Union Home Minister Amit Shah, during his visit to Jammu and Kashmir on Monday, reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to national security and the welfare of the armed and paramilitary forces. In a series of significant engagements, Shah visited the Border Outpost (BOP) ‘Vinay’ in Kathua, interacted with Border Security Force (BSF) personnel, and later met with the families of martyred Jammu and Kashmir policemen in Jammu.
At the Vinay BOP, located along the international border in Kathua district, Shah paid homage to Assistant Commandant Vinay Prasad of the BSF, who was martyred in 2019. He was accompanied by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Union Minister Jitendra Singh, Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Director of the Intelligence Bureau, and the Director-General of BSF, among other dignitaries.
Shah inaugurated several newly developed infrastructure projects aimed at bolstering security and improving living conditions for BSF personnel. These included eight women barracks, a G+1 watchtower, high-mast lighting, and a composite BOP — all developed at the cost of Rs. 47.22 crore.
Addressing BSF personnel, Shah praised their tireless dedication in safeguarding India’s borders under the most challenging climatic and geographical conditions. He emphasized that the BSF has always served as the first line of defense and has made invaluable contributions during every conflict with Pakistan. Highlighting the growing role of technology in border security, Shah informed that two models of electronic surveillance systems are being piloted to aid soldiers in real-time monitoring and prompt response. He added that more than 26 technology-based initiatives are underway, including tunnel detection and anti-drone systems, with positive results expected by March next year.
The Home Minister reiterated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is committed to reducing the hardships faced by security forces. He cited several welfare schemes like Ayushman CAPF, ex-gratia payments, insurance coverage, and the Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme as key examples of the Centre’s support.
Meeting with the families of martyred policemen of J&K
Shah also met with the families of martyred Jammu and Kashmir policemen in Jammu and handed over appointment letters to nine nominees on compassionate grounds. Paying tribute to the fallen heroes, Shah acknowledged their supreme sacrifice in combating terrorism over the past three and a half decades.
He stated that significant strides have been made in curbing terrorism and weakening separatist ideologies under the current administration, although the mission is not yet fully accomplished. Shah specifically mentioned the case of 12-year-old Yuvraj Singh, son of martyr SGCT Jaswant Singh, recommending his appointment on compassionate grounds upon attaining adulthood.
The Home Minister also expressed deep respect to the family of Shashi Bhushan Abrol, Deputy Manager/Designer at APCO Construction Company, who was killed during a terrorist attack at the Sonamarg Tunnel project in October 2024.
Shah emphasized the importance of honouring the ideals of the martyrs, stating that their courage and commitment would continue to inspire the nation to strive for a secure and prosperous India. He called upon citizens to uphold the values of duty, honour, and service to ‘Maa Bharti’.
