New Delhi, Oct 26 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on Sunday for their commendable initiatives to enhance the population of Indian breed dogs within their ranks.

He also conveyed his excitement for Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, which is observed on October 31.

In a remarkable first, the BSF will present a unique marching unit of native Indian breed dogs at the forthcoming Ekta Diwas Parade in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat.

This event, honoring Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, will also include a dog training demonstration showcasing tactical skills and operational prowess -- a proud representation of India's self-sufficient K9 force.

While addressing the 127th episode of his monthly radio program, 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi stated that the greatest satisfaction for him would be that the discussions in this program inspire individuals to contribute positively and innovatively to society. This highlights various facets of our culture and nation.

“Many of you might recall that around five years ago, I brought up Indian dog breeds in this program. I urged my fellow citizens and our security forces to embrace Indian breeds, as they adapt more seamlessly to our local environment and conditions. I am pleased to report that our security forces have made notable progress in this area. The BSF and CRPF have successfully increased the number of Indian breed dogs in their forces,” he remarked.

Indian breeds are widely recognized for their courage, endurance, and loyalty. From royal courts to battlefields, these dogs have played a significant role in India's cultural and martial heritage.

This tradition was revitalized in 2018 when Prime Minister Modi visited the National Training Centre for Dogs (NTCD) in Tekanpur and advocated for the inclusion of Indian breeds in the national security forces.

Building on the Prime Minister's vision, reiterated during his 'Mann Ki Baat' address on August 30, 2020, the BSF commenced the training and induction of two indigenous breeds -- the Rampur Hound from Uttar Pradesh and the Mudhol Hound from the Deccan Plateau.

In his current address, PM Modi noted that special attention is being given to the Rampur Hound from Uttar Pradesh and the Mudhol Hound from Karnataka and Maharashtra at the BSF's National Training Centre for dogs in Tekanpur, Gwalior.

“At this Centre, trainers are utilizing advanced technology and innovation to train the dogs effectively. Training manuals for Indian breeds have been updated to highlight their unique strengths. At the CRPF's Dog Breeding and Training School in Bengaluru, Indian breeds such as Mongrels, Mudhol Hounds, Kombai, and Pandikona are undergoing training,” he explained.

Last year, during the All India Police Duty Meet held in Lucknow, a dog named 'Riya' garnered significant attention.

“She is a Mudhol Hound trained by the BSF. Riya clinched the first prize there, outperforming numerous foreign breeds,” he added.

PM Modi further noted that the BSF has initiated the practice of assigning Indian names to their dogs instead of foreign ones.

“Our indigenous dogs have shown remarkable bravery. Last year, during a patrol in a Maoist-affected region of Chhattisgarh, a CRPF indigenous dog discovered eight kilograms of explosives,” he stated.

“I commend the BSF and CRPF for their efforts in this regard. I also look forward to October 31, which marks the birth anniversary of the Iron Man, Sardar Patel. Every year, special ceremonies are held near the 'Statue of Unity' in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, on this day. The Ekta Diwas Parade will also take place there, showcasing the capabilities of Indian dogs once again. If you have the chance, do watch it,” he concluded.