New Delhi/Srinagar, Oct 24: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday extended greetings to the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) on its 65th Raising Day, praising the force’s courage, dedication and service in protecting the country’s borders.
In a post on X, Modi congratulated ITBP personnel, popularly known as Himveers, and lauded their exceptional valour and determination in serving the nation.
“On their Raising Day, greetings to all personnel of the ITBP. The ITBP Himveers have distinguished themselves through their exceptional valour,” the Prime Minister said.
He added that their ability to rise to challenges, along with their selfless service and sacrifices, remained a source of inspiration for the nation.
Sinha also extended greetings to all ranks of the force and their families, commending their commitment to safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“The ITBP’s steadfast vigil along formidable borders exemplifies unmatched courage, valour and excellence in the line of duty. I salute your dedication and selfless service to the motherland,” the Lieutenant Governor said in a post on X.
The ITBP, established on October 24, 1962, in the aftermath of the Sino-Indian War, is a Central Armed Police Force under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. It is primarily responsible for guarding India’s 3,488-kilometre border with China, extending from the Karakoram Pass in Ladakh to Jachep La in Arunachal Pradesh.
The force operates in some of the country’s most challenging geographical and climatic conditions. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, many of its border outposts are located at altitudes ranging from 9,000 to 18,800 feet, where temperatures can drop to minus 45 degrees Celsius during extreme winters.
Apart from border surveillance and security duties, the ITBP is involved in internal security operations, including anti-Left-Wing Extremism operations in Chhattisgarh. It also serves as a first responder during natural disasters in the Himalayan region, conducting search, rescue and relief operations.
The force trains its personnel in specialised disciplines, including mountaineering and skiing, alongside intensive tactical training to prepare them for operations in difficult terrain.
On its 65th Raising Day, the ITBP also reaffirmed its commitment to serving the nation and extended greetings to its personnel, Himveeranganas and their families.
Emphasising its motto, “Shaurya, Dridhta, Karmanishtha” (Valour, Steadfastness, Dedication), the force said it would remain devoted to the service of the nation.
