Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Raising Day is annually celebrated on 24th October to mark the establishment of the ITBP, a Central Armed Police Force functioning under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), in 1962.
- The day also acknowledges the ITBP’s dedication to securing India’s borders, fostering a sense of safety and reassurance among the communities residing in remote border regions.
24th October 2024 marks the observance of the 63rd ITBP Raising Day.
Significance:
i.ITBP Raising Day is a national salute to the force’s dedication to protecting India’s sovereignty and borders, especially along the challenging Himalayan frontiers.
- It honors the sacrifices of ITBP personnel, and their role in internal security and disaster management.
ii.On this day, the government acknowledges the courage of ITBP personnel by presenting them with medals in recognition of their exceptional bravery and service to the nation.
Evolution of the ITBP:
i.The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) was established on October 24, 1962, to reorganize the intelligence and security arrangements along the Indo-Tibetan border.
- It was raised in the aftermath of the 1962 Chinese aggression.
ii.Initially, the force commenced with the sanction of only 4 Battalions and operated under the Central Reserve Police force (CRPF) Act, 1949.
iii.In 1992, the ITBP Force Act was passed by Parliament, leading to the framing of corresponding rules in 1994.
ITBP Force Symbol:
The crest of the ITBP features the national emblem, Ashoka’s Lion Capital, mounted on a chakra that is crossed by two loaded rifles, symbolizing the valor and readiness of the force.
Battalion Count:
i.The ITBP is increasingly tasked with the diverse roles, including border guarding, counter- insurgency, and internal security functions.
ii.The number of ITBP Battalions increased gradually and ITBP presently has 62 battalions (56 regular and 4 specialist), 17 training centers and 7 logistics establishments with a total strength of approximately 90,000 personnel.
Points to Note:
i.Based on the “One border One Force” suggestion, the ITBP was assigned full responsibility for the 3,488 kilometer(km) India-China border, stretching from the Karakoram Pass in Ladakh to Jachep La in Arunachal Pradesh(AR).
ii.The ITBP’s significant responsibility includes border guarding duties, and in 2004, the ITBP effectively replaced the Assam Rifles in Sikkim and AR
Recognitions: Decorations earned by the ITBP forces include Padam Shri, Kirti Chakra, Shaurya Chakra, Sena Medal, Presidents’ Police Medal for Gallantry and Police Medal for Gallantry, among others.
About Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP):
Director General(DG)– Rahul Rasgotra
Headquarters– New Delhi, Delhi
Established– 1962
Motto– Shaurya-Dridhata-Karma Nishtha (Valour-Determination-Devotion to Duty)
