Key Points:
- Punjab government announces deployment of 5,000 home guards alongside the BSF to create a second line of defense on the Pakistan border.
- ₹110 crore allocated for advanced anti-drone systems to neutralize drug and weapon smuggling via drones.
- State to conduct its first-ever drug census, with ₹150 crore earmarked to collect data on addiction and de-addiction efforts.
- Punjab Budget 2025-26 focuses on tackling drug menace, modernizing police infrastructure, and improving emergency response systems.
Chandigarh: In a landmark initiative aimed at combating cross-border smuggling and the drug menace, the Punjab government has announced a series of bold measures in its 2025-26 budget. These include the deployment of 5,000 home guards along the Pakistan border, installation of cutting-edge anti-drone systems, and the launch of Punjab’s first-ever drug census.
Second Line of Defense on Border
For the first time in Punjab’s history, the state will establish a second line of defense by deploying 5,000 home guards alongside the Border Security Force (BSF). Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema revealed that ₹110 crore has been allocated for this initiative.
Cheema emphasized that while border security is primarily under the jurisdiction of the central government and BSF (covering 50 km from the border), Punjab cannot ignore its responsibility in tackling smuggling. “These home guards will be selected from among Punjab’s most determined youth, who will act as eagle eyes protecting the state’s future,” he said.
Advanced Anti-Drone Systems
To address the growing threat of drones being used for smuggling drugs and weapons across the border, Punjab will deploy state-of-the-art anti-drone systems capable of tracking and neutralizing sophisticated drones. Trials for these systems have already begun, with full deployment expected next year.
Cheema remarked that these technologies are among the most advanced globally and will play a crucial role in complementing BSF efforts. “Drones have become a preferred tool for smugglers; it’s time we outsmart them with technology,” he added.
First-Ever Drug Census
In another groundbreaking move, Punjab will conduct its first-ever drug census, allocating ₹150 crore for this initiative. The census aims to collect data from every household across the state to understand the prevalence of drug addiction, usage of de-addiction centers, and socio-economic conditions of affected families.
Cheema stated that this data will be instrumental in crafting scientific strategies to eradicate drug abuse within 1-2 years. “This is not just about numbers; it’s about understanding root causes and finding sustainable solutions,” he said.
AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal hailed this initiative as a step toward creating a “Badalta Punjab” (Changing Punjab) rather than “Udta Punjab” (Punjab on a high). He described it as a bold move toward making Punjab drug-free.
Modernizing Police Infrastructure
The budget also includes ₹233 crore for upgrading police infrastructure to enhance law enforcement capabilities. Key initiatives include:
- Procurement of 758 four-wheelers and 916 two-wheelers to expand Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) fleets under Dial 112 service.
- Construction of a state-of-the-art headquarters for Dial 112 in Mohali to reduce average response time from 30 minutes to 8 minutes, making it the fastest in India.
- Deployment of AI-powered CCTV surveillance and V-Kavach jammers in sensitive jails across Punjab to prevent illicit activities.
Budget Highlights
The ₹2.36 lakh crore budget also focuses on health insurance coverage for all families (₹10 lakh cap per household), crop residue management subsidies, and free power schemes for farmers. The state projects strong economic growth with an estimated GSDP expansion of 10% in FY 2025-26.
Challenges Ahead
While these initiatives have been widely praised, some experts have raised concerns about operational challenges. BSF officials expressed skepticism about home guards’ ability to handle border duties due to limited training in field tactics and coordination.
However, Cheema remains optimistic: “These measures are not just reactive but proactive steps toward securing Punjab’s future.”
With its ambitious plans for border security, technological advancements, and tackling drug addiction scientifically, Punjab is setting an example for other states grappling with similar challenges. As these initiatives unfold, all eyes will be on their impact in transforming Punjab into a safer and healthier state.
