Synopsis
On April 24, Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Sukhu met with ITBP's Frontier Commander Sanjay Gunjyal to discuss the state's security along the India-China border, emphasizing local involvement in border tourism and economic initiatives.Key Takeaways
- Discussion on border security with ITBP.
- Roadmap for enhancing border tourism.
- Local produce procurement for ITBP supplies.
- Expansion of medical services via ITBP healthcare.
- Improvement of disaster management coordination.
Shimla, April 24 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Sukhu, convened a meeting on Thursday with Sanjay Gunjyal, the Frontier Commander of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Northern Frontier. The discussions focused on the paramilitary force's role and various concerns regarding the state's security along the India-China border.
In addition, they explored a roadmap aimed at enhancing border tourism in frontier areas, sourcing local produce for ITBP supplies, and providing medical services to nearby communities through ITBP healthcare facilities, as stated in a government release.
The Chief Minister emphasized the need for improved coordination with ITBP's regional response centre to bolster disaster management.
He also suggested that the helipads in ITBP-controlled areas could be utilized to boost tourism in remote locations.
All necessary procedures for this initiative would be conducted in collaboration with the ITBP to enhance connectivity. Sukhu remarked that the government is implementing various measures to strengthen the rural economy.
“If the ITBP sources food products directly from local farmers, it would generate employment opportunities and benefit both farmers and horticulturists,” he added.
He called on the Commander to prioritize local resident involvement in construction projects once all formalities are completed.
The Chief Minister also instructed state officials to fast-track the establishment of communication towers in border regions.
He commended the ITBP for its development efforts and initiatives in the frontier areas.
Commander Gunjyal provided an overview of the actions taken under the Vibrant Village Programme for the construction of three proposed roads in the Sangla Valley and the Kaurik area.
He also shared details about 15 proposed roads in remote and forward border regions. The Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri attended the meeting virtually, contributing his views and recommendations, while Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, Chairman Milkfed Budhi Singh Thakur, OSD to the Chief Minister Gopal Sharma, and others were present as well.
