- ITBP inducts 60 Maruti Suzuki Jimny SUVs for border operations in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh.
- First-ever deployment of Jimny in a Central Armed Police Force (CAPF).
- Purpose-built for extreme terrain with 4×4 capability and a ladder-frame chassis.
Jimny Joins ITBP for Rugged Terrain Patrol
Maruti Suzuki has handed over 60 Jimny SUVs to the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), marking the model’s first-ever induction into India’s Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). These vehicles will be deployed in some of the country’s most extreme locations, including Leh-Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh, where temperatures plummet to -45°C in winter.
The handover ceremony took place at the ITBP Headquarters in New Delhi, attended by Mr. Abdul Ghani Mir (IPS), Additional Director General (HQ), ITBP, and Mr. Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing & Sales, Maruti Suzuki.
The ITBP operates in some of the most challenging conditions, patrolling snow-covered mountains, glaciers, and remote passes. The Jimny’s off-road credentials make it a suitable choice for these high-altitude missions.
Why ITBP Chose the Jimny
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny 5-door is designed for extreme conditions, featuring:
- Ladder-frame chassis for added durability.
- ALLGRIP PRO 4×4 system with a low-range transfer case for maximum traction.
- 1.5L K15B petrol engine (103 hp, 134.2 Nm) with a 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmission options.
- 218mm ground clearance, ensuring better off-road capability.
- Approach, departure, and breakover angles of 36°, 50°, and 24°, respectively.
- Squared body proportions and high seating position for better visibility.
The Jimny replaces the aging Maruti Gypsy, which served the Indian Armed Forces for decades. With its compact design, lightweight build, and international recognition, the Jimny is expected to offer enhanced mobility and reliability in ITBP operations
Competition & Military Utility
While Mahindra’s Thar and Force Gurkha also offer off-road capabilities, the Jimny’s lighter weight and compact proportions make it more suitable for narrow, treacherous paths in high-altitude regions.
Globally, Jimny has served military and law enforcement agencies in several countries, making it a tested platform for such operations.
Final Thoughts
The ITBP’s adoption of the Jimny underscores its capabilities as a reliable off-roader for extreme conditions. With a long legacy of serving defense forces worldwide, the Jimny is set to continue Maruti Suzuki’s association with India’s armed forces. As operations in border areas demand tough and agile vehicles, the Jimny is well-positioned to meet the challenge.