By Firstdespatch Desk Dec 01, 2024
Agartala, Dec 1 (FD) On December 1, 2024, the Border Security Force (BSF) celebrated its 60th Raising Day. Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Tripura, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. He paid tribute to the martyrs who laid down their lives in the line of duty and felicitated the veterans of the 1971 War. The Hon'ble Chief Minister extended his best wishes to all BSF personnel and lauded their efforts in maintaining peace and tranquility along the border. He also released the BSF Magazine, "Gajraj."
Since its inception in 1965, the BSF has dedicated itself to the service of the nation, upholding exemplary standards of bravery and professionalism. The Force continues to address multifaceted challenges involving national security, living up to its motto: “Jeevan Paryant Kartavya” (Duty Unto Death).
In Tripura, over the years, the BSF Tripura Frontier has undertaken numerous responsibilities, including combating insurgency, maintaining the sanctity of the border, and preventing trans-border crimes. These tasks have been accomplished under adverse climatic conditions in remote and inhospitable terrain, including malaria-infested zones. The BSF has also consistently maintained synergy with state authorities and other security and intelligence agencies, safeguarding the borders and fostering harmony among border populations.
The BSF Tripura Frontier achieved several milestones during 2024:
Enhanced Border Vigilance:
BSF troops maintained high levels of surveillance and alertness, resulting in the rescue of 1,383 cattle heads and the seizure of contraband, including:
Phensedyl: 66,316 bottles
Ganja: 9,203.24 kg
Yaba tablets: 605,334 tablets
Sugar: 1,222,894.5 kg
Gold: 496.26 gm
Brown Sugar: 381.01 gm
Arms/Ammunition: 1 pistol (7.65 mm) and 210 items (ammunition/tinny arms)
Bangladeshi currency: 48,60,735 Taka
Miscellaneous items worth ₹46,00,45,074/-
Additionally, BSF apprehended 55 Rohingya Illegal Migrants (RIMs), 620 Bangladeshi nationals, and 260 Indian nationals in various operations. Joint operations with state and central agencies led to the destruction of approximately 835,800 ganja saplings grown illegally on 301.31 acres in Tripura through uprooting or burning.
Community Engagement and Civic Initiatives:
The BSF conducted numerous Civic Action Programs, including free medical camps, skill development training, sports tournaments, and cultural activities for the welfare of border populations. Appx 700 village coordination meetings were also organised in the border belt.
Promoting National Unity:
Events such as band displays, weapon exhibitions, motorcycle rallies, border visits for school children, tree plantations, unity runs, sports events, and blood donation camps were organized across Tripura. On International Yoga Day, yoga sessions were held at various locations, and a Swachhta Abhiyan was conducted at the sector, unit, and Border Outpost (BOP) levels. A large-scale plantation drive was also launched to protect the environment.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation:
The IG BSF–Region Commanders BGB Border Coordination Conference was held in Shillong, Meghalaya, in July 2024. Key bilateral issues were discussed to enhance coordination between the two Border Guarding Forces, promoting the welfare of border populations and maintaining ties between the two friendly nations.
Crisis Response:
During recent unrest in Bangladesh, the BSF, in coordination with the BGB and other agencies, ensured the safe return of Indian students and workers, providing them with all possible assistance. During the recent flood situation, the BSF also extended its support to the people of Tripura.
The Border Security Force, Tripura Frontier, remains steadfast in its mission to protect Tripura's international borders. It will continue to coordinate closely with all key stakeholders to ensure the security and welfare of the state. PRESS RELEASE