Home ministry proposes expansion of BGB awards to recognise gallantry and service

The Ministry of Home Affairs has proposed increasing the number of medals awarded to members of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) in recognition of their gallantry and exemplary service. Currently, BGB personnel receive 72 medals annually across four categories, but the ministry has suggested raising the number to 84, according to a letter sent to the Ministry of Finance on 13 November.

The Home Ministry noted that with the recent expansion of BGB units and personnel, increasing the number of awards is necessary to motivate members and recognise their dedication.

Earlier, on 5 November, BGB Additional Director General (Administration) Brigadier General Abul Hasnat Md Shahriar Iqbal submitted a formal proposal to Senior Secretary Nasimul Ghani, citing heightened security challenges along the India-Bangladesh and Myanmar-Bangladesh borders, as well as ongoing responsibilities in internal law enforcement, anti-smuggling operations, and preparations for the upcoming national elections.

The letter highlighted that BGB personnel have been working tirelessly across all borders and in newly established units, including a station headquarters, a guard police battalion, a K9 unit and training centre, and the Ukhia Border Guard Battalion. Additionally, recruitment and training are underway for three more battalions, bringing a total increase of 2,258 personnel over the past two years.

Currently, BGB awards include 12 Border Guard Bangladesh Medals, 24 President Border Guard Medals, 12 Border Guard Bangladesh (Service) Medals, and 24 President Border Guard (Service) Medals. The proposed increase would add 2 Border Guard Bangladesh Medals, 4 President Border Guard Medals, 2 Border Guard Bangladesh (Service) Medals, and 4 President Border Guard (Service) Medals, entailing an additional annual cost of Tk10.32 lakh. Medal recipients receive a one-time cash award as well as a monthly honorarium.

A senior official from the Ministry of Finance confirmed that policy approval for the proposal is already in place, and the Home Ministry has now requested formal sanction, which is expected to be granted.

For comparison, the Bangladesh Police awards medals to personnel in six categories for bravery, service, and professional excellence, including the Bangladesh Police Medal (BPM), President Police Medal (PPM), BPM (Courage), PPM (Courage), BPM (Service), and PPM (Service). While police medal categories are defined, the total number of awards is not fixed.