Amit Shah Reviews Border Security in Tripura, Announces Smart Border Initiative

By Mahima Katal Agartala/Lucknow, June 5: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday inspected the Border Security Force's (BSF) Lankamura Border Outpost in Tripura and announced a series of measures aimed at strengthening border security and improving infrastructure for security personnel. The visit coincided with World Environment Day, during which Shah also participated in a nationwide plantation drive led by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Addressing BSF personnel and senior officials in Agartala, Shah lauded the role of border forces in tackling challenges such as narcotics trafficking, human trafficking, arms smuggling, and drone-related threats along India's borders.

"The BSF is successfully dealing with every challenge on the border, whether in Tripura, West Bengal, or Bihar," he said.

Smart Border Project in Final Stage

The Home Minister announced that the government is in the final stages of implementing a "Smart Border" initiative aimed at creating a technology-driven security network. The pilot project is expected to be launched soon at seven to eight locations across different international borders.

According to Shah, the project will integrate advanced technologies such as drones, sensors, and smart fencing with local administrative support. He stressed that border security cannot function in isolation and requires coordinated efforts from district administrations, police officials, village-level functionaries, and border forces.

"A smart security grid combining technology, local administration, and the dedication of security personnel will make our borders more secure and leak-proof," he said.

Border Infrastructure Upgrade

Highlighting infrastructure development along India's borders, Shah said the government has approved the modernization of approximately 650 kilometres of ageing border fencing and sanctioned 119 kilometres of new fencing. He added that projects related to electricity supply, green energy, and safe drinking water at border outposts have been completed to improve living conditions for personnel.

The Home Minister also virtually inaugurated accommodation facilities at the BSF's 37th Battalion and laid the foundation stone for a Quarter Guard complex at the 97th Battalion.

CAPFs Plant Over 7.5 Crore Trees Since 2019

On World Environment Day, Shah planted an agarwood sapling in Agartala and highlighted the government's environmental conservation efforts. He said personnel of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have planted more than 7.5 crore trees since 2019 and will plant an additional two crore saplings next year.

He noted that India has emerged as a global model in environmental protection by achieving several commitments under the Paris Agreement ahead of schedule.

"Environmental protection is deeply rooted in India's civilisational ethos and reflected in the Rigveda. Every sapling should be nurtured as a member of the family," Shah said.

As part of the nationwide plantation campaign, more than five lakh saplings were planted across institutions under the Ministry of Home Affairs, including CAPFs, Assam Rifles, Delhi Police, NIA, NDRF, NDMA, NCRB, and other agencies.

Rajnath Singh Leads Plantation Drive in Lucknow

Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh planted a sapling at Lucknow Cantonment as part of World Environment Day celebrations organised jointly by the Defence Estates Department, Central Command, and the Lucknow Cantonment Board.

Calling a healthy environment the foundation of sustainable development and national well-being, Singh urged citizens to contribute towards building a greener and cleaner future.

In a message shared on social media, the Defence Minister said environmental conservation was essential for ensuring prosperity for future generations and strengthening the country's resilience against climate challenges.

The event was attended by Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Command Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta, senior defence officials, and civil administrators.