On the first day of his Jammu and Kashmir visit, Home Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a newly-constructed building at the Indo-Tibetan Border Police camp in Samba.

Addressing the jawans, Singh said, "You are not only Himveers, but also Himalyaputras. The ITBP is guarding the 3488-km long India-China border which is one of the most inhospitable and difficult borders  There are issues of road connectivity and telecom connectivity close to Indo-China border. The MHA is building many roads to provide connectivity."

"India has always been a peaceful neighbour willing to maintain good relations with all its neighbours. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made it very clear to China that resolving all outstanding issues including border disputes is key to improved bilateral ties," he added.

"The ITBP is not only guarding the borders, but also protecting India's assets in countries like Afghanistan."

Singh lauded the role played by ITBP in defending the Indian consulate at Herat from a terrorist attack last year. Terming the ITBP as first "responders" to natural calamity situation in Nepal after the earthquake, he hailed its role in saving lives during rescue operations.   

Image: Home Minister Rajnath Singh addresses jawans in Samba. Photograph: @HMOIndia