Indian Border States Reinforce Security amid Heightened Tensions with Pakistan
Indian states sharing borders with Pakistan—notably Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat—have significantly intensified security measures and emergency preparedness protocols. These actions follow alleged attempts by Pakistan to engage military targets in northern and western India, occurring in the wake of India's "Operation Sindoor" against terror infrastructure, and amid ongoing large-scale Indian Air Force drills along the international border.
Precautionary Measures
State governments have implemented a range of precautionary actions. Punjab, which shares a 553-km border, has placed seven police districts on high alert, enhancing coordination between state police, administration, the Border Security Force (BSF), and the Army. Evacuation plans for border villages are in place, mock drills have been conducted, and leaves for all police and health department personnel have been cancelled. Nightly blackouts have been ordered in the Gurdaspur district.
In Rajasthan, which has a 1,037-km border, measures include school closures in border districts, flight cancellations, and comprehensive evacuation planning. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has directed police to counter rumour-mongering and ensure the availability of essential services, including medical supplies and utilities. Police leave has also been cancelled, with personnel required at district headquarters.
Gujarat, sharing both land and sea borders, has seen intensified joint patrolling by BSF and police in the Kutch district since the April 22nd Pahalgam attack. Along its western seaboard, authorities are conducting detailed checks on boats and fishermen, with the Marine Task Force deployed at vital coastal locations.
These state-level actions are unfolding as the Indian Air Force conducts extensive military exercises along the International Border, scheduled to conclude early Friday. The increased vigilance aims to ensure readiness for any eventuality and maintain communal harmony and essential services amidst the escalated tensions.
The coordinated efforts by India's frontier states reflect a serious approach to national security in a volatile environment. The implementation of enhanced patrolling, civilian preparedness including evacuation plans, and administrative directives underscores a commitment to safeguarding citizens and critical infrastructure as the India-Pakistan standoff continues.
