Minister hails BSF on Raising Day

The BSF showed "tremendous bravery" in foiling numerous infiltration bids and responding effectively to ceasefire violations by Pakistan at the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister Hansraj Ahir said on Thursday.

Minister of State for Home Hansraj Ahir was the chief guest at the Raising Day celebrations of the force held at BSF campus, Chhawla.

The Border Security Force, with around 2,50,000 personnel, is considered the world's largest guard force and completed 51 years of its existence on December 1. The force is responsible for securing Indo-Pakistan and Indo-Bangladesh borders.

Assuring government support, the Minister said: "Finding solution for the challenges faced by you is our first priority."

He praised the BSF for celebrating 2016 as the 'Divyang Yodha Varsh' or disabled soldier year.

The celebration for the Raising Day was marked by a parade by BSF troops from different frontiers including a women contingent. The parade was led by Commandant Ashwini K. Singh.

The highlight of the day was the Malkhamb display by the soldiers from Maharashtra.

The Minister also inaugurated a Divyang skill development centre at the BSF Camp. The centre will provide training to the disabled soldiers for alternative living.

The event saw five BSF men, including two officers, being awarded the President's Police Medal for Gallantry.

--IANS

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