A ceremonial attestation and passing out parade took place today at the Assam Regimental Centre in Shillong, marking the graduation of 879 Agniveers from the 5th batch of the Agnipath Scheme. The event was presided over by Lieutenant General Abhijit S Pendharkar, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Spear Corps and Colonel of the Assam Regiment and Arunachal Scouts, signifying a monumental occasion for the recruits and the Indian Army.
Despite the interruptions of intermittent rain, the ceremony was filled with enthusiasm and pride as the newly trained Agniveers displayed remarkable military discipline and precision during their march-past. The Agnipath Scheme, introduced in June 2022, offers selected youth aged between 17.5 and 23 the opportunity to serve in the Armed Forces for a period of four years. This scheme aims to inject young and agile talent into the military while also streamlining long-term pension liabilities.
A highlight of the celebration was the awarding of the Dah of Honour to Agniveer Roniel Hengba, who was recognized as the Overall Best Agniveer of the batch. The Dah, a traditional blade emblematic of the Assam Regiment’s legacy in the northeastern region, is an esteemed accolade presented to the top-performing recruit in each batch.
During his address, Lt Gen Pendharkar lauded the Agniveers for their commitment and resilience, emphasizing the Assam Regiment’s historic role in bolstering national security and its cultural richness, epitomized by the unique Rhino Hat worn by its soldiers. He pointed out the regiment’s diverse composition of 25 units, which includes regular forces, Rashtriya Rifles, Territorial Army, and Arunachal Scouts battalions.
With over three decades of military experience, including roles in combat and commanding forces in challenging high-altitude, counter-insurgency, and border areas, Lt Gen Pendharkar’s leadership is particularly important in light of ongoing tensions in Northeast India. The ethnic violence in Manipur, which has claimed over 200 lives in the past year, necessitates strategic coordination and stability, roles in which the Spear Corps is crucial.
Numerous family members, military officials, and local dignitaries attended the event, which concluded on a note of patriotism and resolve. The Assam Regimental Centre, set against the picturesque backdrop of Shillong’s hills, serves as a vital training ground, producing soldiers who steadfastly uphold the Army’s highest traditions.
The 879 Agniveers are now prepared to embark on their new duties within the Armed Forces, representing a new generation of warriors dedicated to serving the nation with pride and honor.
