Addressing BSF personnel at the Lankamura Border Outpost along the India-Bangladesh border in West Tripura district, Shah said the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ cannot be realised without ensuring the country’s security.
Shah said PM Narendra Modi is working towards making India a developed nation by 2047. However, before achieving complete development and fulfilling the PM’s vision, it is essential to ensure a fully secure nation. He added that the country is not only dealing with traditional challenges such as war and conflict but is also facing serious threats, including drug smuggling, human trafficking, cattle smuggling, youth drug abuse, and the circulation of counterfeit currency that adversely affects the national economy.
Lauding the role of BSF personnel in guarding the sensitive borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh, Shah said the country’s citizens appreciate the dedication, perseverance, and commitment of BSF jawans, often more than that of ministers and bureaucrats. Referring to the ‘Smart Border Fencing’ initiative, which is planned for implementation at seven to eight selected locations across various states where the BSF and SSB are deployed, Shah said the project is in its final stages and that a pilot project will be launched next year. Shah noted that the borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh present distinct challenges, particularly in relation to drug smuggling, infiltration, human trafficking, and the dropping of arms and narcotics through drones, along with other malicious cross-border activities.
He said the government is fully aware of the challenges faced by BSF personnel and their families and has taken several measures to address their concerns and improve welfare conditions.
