BSF opts for newly-designed fencing system on India-B’desh border
The Statesman | 6 December 2025
Border Security Force (BSF) has introduced a newly-designed border fencing system along the India–Bangladesh frontier in the vulnerable Chicken’s Neck region to bolster national security, Inspector General Mukesh Tyagi of the North Bengal Frontier said today.
Addressing the media, Mr Tyagi said nearly 75 per cent of the stretch has already been covered with the upgraded 12-ft-high fencing, which is designed to be both anti-cutting and anti-climbing. Alongside the fencing, powerful surveillance cameras and enhanced area domination measures have significantly strengthened border vigilance.
The IG said the BSF has also initiated a new community-centred project aimed at discouraging Indian villagers from engaging in border crimes in collusion with Bangladeshi touts and smugglers.
“After apprehending Indian touts or smugglers, our personnel visit their homes and speak to their families to make them aware of the consequences. This confidence-building effort has yielded positive results,” he said.
Marking the 61st Raising Day, the IG highlighted the Frontier’s operational achievements, challenges and initiatives. He provided a detailed overview of the security scenario along the India-Bangladesh border, noting that the region’s rivers, dense vegetation and cross-border social linkages demand high vigilance and coordinated action.
Mr Tyagi outlined the Frontier’s strategy to curb trans-border crimes such as cattle smuggling, narcotics, gold and other contrabands. Deployment of modern surveillance systems, intensified night patrols and improved intelligence-sharing have enhanced operational effectiveness.
He said the Frontier has made notable gains in seizing contrabands and emphasised the importance of winning the trust of border communities. Civic action programmes, medical camps and youth outreach initiatives have been undertaken to encourage community participation in maintaining border security.
Since January 2025, the BSF has seized cattle, gold, silver, wildlife, arms, ammunition and other contraband worth around Rs 8.5 crore. A total of 440 Bangladeshis — including touts and smugglers — and 152 Indians, as well as 11 others, were apprehended. Of them, 187 Bangladeshis were handed over to the Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB).
“In the past four to five months, we have noticed that Bangladeshis who illegally entered Indian territory are voluntarily returning. In such cases, we contact the BGB, and after verification, they are allowed to re-enter their country,” he said.
Before handing them over, BSF collects fingerprints and detailed personal information, which is shared with national authorities for verification of criminal or anti-national records.
Expressing concern over human trafficking, the IG said 72 persons — including 65 girls — were rescued this year. Sixteen accused traffickers have been apprehended and handed over to police for legal action.