Tarn Taran – Ravinder Singh Brahmpura, Chairman of the Punjab Rural Development Society, Vice President of Shiromani Akali Dal, and former MLA from Khadoor Sahib, has issued an urgent call to the BJP-led Central Government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging them to immediately announce and implement a comprehensive ‘Special Security and Development Package’ for the welfare, safety, and advancement of people residing in India’s sensitive border areas—including the Khadoor Sahib Lok Sabha constituency.Speaking to the press in Chohla Sahib, Brahmpura underscored the significance of the nationwide Civil Defence Mock Drill scheduled for May 7, 2025, aimed at evaluating the nation’s preparedness against hostile threats. While acknowledging the importance of these drills—conducted under the direction of the Ministry of Home Affairs and simulating emergencies such as air raids, blackouts, and evacuations—he stressed that true preparedness extends beyond these exercises. “The real strength of the nation lies in securing the everyday lives and futures of those living directly on our borders, who constantly face uncertainty and danger,” Brahmpura emphasized.
“In times of tension, it is the people of our border areas who bear the greatest burden of insecurity,” he stated. “They are the country’s shield, standing guard in the most difficult times. Their morale and security should be at the forefront of the government’s priorities.” Accordingly, Brahmpura demanded the immediate announcement of a ‘Special Security and Development Package’ for the border areas of Punjab, including Khadoor Sahib, which should provide for:
– Construction of reinforced community bunkers for residents in vulnerable villages;
– Upgradation of trauma centres and introduction of 24/7 emergency medical facilities in border hospitals;
– Assurance of uninterrupted electricity and enhanced communication connectivity to maintain operational readiness during crises.
Addressing the struggles faced by farmers with land adjacent to, or beyond, the barbed-wire fence, Brahmpura remarked, “These farmers are the unsung guardians of our borders, yet suffer financial hardships while serving the nation.” He demanded increased and timely compensation for these lands, targeted agricultural subsidies (for seeds, fertilizers, and tools), and greater flexibility in accessing their fields, as facilitated by security forces.
Turning to the region’s youth, Brahmpura expressed grave concern about the lack of local employment, which often leads to migration or, tragically, drug addiction. “Our youth need meaningful jobs and skill training, not firearms,” he asserted. “I appeal to the Centre to introduce a special industrial policy for the border belt, offering incentives for setting up food processing, textile, and other small industries, along with new skill development centers. Priority should be given to border youth for recruitment in the Army and paramilitary services.”
On the issue of rampant drug abuse in border areas, Brahmpura urged the Centre to recognize this threat as critical as any cross-border incursion. He called for the deployment of modern surveillance technology along the border, the establishment of government-run de-addiction and rehabilitation centers, and the allocation of special funds for drug awareness and prevention initiatives.
Highlighting infrastructure gaps that persist over seven decades since independence, Brahmpura called for a significant hike in funds under the Border Area Development Programme (BADP). “Even 75 years after independence, many border villages lack all-weather roads, safe drinking water, quality healthcare, and educational facilities,” he said. He pressed the Centre to prioritize roads, schools, hospitals, and water supply projects—particularly in Khadoor Sahib constituency—under the BADP.
Among those present with Brahmpura were Dr. Harbhajan Singh Brahmpura, Amrik Singh (Sarpanch Chohla Sahib), and Manjinder Singh Latti.
Issuing a direct appeal to the Prime Minister, Brahmpura concluded:
> “Prime Minister Modi, the people of our border areas do not want empty assurances—they seek their rightful security, development, and employment. The Central Government must make a special package announcement and act without further delay on these pressing issues. The unique needs and contributions of our border communities must never be ignored