BSF's Quick Action Averts Border Breach, New Visa Module Launched for Afghan Nationals

In a significant move to secure India's borders, the 172 Battalion of the Border Security Force (BSF) Meghalaya Frontier apprehended five Bangladeshi nationals in the East Jaintia Hills district. The group, comprising two men, two women, and a minor girl, was intercepted while attempting to infiltrate India under the cover of darkness. According to officials, the operation was prompted by intelligence reports of suspicious activity near the international border.

BSF personnel, during their routine patrol, detected movement along the jungle area and swiftly cordoned off the vicinity. The quick and coordinated response not only thwarted a potential security threat but also underscored the vigilance and professionalism of the BSF Meghalaya unit in safeguarding the nation's borders.

On a different note, the Indian government has introduced a streamlined visa module for Afghan nationals, effective from April 2025. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the new system categorizes visa applications into six types to optimize processing. While discussing the issuance of visas, officials noted a substantial number of visas continue to be granted to Bangladeshi nationals for various purposes, including travel, medical needs, and education.

(With inputs from agencies.)