KATHMANDU, June 25: Inspector General of the Armed Police Force (APF) Nepal Narayan Dutta Poudel has said the organisation is effectively carrying out its responsibilities in border security, disaster management and revenue leakage control in line with its mandate.
Addressing an interaction programme with journalists at the APF Headquarters in Halchowk on Wednesday, Poudel said the force has completed preparations and response plans for weather-related disasters and has already begun implementing them in coordination with relevant agencies.
He said efforts are underway to further strengthen and streamline border security. While acknowledging challenges related to manpower, technology and operations in controlling cross-border crime, he said the APF remains committed to delivering results.
Poudel said controlling revenue leakage remains one of the government's top priorities and noted that the APF is actively supporting efforts to achieve this objective.
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He also informed journalists that the process of drafting laws related to the APF is progressing and expressed confidence that the new legal framework would provide greater policy and operational clarity.
Stressing financial discipline and good governance, the APF chief said the organisation has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards financial irregularities and is committed to addressing complaints related to transparency and accountability in a timely manner.
"We are focused on strengthening internal security and maximising results through existing structures rather than creating new setups," Poudel said.
He added that the APF has recently established a Policy, Research and Planning Directorate to enhance institutional efficiency and support long-term organisational development.
Poudel also announced plans to establish a Border Interaction Team (BIT) mechanism at major border checkpoints. The proposed mechanism is expected to improve coordination with counterpart agencies across the border, facilitate smoother movement of people and help prevent illegal activities.
"Thousands of people pass through our checkpoints every day. The BIT concept has been proposed to streamline coordination with counterpart agencies, minimise border-related problems and strengthen control over illegal activities," he said. "The proposal is in its final stage, and we plan to implement it as a pilot project at selected checkpoints."
