Defence Minister Rajnath Singh dedicated 125 strategically significant Border Roads Organisation (BRO) infrastructure projects—the highest number ever inaugurated simultaneously—from Ladakh on December 7.

Spread across Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, and seven states—Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Mizoram—the projects comprise 28 roads, 93 bridges, and four miscellaneous works, completed at an approximate cost of ₹5,000 crore, the highest-value inauguration in BRO’s history.

The upgraded infrastructure is expected to substantially improve last-mile connectivity to remote villages and forward military locations, helping integrate these regions more closely with the national mainstream.

In his address, the Defence Minister described the projects as a testament to Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government’s commitment to strengthening border infrastructure under the vision of Viksit Bharat. The event was held on the Durbuk–Shayok–Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) Road at the Shayok Tunnel, one of the key projects inaugurated. The 920-metre Cut-and-Cover tunnel, built in some of the world’s toughest terrain, will provide all-weather, reliable access to a strategic region prone to heavy snowfall, avalanches, and extreme temperatures. Singh said the tunnel will significantly enhance security, mobility, and rapid deployment capability during harsh winters.

The Minister also virtually inaugurated the Galwan War Memorial in Ladakh, honouring the bravery and sacrifice of India’s Armed Forces personnel.

Rajnath Singh underlined the Government’s resolve to develop border regions, describing connectivity infrastructure as vital for security, economic growth, and disaster management. “Robust infrastructure ensures military mobility, smooth transportation of logistics, increased tourism and employment opportunities, and, most importantly, strengthens faith in development, democracy, and the government,” he said.

He noted that India is strengthening its borders at unprecedented speed through roads, tunnels, smart fencing, integrated command centres, and surveillance systems—proof that “connectivity is a backbone of security, and not a separate entity.” Commending the BRO for completing complex projects with speed, efficiency, and indigenous solutions, he said the organisation has become synonymous with “communication” and “connectivity.” Singh emphasised the need to further strengthen ties between border regions and the national mainstream so that “the relationship is not influenced by any external factors.”

Director General Border Roads (DGBR) Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan expressed gratitude for the Defence Minister’s leadership and the Government’s progressive policies and enhanced support, which have expanded BRO’s operational capabilities. He noted that the BRO has become the agency of choice for key central ministries—including Home Affairs, External Affairs, and Road Transport & Highways—for executing infrastructure in the country’s most challenging and strategic terrains. He acknowledged the dedication and professionalism of BRO personnel as the organisation’s core strength.

Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta praised the nationwide inauguration of 125 major projects, including 41 in Ladakh, calling it a historic milestone for the region. He thanked the Prime Minister and Defence Minister for prioritising Ladakh’s rapid and balanced development.

Highlighting major achievements, the LG acknowledged the Cut-and-Cover Tunnel on the Durbuk–Shyok–DBO Road, the world’s highest multi-span Saser Brangsa Bridge, the Nimoo–Padum–Darcha Road—Ladakh’s third and shortest route—and the operationalisation of the high-altitude Mudh–Nyoma Airfield, a strategic asset. He added that improved routes such as Mahe–Chushul and Mahe–Debring have boosted tourism to Pangong, Chushul, and Tso Moriri, promoting adventure and eco-tourism.

Calling Ladakh a symbol of India’s spirit and beauty, Gupta urged citizens to visit the region at least once to experience its natural grandeur, cultural purity, and evolving border heritage made more accessible through BRO’s world-class roads.

The LG also praised the courage displayed during Operation Sindoor, reaffirming India’s resolve to protect its sovereignty. He expressed deep appreciation for the DGBR and BRO workforce for their nation-first commitment.

On Operation Sindoor, the Defence Minister said, “Our Armed Forces launched the operation in response to the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Everybody knows what befell those terrorists. We could have done much more, but our forces, demonstrating both courage and patience, did only what was necessary. Such a massive operation was possible due to strong connectivity. Logistics were delivered to the Armed Forces in a timely manner, making the operation a historic success.” He lauded the coordination between the Armed Forces, civil administration, and border residents, calling it “our identity” and what makes India unique.

The event was attended by Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde; Mizoram Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh; Ladakh Lt Gov Kavinder Gupta; J&K Lt Gov Manoj Sinha; J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah; Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma; Union Ministers Dr Jitendra Singh and Kiren Rijiju; Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi; Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh; senior military leaders, officials, and BRO personnel.

In the last two years, 356 BRO infrastructure projects have been dedicated to the nation, marking a new benchmark in strategic infrastructure development. Recognising BRO’s critical role, the Government increased its budget from ₹6,500 crore to ₹7,146 crore in the Union Budget 2025-26.