Border Security Force (BSF)

Border Security Force Latest News

As cross-border tensions flared along the western front amid escalations from Pakistan, the Border Security Force (BSF) emerged not just as India’s first line of defence—but also its sharpest, standing tall alongside the armed forces. 

About Border Security Force

• Known as the First Line of Defence of Indian Territories, BSF is a primary border-guarding organisation of India.
• BSF is one of the seven Central Armed Police Forces (CSPFs) of the Union of India under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs. 
• It was raised in the wake of the 1965 War on 1 December 1965, “for ensuring the security of the borders of India and for matters associated therewith. 
• Role: 
  • The primary role of BSF is to protect the country’s land borders during peacetime and prevent transnational crime. 
  • They help the Indian Army during wartime as they are familiar with local people and topography. 
• Currently, BSF is deployed at the Indo-Pakistan International Border, the Indo-Bangladesh International Border, and Line of Control (LoC) along with the Indian Army, and in Anti-Naxal Operations.
• Logo: 
  • The Logo of BSF has two spikes of grains, embracing the National Emblem of India, and the typeface BSF. 
  • The motto of BSF, “DUTY UNTO DEATH” is placed at the bottom. 
• BSF currently stands as the world’s largest border guarding force with 186 battalions and 2.57 lakh personnel including an expanding air wing, marine wing, artillery regiments, and commando units.
• The BSF has a separate camel and dog wing that lets them expand their reach into varied terrain such as the India-Pakistan border in the Rann of Kutch.
• BSF is the only CAPF to have its own Air Wing, Marine Wing, and artillery regiments, which support the General Duty Battalions in their operations. 
• The force also maintains a Tear Smoke Unit (TSU), which is unique in India. The TSU is responsible for producing tear gas munitions required for the Anti-Riot Forces.
• BSF has been given powers of arrest, search, and seizure under various Acts. “These Acts include Passport Act 1967, Passport Act (Entry into India) 1920, Customs Act, NDPS Act and Arms Act. 
• The head of the BSF is known as the Director General (DG), and he should be an officer from Indian Police Services (IPS).

Border Security Force FAQs

Q1. When was the Border Security Force (BSF) officially established?

Ans. It was raised in the wake of the 1965 War on 1 December 1965, “for ensuring the security of the borders of India and for matters associated therewith. 

Q2. Under which ministry does the Border Security Force (BSF) function?

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Ans. Ministry of Home Affairs

Q3. What is the motto of the BSF?

Ans. “Duty Unto Death”

Source: N18