BSF Innovative Security Strategy : Innovative Beekeeping Initiative for Enhanced Border Security
New Delhi, November 6 (City Times): (BSF Innovative Security Strategy) : In a pioneering effort to bolster security along the India-Bangladesh border and deter infiltrators and smugglers, the Border Security Force (BSF) has launched a unique scheme employing beekeeping. This innovative approach is anticipated to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the border fencing.
Bee Warriors on Duty
The pilot project, initiated in Kadipur village in West Bengal, envisions bees as the frontline defenders of the border. By deploying bees to thwart Bangladeshi intruders and smugglers, the BSF aims to significantly reduce incidents of fence-cutting. According to BSF officers, these ‘Bee Warriors’ will be a valuable asset in safeguarding the border from unauthorized incursions and preserving its integrity.
A Combined Approach: Beekeeping and Medicinal Plant Cultivation
This initiative is part of a comprehensive program that integrates beekeeping with the cultivation of medicinal plants in the border region, and it’s being spearheaded by the 32 Battalion of the BSF. The scheme is being introduced incrementally across various villages within the battalion’s jurisdiction.
An anonymous BSF officer involved in the project highlighted its dual objectives, stating, “We are working to enhance border security by completely securing the India-Bangladesh border against infiltrators and smugglers. Simultaneously, we aim to foster overall development within the border villages by creating new employment opportunities.”
Aligned with the ‘Vibrant Village Programme’
The BSF’s 32 Battalion’s initiative aligns with the ‘Vibrant Village Programme,’ a national program advocated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The project is being implemented progressively across multiple villages under the battalion’s jurisdiction.
The Beekeeping Approach
As part of the project, bee boxes will be strategically placed alongside the border fencing, slightly elevated from the ground. To create a natural habitat for the bees, flowering plants will be planted around the boxes, providing the necessary shade and sustenance.
The expectation is that the bees will serve as vigilant ‘Bee Warriors,’ effectively deterring intruders and smugglers from tampering with the fencing.
Abundant Food Sources for Bees
The extensive availability of various trees and plants on both sides of the India-Bangladesh border, along with farming activities on both sides, ensures a year-round supply of food for the bees. The officer further explained, “The cultivation of mustard and various flowering plants, encouraged by the Battalion Commander among villagers, will continuously provide ample food for the bees.”
Empowering Border Villagers
As part of the pilot project, border villagers are being encouraged to cultivate various types of medicinal plants with higher market value, including Black Tulsi, Ekangi, Satmuli, Ashwagandha, Aloe Vera, and more. This effort aims to provide them with a source of income that surpasses the returns from traditional crops.
The process of connecting villagers with Regional-cum-Facility Centre, Eastern Region (RCFC-ER), National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, and various farmer producer organizations is already underway. These collaborations will facilitate the supply of seeds, soil testing, technical support, and saplings to the villagers. In addition, they will receive assistance in marketing their products at fair prices, ensuring their economic well-being.
Empowering Border Villagers
The villagers have also received information about the advantages of honey bee farming and its commercial benefits. They have been urged to consider beekeeping as a means of securing their future development.
The pilot project is currently operational in Kadipur village, located within the jurisdiction of BSF’s 32 Battalion. The project’s dedication ceremony witnessed the introduction of villagers to the authorities of Regional-cum-Facility Centre, Eastern Region (RCFC-ER), National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, and various farmer producer organizations.
The Buzzing Heroes
Bees play a crucial role in pollinating crops worldwide, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts. They are vital for the production of many crops necessary for global food security. Without bees, it is estimated that global crop yields could decrease by up to 35 percent.
A Symbol of Progress and Security
In a recent event conducted in Kadipur village, medicinal plants were distributed among the villagers. The Battalion Commander received four bee boxes, strategically placed along a section of the smart fence.
During the event, the Battalion Commander addressed the villagers on various aspects, including the trafficking of girls and women from the border areas, emphasizing the importance of vigilance.
Tackling Border Challenges
Human trafficking and contraband smuggling are significant challenges along the India-Bangladesh border. Smugglers often tamper with the border fencing to enter Indian territory and carry out illegal activities. The introduction of ‘Bee Warriors’ is expected to counter these issues while contributing to the overall development of border villages.
This innovative approach showcases the creative and multi-faceted strategies employed by the BSF to enhance border security and empower local communities. The ‘Bee Warriors’ represent an inspiring fusion of nature and technology in the pursuit of safeguarding the nation’s borders.
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