Thursday, 24 October 2024
Thursday, 24 October 2024
The ITBP's Role
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police, known as Himveers, is a specialised group of highly trained mountaineers and skiers. They are responsible for guarding India's Himalayan borders, spanning 3,488 km from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh. Their work involves working in some of the harshest conditions in the world, including high-range storms.
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police was raised on October 24, 1962 for reorganising the frontier intelligence and security set-up along the Indo-Tibetan border. The ITBP was raised under the CRPF Act with four battalions. In 1992, Parliament enacted the ITBPF Act and the rules were framed in 1994.
The ITBP now has 60 service battalions, four specialist battalions, 17 training centres and seven logistics establishments with a total strength of over 88,000 personnel.
In 2004, the entire stretch of the India-China border was assigned to the ITBP, replacing the Assam Rifles in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh.
The motto of the Force is ‘Shaurya-Dridhata-Karma Nishtha’.
Challenges of protecting the world’s highest borders
The ITBP's responsibilities extend beyond border security. They face extreme cold and difficult terrains while preventing cross-border crime, smuggling, and illegal immigration. Their presence also provides a sense of security to the local communities living near these borders.
International and disaster relief roles
Apart from their duties in India, the ITBP represents the country in conflict zones like Kosovo, Sudan, and Afghanistan. They are also the first responders during natural disasters, particularly in the Himalayan region. Some instances include their rescue and relief work during the 2013 flash floods in Uttarakhand, where they played a crucial role in helping victims.
Himveer Wives' Welfare Association (HWWA)
The Himveer Wives' Welfare Association (HWWA) is a dedicated group working for the well-being of ITBP personnel and their families. It conducts medical camps, spreads awareness about important health issues, and organises ecological activities such as tree planting. The association also focuses on vocational training for the wives of ITBP personnel to promote self-reliance.
PM Modi's tweet
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the ITBP in his recent tweet, extending greetings on their Raising Day. He wrote about the force's bravery and dedication, particularly in challenging times and during natural disasters.
"Raising Day greetings to ITBP Himveers and their families. This Force stands tall as a symbol of valour and dedication. They protect us, including in some of the most challenging terrains and tough climatic conditions. Additionally, their efforts during natural disasters and rescue operations inspire immense pride among the people," he wrote on his X account
