China breaking patrol patterns leads to face-off: Centre on ITBP chief’s remark

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) is set to revamp its training and combat strategy along the China border. On October 22, ITBP Director-General Shatrujeet Kapur emphasized that the newly formed Shaurya Commandos displayed exemplary performance during recent clashes with Chinese troops, which are ongoing in various locations of Arunachal Pradesh.

Kapur acknowledged the necessity to invest in advanced technologies, such as drone and counter-drone systems, as China has significantly modernized its weaponry and infrastructure. The ITBP, formed on October 24, 1962, is currently equipped with 10 battalions, each comprising over 1,300 personnel. They are stationed at 228 border outposts stretching from the Karakoram Pass in the northwest to Jachep La in Arunachal Pradesh.

The primary role of the ITBP is to serve as the "eyes and ears" of India, reporting Chinese activities and violations near and across the border. The ITBP also carries out border patrolling and intelligence gathering. In response to a possible confrontation similar to the Galwan Valley incident of June 15, 2020, where 20 Indian soldiers were killed, the Training Directorate developed the 'Strike' course, which has been conducted by 330 master trainers for 10,000 ITBP personnel.

This training program will be carried out continuously in all units, and the necessary equipment will be available at all forward Border Outposts (BOPs) by the end of 2027.