By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 1: A slew of programmes was organised by the BSF to commemorate its 59th Foundation Day on Friday.
BSF Meghalaya conducted a series of events from the Border Outpost (BOP) level to Headquarters and Bada khana (Military community feast as per tradition) at all levels were also conducted.
A blood donation camp was also organised at the composite hospital, FTR HQ BSF Shillong where Cabinet Minister Ampareen was the chief guest.
It may be noted that the BSF Meghalaya frontier continues to assert its dominance over the 444 km long stretch of the international border with Bangladesh. The frontier is actively engaged in confidence-building measures and public outreach programmes to strengthen relationships with the border population of Meghalaya.
Besides, BSF achieved notable success in confiscating contraband items and apprehensions, showcasing its relentless commitment to maintaining the security and integrity of the nation even beyond the call of duty.
The BSF celebrated the nearly six decades of dedicated commitment by the forces in safeguarding India’s borders.
The BSF was formed on December 1, 1965, as a specialized force with the primary responsibility of protecting India’s international borders. The Emergency Committee of the Cabinet, led by the then-Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, convened on April 20, 1965, to discuss the role of police in border protection.
With K F Rustam, IPS, Padma Vibhushan awardee as the first Directional General, the BSF has expanded from its initial 25 battalions to an impressive 193, signifying not only numerical growth but also a significant enhancement in capabilities.
The BSF plays a pivotal role in guarding the 2725 km of the Western Border and 4096 km on the Eastern Border of India.
Over the years, it has extended its services in the line of control, counter-insurgency, anti-naxal operations, internal security duties and more. The force has evolved comprehensively, incorporating specialized wings such as the air wing, water wing, and artillery, contributing to national security on various fronts.