BSF raises its first women batallion

Ferozepur (Punjab), July 25 (ANI): The Border Security Force (BSF) today inducted 178 women personnel for combat duties at its centre near Ferozepur in Punjab.

The recruits will be the first women to be deployed along the international border.

The women, who have been undergoing training at the BSF establishment in Punjab, participated in the passing out parade.

Home Minister P. Chidambaram, who attended the passing out parade, said: "It is a great privilege to be here. There are many constables in the country but no one can take away from you the special pride, as you are the first batch of women constables in the BSF. You all have an important role to play."

Terming the passing out of the women recruits as a "historical day", BSF Director General ML Kumawat said, "It is a matter of pride that the BSF has thrown open its doors for women. It is a historical day for us."

These personnel have been given training in weapon handling, intelligence gathering, border management, sports, unarmed combat frisking and guard duties.

The newly trained personnel will be inducted as constables and deployed in Punjab sector.

The women, along with their male counterparts, will carry out search and frisking at check posts, immigration points and trade routes along the borders which the force guards.

The battalion is part of the 29 sanctioned by the Ministry of Home Affairs for the BSF as part of its expansion plan.

Around 35,000 personnel will be inducted by the paramilitary force in the next four years. (ANI)