Amit Shah attends the 61st Raising Day function of the Sashastra Seema Bal
Celebrating 61 Years of Sashastra Seema Bal
Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently attended the 61st Raising Day function of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) in Siliguri, West Bengal. This event marked a significant milestone for the SSB, a paramilitary force responsible for guarding India’s borders with Nepal and Bhutan. During the ceremony, Shah also inaugurated the Integrated Check Point (ICP) Agartala and a new residential complex for the Border Guard Force (BGF) at Petrapole. The event was attended by various dignitaries, including the Director of Intelligence Bureau, Secretary of Border Management, and the Director General of SSB.
Honoring the Brave
In his address, Amit Shah paid tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives to protect India’s borders and combat Left Wing Extremism in the eastern region. He expressed deep gratitude to the families of the martyrs, stating that their sacrifices have infused the nation with renewed energy and pride. Over the past 61 years, the SSB has earned numerous accolades, including four Padma Shri awards, one Kirti Chakra, six Shaurya Chakras, and several gallantry medals. These honors reflect the unwavering commitment of SSB personnel to their duties and the nation.
Shah emphasized that the SSB has played a crucial role in connecting the culture and heritage of border villages with the broader Indian society. He highlighted the force’s motto of “Service, Security, and Brotherhood,” which has guided its operations. The SSB has also maintained strong ties with neighboring countries like Nepal and Bhutan, fostering a spirit of friendship and cooperation.
A Legacy of Service and Security
The SSB was established in 1963, following former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s vision of “one border, one force.” This initiative assigned the SSB the responsibility of securing the borders with Nepal and Bhutan. Over the years, the SSB has instilled a sense of patriotism and belonging among the residents of border villages. With a 2,450-kilometer-long border to guard, the SSB’s presence reassures the nation of its safety.
Shah noted that the SSB has effectively curbed narcotics smuggling, human trafficking, and arms smuggling. The force has also played a pivotal role in making the eastern region Naxal-free, collaborating with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and local police. The SSB’s proactive measures have significantly contributed to maintaining peace and security in the area.
Commitment to Community and Environment
Beyond its security duties, the SSB has actively participated in various relief operations during natural disasters. Whether responding to floods or landslides, SSB personnel have shown remarkable dedication to helping affected communities. Amit Shah praised their selfless service, which has saved countless lives and fostered goodwill towards the force.
The SSB has also adopted a zero-tolerance policy against encroachments on government land near the border. In the past three years, the force has successfully removed over 1,100 encroachments, reclaiming thousands of acres for the government. This initiative reflects the SSB’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of India’s borders.
In addition to its security and relief efforts, the SSB has made significant contributions to environmental sustainability. The force has planted over six crore trees as part of its tree plantation campaign. This initiative not only benefits the environment but also engages local communities in conservation efforts.
Enhancing the Lives of Personnel
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Central Government has implemented various welfare schemes for Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) personnel. Amit Shah highlighted initiatives like the Ayushman Card, which has provided healthcare benefits to over 41 lakh CAPF members, and the CAPF e-Housing portal, which has facilitated housing for thousands of personnel.
The SSB has also excelled in sports, winning 72 medals in national and international competitions. Furthermore, the force has empowered youth in border areas by providing training in various skills, including beekeeping and mobile repair. Through the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, the SSB has raised awareness about drug addiction among 36,000 young people.
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