State PCS - Madhya Pradesh (MP PCS)

• 13 Nov 2025

BSF Launches Durga Drone Squadron

Why in News? 

The Border Security Force (BSF) is embarking on a historic initiative by establishing its first all-women drone operations unit, named the Durga Drone Squadron.  

• The initiative marks a significant milestone in women's empowerment within the BSF and other security forces. 

Key Features 

• About: This pioneering effort blends women's power with advanced technology, aiming to enhance border security operations on both the western and eastern fronts of India. 
• Location: The training is conducted at the School of Drone Warfare (SDW), situated at the BSF Academy in Gwalior, a premier institution for drone technology training within the BSF. 
• Training Programme:  
  • The squadron is undergoing advanced training in aerial surveillance, intelligence gathering, reconnaissance, and counter-drone operations. 
  • In addition to drone operation, the trainees are learning to: 
    • Conduct search and rescue operations. 
    • Use electronic detection and neutralisation systems to counter cross-border drone threats. 
• Goals of the Squadron: 
  • The squadron is aimed at strengthening a technologically advanced and intelligent border security framework, enhancing overall effectiveness. 
  • Women personnel will significantly boost surveillance coverage along India's borders, improving real-time intelligence gathering, and will play a key role in anti-infiltration and disaster response operations.

Border Security Force (BSF) 

• The BSF was raised in 1965, after the India-Pakistan war. 
• It is one of the seven Central Armed Police Forces of the Union of India under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). 
  • Other Central Armed Police Forces are: Assam Rifles (AR), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), National Security Guards (NSG) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). 
• The 2.65-lakh force is deployed along the Pakistan and Bangladesh borders. 
  • It is deployed on the Indo-Pakistan International Border, Indo-Bangladesh International Border, and Line of Control (LoC) along with the Indian Army and in Anti-Naxal Operations.