BSF celebrates 12th Investiture Ceremony

The Border Security Force (BSF) today held its 12th Investiture ceremony and paid tributes to the para military force's founder K F Rustamji on his 98th birth anniversary.

In 1965, Rustamji, the only police officer thus far to have been awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second highest civilian award, was selected to raise the BSF.

Delhi Lt. Governor Najeeb Jung, who was the Chief Guest, said he felt privileged to attend the ceremony to pay homage to Mr Rustamji who belonged to Madhya Pradesh cadre as he himself had joined the same cadre of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1973.

"I have no words of appreciation for Shri Rustamji. He belonged to my cadre and I feel privileged to be here," Mr Jung said.

He lauded the role of BSF in border management and anti-Naxal operations. "You guard the most difficult parts of our country, you guard our borders. The force has become people friendly," he said.

He also commended the BSF role during last year's devastating landslides and floods in Uttarakhand.

Referring to the participation of BSF personnel in sports and adventure activities, he congratulated five times Mount Everest climber Love Raj Singh Dharmshaktu, Assistant Commandant, BSF, who received the 'Padma Shri' during Republic Day celebrations this year.

Mr Jung expressed his happiness that the first batch of women officers would also join the BSF shortly. "Bravery and devotion to duty displayed by the women cadres of security forces are unparalleled. I hope that women will find increasing career opportunities in the BSF in the coming days," he added.

During his welcome address, BSF Director General D K Pathak referred to the track record of the force since its inception in 1965. The BSF had successfully faced several challenges and overcome many a crisis over the years and enjoys an excellent track record, he added.

The force was ready to face fresh challenges and was preparing itself in terms of doctrine, infrastructure, weaponry and training, he said.

Apart from maintaining relentless vigil along the borders, the BSF was fulfilling its commitment to ensure peace in the Maoist infested areas where it is deployed, he added.

During the ceremony, a book,'Writings of a Rustam' was released. The chief guest decorated 10 BSF personnel with Police Medals for Gallantry and 21 officers and men with Police Medals for Meritorious Service.

Source: http://news.webindia123.com/news/Articles/India/20140522/2396864.html