Tripura’s Chief Minister, Manik Saha, held a productive meeting with the Inspector General (IG) of the Border Security Force (BSF), Ashwini Kumar Sharma, on February 4, 2025. The meeting focused on discussions about strengthening border security and exploring opportunities for cooperative growth between the state and the paramilitary force. This high-level interaction came at a crucial time when the state continues to face both internal and external challenges related to its border areas.
The Chief Minister and the BSF IG exchanged valuable insights into the current security landscape, with a particular focus on safeguarding Tripura’s borders, which are shared with Bangladesh. The region’s proximity to international borders makes it vulnerable to various security concerns, including illegal immigration, smuggling, and cross-border criminal activities. Recognizing the importance of maintaining robust border security, both leaders emphasized the need for closer coordination between state authorities and the BSF to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for the people of Tripura.
During the meeting, CM Manik Saha assured the BSF IG of the state government’s commitment to fully support the efforts of the border security forces in securing the state’s borders. He reiterated that border security is a top priority for the state government and expressed confidence in the BSF’s ability to handle the challenges that arise from the region’s strategic location. The Chief Minister underscored the importance of synergy between local law enforcement agencies, state officials, and the BSF to combat cross-border threats effectively.
Ashwini Kumar Sharma, on his part, expressed his appreciation for the support extended by the Tripura government in maintaining border security. He commended the coordination between the BSF and the state authorities in tackling various security issues. Sharma highlighted the BSF’s role not only in preventing illegal activities but also in ensuring the safe passage of legitimate cross-border trade and fostering peaceful relations with neighboring countries. He acknowledged the significance of this cooperation in contributing to the overall security and stability of the region.
Both the CM and the BSF IG also discussed plans to improve the welfare and living conditions of the BSF personnel deployed along the border. They highlighted the challenges faced by security forces working in remote and difficult terrains, particularly in maintaining constant vigilance in challenging weather conditions. Manik Saha assured the IG that the state government would collaborate with the BSF to enhance the infrastructure and facilities available to the forces, ensuring their well-being and operational efficiency.
The meeting also ventured into discussions about the potential for cooperative growth between the state and the BSF, with a focus on boosting local economies in border areas. CM Manik Saha emphasized the importance of improving the infrastructure in the border regions to foster economic growth. This includes enhancing road connectivity, improving access to basic services, and creating opportunities for local industries to thrive. By improving the living conditions and economic prospects in these areas, the government aims to curb the appeal of illegal activities and create a more stable environment.
The cooperation between the state government and the BSF is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges posed by the growing security concerns in the region. Both parties stressed the need for a comprehensive approach that combines security measures with developmental initiatives, thereby promoting sustainable growth along the border areas. In this way, the collaborative efforts are expected to yield long-term benefits for the people of Tripura, contributing to the overall prosperity and stability of the state.
As the discussions concluded, both CM Manik Saha and BSF IG Ashwini Kumar Sharma reaffirmed their commitment to working together in addressing the complex security issues in Tripura. Their continued collaboration and dialogue are expected to strengthen the state’s border security framework and contribute to the overall socio-economic development of the region. This meeting marks a significant step in ensuring that Tripura remains a safe and secure state while fostering cooperative growth for its people.
