Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Friday that a 'smart border' pilot project integrating technology, local administrative resources, and security forces will be launched simultaneously at seven to eight locations across India's frontiers. This initiative underscores the Centre's resolve to prevent demographic changes through cross-border infiltration.
Shah's Firm Stance on Demographic Change
Speaking to BSF troopers at the Lankamura border outpost in Tripura, Shah emphasized, 'Whether it is Tripura, Bengal, or Bihar, we will not allow demographic change through cross-border infiltration. This is our firm belief and resolve.' He reiterated the government's commitment to securing the borders.
Quadrilateral Security Strategy
Shah explained that the smart border concept is part of a 'quadrilateral security strategy' designed to make India's frontiers impregnable. 'The concept is in the final stage of planning. Any initial challenges encountered will be addressed, after which the initiative will be scaled to cover the entire border network,' he said.
Replacement of Old Fencing in Tripura
In Tripura, which is surrounded by Bangladesh from the north, south, and west, Shah revealed that the government has approved a project to replace 119 kilometers of fencing out of approximately 650 kilometers that are over 15 years old. This move aims to strengthen border infrastructure.
Multiple Threats on Borders
Shah highlighted the various threats to internal security along the Bangladesh and Pakistan borders. 'Somewhere there is drug smuggling; elsewhere there is human trafficking or drones dropping counterfeit currency,' he said. These issues necessitate enhanced border security measures.
Link to Viksit Bharat 2047 Vision
Shah linked the increased focus on border security to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of transforming India into a fully developed country by 2047. 'If that is to be achieved, the biggest necessity is for us to become a secure country. When I say 'secure', I do not talk about there being very big threats from any war. But can we make the country secure from smuggling? Can we make it secure from human trafficking? Can we make the country's youth secure from drugs? Can we save the country's economy from the proliferation of fake currency?' he questioned.
Shah's Visit to Tripura and Upcoming Bengal Visit
Shah's visit to the Tripura frontier follows his tours of the western borders in Rajasthan and Gujarat. He is likely to visit the border in Bengal on June 15. Intelligence Bureau Director Tapan Deka accompanied him to the outpost.
Inauguration of BSF Infrastructure
In an online event, Shah inaugurated new accommodation at BSF's 37th Battalion and a Quarter Guard complex project at the 97th Battalion, further bolstering the force's infrastructure.
