India’s Comprehensive Anti-Drone Initiative: Strengthening Border Security : Union Home Minister Amit Shah has announced a groundbreaking initiative to bolster India’s border security: the establishment of a comprehensive anti-drone unit. This step aims to counter the rising threats posed by drones, particularly along the international borders. Speaking at the 60th Raising Day Parade of the Border Security Force (BSF) in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, Shah outlined the government’s strategic efforts to enhance national security.
Key Features of the Anti-Drone Initiative
Advanced Technology: Laser-Equipped Anti-Drone Guns
- India has developed a laser-equipped anti-drone gun mount system through a collaborative approach involving:
- This system has significantly boosted drone interception rates, with the neutralization rate along Punjab’s international border rising from 3% to 55%.
Government Collaboration
- The anti-drone program embodies a “whole government approach”, integrating expertise from multiple agencies to address emerging threats effectively.
Achievements of the Border Security Force (BSF)
The BSF, India’s first line of defense, has made remarkable strides in securing the nation’s borders since its inception.
Growth and Operations
- Expanded from 25 battalions at its inception to 193 battalions with a strength of 2.7 lakh personnel.
- Played a pivotal role in combating:
- Counterfeit currency
- Narcotics trafficking
- Cross-border infiltration
- Left-wing extremism
Honoring Sacrifices
- 1,992 BSF personnel have laid down their lives in the line of duty.
- 1,330 medals, including prestigious honors like the Maha Vir Chakra, Kirti Chakras, and Shaurya Chakras, have been awarded to BSF personnel for their bravery.
Enhancing Border Security: Technological Advancements
Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS)
- CIBMS, a cutting-edge border surveillance project, is designed to monitor sensitive areas more effectively.
- A pilot project in Dhubri, Assam, has shown promising results, paving the way for expansion to borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Infrastructure Development
- Strengthening border security with:
- Improved fencing systems.
- Construction of strategic roads.
- Deployment of advanced surveillance technology.
Welfare Initiatives for Security Personnel
The government is committed to the welfare of security personnel and their families through various schemes:
- Successful Launch of Sentinel-1C Satellite by ESA
- Supreme Court Sets Target to End Child Marriage in Rajasthan by 2030
- Meet Sanjay Malhotra: Newly Appointed RBI Governor and 1990-Batch IAS Officer
- IAS Officer Vipin Kumar Takes Charge as Chairman of the Airports Authority of India (AAI)
- Navin Ramgoolam Appointed Prime Minister of Mauritius for the Fourth Term
Ayushman CAPF Scheme
- A healthcare initiative providing cashless treatment to BSF personnel and their families.
- 41.2 lakh health cards issued, linked to thousands of hospitals nationwide.
- 14.83 lakh claims settled, amounting to ₹1,600 crore in healthcare benefits.
Why This Matters for Competitive Exams
Relevance to Exam Topics
- General Studies: National security measures, defense technology, and government initiatives.
- Current Affairs: Developments in border management and welfare schemes.
- Essay Writing and Interviews: Insights into India’s evolving defense strategies and their socio-economic impact.
Key Takeaways
- India’s laser-equipped anti-drone technology is a game-changer in border security.
- CIBMS sets a benchmark in modern surveillance and monitoring systems.
- Welfare initiatives like Ayushman CAPF highlight the government’s commitment to the forces.
By understanding these developments, students can better appreciate India’s security landscape and its implications for governance and defense policies. This knowledge can also enhance their performance in competitive exams by linking current events with broader themes in national and international security.
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