BSF needs new perspective amid evolving threats: HM Amit Shah 

JAIPUR: Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the Border Security Force (BSF) post at Sanchu along the India–Pakistan border in Bikaner on Tuesday and asserted that the role of the BSF must now be viewed through a “new dimension” in light of emerging security challenges and technology-driven threats.

Addressing the Prahari Sammelan at the historic border post, Shah said the traditional responsibilities of the BSF, including preventing encroachments, monitoring smuggling and infiltration, and maintaining border vigilance, must now be expanded to tackle new-age threats.

He stated that adversaries are increasingly using technology to target national security, prompting the Government of India to broaden the security framework in border regions by strengthening coordination with state governments and the civil administration.

“Any illegal construction within 50 kilometres of the border must be immediately reported to the District Collector and Superintendent of Police. Likewise, demographic changes in border villages should also be brought to the government's notice,” Shah said.

Highlighting emerging challenges, Shah stressed the need for heightened surveillance against drone-based narcotics smuggling and anti-national activities. “We must monitor where drones land, who receives them, and how they are used. A strong communication network with civil administration and district police is essential,” he said.

He linked border security with local development, noting that villages along the frontier are being transformed under the Vibrant Villages Programme. “Security can be strengthened only through the combined efforts of the BSF, the Army, and alert citizens, as well as the state government machinery. This coordination can build a quadrilateral security grid, which is difficult to breach.”

He also called for regular engagements with school students and youth to create awareness among future generations.

Commending BSF personnel for their role during Operation Sindoor, Shah said the force displayed courage and resilience while maintaining high morale and giving a “befitting reply” whenever required. “Our soldiers stood strong, faced challenges with unwavering resolve, and played a significant role in maintaining high morale. As always, whenever the situation demanded, they delivered a befitting reply to Pakistan.”