ITBP Raising Day 2025 – Significance and UPSC Relevance

 

ITBP Raising Day 2025 – Significance and UPSC Relevance

1. Introduction

On the occasion of ITBP Raising Day, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi extended warm greetings to all the Himveers (brave soldiers) of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police and their families. He lauded their exemplary service, discipline, and unwavering devotion to duty — particularly their efforts in border protection, disaster relief, and rescue missions.

The Prime Minister’s message reflects the nation’s gratitude towards this specialized paramilitary force that safeguards one of India’s most challenging frontiers — the Indo-China border.

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2. About the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)

Aspect	Details
Founded	24 October 1962
Motto	“Shaurya – Dridhata – Karm Nishtha” (Valour – Determination – Devotion to Duty)
Parent Ministry	Ministry of Home Affairs
Nature of Force	One of India’s seven Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)
Headquarters	New Delhi
Primary Role	Guarding the Indo-China border from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh
Strength	Over 90,000 personnel (approx.)

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3. Historical Context and Significance

The ITBP was established in 1962, immediately after the Indo-China war, to secure India’s borders along the Himalayas. It began with just four battalions and has since expanded into a multi-dimensional force.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Border Security: Guarding the 3,488 km-long India-China border.

2. Intelligence Gathering: Monitoring cross-border movements and maintaining surveillance.

3. Disaster Relief: Providing rescue and relief in natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, avalanches).

4. Internal Security: Assisting in maintaining law and order during elections or internal disturbances.

5. VIP Security: Certain units assist in security of dignitaries and strategic locations.

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4. ITBP’s Humanitarian Role

While known for operating in harsh, high-altitude terrains (12,000–19,000 ft), ITBP also excels in humanitarian assistance:

• Conducting rescue operations during Himalayan disasters.

• Providing medical aid and community services to local populations in border villages.

• Building civil-military relations in remote regions through welfare programs.

This reflects what PM Modi highlighted — “their compassion and readiness during disaster relief and rescue missions reflect the finest traditions of service and humanity.”

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5. Relevance for UPSC Prelims 2026

🧩 Potential Prelims Topics:

Topic	What to Remember
Formation Year	1962 (post Sino-Indian war)
Parent Ministry	Ministry of Home Affairs (not Defence)
Motto	Shaurya – Dridhata – Karm Nishtha
Border Covered	Indo-China border
Type of Force	Central Armed Police Force (CAPF)
Headquarters	New Delhi
Raising Day	24 October every year

Example Prelims-type Question:

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP):

1. It functions under the Ministry of Defence.

2. It guards the Indo-Pakistan border.

3. It was established in the aftermath of the 1962 Indo-China war.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 3 only ✅

(d) 1, 2 and 3

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6. Relevance for UPSC Mains 2026 (GS Paper II & III)

🧭 GS Paper II – Governance, Constitution, Polity

• Role of paramilitary forces in internal security and border management.

• Coordination between Centre and States in law and order.

• Civil-military cooperation and disaster management.

⚔️ GS Paper III – Internal Security

• India’s border management challenges (especially with China).

• Role of CAPFs (ITBP, BSF, CRPF, SSB, CISF, NSG, Assam Rifles).

• Modernization of security forces and technology adoption in surveillance.

• Disaster management under the NDMA framework and paramilitary involvement.

Example Mains Question:

Q. "The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) embodies the dual spirit of valour and compassion. Discuss the role of ITBP in strengthening India’s border security as well as its contribution to humanitarian efforts." (GS Paper III, 2026)

Answer Structure (Hints):

1. Introduction: Origin post-1962 war.

2. Border Role: Surveillance, patrolling, intelligence.

3. Humanitarian Aspect: Disaster relief, rescue missions, community outreach.

4. Challenges: Harsh terrains, logistics, modernization needs.

5. Conclusion: Symbol of India’s resilience and service.

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7. Why This Matters for UPSC Aspirants

• Current Affairs Connection: Every Raising Day provides context for security forces’ contributions — a recurring theme in Prelims and Mains.

• Static + Dynamic Integration: Links between CAPFs (static) and border management issues (dynamic).

• Essay & Ethics Paper Use: Themes like “Service before self”, “Courage and Compassion”, and “Duty towards the Nation” can enrich ethical case studies or essay arguments.

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8. Quick Recap for Revision

Key Takeaway	Details
Force	Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
Established	24 October 1962
Occasion	ITBP Raising Day
Motto	Shaurya – Dridhata – Karm Nishtha
Operates Under	Ministry of Home Affairs
Function	Border security, disaster relief, and intelligence
UPSC Importance	Prelims (CAPFs, border management), Mains (internal security, governance)

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✍️ Conclusion

The ITBP Raising Day is not just a ceremonial occasion — it reminds us of the resilience, sacrifice, and service of India’s border sentinels. For UPSC aspirants, it serves as a practical example of how security, governance, and humanity intersect in India’s policy and administrative landscape.