On May 23, 2025, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, attended the Border Security Force (BSF) Investiture Ceremony and Rustamji Memorial Lecture in New Delhi as the chief guest. The event highlighted the BSF’s exemplary contributions to national security and the success of Operation Sindoor, a landmark counter-terrorism operation.
BSF’s Legacy and Growth
From 1965 to Global Excellence
Shri Amit Shah praised the BSF’s journey since its inception on December 1, 1965, evolving from limited resources to becoming the world’s largest border security force with 2.75 lakh personnel. Entrusted with securing India’s challenging Pakistan and Bangladesh borders, the BSF operates in extreme conditions, from temperatures above 45°C to dense jungles and rugged mountains, earning its title as the first line of defence.
Operation Sindoor: A Defining Moment
Precision and Bravery
The minister lauded Operation Sindoor as the most precise and successful counter-terrorism operation in India’s history. Launched in response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack, it destroyed nine terrorist bases, including two headquarters, within minutes. The operation, driven by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s firm political will, precise intelligence, and the BSF and Army’s lethal capabilities, exposed Pakistan’s sponsorship of terrorism, as evidenced by Pakistani army officers attending terrorists’ funerals.
| Key Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Operation Sindoor | Destroyed nine terrorist bases, including two headquarters |
| BSF’s Role | Secures 15,000 km of borders, including Pakistan and Bangladesh |
| Awards | 1 Padma Vibhushan, 2 Padma Bhushan, 7 Padma Shri, 1 Mahavir Chakra, and more |
| Anti-Naxal Operations | Eliminated over 78 Naxalites in the past five years |
BSF’s Multifaceted Contributions
Beyond Border Security
The BSF has excelled in internal security, disaster management, and anti-terrorism operations. Over the past five years, it seized 1.1 lakh kilograms of narcotics and eliminated 78 Naxalites, significantly contributing to anti-Naxal operations. The force’s bravery has been recognized with prestigious awards, including 1 Padma Vibhushan, 6 Kirti Chakras, and 1,246 Police Medals for Gallantry.
Technological Advancements
Strengthening Border Security
The BSF has adopted technological solutions for securing India’s 15,000 km-long borders. In areas where fencing is not feasible, global and in-house technological innovations have been implemented, enhancing security in challenging terrains and supporting India’s self-reliance in defence.
Key Highlights
- The BSF Investiture Ceremony was held on May 23, 2025, with Shri Amit Shah as the chief guest.
- Operation Sindoor destroyed nine terrorist bases, exposing Pakistan’s terrorism sponsorship.
- BSF secures 15,000 km of borders, including Pakistan and Bangladesh, with advanced technological solutions.
- The force has seized 1.1 lakh kg of narcotics and eliminated 78 Naxalites in the past five years.
- BSF’s bravery recognized with 1 Padma Vibhushan, 6 Kirti Chakras, and other prestigious awards.