Explanation: Sikkim is a small state located in the northeastern part of India, known for its unique geographical location and its significance in terms of India's border security. The state is surrounded by international boundaries on three sides, which makes it a distinctive case among Indian states.
To understand why Sikkim is the correct answer, it is essential to examine its geographical position. Sikkim is bordered by Nepal to the west, Bhutan to the south and east, and China to the north. This means that Sikkim shares borders with three different countries, making it a state with a high level of international interaction and border management.
The northeastern region of India is characterized by its complex geography and the presence of several international borders. However, Sikkim stands out due to the specific configuration of its borders. While other northeastern states like Manipur, Assam, and Mizoram also share international borders, they do not have the same level of international boundary exposure as Sikkim.
Manipur, for instance, shares a border with Myanmar to the east and south but does not have international borders on the north and west. Assam, being a larger state, shares borders with Bhutan and Bangladesh but also has significant internal borders with other Indian states, making it not surrounded by international boundaries on three sides. Mizoram shares borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar but also has internal borders with other Indian states like Tripura and Manipur.
Sikkim's unique geographical position makes it a critical state for India's border security and international relations. The state's proximity to China, in particular, adds a layer of strategic importance, given the ongoing border disputes and the need for constant vigilance along the international borders.
In conclusion, Sikkim is the correct answer because it is the only state among the options that is surrounded by international boundaries on three sides, making it a distinctive case in the context of India's northeastern states and their geographical configurations.