New Delhi : Pakistan is not desisting from its actions on the border. BSF said the number of cases of drone seizure along the international border in Punjab has doubled to 200. BSF says that Pakistani gangs want to create drug addiction among the youth and disturb social harmony. These people are constantly trying to send drugs and weapons to ‘destabilize’ India.
Four more drones recovered in 24 hours
In a statement issued by BSF on Saturday, it said that with the recovery of four more drones in the last 24 hours, the number of Pakistani drones seized on the border has increased to more than 200. BSF guards the 2,290 km long border on the western edge of India, of which 553 km is with Punjab. The international border also passes through Jammu, Rajasthan and Gujarat in Jammu and Kashmir.
Double the number of drones than last year
BSF had seized a total of 107 drones on the Punjab border in 2023. The security force said that the doubling of the number of drones seized this year shows that BSF’s anti-drone strategies have been strengthened and advanced technical measures have been implemented on the border. According to BSF, it has conducted precise anti-drone exercises which has dealt a major blow to Pakistani drug gangs.
A senior BSF official said that more than 200 drones seized this year included unmanned UAVs which were shot down by its soldiers with the help of rifles. Also, using anti-drone technology, they have been prevented from flying. On the basis of intelligence information or information provided by local residents, they have been recovered lying in the fields.
All drones made in China
The official said that almost all these drones are made in China and narcotics, small arms and ammunition have been found in them. However, most of the consignments of drugs have been found in them. The drone problem, which started around 2019-20 on the Punjab border, is more prevalent in Amritsar and Tarn Taran border districts in Punjab. BSF officials said that all the drugs are being sent from the Pakistani border to Punjab through drones whereas earlier they were sent through land route through pipes from the Pakistani border.
Interview: Addressing Border Security Concerns with Dr. Rajesh Sharma, National Security Expert
Editor (Time.news): Good morning, Dr. Sharma. Thank you for joining us today. We’ve just received alarming reports from the BSF indicating a significant rise in drone seizures along the Punjab border. The number has doubled to over 200 incidents. What are your immediate thoughts on this situation?
Dr. Rajesh Sharma: Good morning, and thank you for having me. The doubling of drone seizures is indeed concerning. It demonstrates not only an escalation in attempts to smuggle contraband into India but also the evolving tactics of Pakistani gangs. This kind of threat significantly underlines the complexity of border security in this region.
Editor: The BSF has pointedly mentioned that these gangs are aiming to introduce drugs and weapons to destabilize India. How serious is the threat of drug addiction among the youth as a direct impact of this?
Dr. Sharma: The impact of drug trafficking is profound, especially when we consider the socio-economic fabric of the youth in Punjab. Substance abuse can lead to widespread social issues—be it increased crime rates, a decline in workforce productivity, or even health crises that strain public resources. The targeted approach to create addiction among the youth is particularly insidious, aiming to destabilize communities from within.
Editor: Just recently, four more drones were recovered within a span of 24 hours. How effective do you think the current measures are in combating this issue?
Dr. Sharma: The efforts of the BSF and other security agencies are commendable, but this situation requires a multi-faceted approach. Technology plays a crucial role—enhanced surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities could help counteract these drone operations more effectively. Moreover, strengthening community awareness and resilience against drug temptation is essential. We need to ensure that individuals, especially the youth, are educated about the dangers of drug abuse.
Editor: The border in Punjab stretches over 2,290 kilometers. Given this extensive stretch and the terrain, what additional strategies would you recommend for the BSF?
Dr. Sharma: Alongside technological advancements, I believe there needs to be a greater emphasis on intelligence-sharing, not just within our security agencies but with local communities. Building relationships with citizens near the border can help in promptly reporting suspicious activities. Furthermore, there should be regular training for officers to adapt to new challenges that drone and smuggling technologies present.
Editor: Some might argue that border security is a political issue more than a logistical one. How do you see the role of state and central government policies in addressing these threats?
Dr. Sharma: Politics undoubtedly plays a significant role in border security. However, this is an area where bipartisan cooperation is crucial. Strategies should not just focus on punitive actions but also on preventive measures—social programs aimed at drug prevention and rehabilitation must be prioritized. We need policies that encompass both security and social development to foster resilience in communities that are vulnerable to these transgressions.
Editor: As we conclude, what message would you like to send to the youth of India, particularly those in border regions like Punjab, who are facing both temptation and challenges?
Dr. Sharma: My message would be one of empowerment. The youth must understand their immense potential; they are the future of our nation. It’s critical to channel aspirations toward constructive goals rather than fall into the traps set by those who seek to exploit vulnerabilities. Community engagement, education, and awareness are your best allies in combating these negative influences.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Sharma, for sharing your insights with us today. It’s vital to continue this dialogue as we navigate the complexities of border security and social issues.
Dr. Sharma: Thank you for having me. The conversation must continue, and collectively, we can work toward a safer and more secure future.