Latest news with #BOPs
Indian Express
6 days ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
BSF taps DRDO for tech to monitor Bangla border stretch in Sundarbans
Amid the Centre's crackdown on illegal immigration and cross-border terror networks, the Border Security Force (BSF) has sought the help of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for deployment of advanced surveillance systems — including drones, radars and satellites — along a critical 113-km stretch of the Sundarbans on the India-Bangladesh border. The request was made during a high-level coastal security review meeting chaired by the Secretary (Border Management) at the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in North Block in the second week of May, shortly after Operation Sindoor. The focused move to identify and push back illegal Bangladeshi immigrants within 30 days of detention began after the Pahalgam attacks in April, and has gained momentum since Operation Sindoor. As part of this crackdown, the BSF has stepped up vigilance along the border and is now looking to rely more heavily on high-end surveillance technologies — including drones, radars, satellite imagery and CCTVs — to plug gaps in sensitive areas, especially the Sundarbans, which has long been a known route for illegal crossings. 'The BSF has proposed to bring nearly 113 kms under tech surveillance,' said an MHA official. 'They've already conducted a feasibility study, in consultation with ISRO and DRDO, and have asked DRDO to carry out field visits to identify the most effective solutions. However, DRDO is expected to take up the Sundarbans site only after it completes its current work on a similar project in Gujarat's creek areas.' The BSF currently monitors about 123 kms of the Sunderbans sector, much of it difficult terrain dotted with creeks and dense mangrove forests. The demand for a technology-first approach has grown following intelligence inputs that terror outfits are exploring India's riverine and maritime borders — especially through the Sundarbans — to infiltrate. The area, spread across remote islands and crisscrossed by tidal waterways, poses unique challenges for conventional patrolling. At present, the BSF relies on eight floating Border Outposts (BOPs) and 96 other patrol vessels to maintain vigilance. It has also approached the West Bengal government for land to construct seven observation towers and to allow more forest post co-locations — a model where BSF personnel share infrastructure with forest officials. Three such co-located posts already exist. However, the MHA official said progress has been uneven. 'Despite repeated surveys, officials from the Forest and State Revenue departments did not participate, which has stalled the process,' the official said. At the meeting last month, which was also attended by BSF Director General Daljit Singh Chaudhary, West Bengal government representatives are learnt to have said that they had surveyed seven sites and agreed to provide land at two. 'The co-location of three more BSF posts is still awaiting clearance from the Forest Department. Both sides were directed to explore alternate sites if needed and to jointly assess feasibility at each location,' the official said. The Sundarbans push comes amid growing concerns within the security establishment that a porous eastern frontier — unless sealed with urgency — could undermine efforts to curb both illegal immigration and terror infiltration. As part of its wider border strategy, the Centre has already deployed additional forces, stepped up deportation efforts, and expanded intelligence coordination across agencies. Mahender Singh Manral is an Assistant Editor with the national bureau of The Indian Express. He is known for his impactful and breaking stories. He covers the Ministry of Home Affairs, Investigative Agencies, National Investigative Agency, Central Bureau of Investigation, Law Enforcement Agencies, Paramilitary Forces, and internal security. Prior to this, Manral had extensively reported on city-based crime stories along with that he also covered the anti-corruption branch of the Delhi government for a decade. He is known for his knack for News and a detailed understanding of stories. He also worked with Mail Today as a senior correspondent for eleven months. He has also worked with The Pioneer for two years where he was exclusively covering crime beat. During his initial days of the career he also worked with The Statesman newspaper in the national capital, where he was entrusted with beats like crime, education, and the Delhi Jal Board. A graduate in Mass Communication, Manral is always in search of stories that impact lives. ... Read More
United News of India
01-06-2025
- Politics
- United News of India
BSF Eastern Command Chief reviews India-Bangladesh border security in Meghalaya
Shillong, June 1 (UNI) Mahesh Kumar Aggarwal, Additional Director General (ADG) of the Border Security Force (BSF) Eastern Command, reviewed the current security scenario along the India-Bangladesh international border during his visit to the Border Security Force, Meghalya Frontier, a BSF official said. Aggarwal wrapped up a four-day visit to Meghalaya on Sunday after visiting several Border Outposts (BOPs) in the West Jaintia Hills district and East Khasi Hills district and interacted with BSF personnel stationed in remote and challenging locations. He commended the troops for their dedication and resilience amid difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions. While addressing the officers of BSF Frontier Meghalaya, Aggarwal emphasised the importance of maintaining high morale, constant vigilance, and professionalism. He also highlighted the critical role of civic action programs in strengthening ties with border communities. In addition to operational reviews, the BSF Eastern Command Chief held meetings with senior officials of the civil and police administration to enhance inter-agency coordination and ensure seamless security management in the region. Inspector General of BSF, Meghalaya Frontier, O P Upadhyay briefed Aggarwal on the prevailing border situation, recent anti-smuggling operations, deployment strategies, and coordination efforts with local authorities. He reviewed the measures taken to prevent illegal infiltration and exfiltration, and appreciated the force's success in curbing cross-border activities. The BSF Eastern Command Chief also called on Meghalaya Governor, Chandrashekhar H. Vijayashankar, at Raj Bhavan, where he briefed him on the current security landscape and BSF's proactive measures along the international boundary. Aggarwal later met Chief Secretary D.P. Wahlang to discuss administrative cooperation, logistical support for BSF operations, and joint efforts to maintain peace and order in the sensitive border region. The BSF reiterated its commitment to national security and pledged continued support to the development and welfare of communities living along the border. UNI RRK GNK
