Gujarat’s Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi visited the border villages of Kutch district on Wednesday, expressing admiration for the Border Security Force (BSF) personnel stationed along the India–Pakistan frontier and reaffirming the government’s focus on improving infrastructure and living conditions in remote desert settlements.
Speaking at an interaction event held at Dhordo, near the international border, Sanghavi praised the BSF for its “unwavering vigilance and courage” in safeguarding the nation’s frontiers under challenging circumstances.
“Our jawans are the reason every citizen in India sleeps peacefully at night. The Gujarat government stands with the BSF and every family living in our border villages. Development will reach even the last mile,” he said.
Visit details
The Deputy CM toured Zero Point and adjoining outposts in the Rann of Kutch sector, where he met BSF officers, jawans, and local residents. Officials briefed him on recent security developments, infrastructure challenges, and the impact of cross-border surveillance initiatives.
Sanghavi also reviewed ongoing projects under the ‘Vibrant Villages Programme’, a Central scheme aimed at developing 19 identified villages along Gujarat’s border through better road connectivity, digital access, healthcare, and tourism opportunities.
He assured BSF personnel that the state would extend every possible logistical and welfare support, emphasizing coordination between local administration and security forces for faster execution of infrastructure work.
Focus on border development
During the visit, Sanghavi highlighted how the Kutch border, once considered isolated, is emerging as a strategic and economic asset. “From the White Rann tourism circuit to solar-energy expansion, border areas are now symbols of national pride and prosperity,” he noted.
The Deputy CM interacted with villagers at Koteshwar and Lakhpat, encouraging youth to participate in government skill-development programs and consider careers in security services. He also reviewed local grievances related to water scarcity and electricity supply, promising prompt redressal through the district administration.
Tribute to BSF
Sanghavi paid floral tributes at a BSF war memorial and addressed a gathering of personnel, expressing gratitude for their service in extreme weather conditions. “Whether it is 50 degrees in summer or freezing winds in winter, the BSF remains steadfast. Gujarat salutes your commitment,” he said.
Senior BSF officials, including Inspector General (Frontier) Ravi Gaur, accompanied the Deputy CM during his inspection and lauded the state government’s proactive engagement with border development initiatives.
Broader context
The visit comes amid ongoing discussions between the Centre and border states about strengthening frontline infrastructure and village connectivity to curb migration and enhance local employment. Gujarat has been at the forefront of this drive, integrating tourism, security, and rural development in its border districts.
