On October 12, 2024, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled a significant step towards enhancing India’s border infrastructure by virtually dedicating 75 new infrastructure projects undertaken by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). These projects, amounting to a substantial investment of Rs 2,236 crore, span across 11 States and Union Territories, marking a pivotal commitment to bolstering defence preparedness and fostering socio-economic growth in these regions.
Among the projects, there are 22 new roads and 51 bridges designed to improve connectivity and accessibility in critical border areas. The distribution of these projects is noteworthy, with 19 located in Jammu & Kashmir, 18 in Arunachal Pradesh, 11 in Ladakh, and others in Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Nagaland, Mizoram, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. A standout initiative among these is the Kupup-Sherathang Road in Sikkim, which serves as a vital link between Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg and the Zuluk axis.
In his address during the inauguration, Singh emphasized that these projects signify the government’s unwavering dedication to enhancing border infrastructure and ensuring the socio-economic upliftment of border communities. He highlighted that the successful completion of these initiatives is essential for strengthening India’s defence capabilities. The Minister aligned these efforts with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat by 2047,’ indicating that infrastructure development is integral to achieving this ambitious goal.
With the addition of these 75 projects, the BRO has now completed a total of 111 infrastructure projects in 2024, amounting to Rs 3,751 crore. This impressive achievement includes significant projects like the state-of-the-art Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh, inaugurated earlier in the year. In the previous year, the BRO dedicated 125 projects to the nation, highlighting a consistent commitment to infrastructure development along India’s borders.
Rajnath Singh lauded the dedication and resilience of BRO personnel, who have completed these projects within strict timelines, often in challenging terrains and harsh weather conditions. He expressed optimism regarding the increased budget allocation of Rs 6,500 crore for the BRO in the 2024-25 Union Budget, underscoring that this funding would not only advance strategic infrastructure but also support socio-economic development in border areas, especially in the North East.
Historically, previous governments expressed concerns that developing border regions might compromise national security. However, Singh noted that since taking office, the Modi government has prioritized border infrastructure, recognizing its crucial role in both socio-economic progress and national strategy. “Over the last decade, we have established a vast network of roads connecting villages and cities, propelling unprecedented progress in the country,” he stated.
Looking ahead, Singh assured citizens that new dimensions will be added to the development of border areas, reinforcing his belief that India is set to emerge as one of the safest and strongest nations in the future. This initiative has garnered significant attention, with high-ranking military officials, state governors, and chief ministers attending the virtual inauguration, reflecting the importance of these developments for national security and regional stability.
In summary, the inauguration of these 75 BRO infrastructure projects represents a critical advancement in India’s border security and infrastructure development. It underscores the government’s commitment to not only enhance defence capabilities but also to uplift the socio-economic conditions of communities residing in border areas, contributing to a stronger and more resilient India.