The Border Security Force organised a ceremonial parade at the Shaheed Poonam Singh Stadium, Rajasthan. Union Home Minister Amit Shah attended the event as the Chief Guest along with Union Minister of Jal Shakti Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
The parade was conducted for the first time at Jaisalmer.
Contingents of different Frontiers of BSF marched past the inspection dais and showcased the Seema Praharis’ valour. The parade included 12 foot contingents including Mahila Prahari contingent, Camel Contingent and Camel Band, mounted column and the dog squad. It also included the communication contingent displaying the technological advance of the force along with special appearance by BSF Bagpipers.
Along with the parade, other activities like dog show by NTCD BSF trained dogs, battle drills show by camel mounted praharis, chetak drill by CSMT BSF team involving dismantling, obstacle crossing and assembly of motor vehicle, blindfolded single-handed quick-time handling of all weapons by Seema Praharis (both men and women) were also showcased at the stadium.
Furthermore, Seema Bhawani women team showcased a motorcycle show. The mens team also displayed paragliders displayed by the BSF Institute of Adventure and Advance Training (BIAAT).
Union Minister Amit Shah first arrived at the Shaheed Poonam Singh Stadium and laid a wreath at the memorial of BSF soldiers who died at the borders. He saluted the parade as they marched past.
The Director-General of BSG, Pankaj Kumar Singh addressed the people present and described BSF’s journey over the years.
He said, “ BSF started with just 25 battalions has now evolved into the largest border guarding force with 193 battalions and with a strength of more than 2.65 lakh brave men and women deployed in every kind of extreme terrain, temperatures and other challenging scenarios.”
“Every Seema Prahari will strive to protect the sovereignty of the nation’s borders even to the peril of their lives while also referring to BSF’s achievements, new initiatives and preparations to deal with future challenges.”
Union Minister Amit Shah lauded the performance of the parade. While addressing the celebrations he reminisced about the role of BSF in various historic events like the 1971 War despite being in the early stages of raising.
He said, “the nation is grateful and will always stand by the security forces for the dedicated service to the motherland.”
