Shimla, Dec. 21 -- The 62nd Raising Day of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) was celebrated at the Centralised Training Centre (CTC), Sapdi, Kangra. This was the first time that the SSB Raising Day parade was organised in Himachal. Due to adverse weather conditions and a technical issue with the air fleet, Union home minister Amit Shah could not attend the programme in person. In his absence, his personal message was read out by the Director General, SSB. The ceremony began with a floral tribute at the "Martyrs' Memorial", honouring the 51 brave SSB personnel who made the supreme sacrifice in service to the nation. Sanjay Singhal, Director General, SSB, inspected the parade and took the salute of the grand march past. The SSB plays a crucial role in securing the 1,751 km long India-Nepal and 699-km-long India-Bhutan open international borders, as well as in internal security, anti-Naxal operations, and special missions. A total of eight marching contingents representing various frontier units and special operations of the Force participated in the parade.In his address, Director General Sanjay Singhal said that despite evolving border and internal security challenges, the SSB has established itself as a strong, capable, and multidimensional Force. He emphasized the SSB's contributions in border security, disaster management, anti-Naxal operations, women empowerment, sports excellence, environmental protection, and developmental initiatives. During the ceremony, the Director General of SSB honoured retired officers, subordinate officers, and personnel with the President's Police Medal for their meritorious services in 2023 and 2024. The 29th Battalion, Gaya (Bihar) was awarded for its exceptional performance in Naxal-affected and special operation areas in 2025. The 50th Battalion, Utraula (UP) was declared the best battalion along the India-Nepal border, while the 64th Battalion, Barama (Assam) received the best battalion trophy for the India-Bhutan border. The 42nd Battalion, Bahraich (UP) - Rupaidiha and 64th Battalion, Barama (Assam) - Sukhanjoli were recognized as the best Border Outposts....