Participants from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh Explore Strategic Border Regions, Environmental Conservation, and ITBP’s Role under Viksit Vibrant Village Youth Exchange Programme in Spiti.

Shimla:

As part of the Government of India’s Viksit Vibrant Village Programme 2026, a week-long youth exchange initiative jointly organized by MY Bharat under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Ministry of Home Affairs in collaboration with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), participants from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh continued their immersive learning experience in the remote border region of Spiti. The programme aims to enhance awareness among youth about the strategic importance, culture, development challenges, and environmental significance of India’s frontier villages.

The second day of the programme focused on the theme “Geography, Environment, and Border Awareness.” Through a series of interactive sessions and field activities, participants gained valuable insights into the unique geographical, ecological, and strategic characteristics of India’s border areas.

The day commenced at the 17th Battalion ITBP Forward Base Post, Kaza, where a comprehensive health screening of all participants was conducted by ACMO Dr. Vishwesh Singh. The health assessment ensured the well-being of participants while preparing them for activities in the high-altitude Himalayan environment.

Following the medical examination, Inspector (GD) Mast Ram Singh delivered an informative session highlighting the strategic importance of border regions, the geographical challenges faced in frontier areas, and the crucial role played by security forces in safeguarding national borders. Participants were also introduced to modern security infrastructure through a special demonstration by Inspector Jagjit Singh, who showcased various weapons and advanced equipment used by the ITBP in challenging mountain terrains.

To enhance disaster preparedness and health awareness, Dr. Vishwesh Singh conducted a practical training session on Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). Participants received hands-on experience in life-saving techniques and emergency response procedures, equipping them with essential skills that could prove valuable in critical situations.

An enriching interaction session was organized during lunch at the ITBP Forward Base Post, where participants shared meals with ITBP officers and personnel. The informal discussions provided an opportunity to understand the responsibilities, hardships, and operational challenges faced by security personnel deployed in remote and high-altitude border regions.

Sports and cultural exchange formed another important component of the day’s activities. Five volleyball matches were organized between ITBP personnel and MY Bharat participants, including four competitive matches and one mixed-team friendly. A cricket match and several recreational activities further strengthened camaraderie, teamwork, and mutual understanding between the youth participants and security forces.

A special session on environmental conservation was conducted by DFO (Spiti Range) Goldy Chhabra, who elaborated on the unique cold desert ecosystem of Lahaul-Spiti. Participants learned about the region’s fragile biodiversity, alpine flora, and iconic wildlife species such as the Snow Leopard, Himalayan Ibex, Bharal (Blue Sheep), Himalayan Wolf, Red Fox, and Himalayan Marmot. The session also highlighted the conservation of rare bird species including the Black-necked Crane, Golden Eagle, Himalayan Griffon, Chough, and Snow Pigeon. Participants actively engaged in discussions and raised questions regarding biodiversity conservation and sustainable environmental practices.

Addressing the gathering, Praveen Rawat, Assistant Commandant and Commanding Officer, 17th Battalion ITBP Forward Base Post, shared valuable insights on border management, national security, and the pivotal role played by the ITBP in protecting India’s frontier regions while supporting local communities.

The day concluded with a plantation drive under the theme “Ek Ped Veer Ke Naam” (A Tree in Honour of Our Heroes) within the ITBP campus, symbolizing environmental stewardship and tribute to the nation’s security personnel.

The programme was coordinated by Pratibha Sharma, District Youth Officer, Lahaul-Spiti, along with Pradeep Kumar, Ayank Kuhar, and Kartik Singla, who have been overseeing the implementation of the youth exchange activities across Spiti Valley.

On the following day, participants continued their exposure visit through an interactive engagement with the Spiti district administration at Kaza. A delegation of 25 youth participants from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh met senior administrative officials to gain a deeper understanding of governance, development initiatives, and local challenges in one of India’s most remote districts.

The interaction session was chaired by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Spiti, Shikha, and attended by Sub-Divisional Magistrate Dixit Rana, Block Development Officer Anshul, and other district officials. During the discussion, participants exchanged views on critical local issues such as water availability, the environmental and infrastructural impacts of increasing tourism, agricultural and grazing challenges, sports infrastructure development, water conservation and recharge initiatives, electricity distribution, and community-led development efforts.

The district administration provided detailed information about ongoing developmental projects and government schemes being implemented to improve the quality of life in the region. The interaction offered participants a unique opportunity to understand the complexities of administration and development in a high-altitude border district.

As part of the day’s activities, the Department of Youth Services and Sports organized an archery training and demonstration session, introducing participants to the fundamentals of the sport. Youth participants enthusiastically learned basic techniques, practiced under guidance, and experienced the sport firsthand, describing it as both educational and inspiring.

The event concluded with a felicitation ceremony, during which Pratibha Sharma, District Youth Officer Kullu and Additional In-Charge Lahaul-Spiti, along with Pradeep Kumar, Kartik Singla, and Ayank Kuhar, presented traditional Khataqs and mementoes to district administration officials in recognition of their support and contribution to the successful conduct of the programme.

The Viksit Vibrant Village Youth Exchange Programme continues to serve as a significant platform for fostering national integration, promoting awareness about border regions, encouraging environmental responsibility, and inspiring young citizens to contribute towards the vision of a developed and resilient India.