Bhuj, May 30: Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced a transformative approach to border security on Friday. The government has decided to revamp the operations of the Border Security Force (BSF). Instead of focusing solely on traditional border guarding, the BSF will now operate under a broader regional security model. This initiative is part of the new “Smart Border Security Project,” which will encompass the India-Pakistan and India-Bangladesh borders.
Speaking at the BSF’s 60th anniversary event at Border Outpost G7 in Gujarat’s Bhuj, Shah emphasized that the government is working on a comprehensive concept involving multiple agencies and local communities in border management.
He stated, “In this 60th year, we have decided to completely change the concept of BSF’s border security. We will introduce a new concept of regional security instead of just border security.”
The proposed system aims to create an extensive security network along the country’s international borders, incorporating public participation, civil administration, local police, armed forces, and BSF personnel.
Shah highlighted that the collaborative effort under the “Smart Border Security Project” aims to strengthen the security grid along the borders with Bangladesh and Pakistan.
According to the Home Minister, the project is currently in the planning phase and will involve an investment of thousands of crores. It will also integrate modern technologies such as drones, radar, watchtowers, and other advanced systems into border management.
He noted, “This integrated system’s objective is to ensure that no one dares to breach our borders.”
Shah further mentioned that significant progress has already been made under this project, expressing confidence that technological upgrades will alleviate the challenges faced by personnel deployed in remote areas.
He also indicated that the government is considering expanding the BSF’s jurisdiction in certain areas, although no final decision has been made yet.
The Home Minister praised BSF personnel for maintaining vigilance in challenging climates and geographical conditions, including deserts, marshlands, forests, and mountainous regions along India’s borders.
Referring to West Bengal, Shah pointed out that the biggest shortcoming in the security perimeter was the incomplete border fencing. He noted that the previous government had not allocated land for fencing. However, after the BJP came to power in Bengal, the Chief Minister approved land allocation for fencing within just a week, and some land has already been handed over to the BSF.
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