News18
17-05-2025
- Business
- News18
Amid India-Pakistan Tensions, Govt Expedites Border Projects To Boost National Security, Curb Infiltration
Last Updated: The union finance and home affairs ministries are working together to fast-track major development projects along vulnerable border areas In reaction to increased tensions with Pakistan, the Indian government has accelerated plans to implement key infrastructure projects along the border between the two nations. The move, intended to boost national security and discourage infiltration, follows recent high-level deliberations. The union finance and home affairs ministries are working together to expedite major development projects along vulnerable border areas. Border fencing upgrades, strategic road development, and sophisticated surveillance infrastructure installations worth Rs 1,500 crore are planned. Top officials say more than 500 kilometres of current border fencing will be upgraded with new, high-quality, modular, and multi-layered materials to counter infiltration threats. The much-needed upgrade comes in the wake of recent terrorist attacks on civilians and security forces in Rajouri and Poonch. The High-Level Empowered Committee (HLEC) approved works in high-risk sectors of Samba, Indereshwar Nagar, and Kathua in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab's Ferozepur and Abohar belts, including road connectivity of border outposts (BOPs) to the boundary fence. These projects will help forces reach different areas along the India-Pakistan border. Major upgrades include bulletproof sentry posts for the safety of BSF personnel after reports of unprovoked firing by Pakistan Rangers. A finished reconnaissance and hydrological survey guides infrastructure development along border rivers. In Rajasthan, more than Rs 500 crore will go towards specialised layered fencing and wall construction, high-powered LED lighting for improved night vigilance, and armoured underground cabling to deal with specific desert landscape issues. To alleviate the ongoing water supply woes of border troops, Rs 160 crore has been approved for better storage and delivery infrastructure. This will replace the present expensive and unsustainable tanker system used on unpaved tracks. These projects mark a strategic shift in India's border defence posture, meeting the rise of cross-border aggression and new forms of infiltration tactics. The government, with a priority on national security, is following through with the speedy implementation of these crucial border-guarding measures. First Published: May 17, 2025, 07:30 IST
Time of India
10-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
BSF Eastern Command ADG reviews security along Bangla border
1 2 Guwahati: Additional director general of BSF's Eastern Command headquartered in Kolkata, Mahesh Kumar Aggarwal , completed a three-day visit to the Guwahati frontier where he reviewed the operational preparedness and prevailing security scenario along the India-Bangladesh international border in West Bengal's Coochbehar and in Assam's Dhubri .A BSF PRO stated that on the first day of his visit at sector headquarters at Gopalpur in Coochbehar and Dhubri, the ADG was briefed by inspector general (IG) Sukhdev Raj of the Guwahati Frontier, along with field commanders which focused on the current security challenges posed by unrest in Bangladesh, the evolving situation on the India-Pakistan Border and the necessary measures taken to combat these issues. "The discussions highlighted strategies to prevent any form of infiltration and to control trans-border crimes, ensuring the safety and security of the border areas," the PRO ADG also visited border out posts (BOPs) along the India-Bangladesh international border where he interacted with field commanders, reviewed the border domination plan and assessed the operational preparedness to counter any threats."The ADG emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity along the border, ensuring the safety of local populations while keeping the border crime-free," the PRO ADG while praising the tireless efforts and unwavering dedication of BSF personnel in safeguarding the nation's borders commended the Guwahati Frontier's initiatives in controlling crime along the India-Bangladesh border and lauded the effective and efficient guarding of the international border by the BSF urged all personnel to remain vigilant and continue their exemplary work in maintaining the integrity of the India- Bangladesh international border.
Time of India
02-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
BSF chief reviews Raj border security after Pahalgam attack
Jaisalmer: Border Security Force ( ) Director General Daljit Singh Choudhary conducted a comprehensive two-day inspection of forward posts along the India-Pakistan international border in the Bikaner Sector, emphasising the need for enhanced vigilance and operational readiness. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The high-level visit, which began Wednesday, comes in the wake of the recent Pahalgam terror attack, highlighting the increased focus on border security. DG Choudhary, accompanied by senior BSF officials, visited multiple Border Outposts (BOPs) near Khajuwala, where he personally interacted with troops and assessed the security infrastructure. During his tour, Choudhary held crucial meetings with key security stakeholders, including Major General AK Pundir, GOC of Army's 24 Ranbankura Division, and Inspector General Om Prakash of Bikaner police range, to discuss and coordinate security strategies. The discussions focused on strengthening border security measures and addressing current challenges. "Our personnel's unwavering dedication in guarding the frontier under challenging conditions is commendable," said DG Choudhary, while addressing the troops. He emphasised the importance of maintaining high alertness and ensuring effective coordination among various security agencies to counter any potential threats from across the border. The visiting delegation included several senior officials, including IG Operations Dinesh Kumar Boora, DIG Principal Staff Officer VM Singh, IG ML Garg, and other key personnel from BSF and regional commands.
