Tawang, Mar 17: The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) on Monday flagged off its high-altitude frontier level cycling expedition, ‘Veerta’, from Bumla at Indo-Tibet border in Tawang district, at an altitude of 15,080 feet.

The 10-day journey, undertaken by 10 ITBP personnel including two officers, one subordinate officer, and seven other ranks, is a test of physical endurance and mental resilience, traversing challenging terrains while fostering deeper community engagement.

The ‘Veerta’ expedition, meaning valor, is more than just an endurance challenge. It embodies ITBP’s commitment to nation-building, environmental preservation, and youth inspiration, a communiqué informed here.

Along the route, ITBP personnel will interact with local communities and school children, sharing the glorious history and contributions of the force. They will also conduct mountaineering demonstrations, infantry weapon displays, career counseling sessions, and distribute sports equipment to encourage active lifestyles among the youth.

Additionally, they will raise awareness about wildlife conservation, emphasising the importance of preserving Arunachal’s rich biodiversity.

The team will also undertake cleanliness drives at key tourist spots, advocating for responsible tourism and ensuring that the region’s natural beauty remains untouched.

Their commitment to environmental sustainability will be further demonstrated through plantation drives along the expedition route, reinforcing ITBP’s role as guardians of both the border and the environment.

The expedition will conclude at the Sector Headquarters at Tezpur, in Assam’s Sonitpur district, carrying a strong message of healthy living, environmental responsibility, and national service.

By blending adventure, community outreach, and ecological consciousness, ‘Veerta’ stands as a testament to ITBP’s unwavering dedication to protecting not just India’s frontiers but also its people and natural heritage, the communiqué added.