Correct Answer : Rajnath Singh
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh dedicated to the nation 35 infrastructure projects of Border Roads Organisation (BRO), built at a cost of Rs 670 crore, during an event organised at Joshimath-Malari Road in Uttarakhand on January 19, 2024.
In his address, the Raksha Mantri commended the BRO for strengthening the border infrastructure of the country and asserted that by constructing roads, bridges etc., the organisation is connecting the far-flung areas with the rest of the nation geographically, while also linking the hearts of the people residing in remote villages with the rest of the citizens.
Enhancing Connectivity Across Border States
* The Defence Minister inaugurated 35 crucial projects, comprising 29 bridges and six roads, strategically positioned across seven states and union territories.
* These include eleven projects in Jammu and Kashmir, nine in Ladakh, eight in Arunachal Pradesh, three in Uttarakhand, two in Sikkim, and one each in Mizoram and Himachal Pradesh.
* The challenging weather conditions and inhospitable terrains make these projects a testament to the dedication of the Border Roads Organisation.
Dhak Bridge Inauguration
* The event centered around the inauguration of Dhak Bridge, a state-of-the-art 93-meter long Class 70R bridge over Dhak Nallah.
* This bridge showcases the engineering prowess of the BRO and symbolizes the commitment to infrastructure development in border areas.
* The remaining 34 projects, virtually inaugurated by Mr. Singh, include significant initiatives like the Ragini-Ustad-Pharkian Gali Road in Jammu and Kashmir, a 38.25-km long CL-9 road enhancing all-weather connectivity between Tangdhar and Keren sector, crucial for military operational readiness.
Changing Perspective on Border Infrastructure Development :
* Highlighting a shift in mentality, Mr. Singh noted that there was a time when border infrastructure development wasn’t a priority.
* Governments often viewed developments near the borders with suspicion, fearing they might be exploited by adversaries.
* However, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the current government is committed to the holistic development of border areas, considering them an integral part of the nation’s mainstream.
Climate Change and National Security :
* Addressing the increasing instances of natural disasters in border states due to climate change, Mr. Singh stressed the serious implications of climate change on national security.
* He expressed the Defence Ministry’s commitment to addressing this issue and seeking cooperation from friendly countries.
* The minister also pointed out the steps taken to ensure risk and hardship allowances for BRO personnel, as well as increased compensation for casual laborers, emphasizing the importance of their contributions.
