Amit Shah reviews indigenous border security tech at Siliguri BOP
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Security
Why in news
Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the Zoomagach Border Outpost in Siliguri, West Bengal, to review indigenous and advanced technologies aimed at strengthening border security. He also e-laid foundation stones for BSF projects worth ₹77 crore and held meetings on border issues and implementation of three new criminal laws in West Bengal.
Background
The India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal has been a focus of security enhancement, with the government adopting a 'smart border' concept and a four-tier security grid. The visit underscores the government's commitment to making borders impenetrable and improving border infrastructure.
Key facts
Amit Shah observed a radio-based fence intrusion detection system that alerts troops via pre-recorded messages when the fence is tampered with.
He also reviewed an infrared alarm system installed in riverine or open areas that provides early warning when infrared beams are interrupted.
Shah e-laid foundation stones for 3 BSF projects costing ₹47 crore and a 4-km border fencing plan on newly acquired land for 2 border outposts costing ₹30 crore.
He inspected a gate management system for safe and smooth movement of civilians and farmers along the India-Bangladesh border.
Shah visited a watch tower, planted a sapling, and interacted with BSF personnel during a 'Prahari Sammelan'.
He stated that the Modi government is committed to making all borders invulnerable and is building a four-tier security grid, to be first implemented in West Bengal.
Shah held meetings on border-related issues in West Bengal and on the full implementation of three new criminal laws and birth/death registration in the state.
Prelims pointers
- Zoomagach Border Outpost, Siliguri, West Bengal
- BSF (Border Security Force)
- Radio-based fence intrusion detection system
- Infrared alarm system
- Gate management system
- Four-tier security grid
- Smart border concept
- Three new criminal laws (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, etc.)
- Birth and Death Registration Act
Mains angles
- GS3 Internal Security: Role of technology in border management and the concept of smart borders.
- GS3 Internal Security: Challenges in securing India-Bangladesh border and the four-tier security grid approach.
- GS2 Polity: Centre-state coordination in border security and implementation of central laws in states.
- GS3 Internal Security: Welfare measures for border security forces and infrastructure development.