New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today praised the Border Security Force (BSF) for tirelessly and courageously protecting the country's borders.
On the paramilitary force's 49th raising day, Modi said in a tweet: "On BSF Raising Day, we salute our BSF personnel, who tirelessly & courageously protect our borders. Their dedication & valour always inspire."
Established Dec 1, 1965, BSF is world's largest border guarding force charged with defending India's land border during peace time and preventing transnational crime, says the force's official website.
At present, the baton of DG BSF is held by Devendra Kumar Pathak, IPS.
Under his able command, BSF celebrates Golden Jubilee year from Dec 1 to Nov 30, 2015, according to a BSF statement.
The BSF also extended heartiest greetings to all citizens of the country on the occasion.
With the motto of "Jeevan Paryant Kartavya", BSF was raised with role to provide a sense of security among the people living in the border areas, to prevent trans-border crimes, unauthorized entry into or exit from the territory of India and to prevent smuggling and any other illegal activity.
The Force is also being extensively utilised on internal security duties in Jammu & Kashmir, North East, Chhattisgarh and Odisha States.