and Ethnic Connections: Communities residing along the India-Myanmar border share strong ethnic and familial links. For example, in Manipur's Moreh area and Nagaland's Mon district, the border divides communities and families, causing inconvenience and disruption to their way of life.
3. Economic Opportunities: The FMR aimed to boost local trade and business by facilitating easier movement of people across the border. The region has a history of cross-border trade, and people residing near the border often find it more convenient to access Indian towns for business, education, and healthcare services.

Despite the benefits of the Free Movement Regime, challenges persist, such as issues related to illegal migration and border security. The Union Home Minister has announced plans to fence the entire length of the India-Myanmar border to address concerns about unauthorized movement. Nevertheless, the FMR remains a significant step towards fostering closer ties between India and Myanmar and promoting economic and cultural exchanges between border communities. The unfenced 1,643 km border passing through states like Manipur, Mizoram, Assam, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh continues to be a focal point for both nations as they work towards addressing mutual concerns and enhancing cooperation along their shared border.