Shashastra Seema Bal steps up vigil at Nepal, Bhutan borders

Keeping Hyderabad blasts in mind, Shashastra Seema Bal (SSB) has stepped up vigilance at the 2,351 km long Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan border of the country.

The force is keeping strict eye on the people crossing the border so that unwanted elements could not enter into Indian soil, said Arun Chaudhary, SSB Director General, at Ranikhet on Sunday.

The DG was addressing press persons after taking part in a passing out parade at Almora.

"Though we have at present no threat from Maoists from Nepal but we keep vigil at the border to nab smugglers and unwanted elements who try to use the border for their unlawful and anti-national activities," Chaudhary said.

According to the DG, before the force took over to guard the border, the unlawful elements from neighbouring countries were using it as a hub of their activities.

"After the SSB intensified the vigilance the activities have reduced tremendously," he said.

"Government has done remarkable work in expanding the strength of the force in the last 10 years and it is also going to expand it in coming years by raising 16 new battalion," the DG said.

There are 72 border observation posts of the force at these two borders and some are situated at rugged terrains.

According to the officer, SSB has a special style of functioning at borders, which starts by taking the local people in confidence.

"Besides guarding the border, we also work for the welfare of local people at the border to imbibe sense of patriotism in them," he said.