Punjab to buy 9 anti-drone units at Rs 51.4 crore

CHANDIGARH: To bolster border security, Punjab cabinet Friday approved the purchase of anti-drone systems to combat weapon and drug smuggling across its 532km border with Pakistan. State government will spend Rs 51.4 crore on the initiative, installing nine anti-drone units. Meanwhile, CM Bhagwant Mann urged people not to panic and to ignore rumours.

Following an emergency meeting of the council of ministers, Mann announced the cabinet's nod for the anti-drone system budget. He added that the technology would cover the entire border from Pathankot to Abohar, preventing drone take-offs and neutralising any that enter the state. These systems, he said, would supplement BSF's existing units in combating drug and weapon smuggling via drones.

"Punjab stands firmly with the nation and is the first to face enemy bullets. We will safeguard the tricolour, and waters of the state. Army will be supported," Mann said.