PM Modi Hails 'Himveers' as Source of National Inspiration on ITBP Raising Day
PM Narendra Modi, Rajnath Singh, and Amit Shah praise the ITBP 'Himveers' for their bravery and sacrifice on the force's Raising Day.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended his warmest greetings to the personnel of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) as the force celebrates its Raising Day. The Prime Minister lauded the 'Himveers' for their exceptional bravery, selfless service, and unwavering dedication to the security of the nation.
A Tribute to Bravery and Sacrifice
Taking to X, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the ITBP personnel have distinguished themselves through remarkable valour. He noted that the force has consistently risen to every challenge with determination, stating that their sacrifices serve as a source of immense inspiration for the entire country.
Leadership Praises the Himalayan Warriors
The celebrations were echoed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who extended his greetings to the ITBP personnel and their families. The Defence Minister commended the 'Himveers' for their stellar role in guarding India's borders under the most extreme and harsh climatic conditions. He further highlighted the ITBP's significant contributions to internal security operations, specifically mentioning their efforts in combating Left Wing Extremism (LWE).
Defence Minister Singh noted that the professionalism and unwavering commitment to duty displayed by the force reflect the finest traditions of service to the nation.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also joined the tributes, stating that the ITBP personnel have set glorious precedents in courage and commitment. He expressed his salutations to the martyrs who laid down their lives for the country, praising the force for securing the nation's dignity in merciless terrains and unforgiving climates.
The Critical Role of the ITBP
Known as the 'Himveers' or Himalayan Warriors, the ITBP is tasked with the monumental responsibility of safeguarding India's 3,488 km border with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This deployment covers some of the most challenging high-altitude terrains in the world.
Border Coverage and Mandate
The force is deployed across several states and union territories, including:
- Jammu and Kashmir: 1,597 km
- Arunachal Pradesh: 1,126 km
- India's border with China: 3,488 km (total)
- Uttarakhand: 345 km
- Sikkim: 220 km
- Himachal Pradesh: 200 km
A Legacy of Vigilance
The ITBP was established on October 24, 1962, in the wake of the India-China war. Its primary objective was to create a reliable guard for the country's border along the India-China frontier.
The force began its journey with only four battalions. From these humble beginnings, it was tasked with the critical mission of monitoring the Himalayan borders, preventing border violations, and ensuring a sense of security among the populations living in these remote border regions.