Chandigarh, April 24, 2024 – In a major move to bolster border security and crack down on cross-border drug smuggling, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced the recruitment of 5,500 jawans for the Border Wing of Punjab Home Guards.

Key Highlights of the Decision:

✅ 5,500 new recruits to enhance vigilance along Punjab’s 500+ km international border ✅ Second line of defence to support BSF in seven border districts ✅ Additional 400 jawans for Sadak Surakhya Force (SSF) & State Disaster Relief Force (SDRF) ✅ Focus on curbing infiltration, terrorism, and drug smuggling

Why This Move?

The decision comes after the recent terror attack in Pahalgam (Jammu & Kashmir), highlighting the need for tighter border security. CM Mann emphasized that the new force will act as a robust second layer to catch any suspicious elements that slip past BSF surveillance.

Home Guards : Punjab’s Border Security Plan

• The new recruits will be deployed in seven border districts (Ferozepur, Fazilka, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, and Rupnagar).
• The Border Wing of Punjab Home Guards will work closely with BSF. Their goal is to prevent illegal crossings. They also aim to stop drug trafficking, and terror threats.
• CM Mann will seek central assistance from the Union Home Ministry for additional resources.

Boosting Employment & Public Safety

Apart from enhancing security, the move will: ✔ Generate jobs for Punjab’s youth ✔ Strengthen road safety via Sadak Surakhya Force (SSF) ✔ Improve disaster response through State Disaster Relief Force (SDRF)

CM Mann’s Statement

“Punjab Police has the experience, courage, and capability to build an impregnable security wall. We will not allow any threats—open or hidden—to breach our borders.”

What’s Next?

• Recruitment process to begin soon
• High-level meeting with Union Home Minister for central support
• Enhanced patrolling & surveillance along Punjab’s border