The minister is on a three-day visit to J&K and arrived in the winter capital of Jammu on Thursday night where he was received by LG Manoj Sinha, CM Omar Abdullah and senior BJP leaders, including Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly Sunil Sharma. He visited the border areas in Kathua and chaired a security review meeting along with Sinha at the Lok Bhawan. “Terror eco-system nurtured by elements inimical to our country in J&K has been almost crippled due to the concerted efforts of the Modi government,” said Shah during the security review meeting, reiterating that the government is committed to ensure “terror-free J&K.” He said that major initiatives to build up the start-up ecosystem and sports sector need to be taken to ensure youths are engaged in income generating activities. Earlier on Friday, during his visit to forward areas along the International Border in Kathua district of J&K, Shah inaugurated projects worth Rs 7 crore for the welfare of border troops, including the newly-built solar power plants and laid the foundation stone for the BSF infrastructure projects worth Rs 242 crore.
The minister asserted that while the courage, alertness, and dedication of personnel remain crucial, many emerging challenges are now technology-driven.
“The government will invest substantial funds to technologically modernise the entire border security system. This modernisation will provide improved border infrastructure and advanced equipment for BSF personnel, enabling them to perform their duties more effectively,” Shah said. He said the bravery and valour displayed by the BSF during ‘Operation Sindoor’ have added a golden chapter to its six-decade history.