BSF conducted 25 anti-terror operations in Kashmir last year

Srinagar, Jan 9: The Border Security Force (BSF), Kashmir Frontier, which is responsible for safeguarding the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir, is also actively engaged in various duties like Village Adoption and Village Partnership (VA/VP), ensuring the safety and security of the local population.

In the face of numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions, difficult living situations, and threats like infiltration, sniping, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), the dedicated BSF personnel remain steadfast in their commitment to securing the LoC and the hinterland round the clock.

In the year 2023, the BSF Kashmir Frontier conducted 25 joint operations in collaboration with sister agencies, based on intelligence inputs, resulting in the killing of 17 terrorists (2 local and 15 foreign). Additionally, 13 Indian nationals were apprehended, including drug peddlers, terrorist associates, and suspects.

The operations led to the recovery of a significant quantity of warlike stores, including 29 AK series rifles, 24 pistols with accessories, 43 grenades, 1,927 rounds, 6 IEDs, 61 kg narcotics, Rs 28,810 Pakistani currency, and Rs 56,000 Indian currency.

Beyond security operations, the BSF is actively involved in the well-being and skill development of the border population through various civic action programmes.

These initiatives include free medical camps, blood donation camps, educational tours for school students from remote border areas, evacuation of civilian patients from snow-bound areas, sports and cultural activities, and pre-recruitment training for youth from border villages.

The BSF organised skill development courses like Data Entry Operator and Customer Relationship Management in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra and Rooman Technologies.

During the Amarnath Yatra 2023, the BSF played a crucial role in establishing a robust security grid to ensure the safety of yatris.

The BSF also actively participated in national celebrations like ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ and organised events like Tiranga Rally, walkathon, run, and activities to commemorate the 76th Independence Day. Additionally, the force celebrated Rashtriya Ekta Diwas and paid homage to slain BSF soldiers on various occasions.

Furthermore, the BSF undertook initiatives to improve basic infrastructure at the grassroots level, focusing on the welfare of soldiers and their families.

Family Welfare Centers were established in each unit, offering various civil and vocational courses for BSF personnel's families.

Helicopters were utilised for the evacuation of soldiers serving in high-altitude, snow-bound areas during emergencies.

On the 59th Raising Day celebration on December 1, 2023, IG BSF Kashmir Frontier, Ashok Yadav reiterated the force's commitment to serving the people of Kashmir and ensuring their well-being as a top priority.