Punjab Government Deploys Anti-Drone Systems Along Pakistan Border to Combat Drug Smuggling and Terror Threats
Chandigarh | May 9, 2025 —In a decisive move aimed at strengthening border security, the Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has approved the deployment of nine anti-drone systems along the India-Pakistan border in the state.
This is the first time such a system will be installed in Punjab, which shares a 532-kilometre border with Pakistan. The government’s decision comes amid rising concerns over cross-border drug smuggling, which is increasingly carried out using drones.
“We are ready to foil Pakistan's conspiracy as monitoring will be done through a high-tech system,” the Punjab government said in an official statement.
High-Tech Surveillance to Break Terror Nexus
The government called this action a major step in cracking down on terrorism, which is often funded by the illegal drug trade. Officials stated that the anti-drone systems would make the state's border security more robust, reflecting the AAP government's strong political will to combat smuggling and terror infiltration.
“The government is in action mode. The drug trade that funds terrorism will be ended,” the statement emphasized.
Cabinet Ministers Deployed to Border Districts
Amid growing security concerns, the Punjab government has also deputed senior Cabinet ministers to all six sensitive border districts, including:
- Pathankot & Gurdaspur – Ministers Lal Chand Kataruchak and Ravjot Singh
- Amritsar – Ministers Kuldeep Dhaliwal and Mohinder Bhagat
- Tarn Taran – Ministers Laljit Bhullar and Harbhajan Singh
- Ferozepur – Ministers Hardeep Mundian and Gurmeet Singh Khudian
- Fazilka – Ministers Baljit Kaur and Tarunpreet Sondh
The border districts have already been placed on high alert.
War and Terror Victims to Get Free Treatment Under Farishte Yojana
In another significant decision, the Cabinet expanded the ‘Farishte Yojana’, which provides free medical treatment, to include victims of war and terrorism. This move is expected to bring relief to civilians affected by cross-border hostilities or terror-related incidents.
Schools Shut, Exams Cancelled, Control Rooms Activated
Due to the escalating tensions, the Punjab government has ordered the closure of all educational institutions and cancellation of exams across the state as a precautionary measure.
To assist the public, dedicated control rooms have been set up. Citizens can contact the government at:
- 0172-2741803
- 0172-2749901
Villagers Near Border Begin Moving to Safer Areas
Despite no official evacuation orders from the Border Security Force (BSF), Indian Army, or local authorities, residents of border villages in Amritsar, Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, and Tarn Taran have started shifting to safer locations, fearing potential cross-border escalation.
Reports suggest villagers have been moving belongings out of their homes in anticipation of any emergencies.
All Police Leaves Cancelled Amid Heightened Security
As a precautionary measure, the Punjab Police has cancelled all leaves for its personnel, ensuring full force availability in case of any emergency or public security requirement.
Punjab on High Alert, Government Urges Public to Stay Calm and Alert
While the state remains on high alert, the Punjab government has urged citizens not to panic and to stay informed through official channels only.
This multi-pronged response by the Punjab government—including anti-drone tech, medical support, border minister deployments, and public helplines—demonstrates a clear commitment to ensuring security and public welfare amid national security threats.
