Ranjath Singh celebrates Dussehra with troops on India-China border

GOPESHWAR (UTTARAKHAND): Home Minister Rajnath Singh celebrated Dussehra with the troops deployed along the India-China border at Rimkhim forward post, Joshimath, and Auli in Chamoli district today, on the third day of his four-day visit to Uttarakhand.

Accompanied by Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat, the home minister interacted with members of the 1st battalion of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police ( ITBP) deployed in Rimkhim near Barahoti which has been witness to alleged transgressions by the People's Liberation Army of China in the past.

The home minister said he had long been wishing to meet the soldiers on the occasion of Dussehra as they did not usually get the opportunity to celebrate their festivals at home.

Showering praise on the ITBP soldiers for performing their duties bravely despite harsh weather conditions in high altitudes, he said they were playing a multi-dimensional role in the country's security by not only securing its boundaries but also dealing with threats to its internal security and evacuating people to safety at the time of natural disasters.

Singh also took part in a weapon worship ritual performed at the ITBP camp to glorify the spirit of valour.

Praising ITBP soldiers during his address, he said there was no match to them when it came to conquering heights.

The home minister also announced that facilities given to ITBP soldiers would soon be upgraded.

"Snow scooters, other vehicles which can work better in snow-bound areas, warm clothes and better communication facilities will be provided to the ITBP," he said.

ITBP Director General R K Panchnanda, ITBP Commandant Vikrant Thapaliayal and Inspector General H S Goraiyya were also present on the occasion.