New Delhi

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday conveyed his greetings to the personnel of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and their families on the occasion of the force’s 62nd Raising Day, paying tribute to their unwavering commitment and service to the nation.

In a message shared on X, Shah commended the SSB for its vital role in protecting India’s borders and standing firmly with citizens during emergencies and challenging situations. He also saluted the bravery of personnel who laid down their lives in the line of duty.

“Warm greetings to the personnel of SSB and their families on Raising Day. From guarding our frontiers to standing shoulder-to-shoulder with citizens in times of crisis, the @SSB_INDIA has consistently made the nation proud. Salutations to the martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice while serving the country,” Shah said in his post.

The SSB observed its 62nd Raising Day this year, continuing a tradition of honouring the force’s dedication and sacrifices. Last year, the 61st Raising Day celebrations were organised in Siliguri, West Bengal, where the Home Minister e-inaugurated the Integrated Check Point (ICP) at Agartala and the newly built residential complex of the Border Guarding Force (BGF) at Petrapole. On that occasion, Shah praised the force for living up to its motto of “service, security and brotherhood” and for strengthening bonds of trust and friendship with neighbouring countries Nepal and Bhutan.

The SSB was raised in 1963 in the aftermath of the 1962 India-China war and functions as one of the central armed police forces under the Ministry of Home Affairs. Its primary responsibility is to guard India’s borders with Nepal and Bhutan, spanning approximately 2,450 kilometres. In addition, the force undertakes internal security duties, anti-smuggling operations, and disaster response.

Over the years, the SSB has played a significant role in curbing narcotics trafficking, human trafficking, arms smuggling and the infiltration of anti-national elements along the borders. It has also contributed to efforts aimed at making the eastern region free from Naxalism, working in coordination with the Central Reserve Police Force and state police.

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The annual Raising Day serves as a reminder of the SSB’s long-standing commitment to national security and its continued service to the people of India.