<h4>Introduction to ITBP Raising Day</h4><p>The <strong>Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)</strong> observes its <strong>Raising Day</strong> annually, a significant occasion for the force. In 2024, the Prime Minister extended greetings to the <strong>Himveers</strong> (ITBP personnel) and their families, acknowledging their dedicated service to the nation.</p><div class='info-box'><p>The <strong>ITBP</strong> is a vital component of India's security apparatus, functioning as a <strong>Central Armed Police Force (CAPF)</strong>. It operates directly under the administrative control of the <strong>Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)</strong>.</p></div><h4>Establishment and Core Role</h4><p>The <strong>ITBP</strong> was established on <strong>24th October, 1962</strong>, a critical period during the <strong>India-China War</strong>. Its primary mandate from inception has been to serve as a specialized <strong>border guarding police force</strong>.</p><p>The force is renowned for its exceptional expertise in <strong>high altitude operations</strong>. Its personnel are trained to endure and operate effectively in some of the world's most challenging mountainous terrains.</p><h4>Geographical Mandate and Expansion</h4><p>A significant expansion of the <strong>ITBP's</strong> operational area occurred in <strong>2004</strong>. This was a direct result of the central government's <strong>“One Border One Force”</strong> recommendation, aimed at streamlining border management.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>Under this policy, the <strong>ITBP</strong> was assigned the responsibility for guarding the entire <strong>3,488 km India-China border</strong>. This vast stretch extends from the <strong>Karakoram Pass</strong> in <strong>Ladakh</strong> to <strong>Jachep La</strong> in <strong>Arunachal Pradesh</strong>.</p></div><p>Following this directive, the <strong>ITBP</strong> assumed border guarding duties from the <strong>Assam Rifles</strong> in the sensitive regions of <strong>Sikkim</strong> and <strong>Arunachal Pradesh</strong>, consolidating its presence along the northern frontier.</p><h4>Current Deployment and Motto</h4><p>Presently, the <strong>ITBP</strong> is strategically deployed across several Indian states and union territories. These include <strong>Jammu & Kashmir</strong>, <strong>Himachal Pradesh</strong>, <strong>Uttarakhand</strong>, <strong>Sikkim</strong>, and <strong>Arunachal Pradesh</strong>.</p><div class='info-box'><p>The inspiring motto of the <strong>ITBP</strong> is <strong>“Shaurya-Dridhata-Karma Nishtha”</strong>. This translates to Valour, Steadfastness, and Commitment to Duty, encapsulating the spirit of the force.</p></div><h4>Additional Responsibilities: Disaster Response</h4><p>Beyond its primary border guarding role, the <strong>ITBP</strong> also plays a crucial part in humanitarian efforts. It frequently conducts <strong>relief and rescue operations</strong>, especially in the challenging <strong>Himalayan region</strong>.</p><p>The force is often among the <strong>‘First Responders’</strong> during <strong>natural calamities</strong> such as earthquakes, landslides, and flash floods in these mountainous areas, providing vital assistance to affected communities.</p><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Insight:</strong> Understanding the dual role of <strong>CAPFs</strong> like <strong>ITBP</strong> (border guarding and disaster management) is crucial for <strong>GS Paper III (Internal Security & Disaster Management)</strong>. Note the specific regions of deployment and the historical context of its raising.</p></div>