Amit Shah calls for ‘hi-tech solutions’ for J&K border as UAVs create a security headache

Union Home Minister Amit Shah toured several border outposts on Friday (February 6, 2026) and underlined the need for “advanced technological solutions” to the new challenges posed by the adversary. The international border in J&K has reportedly seen an increase in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) activity, which are apparently being used to drop weapons.

Mr. Shah addressed Border Security Force (BSF) personnel manning forward posts along the International Border (IB) in Kathua, Jammu and stressed “constant vigilance by personnel deployed on the frontlines” and the “introduction of modern tools to strengthen border security”.

“Emerging challenges driven by advanced technology must be countered with equally advanced technological solutions. The challenges faced some years ago are completely different from those faced today,” Mr. Shah said, as he assessed steps taken by the BSF to curb infiltration.

Dozen UAV sightings

More than half a dozen sightings of UAVs have been reported by security agencies in the Jammu region so far this year. The Jammu region has also witnessed five encounters between security forces and terrorists. The firefights left one soldier and three terrorists dead.

Mr. Shah also lauded the role of the armed forces during ‘Operation Sindoor’ last year. He said 118 enemy posts and three terror launch pads across the border were destroyed by security forces. “The government and the BSF both share the common objective of keeping the borders secure. Your dedication to remaining constantly vigilant on the frontlines is extremely important,” Mr. Shah said.

“Whether it is the Rann of Kutch, the deserts of Rajasthan, or Jammu and Kashmir, I always return after learning from all of you (security personnel) a true sense of dedication to duty. Among all the services, if there is the finest example of performing one’s duty with commitment and devotion, it is our BSF personnel, who remain deployed on the borders at all times,” the Minister said.

Outpost visit

Mr. Shah visited the ‘Gurnam’ Border Out Post (BOP) and paid homage to fallen soldiers at the ‘Ajay Prahari’ memorial at Bobiya BOP. Besides J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the Union Home Minister was accompanied by Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Director of the Intelligence Bureau Tapan Kumar Deka, and Director General of the BSF Praveen Kumar.

Mr. Shah virtually inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for six welfare schemes for border guards at Bobiyian. He handed over compassionate appointment letters to families of deceased security personnel at the Lok Bhawan, Jammu.

Meanwhile, the Union Home Minister chaired a high-level security review, which was attended by top security officials of the Union Territory. Officials said the Minister called for “strengthening of the security apparatus in J&K” to maintain peace on the borders as well in the hinterland.

Mr. Shah arrived in Jammu on Thursday night. He will chair another meeting on February 7. Officials said Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is likely to attend the development review meeting.