Amit Shah Honors ITBP Personnel on Foundation Day

Celebrating the ITBP's Commitment and Valor

On Friday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah congratulated the personnel of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) on their foundation day, praising their exemplary courage and dedication to the nation. He expressed his sentiments via social media, paying tribute to the ITBP martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Shah emphasized that their bravery continues to inspire the country.

 

Shah acknowledged the ITBP members on this significant day, highlighting their role in safeguarding the nation's dignity in harsh terrains and challenging climates. He paid homage to the martyrs who laid down their lives for the country. Known as 'Himveer' (Himalayan Warriors), the ITBP is stationed along India's 3,488-kilometer border with China, referred to as the Line of Actual Control (LAC), tasked with securing some of the most challenging high-altitude areas.

The ITBP is responsible for protecting borders that touch Jammu and Kashmir (1,597 km), Himachal Pradesh (200 km), Uttarakhand (345 km), Sikkim (220 km), and Arunachal Pradesh (1,126 km).

 

Established on October 24, 1962, following the India-China war, the ITBP's primary mission was to defend the border with China. Over the years, its responsibilities have expanded beyond border security to include disaster response, anti-naxal operations, and internal security duties. The force is also frequently deployed for VIP security and election-related tasks across the country.

 

The ITBP Foundation Day, celebrated annually on October 24, honors the valor, dedication, and sacrifices of the 'Himveers' serving in some of the most remote and elevated regions, including Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Himachal Pradesh, at altitudes exceeding 18,000 feet. On this day, parades, cultural programs, and tributes to martyrs are held at the ITBP headquarters in New Delhi and all its establishments.