Punjab has become the first Indian state to deploy its own anti-drone system, named ‘Baaz Akh’ or ‘Hawk Eye’, to strengthen the second line of defence along the Indo-Pak border.

Launched on August 9, 2025, by CM Bhagwant Mann and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal, the initiative aims to counter drone-based smuggling of narcotics and weapons, with three units already operational and six more planned.

Key Points:

• Punjab’s ‘Baaz Akh’ is the first state-level anti-drone deployment in India, designed to complement BSF’s frontline border security.
• The system has automated detection and neutralization features, enabling quick interception of drones without manual monitoring.
• Three units have been installed in Tarn Taran district, with six more to be deployed along the 553 km Indo-Pak border from Pathankot to Fazilka.
• The state seized 283 smuggling drones in 2024 and 137 so far in 2025, carrying drugs, arms, and ammunition; the project costs Rs.51.4 crore.
• The anti-drone network works in coordination with BSF, Indian Air Force, and Army to trace the origin and control points of hostile drones.