A major advancement in India’s border security strategy was achieved as the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) held their second ‘Functional Coordination’ meeting at the Surya Command Headquarters in Lucknow. The meeting, presided over by Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Surya Command, aimed to strengthen cooperation and operational synergy between the two forces.
Shri Sanjay Chowdhary, Additional Director General of the Western Command ITBP, along with senior personnel from both organizations, participated in discussions that focused on enhancing border management protocols. Key topics included improving real-time intelligence sharing and developing integrated responses to the evolving security challenges faced along India’s northern borders.
A significant moment of the event was the ceremonial exchange of plaques between Lt Gen Sengupta and Shri Chowdhary, symbolizing their commitment to long-term collaboration. This gesture reflects a significant shift from traditional operational silos, which is increasingly important given the persistent tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Lt Gen Sengupta, whose extensive experience includes commanding an infantry brigade on the Line of Control (LoC) and leading a UN mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has been pivotal in implementing reforms aimed at enhancing integrated border security strategies. His leadership is particularly crucial in high-altitude operations throughout regions such as Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, and Kashmir.
The ITBP has also made strides in strengthening its forces with the establishment of a Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School in 2023, enhancing the tactical skills of its personnel. This initiative is complementary to the Indian Army’s modernization and readiness programs, allowing for improved interoperability between the two entities.
According to a report published in 2024 in the Journal of Defence Studies, joint operations and training between Indian military and paramilitary forces have increased by approximately 30% since 2020, indicating a broader strategic shift in India’s defense planning.
The coordination meeting at Surya Command is being viewed as a pivotal event in India’s evolving security framework. It reinforces the principle of ‘one border, one force’ while maximizing the unique operational strengths of both the Army and the ITBP.
