Amit Shah Honors BSF at Investiture Ceremony

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri , attended the Border Security Force (BSF) Investiture Ceremony and Rustamji Memorial Lecture in New Delhi today as the chief guest. The event, held to honor the legacy, valor, and sacrifices of India’s frontline defenders, was marked by the presence of several eminent dignitaries, including the Union Home Secretary, Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), and the Director General of the BSF.

Celebrating a Journey of Bravery from 1965 to 2025

In his keynote address, Shri Amit Shah paid heartfelt tribute to the BSF, recognizing its remarkable growth and achievements over the past six decades. “From its humble beginnings in 1965 amidst trying conditions, the BSF has transformed into the world’s largest and most prestigious border guarding force,” he said. “It stands as a shining example of how deep-rooted patriotism, dedication, and resilience can overcome all odds to reach global excellence.”

The Home Minister praised personnel for their unflinching commitment under extreme conditions—be it searing heat above 45 degrees Celsius, freezing temperatures, dense jungles, coastal expanses, or rugged terrains. Their tireless service has rightfully earned them the title of the nation’s first line of defence.

He also acknowledged the strategic trust placed in the BSF by the Government of India, especially in safeguarding the highly sensitive and challenging borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh.

दुर्गम सीमाओं और विषम मौसमीय परिस्थितियों में भी सीमाओं पर मुस्तैद BSF ने 1971 के युद्ध से लेकर #OperationSindoor तक सीमा सुरक्षा के अपने संकल्प को दृढ़ता से निभाया है। मोदी सरकार BSF को अत्याधुनिक तकनीकों और संसाधनों से सुसज्जित कर इसे विश्व का सबसे सशक्त सुरक्षा बल बना रही है।… pic.twitter.com/2zs6j5CsQK

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) May 23, 2025

Honoring the Vision of Shri K.F. Rustamji

Honoring BSF’s founding father, Shri K.F. Rustamji, Shah reflected on the visionary leadership that led to the force’s creation after the 1965 war. “Rustamji’s foresight gave India a border security mechanism that has not only protected the frontiers in peacetime but also emerged as a key force during wars,” he said.

Highlighting the BSF’s heroic role in the 1971 war, he noted, “The valiant efforts of BSF personnel during the liberation of Bangladesh have left a mark in history. They stood shoulder to shoulder with our armed forces to defeat tyranny and injustice.”

Operation Sindoor: A Defining Chapter in India’s Counter-Terrorism Response

Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that today’s investiture ceremony comes at a historic time when India’s security forces have proven their unparalleled strength and resolve through Operation Sindoor. “This operation exemplifies the convergence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unwavering political will, precise intelligence inputs, and the lethal capabilities of our armed forces,” he asserted.

Recalling the trajectory of terror attacks over the past decade, he stated that the Indian response to the Uri and Pulwama attacks marked a strategic shift in counter-terrorism doctrine through surgical and airstrikes. “Yet the recent barbaric attack in Pahalgam, where Pakistan-sponsored terrorists brutally killed innocent tourists, demanded a response that would resonate globally—and Operation Sindoor was that decisive answer,” said Shah.

He detailed how Indian forces targeted and destroyed nine terrorist bases, including two major organizational headquarters, without initiating attacks on Pakistan’s civilian infrastructure. “Our restraint reflects our commitment to ethical warfare, while our precision strikes demonstrated our lethal capabilities,” he said. The Minister emphasized that Pakistan’s retaliation, including funerals for terrorists attended by senior military officers, has laid bare its long-denied nexus with terrorism.

BSF: A Force Beyond the Borders

Shri Amit Shah underscored the BSF’s exceptional contributions beyond traditional border duties. Whether in internal security, disaster response, anti-Naxal operations, or even support during national events such as elections and the COVID-19 crisis, the BSF has been instrumental. “Their adaptability, bravery, and commitment make them one of the most versatile and dependable forces in our nation,” he said.

The Minister highlighted the BSF’s anti-narcotic achievements, citing the seizure of over 1.1 lakh kilograms of drugs in five years and the elimination of more than 78 Naxalites, contributing significantly to national security and public safety.

Tribute to Martyrs and Advancements in Technology

As he commemorated the fallen heroes of Operation Sindoor, Shri Shah named BSF personnel Mohammad Imtiyaz Ahmad and Deepak Chingakham, who made the supreme sacrifice while protecting the motherland. “Their names will forever be inscribed in golden letters in the annals of our nation’s defence,” he declared.

The Home Minister also lauded the BSF’s efforts in technological innovation. From employing cutting-edge global technologies where fencing is impractical to developing in-house solutions for complex terrains, the BSF is redefining border security for the future.

Recognition of Valor and Acknowledgment of National Pride

Since its formation on December 1, 1965, the BSF has grown to a formidable force of 2.75 lakh personnel with capabilities across land, air, and water. The extensive list of gallantry and civilian awards received by BSF personnel—including 1 Padma Vibhushan, 2 Padma Bhushan, 7 Padma Shri, 1 Mahavir Chakra, 6 Kirti Chakras, 13 Shaurya Chakras, 56 Army Medals, and 1,246 Police Medals for Gallantry—serves as testimony to their unwavering dedication and valor.

Shri Amit Shah assured that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India’s push towards self-reliance in defence production will only gain strength, enhancing the operational capabilities of forces like the BSF. He reiterated the nation’s collective gratitude and unwavering support to every BSF personnel.

“In the fight against terrorism, in guarding our borders, and in standing tall through every challenge, the BSF has carved a place of pride in the heart of every Indian,” said Shah. “India sleeps peacefully because the brave men and women of the BSF stand alert at our frontiers.”