New Delhi, Dec 1 (IANS): The BSF troopers gave "a befitting reply" when Pakistan violated the ceasefire, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said Monday.

"Our BSF jawans are the most concerned about 'Rashtriya Swabhiman' (national pride). No power can cast an evil eye on our country," said Rajnath Singh at the Border Security Force (BSF) Raising Day Parade programme at the BSF Camp in Chhawla here.

"BSF jawans gave a befitting reply when Pakistan violated ceasefire.

"People of India are by and large peaceful by nature but if anyone dares to challenge our sense of pride BSF will give a befitting reply," he said.

Highlighting the force's role during war time, he said that the BSF has always been the first line of defence.

He added that a booklet giving an account of all the sacrifices made by the BSF men should be published.

"I am aware of your grievances and the government is sensitive to the issues facing the BSF," he added.

He also said that the force should play an active role in stopping cattle smuggling at India-Bangladesh border.

The minister also paid tributes to the troopers and officers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.