On December 1, the Border Security Force (BSF) celebrated its Raising Day, a significant event recognising the force’s dedication and commitment to safeguarding India's borders.
On this occasion, several prominent leaders, including the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, extended their heartfelt greetings, acknowledging the bravery and sacrifices of the BSF personnel.
In a message on X, Rahul Gandhi praised the BSF for their daily dedication to duty, referring to them as a constant source of inspiration. He highlighted the courage and selflessness of the BSF in protecting the nation’s borders, offering his salute to the force.
"On BSF Raising Day, I send my heartfelt greetings and salute to all the courageous personnel of India's First Line of Defence who protect our nation's borders. Your dedication, bravery, service, and sacrifices inspire us every single day. Jai Hind," he wrote, paying tribute to the BSF's invaluable service.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to X to celebrate the occasion, recognising the BSF as a crucial part of India’s defence system. He commended their unmatched bravery and dedication, ensuring the safety and security of the country.
"The BSF is a crucial line of defence for our nation. Their courage and vigilance ensure the safety and security of our country. Warm wishes to the BSF on their Raising Day!" Modi wrote, acknowledging the importance of the force in protecting India's territorial integrity.
Similarly, Union Home Minister Amit Shah shared his greetings, praising the BSF's unwavering commitment and sacrifices. He underscored the selflessness of the force, with personnel always ready to make the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.
Shah expressed his heartfelt tribute to the brave soldiers who have laid down their lives in the line of duty. "Greetings to the BSF personnel and their families on this special day. The soldiers of BSF have protected the honour and aspirations of Bharat with unwavering determination, never hesitating to lay down their lives for the country," he wrote on X.
The BSF, established as a paramilitary force under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is the world’s largest border-guarding force with nearly 2.65 lakh personnel. Every year, the force celebrates its Raising Day on December 1 to commemorate its formation and to honour its continuing efforts in defending India’s borders.
The BSF plays a vital role in protecting the country’s borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh, preventing illegal activities such as smuggling, infiltration, and migration, and assisting in counter-insurgency operations.
Over the years, the BSF has proven to be an indispensable force in safeguarding India’s borders and maintaining peace in the border areas. Its contributions extend beyond mere defence, ensuring that the nation’s territorial integrity is protected and that the sovereignty of India remains intact.
The jurisdiction of the BSF spans the land borders between India and Pakistan, as well as India and Bangladesh. The force operates within a 50-kilometre stretch into Indian territory from the International Border in states like Punjab, West Bengal, and Assam.
Additionally, the BSF’s jurisdiction extends across the states of Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Ladakh.
Within this area, the BSF has the authority to arrest, search, and seize under specific laws, including the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), the Passport (Entry into India) Act, and the Passports Act. This expansive jurisdiction enables the BSF to tackle trans-border crimes like smuggling and infiltration efficiently.
The BSF is guided by a set of principles that define its operations and vision. The force aspires to be the premier border-guarding entity, trusted for its professionalism and commitment to national security.
Its motto, “Duty Unto Death” (जीवन पर्यन्त कर्तव्य), embodies the spirit of the BSF — a reflection of its steadfast resolve to protect the nation’s borders, no matter the personal cost.
This guiding principle underscores the force's relentless dedication, selflessness, and sacrifice, qualities that have been pivotal in the BSF's role as a pillar of India’s defence infrastructure.
Throughout the years, the BSF has earned immense respect and admiration, not just for its role in maintaining the security of India’s borders but also for its unwavering dedication to the country's safety.
Their commitment continues to inspire new generations of patriots and serves as a reminder of the immense sacrifices made by these brave personnel.
On this Raising Day, it is essential to reflect on the BSF's contributions, and to honour the sacrifices made by these brave men and women who have always stood ready to defend India's borders and its people. Their legacy of service, bravery, and dedication will continue to inspire generations to come.
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