Seminar on role of SSB in invigorating Indo-Nepal relations

GANGTOK, 16 June: A daylong seminar on Role of the Sashastra Seema Bal [SSB] in “Invigorating Indo-Nepal Relations” was organized by the 19^th Bn SSB Gangtok today here at the Sector Headquarter in Development Area.

The main objective of the seminar was to create better understanding between SSB and media persons on Indo-Nepal Border and to inform about the various facilities provided by SSB to the people living along the border and various developmental and social activities of SSB with the border population. The seminar, which had PIB Gangtok Director, CK Dorjee as the chief guest, was attended by senior and other officials of SSB, ex-SSB personnel and media persons.

In his address, Mr Dorjee stated that Indo-Nepal is a big subject and has multiple dimensions as India shares a long border with Nepal. He further encouraged media persons to play an important role in furthering the good relation that these two nations and its people share.

Mr Dorjee mentioned that India has always been looking forward to improve its relation with neighboring countries. On the same, he added that SBB has been doing a great job in not only guarding the borders but also helping out people living in the border areas. SSB has been playing an exemplary role with its initiatives in health, education, social and other sectors, he stated.

Earlier, in his welcome address, 19^th Bn Officiating Commandant, Manoj Kumar Singh mentioned that the seminar is an annual event to interact with media person to create better understanding between SSB and media persons. He added that the event also seeks to inform people about the various facilities provided by SSB to people living along the border and about the developmental and social activities of SSB with the border population as well. 

Sector HQ Staff Officer [Adm], AK Nath also spoke about the SSB and its activities in the border areas. He informed that the SSB has established good relations with the people of border areas and has been working in small sector development and other welfare activities in the area.

Likewise, SAO Sikkim Area, DK Thongon explained thoroughly about the objectives, activities and achievements of SSB. He informed that SSB has been working in the state since 1976 and listed out the various welfare activities of SSB in different sectors in the state.

An ex-SSB personnel, Oswin Kumar Subedi shared his 30-year experience as an SSB personnel in the Indo-Nepal border areas. It was mentioned that Nepal has already brought road to the border areas but SSB personnel have to walk for many hours in hilly terrain to reach their posts due to absence of road connectivity on the India side.

He also highlighted that SSB personnel have been facing problems like lack of phone connectivity and drinking water supply. However, he mentioned that despite all odds the personnel are committed to guard the country's borders.

The seminar also witnessed an open discussion session between the participants and SSB Officials.