Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma marked Bhai Dooj on Wednesday alongside Border Security Force (BSF) personnel at the Tanot Mata Temple complex in Jaisalmer, in a ceremony that blended festive tradition with a strong message on border security. Women BSF personnel tied a Raksha Sutra (protective thread) on the Chief Minister's wrist, after which he interacted with the troops and conveyed his festive greetings.

What the Chief Minister Said

Chief Minister Sharma described Bhai Dooj as a symbol of affection, trust and protection between brothers and sisters. He acknowledged the sacrifices of women whose brothers serve far from their families, guarding India's borders in extreme conditions — from scorching desert heat to freezing temperatures. He called the BSF a 'formidable guardian of India's sovereignty, integrity and national pride.'

Sharma particularly praised women BSF personnel for setting what he termed 'exemplary standards of courage, discipline and dedication,' adding that they had proven themselves under the most challenging operational circumstances.

Operation Sindoor and National Security Focus

The Chief Minister invoked Operation Sindoor, stating that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian Armed Forces and BSF had displayed exceptional valour during the operation. He added that under the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the state government is working to strengthen border infrastructure and improve coordination among security agencies.

Sharma stated that border security systems are being modernised in line with the concept of a 'Smart Border', and expressed concern over infiltration and its impact on the demographic composition of border areas. He said a robust mechanism is being developed to make the country 'infiltration-free.'

Border Infrastructure and Development Initiatives

On the development front, the Chief Minister announced that the budget for border infrastructure has been increased by 400 per cent. Under the second phase of the Vibrant Villages Programme — aligned with the Prime Minister's vision of transforming 'last villages' into 'first villages' — 184 border villages across Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Barmer and Sri Ganganagar districts have been selected for development. The programme focuses on preventing migration, generating employment and ensuring government welfare schemes reach every eligible beneficiary. Adequate funds are also being allocated to address water-related problems in border areas.

Anti-Narcotics Push and Welfare Commitments

Sharma reaffirmed the state government's commitment to achieving a drug-free Rajasthan by 2029. An Anti-Narcotics Task Force has been constituted in the state, while 'Nayi Kiran' de-addiction centres have been established in more than 350 colleges to combat substance abuse. He assured that the state government would continue to prioritise the safety, dignity, welfare and basic amenities of security personnel.

Earlier in the event, Chief Minister Sharma paid tribute to fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the Vijay Stambh (Victory Pillar). The ceremony was attended by MLA Chhotu Singh Bhati, BSF Rajasthan Frontier Inspector General Vikas Pathak, other public representatives and a large number of BSF personnel. The event signals the state government's intent to maintain a visible and committed presence at India's western frontier.