India-China Face-Offs Continue In Arunachal Pradesh, ITBP Chief Confirms Ongoing Tensions

New Delhi: There is a tense situation on the border between India and China in Arunachal Pradesh. Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Director General Shatrujit Kapoor on Thursday confirmed that face-offs have taken place between Indian and Chinese troops at several places in Arunachal Pradesh and the situation is still ongoing at some places. He also praised the performance of the brave commando teams of ITBP during this period.  

While addressing the ITBP jawans in Alwar, Rajasthan, Kapoor said that recently such a situation arose at many places in Arunachal Pradesh, where soldiers of both the countries came face to face. According to him, in these circumstances the Shaurya Commando teams did a brilliant job. His statement is considered important amid the reports that have emerged so far regarding the ongoing tension on the border.

Where did the face-off take place in Arunachal?

News of the clash between Indian and Chinese soldiers in Arunachal Pradesh was emerging since July. Information was also given by the local people about the soldiers coming face-to-face in some areas. Now it has become clear from the statement of ITBP Chief that such incidents have happened at many places and the situation has not completely returned to normal.  

Talks are also going on at military and diplomatic levels to resolve the border dispute between India and China. However, despite talks, tension remains in some areas of Arunachal Pradesh. Both sides are alert regarding border patrolling, monitoring and troop preparations.

Who took charge?

The ITBP chief especially praised the role of the Shaurya commando teams deployed on the border. These commandos are being prepared for operations in difficult conditions and in inaccessible high-altitude areas. In view of the changing challenges on the border, ITBP is working on strengthening its operational capability. The force plans to enhance the capability of Shaurya commandos and give them a more effective role in border guarding units.

How much money will be spent on drones and anti-drone systems? 

Shatrujit Kapoor also stressed the growing role of drone technology in modern warfare. He said that drones have changed the methods of traditional warfare. Giving the example of Russia-Ukraine war, he said that even small countries can challenge big military powers with the help of modern technology.

ITBP is now increasing drone capability in its border security units. The force is also working towards training drone pilots and manufacturing some drones at its own level. According to Kapoor, there are plans to earmark around Rs 1,000 crore for drones and anti-drone systems as part of a major modernisation plan.  

What preparations are going on on LAC?

In view of the increasing threat from drones and modern weapons, ITBP is also focusing on building underground shelters at the border posts. Kapoor said that underground structures have been prepared at some border posts under the pilot project. Their objective is to keep the soldiers and essential resources safe in case of crisis or war. The force is also working towards modernisation of vehicles, weapons and other equipment. This includes vehicles operating in difficult geographical conditions and quick response vehicles.

What steps are being taken to strengthen security & operational capabilities?

ITBP is one of the major forces responsible for security on the India-China border. Amid the ongoing face-off in Arunachal Pradesh, emphasis is being laid on preparedness of the force, modern equipment and special training. The statement of the ITBP chief has come at a time when talks are going on to reduce tension on the border. Currently, the situation in Arunachal Pradesh is being monitored and ITBP is taking steps to strengthen its security and operational capabilities.