In a significant achievement, the Border Security Force (BSF) under the Western Command, led by Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, IPS, Special Director General, has successfully curtailed drone-related activities this year. With the capture of 95 drones along the border, the BSF has thwarted attempts at infiltration, leading to the apprehension of 36 Pakistani nationals. The efforts resulted in the confiscation of 755 kilograms of narcotics, along with 15 rifles and 38 pistols.
Recognizing the formidable challenge of tackling drug smuggling, the BSF acknowledges the complexity of controlling drones. Collaborating with the local police on the border, a comprehensive plan has been devised with the assistance of Punjab Police. The plan includes the installation of CCTV cameras, scheduled to be completed by March 31, aiming for enhanced success in preventing criminal activities. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) have been prepared to guide these efforts.
The initial use of larger drones, capable of carrying over 3 kilograms, has evolved into employing smaller drones, chosen for their reduced visibility. These smaller drones are limited to carrying about 500 grams. Khurania emphasized the historical significance of BSF, established on December 1, 1965, as the ‘First Line of Defense,’ growing from 25 battalions to become the world’s largest border security force, stationed with over 2.65 lakh personnel on India-Pakistan and India-Bangladesh borders.
In the Western Command headquartered in Chandigarh, responsible for effective border management on the India-Pakistan border, BSF personnel play a pivotal role. Despite challenging terrains and harsh weather conditions, they effectively control the border, preventing cross-border crimes such as infiltration, drug smuggling, and arms trafficking. With the Ministry of Home Affairs extending BSF’s jurisdiction in Punjab from 15 to 50 kilometers, enhanced patrolling, temporary check posts, and mobile check posts have been established.Collaboration with Punjab Police has successfully thwarted illegal activities by anti-national elements. In addition to securing the borders, BSF personnel provide assistance to the border population during floods and natural disasters. Notably, during the recent monsoon season, BSF conducted ten major rescue campaigns, evacuating nearly 2000 people in the border areas of Firozpur and Abohar, surrounded by continuous rainfall and overflowing rivers.In 2023, BSF has initiated skill development programs, pre-recruitment training for youth, and sports tournaments in the border areas of Kashmir, Jammu, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. Addressing the existing manpower shortage, Special Director General BSF (Western Command) highlighted recruitment efforts, recruiting 19,450 constables, including 2,913 female recruits. Under the Western Command, 5,069 recruits are undergoing basic training, with 2-3 weeks of training already completed.
