| Topic: GS3 – Internal Security |
| Context: |
● The Border Roads Organisation’s (BRO) 65th Raising Day celebration in New Delhi, chaired by Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane. ● It highlights the BRO’s contributions to national security, technological advancements, completion of infrastructure projects, and gender inclusivity, amidst increased budgetary support. |
Analysis of the news:
- The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) celebrated its 65th Raising Day in New Delhi on May 7, 2024.
| The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) |
● Establishment: Founded in 1960, under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. ● Mission: Develop and maintain road networks in India’s border areas for strategic and socio-economic purposes. ● Geographical Scope: Operates in remote and challenging terrains along India’s international borders with neighbouring countries like China, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bhutan. ● Infrastructure Development: Constructs roads, bridges, tunnels, and airfields to improve accessibility and connectivity in border regions. ● Strategic Importance: Vital for military mobilisation, troop deployment, and logistics supply in border areas, enhancing national security. ● Socio-Economic Impact: Facilitates socio-economic development in remote border regions, improving access to healthcare, education, and markets. ● Challenges: Faces logistical hurdles, adverse weather conditions, rugged terrain, and security threats in border areas. ● Technological Advancements: Incorporates modern technologies like satellite imagery, geospatial mapping, and engineering innovations for efficient road construction in challenging environments. ● Collaborations: Works closely with the Indian Army, local communities, and other government agencies to achieve its objectives. ● Humanitarian Role: Undertakes relief and rehabilitation work during natural disasters and emergencies, contributing to disaster management efforts. ● Strategic Vision: Continues to evolve its infrastructure capabilities to meet the evolving security and developmental needs of India’s border regions. |
- Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane presided over the event, commending the BRO for its contributions to national security and socio-economic progress in border areas.
- The Defence Secretary urged the BRO to embrace the latest technology for faster project completion, emphasizing automation and mechanization.
- Director General, Border Roads Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan highlighted the BRO’s commitment to national security, connectivity, and development.
- The event included the unveiling of a compendium on Sela Tunnel and the presentation of Excellence Awards to BRO personnel.
- Established in 1960 with two projects, the BRO now operates 18 projects in 11 States and three Union Territories, focusing on strategic road construction and maintenance in high-altitude and difficult terrain.
- In 2023-24, the BRO completed 125 infrastructure projects worth Rs 3,611 crore, including the construction of the Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh.
- The BRO aims to commence construction on the Shinkun La Tunnel, set to become the world’s highest tunnel.
- The organisation has witnessed increased budgetary support in recent years, allowing for accelerated infrastructure development and operational readiness.
| Practice Question: Discuss the role and significance of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in India’s national security and socio-economic development. How has increased budgetary support empowered the BRO to fulfill its strategic objectives? (250 Words /15 marks) |
