Context:
The Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a series of strategic border infrastructure projects worth nearly ₹5,000 crore, executed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). The initiatives aim to strengthen national security, improve all-weather connectivity, and promote development in border and frontier regions, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat.
Key Highlights:
Government Initiative / Infrastructure Details:
- Inauguration of 125 BRO projects, the largest single inauguration in the organisation’s history.
- Projects span Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, and seven other States, covering difficult and strategic terrains.
- Composition of projects includes:
- 28 roads
- 93 bridges
- 4 other strategic assets
Strategic Assets & Connectivity:
- Shyok Tunnel (920 metres) inaugurated to provide all-weather connectivity in high-altitude, avalanche-prone regions.
- Enhances troop mobility, logistics support, and rapid deployment during harsh winters.
- Galwan War Memorial virtually inaugurated, commemorating the sacrifice of Indian soldiers.
BRO Performance & Capacity:
- BRO expenditure reached ₹16,690 crore in FY 2024–25, with an enhanced outlay for FY 2025–26.
- Over the past two years, 356 BRO projects have been dedicated to the nation.
- Adoption of indigenous Class 70 modular bridges, reflecting Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence infrastructure.
Operational & Developmental Impact:
- Strong connectivity supported Operation Sindoor, highlighting coordination between armed forces, civil administration, and border residents.
- Infrastructure development boosts tourism, local employment, and people’s confidence in governance.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Issue: Strengthening border infrastructure for security and development.
- Causes:
- Challenging terrain
- Strategic requirements along sensitive borders
- Government Initiatives:
- BRO-led road, bridge, and tunnel construction
- Indigenous defence infrastructure under Aatmanirbhar Bharat
- Benefits & Impact:
- Enhanced internal security
- Improved logistics and disaster response
- Socio-economic upliftment of border areas
Relevant Mains Points:
- Conceptual Clarity:
- Viksit Bharat: Infrastructure-led holistic national development.
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Indigenous capability in defence and infrastructure.
- BRO: Key agency for border connectivity across extreme geographies.
- Strategic Significance:
- Border infrastructure acts as a force multiplier.
- Reduces response time and strengthens deterrence.
- Way Forward:
- Sustain high capital outlays for border infrastructure
- Integrate green and resilient construction technologies
- Enhance civil–military synergy for inclusive border development
UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
- GS 3: Internal Security, Defence Infrastructure
- GS 2: Governance, Public Investment
- GS 1 (Prelims): Indian Geography – Strategic Locations & Connectivity