ITBP Chief Confirms Ongoing Face-Offs with China in Arunachal Pradesh, Praises Commandos

The Director General of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Shatrujeet Kapoor, has officially confirmed the continuation of face-offs between Indian and Chinese forces in Arunachal Pradesh. Speaking to ITBP personnel, known as Himveers, in Alwar on Thursday, Kapoor lauded the exceptional performance of the force's Shaurya Commando teams during these confrontations.

Kapoor stated that a situation arose recently in Arunachal Pradesh involving face-offs at several locations, which are still ongoing. Reports of multiple skirmishes in the region have circulated since July, with locals also claiming confrontations. These incidents reportedly persisted even during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to India for the BRICS summit in September.

Following Kapoor's remarks, Congress MP Jairam Ramesh criticized the government for its silence on the confrontations. Ramesh took to X, asserting that India has been paying the price for the Prime Minister’s "infamous clean chit to China on June 19, 2020," while praising the ITBP's performance in these recent clashes.

Amidst these ongoing challenges, Kapoor also highlighted the increasing threat posed by drones, noting their significant impact on conventional warfare and the evolving role of defence forces. The ITBP plans to establish a drone unit in every platoon, intensify in-house drone production, and enhance drone pilot training.

Looking ahead, the ITBP expects a higher fund allocation by 2030, with plans to earmark approximately Rs 1,000 crore specifically for drone and anti-drone systems. Modernisation efforts will also focus on improving mobility and equipment, including the procurement of all-terrain vehicles, autonomous ground vehicles, and quick reaction vehicles, alongside modernizing ammunition.

Kapoor also revealed that a separate strike corps is expected to be established soon. He pointed to China's heavy investment in the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and its media capabilities, acknowledging Beijing's advancements in conventional warfare, but suggested drones could serve as an equalizer on the changing battlefield. He cited the prolonged Russia-Ukraine war and Iran as examples of evolving conflict dynamics.

To enhance personnel and asset protection, the ITBP has initiated a pilot project to construct underground shelters at several frontier units' Border Outposts (BOPs). These measures are designed to strengthen the force’s preparedness along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and adapt its equipment, infrastructure, and operational capabilities to emerging threats.

What to watch: ITBP adapts its equipment, infrastructure and operational capabilities

Editor's note: A comprehensive summary that accurately captures the DG's remarks, the political reaction, and the modernization plans described in the source.