BRO has key role in building frontier infrastructure, national security: Defence Minister

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired a meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence on Wednesday (March 25, 2026) which focused on the role and progress of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in strengthening India’s border infrastructure and national security.

During the meeting, Mr. Singh emphasised the critical importance of robust infrastructure along India’s borders, stating that the BRO is playing a key role in fostering an integrated ecosystem of national security, connectivity and regional development.

He highlighted the organisation’s contribution to improving connectivity in the North-Eastern region and areas affected by left-wing extremism, noting that these efforts have significantly enhanced both security and socio-economic growth.

“The BRO has facilitated the mobility of defence forces and transformed the lives of border residents,” Mr. Singh said.

He also pointed out that the BRO has been tasked with developing infrastructure along the Indo-Myanmar border, covering nearly 1,600 kilometres. The initiative is expected to significantly strengthen India’s border management and operational preparedness in strategically sensitive regions.

The committee reviewed progress under the Border Roads Development Programme 2023–28, which includes over 1,000 projects spanning construction, upgradation and maintenance of roads and strategic infrastructure. Mr. Singh underlined that these efforts are ensuring all-weather connectivity in remote and high-altitude areas, thereby boosting defence preparedness and troop mobility.

Highlighting the importance of technological advancement, the Defence Minister noted that the BRO is increasingly adopting modern construction techniques, including the use of high-altitude equipment, modular bridges and precast technologies. He said these innovations have improved both the speed and quality of infrastructure development, making it future-ready.

Mr. Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening the BRO through enhanced budgetary support, modern equipment and welfare initiatives for its personnel.

Director General Border Roads, Lt. Gen Harpal Singh, provided a comprehensive overview of the organisation’s achievements, challenges and operational capabilities. He highlighted constraints such as limited working seasons, land acquisition hurdles and environmental clearances, while stressing ongoing efforts to enhance capacity and adopt sustainable construction practices.

The meeting also underscored the BRO’s contribution to disaster management and its work in friendly countries such as Afghanistan, Bhutan, Myanmar and Tajikistan, aligning with India’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.