PIONEER NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
The chief minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami flagged off the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Himadri Trekking Expedition -2025 on Saturday. During the event, he paid tribute to the victims of the recent Ahmedabad plane crash and offered condolences to their families. A two-minute silence was observed in honour of those who had lost their lives in the tragedy.
In his address, Dhami lauded the officers and personnel of ITBP, stating that this expedition exemplifies courage and determination while also being a crucial step toward enhancing strategic security and preserving the cultural heritage of border areas.
The campaign will see a 45-member ITBP team undertake a challenging journey of approximately 1,032 kms from Uttarakhand to Ladakh passing through Himachal Pradesh. “This initiative aims not only to monitor strategically significant locations but also to identify religious, historical and cultural sites while promoting local traditions,” Dhami said, adding that ITBP has been playing a vital role in safeguarding the country’s borders as well as providing relief and rescue operations during disasters since 1962.
CM also highlighted his government’s unwavering commitment towards the welfare of soldiers and their families.
The IG, ITBP, Sanjay Gunjyal said that the Himadri Trekking Campaign will cover a total distance of 1,032 kms, crossing 27 valleys and 27 passes. “A total of 84 vibrant villages are included along the trekking route and the campaign team will also distribute 3.5 lakh fruit plants to locals,” he added.
The programme was attended by chief secretary Anand Bardhan, secretary Shailesh Bagauli, director general of Police Deepam Seth and others.
