By Sunil Sonker
Mussoorie, 24 Oct: The Indo-Tibetan Border Police Academy celebrated its 64th Formation Day with military fervour and gaiety here, today. On this occasion, Director/Inspector General Girish Chandra Upadhyay and officers laid wreaths at the Martyrs’ Memorial in honour of the Force’s martyrs.
ITBP soldiers, dressed in attractive uniforms, saluted the Indo-Tibetan Border Police Force flag at the parade ground under the command of the Assistant Commander and pledged to protect the Force’s honour and dignity.
Director GC Upadhyay took the salute at the parade. In his address, he enumerated the Force’s role and outstanding achievements in providing impenetrable security to the country, inspiring the soldiers to perform their duties with complete devotion and dedication. He said that the Force, which assumed the responsibility of protecting the country’s northern borders with just four battalions, has now grown to 63. The force has been protecting the country’s vast border, stretching from Ladakh to Lipulekh in Arunachal Pradesh, since 1962. He said that the force’s personnel, deployed at forward posts in temperatures as low as minus 45 degrees Celsius, perform their duties with the force’s motto of bravery, perseverance, and dedication. In addition to border management, the force also has the distinction of providing security in terrorism-affected areas in Kashmir and Naxal-affected areas in Chhattisgarh, providing internal security, protecting VIPs, and representing the country in the United Nations Peacekeeping Force. The force has also set numerous national and international records in adventure sports such as martial arts, mountaineering, rafting, and skiing. Deployed in mountainous regions, the force’s personnel play a vital role in combating natural disasters and protecting people from these disasters.
On this occasion, a fair was organised for the Himveers and their families at the parade ground of Bhatisipu Academy, in which sports, competitions were organised and food stalls were set up. Women and soldiers including children participated enthusiastically. The winners of the competitions were awarded by the Director of the Academy.
Director Upadhyay congratulated all the officers and soldiers on the 64th foundation day of the force. On this occasion, Commander, Combat Wing Jiju S, Second in-Command Vipin Joshi and other officers were present.
