Lieutenant General Abhijit S Pendharkar, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Spear Corps, has visited the Assam Rifles units in Manipur, focused on evaluating their operational readiness amid ongoing unrest in the region. His visit occurs against the backdrop of the serious ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023, causing over 200 fatalities and displacing thousands of residents.
During his time in Manipur, Lt Gen Pendharkar conducted a thorough review of the deployment strategies, coordination frameworks, and security procedures of the Assam Rifles. This paramilitary force, in conjunction with the Indian Army, has been actively involved in stabilizing the area, executing flag marches and area domination exercises, while collaborating closely with local civil administrations and various security agencies to mitigate violence and facilitate a return to normalcy.
The Corps Commander’s assessments underscore the importance of maintaining vigilance and adopting a proactive stance in the face of evolving security challenges, all while being attuned to the region’s intricate socio-political landscape. His interactions with troops served to bolster morale, emphasizing the Army’s confidence in their essential roles during this tumultuous period.
In addition to his engagement with active personnel, Lt Gen Pendharkar also took time to meet with ex-servicemen from the region. He expressed profound respect for their contributions to the nation and highlighted the Indian Army’s renewed commitment to veteran welfare. The general articulated how the experience and leadership of veterans significantly enhance community development and societal resilience. This interaction forms part of a broader Army initiative, which includes the Veteran Achievers Award, aimed at recognizing the positive impact of former soldiers in various fields, such as education, environmental stewardship, and social service.
The visit embodies the Indian Army’s dual commitment to both security and social stability within Manipur. While military operations are crucial for upholding law and order, the Army also plays a supportive role in peace-building initiatives, such as the National Convention on Peace, which are designed to heal communal rifts and foster dialogue.
Lt Gen Pendharkar’s presence in Manipur not only demonstrated the Indian Army’s operational readiness but also reinforced its enduring relationship with the local populace, highlighting a balanced approach between maintaining peace and enhancing community engagement.
