Motihari, Feb. 14: The cycle rally launched by the 13th battalion of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) reached Kundwa Chainpur, Beldarwa Math and Raxaul over the weekend.

The ongoing social awareness mission for the national unity and integration is aimed at developing mutual understanding and harmonious relation through cultural activities and regular interaction with the bordering people.

Starting from the Jainagar in Madhubani district, the rally would end at Valmikinagar in West Champaran on February 19. “In the national interest, it aims to touch maximum Maoist-affected areas in this district to sensitise people on the border,” said the commandant of the 13th battalion of SSB, Raj Singh Shekhawat, here on Monday.

Speaking to The Telegraph, Shekhawat said: “The drive is aimed to instil a sense of security among the bordering population and curb cross-border crimes with their active cooperation.” He added that the entire bordering area has been put on high alert to ward off intrusions by anti-national elements who may take a chance to trigger unrest during the drive.

When the rally reached Kundwa Chainpur, Beldarwa Math and Raxaul, residents accorded a warm reception to the rallyists. Addressing people on the occasion, SSB assistant commandant Ajay Pandey gave detailed information on the role of SSB and hoped that the instant rally would help strengthen the confidence of the border residents. Scholars of Kasturba Girls High School also regaled the audience with a cultural programme and one-act plays on the occasion.

“Public interaction has been the specialty of the SSB and we have been calling upon people and encouraging them to fight the challenges unitedly,” said Shekhawat.