PUNJAB DEPLOYS BAAJ AKH ANTI-DRONE SYSTEM

Current Context : Punjab became the first Indian state to deploy an Anti-Drone System (ADS) along an international border, aiming to combat cross-border smuggling of drugs and weapons from Pakistan.

ABOUT BAAJ AKH ANTI-DRONE SYSTEM

• Meaning: “Hawk Eye” in Punjabi.
• Technology: Detects drones and their ground control stations, sends automatic alerts.
• Coordination: Works alongside BSF, Army, and Air Force.

STRATEGIC SIGNIFICANCE

• Border Length: 553 km shared with Pakistan.
• Deployment: 3 ADS units installed from Pathankot to Fazilka; 6 more planned.
• Project Cost: ₹51.4 crore.
• Purpose: Second line of defence after BSF, improves border security infrastructure.