BORDER SECURITY FORCE

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Context

• 59^th raising day of BSF was observed on 1^st

Details

• The Border Security Force (BSF) is India's primary border guarding organization operating along the borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh.
• As one of the seven Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), it was established after the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, specifically "for ensuring the security of the borders of India and for related matters".
• The motto of the Border Security Force (BSF) is "जीवन पर्यन्त कर्तव्य," which translates to "Duty Unto Death" in English.

Organizational Growth and Structure

• Initially established with 25 battalions, the BSF has expanded significantly, now comprising 192 battalions and approximately 270,000 personnel.
• This includes specialized units such as air and naval wings, as well as an artillery regiment.

Roles and Mandates

During Peacetime:

• Primary Objectives: The BSF's primary roles encompass border security, prevention of trans-border crimes like smuggling and unauthorized entry, anti-infiltration duties, intelligence collection, and fostering a sense of security among border residents.
• Legal Authority: Governed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the BSF operates under the Border Security Force Act, 1968.

During Wartime:

• War-Time Functions: These include holding ground in assigned sectors, taking limited aggressive action against irregular enemy forces, and assisting the army in border areas, along with other specified roles.

Historical Significance

• Reason for Formation: Following the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, where the inadequacy of the State Armed Police to handle armed aggression was exposed, the government established the BSF to serve as a unified central agency responsible for safeguarding India's international borders.
• Key Contributors: Figures such as K.F. Rustamji, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, played crucial roles in the early leadership of the BSF.

Geopolitical and Tactical Engagements

• Involvement in Conflicts: The BSF actively participated in conflicts like the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 and played a pivotal role in the Liberation of Bangladesh.
• Adaptation to Changing Conditions: Over the years, the force's operational areas evolved, shifting from the Punjab region to Jammu and Kashmir, engaging in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.

Specialized Units and Modernization

• Special Detachments: Notable specialized units like the Creek Crocodile commando force and the Camel Contingent, both serving distinct purposes along different border sections.
• Force Modernization: Emphasis on modernization efforts, including equipping the force with All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and specialized apparatus.