The Union Home Minister recently introduced the ‘Prahari’ app, a new technological advancement for the Border Security Force (BSF) Jawans. Alongside this, a revamp of 13 BSF manuals has been initiated to enhance the understanding of the organisation’s administration, training, and operations. This move is designed to streamline the tasks of the BSF jawans and facilitate smoother operations for all ranks.
Introducing the ‘Prahari’ App
Developed to provide both personal and service-related information to jawans, the ‘Prahari’ app offers a variety of features that cater to the needs of the Border Security Force personnel. Information regarding housing, Ayushman-Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), and leave details can be effortlessly accessed via their mobile devices.
Additional Features of the ‘Prahari’ App
Apart from the mentioned services, the app also hosts a range of additional features. It provides users with access to their biodata and allows them to use the “Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System” (CP-GRAMS) for grievance redressal. The app will offer information on various welfare schemes and also link the jawans to the portal of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
A Brief Overview of the Border Security Force (BSF)
Established in 1965 in response to the India-Pakistan war, the BSF forms a part of the seven Central Armed Police Forces of India. It operates under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Other forces include the Assam Rifles (AR), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), National Security Guards (NSG), and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
The BSF is tasked with the responsibility of securing the Indo-Pakistan International Border, Indo-Bangladesh International Border, Line of Control (LoC) alongside the Indian Army, and participating in Anti-Naxal Operations. Its structure comprises an air wing, marine wing, artillery regiment, and commando units.
BSF’s Contributions and Achievements
In addition to border security, the BSF plays several other crucial roles. It defends the Sir Creek in the Arabian Sea and the Sundarban delta in the Bay of Bengal with its advanced fleet of Water Crafts.
The BSF also assists state administrations in maintaining law and order and ensuring peaceful elections. The force extends help during natural calamities to save human lives and makes meaningful contributions to the UN Peacekeeping Missions by sending substantial contingents of its trained manpower every year.
The Border Security Force has earned the reputation of being the First Line of Defence of Indian Territories. It has been distinguished with numerous gallantry awards, including one Mahavir Chakra, 4 Kirti Chakras, 13 Vir Chakras, and 13 Shaurya Chakras.
The launch of the ‘Prahari’ App and the revision of the BSF manuals reflect India’s continuous efforts to empower its defence forces by leveraging technology and providing them with adequate resources to carry out their duties effectively.