Agartala, 05 June (HS): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday asserted that the Central Government is taking a tougher stance on border security and illegal infiltration, emphasizing that abnormal demographic changes in border states such as West Bengal, Tripura and Bihar would not be tolerated.

Addressing BSF personnel at the Lankamura Border Outpost along the India-Bangladesh border in Tripura, Shah said the government has identified vulnerabilities in the country's international borders and is implementing comprehensive measures to strengthen security. He stressed the increased use of advanced technology to prevent illegal infiltration, smuggling and other cross-border crimes.

“Demographic changes in West Bengal, Tripura and Bihar will not be tolerated. The government is committed to securing international borders and taking all necessary steps to completely curb illegal infiltration,” Shah said while interacting with border guards.

Highlighting the Centre’s ambitious Smart Border initiative, the Home Minister stated that the project is in its final stages and will soon be launched on a pilot basis in seven to eight strategically important border locations across the country. Following successful implementation, the system will be expanded to other border regions in a phased manner.

According to Shah, the Smart Border project will integrate advanced sensors, smart fencing, drone-based surveillance and modern monitoring systems with coordinated support from local administration and security agencies. The initiative is aimed at enabling quicker detection of suspicious activities and ensuring rapid response along sensitive border stretches.

“The Smart Border concept will be implemented as a pilot project at selected locations. By combining cutting-edge technology, local administrative support and the expertise of border guarding forces, a robust and responsive border security mechanism will be established,” he said.

The Home Minister’s remarks come amid growing concerns over illegal infiltration, cross-border crimes, narcotics trafficking and human trafficking in several border states. Issues related to demographic changes and security challenges in regions adjoining international borders have increasingly drawn the attention of the Central Government.

Shah reiterated that the government remains committed to modernising border management through technology-driven solutions, enhanced surveillance infrastructure and improved coordination among security agencies to make the country’s borders more secure.

During his visit to Tripura, the Home Minister also interacted with personnel of the Border Security Force deployed along the India-Bangladesh border and reviewed various aspects of border security. He praised the force for its role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and called upon the personnel to continue their dedicated service with high morale and vigilance.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash