Siliguri (WB), Dec 20 (PTI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday lauded the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) for its pivotal role in securing the country's borders with friendly nations such as Nepal and Bhutan and its contribution to combating Naxalism in Bihar and Jharkhand.
Addressing the 61st Raising Day celebrations of the SSB in West Bengal's Siliguri, Shah said, "The Sashastra Seema Bal has played a key role in securing our borders with friendly nations such as Nepal and Bhutan. Its alertness and presence have ensured a sense of security in the Siliguri Corridor and the Eastern region."
Referring to the SSB's efforts in tackling left-wing extremism, the Home Minister noted, "The SSB has played an important role in ending the menace of Naxalism in Bihar and Jharkhand. Their proactive approach along with other security agencies and local police has significantly weakened Naxal activities in Chhattisgarh."
On the occasion, Shah said the force has played a commendable role in curbing the activities of anti-national elements during border movements and ensure that they are handed over to law enforcement agencies.
"The 61st Foundation Day of the SSB is a day to reaffirm our commitment to national security. The soldiers of the SSB have done a wonderful job in prioritising national interests and preventing illegal activities," he said.
Shah also commended the SSB for its unique initiatives in fostering cultural integration.
"The SSB has done a commendable job by connecting the culture, language and heritage of border villages of India with the mainstream of the country. This initiative strengthens the bond between the nation and its border communities," he said.
Shah also praised the border guarding force for the role it plays during natural calamity.
"The SSB had promptly participated in relief operations and helped people. Be it floods or landslides, the SSB jawans carried out relief operations in the troubled areas without caring for their lives. Their selfless service and determination saved the lives of the people in distress," he said.
Earlier in the day in a post on X, Shah said the force has made national security and public service paramount through its sacrifice and valour.
"On the foundation day of the Sashastra Seema Bal, I pay my tribute to all the immortal martyrs of the Force and extend my best wishes on the Foundation Day to all the personnel and their families," he posted.
"@SSB_INDIAhas made national security and public service paramount through its sacrifice and valour. The efforts of the brave SSB soldiers dedicated to border security and surveillance to prevent crimes and illegal infiltration in the border areas have been commendable. The brave soldiers of the Sashastra Seema Bal are continuously contributing to nation-building by simultaneously accelerating development work in the border areas along with the security of the country," he wrote on X.