New BGB recruits pledge to defend nation’s integrity at all costs: DG

The newly inducted soldiers of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) are prepared to sacrifice their lives, if necessary, to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country, BGB Director General Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui said on Thursday.

“They will never allow even an inch of the country’s land to fall into enemy hands,” the BGB chief said, addressing the passing out parade of the 103rd Recruit Batch at the Baitul Izzat Border Guard Training Center and College (BGTCC) in Satkania, Chattogram.

Major General Siddiqui emphasized that the new recruits would not disappoint the nation. “The impenetrable security they provide will ensure that the people of this country can sleep peacefully,” he added.

A total of 694 recruits 658 male and 36 female officially joined the force after successfully completing 24 weeks of rigorous training. The ceremony began at 9:30 am with a formal armed salute to the BGB Director General and was held at the Bir Uttam Mujibur Rahman Parade Ground.

In his address, the BGB DG paid homage to the 817 members of the erstwhile East Pakistan Rifles (EPR) who sacrificed their lives during the Liberation War of 1971. He also remembered those who lost their lives during the student and public protests against discrimination in July and August of 2024, and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

The DG highlighted BGB’s evolving responsibilities in guarding the country’s 4,427-kilometre border, curbing drug and arms smuggling, preventing human trafficking, and combating cross-border crimes. He noted the force’s continued cooperation with civil administration in maintaining internal law and order.

Major General Siddiqui called on the new recruits to uphold BGB’s four guiding principles: morale, brotherhood, discipline, and efficiency. He stressed that discipline is the hallmark of a soldier, and urged them to carry out their duties with integrity, professionalism, and dedication.

He also spoke about the character traits that define an ideal soldier — honesty, intelligence, reliability, loyalty, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of duty — and encouraged the new recruits to adopt these qualities in service to the nation.

Addressing the newly inducted female recruits, the DG acknowledged the historic role of women in the country’s Liberation War and their growing presence in national service.

“Today, women are proving their capabilities across all sectors. Our female soldiers will play a vital role in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and enhancing the reputation of BGB through dedication and integrity,” he said.

Recruit No. 574 Saif Mia was named the best all-around recruit of the 103rd batch and was awarded a crest for his outstanding performance. Other top performers were also recognized in various categories.

The ceremony concluded with a final armed salute by the recruits, followed by a trick drill display and a musical performance by the BGB band.

Senior military and BGB officials, representatives from local administration, law enforcement, public figures, and members of the media were present at the event.