Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday addressed a BSF Prahari Samelan in Bikaner, declaring that the Border Security Force (BSF) bears the responsibility of ensuring zero infiltration along the borders with Bangladesh and Pakistan. He emphasized the need to strengthen the four-layer border security grid, which comprises the BSF, the Army, border residents, and local administration. Shah stated that all four stakeholders must work in coordination, which is why it has been named the quadrilateral security grid.
BSF Jurisdiction Expansion
Shah referred to the Centre's decision to expand the BSF's jurisdiction from 15 km to 50 km along the international border. He urged personnel to remain vigilant against any artificial demographic changes within this 50-km zone and to alert the respective state governments if required. The Home Minister said it is the responsibility of security agencies to inform civil authorities about any illegal construction activity within 50 km of the border. He also directed strict measures to curb narcotics and arms smuggling through drones and other modern methods.
Facilities for Women Personnel
Shah stated that by 2030, all necessary facilities for women personnel deployed in border security duties would be ensured. He informed that in Rajasthan, 79 barracks have been sanctioned, of which 67 have already been completed at a cost of nearly Rs 39 crore. Fourteen barracks were inaugurated on Tuesday. Across BSF-guarded borders, a total of 356 barracks costing nearly Rs 200 crore are being constructed, which will significantly improve facilities for women jawans.
Transformation Under Modi Government
The Union Home and Cooperation Minister said India's security landscape has undergone a major transformation since Narendra Modi became Prime Minister in 2014. He said the armed forces and border security forces are being modernised continuously, while the Government of India has adopted a policy of giving a ruthless and fitting response to any terrorist attempt. Shah said BSF must now view its traditional duties with a new perspective. Along with border guarding, the force must maintain constant vigilance over illegal smuggling, infiltration and cross-border activities while strengthening operational preparedness.
Infrastructure Development
He informed that the Centre is constructing a 1,096-km lateral road and a 520-km XCL road along the international border to improve troop movement and connectivity. New-design fencing is also being installed, while piped drinking water supply has already been completed at 180 border outposts. The Home Minister assured that the Central Government would provide BSF with the latest technology and best facilities for securing India's borders.
Praise for BSF Personnel
Shah praised BSF personnel for safeguarding the nation in extremely harsh conditions, including heavy rains, extreme heat, dense forests and snow-clad mountains. He said BSF jawans perform their duties with courage, dedication and the spirit of supreme sacrifice. Referring to Operation Sindoor, Shah said BSF personnel played a vital role in maintaining the morale of civilians in border districts and gave a strong response to Pakistan.
Historical Significance of Sanchu
Describing Sanchu as a historic border post, Shah said visiting it was a matter of pride for him. During the 1965 India-Pakistan war, Pakistan had attempted to capture Sanchu. At that time, a 3 RAC post was located 25 km away at Ranjitpura. When soldiers of 13 Grenadiers received information about the attack, Indian forces launched a fierce counter-assault, secured Sanchu and forced Pakistani troops to retreat. He added that the former 3 RAC unit has now become the 12th Battalion of BSF, and Sanchu Vijay Diwas is celebrated there every year. Shah said the post holds a golden place in India's military history.
Tribute to Martyrs and Environmental Efforts
Paying tribute to more than 2,000 martyred BSF personnel, the Home Minister said the nation is proud of their supreme sacrifice for the country's security. He also highlighted BSF's contribution to environmental conservation, noting that since a special plantation drive launched in 2019, jawans have planted more than 7.35 crore saplings along the borders, which would help address climate change in the future. During his visit to the BOP, Shah also inspected the Prahari Weapons Gallery and reviewed the functioning of modern drone technology. Earlier, he offered prayers at the Sanchu Mata Temple and planted a Khejri sapling while praying for peace, prosperity and well-being of the nation and the state.
