Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, visited Border Outpost 'Vinay' in Kathua district today.
During his visit, he inaugurated eight Border Security Force (BSF) women-friendly barracks, high-mast lights, a G 1 tower and a composite BOP, all constructed at a cost of Rs.47.22 crore.
Informed sources said these lifestyle changes and initiatives would strengthen security arrangements and help BSF personnel to perform their duties better, besides improving their living conditions.
Shah interacted with BSF personnel in the presence of J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Union Minister of State Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Intelligence Bureau Director Tapan Kumar Deka and BSF Director-General Daljit Singh Chaudhary, besides several other dignitaries.
Shah also paid tribute to BSF Assistant Commandant Vinay Prasad, who made the ultimate sacrifice while on duty at the international border in Kathua district in 2019.
Appreciating the efforts of BSF personnel and officers in monitoring the international border in the Jammu region, Shah acknowledged the difficult conditions under which they were operating to safeguard the country's borders. He said he was aware about their commitment, dedication and vigilance in the face of challenging climatic conditions, including in extreme cold, heavy rainfall, or summer heat.
Emphasising that the BSF has a glorious history when it comes to the country's security, Shah mentioned the entire nation is aware that the BSF is India’s first line of defence and that the force has always performed its responsibilities exceptionally well. He further noted that in every war with Pakistan, “the contribution of our BSF soldiers has been as significant as that of the Indian Army.”
He added that two types of electronic surveillance systems would be deployed soon along India’s international borders. After their installation, across the border, soldiers will find it technologically easier to receive information and respond immediately to any enemy action.
Shah also mentioned that several experiments are being conducted to identify infiltration and to detect and destroy tunnels, using technology.
The Union Home Minister said that in a few years, the security forces deployed on the entire India-Pakistan and India-Bangladesh border would be fully equipped with technical assistance.
“The sacrifice, bravery, valour and courage of our soldiers form the shield of India against enemies from across the border and this is why the people of the country hold a deep respect for the BSF,” Shah said.
Shri Amit Shah said over 26 initiatives related to technology are currently being tested, including anti-drone technology, tunnel identification technology and electronic surveillance. He expressed confidence that by next March these new initiatives would be in place to make it easier for soldiers to perform their duties.
Shah said the Narendra Modi-led government is working to reduce the difficulties faced by soldiers in the discharge of their duties. He emphasised that under Modi’s leadership, the Centre is fully committed to the welfare of security forces and their families.
The government has launched several welfare schemes for security forces, including Ayushman CAPF, ex-gratia payments, accidental death insurance coverage under the CAPF salary package scheme, the Unified Pension Scheme, the Prime Minister Scholarship Scheme (PMSS), and E-Housing.