Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Spear Corps, made an important visit to an Assam Rifles formation in Agartala, Tripura, aimed at assessing their operational readiness amidst ongoing regional challenges. This visit is particularly significant given the recent ethnic conflict in neighboring Manipur, which has claimed over 200 lives since the beginning of 2023. The situation underscores the pressing need for a robust security presence in the region.
During the visit, Lt Gen Pendharkar had the opportunity to inspect several innovative technologies developed by the troops to boost combat efficiency. Among the notable advancements were advanced drones, highlighting the Indian Army’s commitment to incorporating state-of-the-art tools in its tactical operations. This initiative is part of a larger effort that began with the Army Design Bureau’s 2021 event, where innovative technologies such as quadcopter jammers were unveiled to counter emerging threats effectively. Lt Gen Pendharkar placed a strong emphasis on the necessity of these technological advancements in enhancing operational capabilities.
The Assam Rifles, an essential formation within the Spear Corps, play a pivotal role in ensuring security across Northeast India. In addition to their significant involvement in counter-insurgency operations, they have actively participated in disaster preparedness initiatives. A notable instance of their commitment to regional stability occurred on November 14, 2024, when the Assam Rifles took part in a state-level mock exercise in Agartala, focusing on earthquake response scenarios.
Since assuming command of the Spear Corps in August 2024, Lt Gen Pendharkar has prioritized troop engagement, taking time during his visit to interact with soldiers directly. He praised their professionalism and high morale, urging them to maintain their strive for excellence in every aspect of their duties. This visit served to reinforce the Indian Army and Assam Rifles’ dedication to maintaining operational efficiency while effectively tackling the unique security and humanitarian challenges faced in the Northeast region of India.
