Major General Manish Kumar, Inspector General of Assam Rifles (North), conducted a significant visit to a key battalion in Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh, to evaluate the operational readiness of the force and promote the integration of advanced technologies. This visit, arranged for a recent Tuesday, serves to underline the Assam Rifles’ ongoing commitment to maintaining peace and security in the strategically important northeastern region of India.
During his inspection, Major General Kumar observed a demonstration showcasing the capabilities of drones, which reflects a pivotal movement towards modernizing the operational tactics utilized by the Assam Rifles. He expressed commendation for the troops, recognizing their preparedness and innovative strategies in addressing contemporary security challenges, referring to them as a “combat-ready force of the future.” Highlighting the region’s strategic significance, he urged personnel to remain vigilant and to tirelessly work towards ensuring a secure and stable Arunachal Pradesh.
The Assam Rifles, often termed the “Sentinels of the Northeast,” has played a crucial role in protecting India’s eastern borders, particularly along the Indo-Myanmar boundary. The force operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs, with command responsibility assigned to the Indian Army. Since its establishment in 1835, it has been instrumental not only in counterinsurgency operations but also in disaster response and community engagement initiatives. With a strength of 46 battalions and over 65,000 personnel as of 2019-2020, it stands as one of the most significant paramilitary forces in the region.
Changlang district is particularly noteworthy due to its location near the borders of Myanmar and China, adding to its strategic importance. The region has seen a blend of military operations and community outreach efforts spearheaded by the Assam Rifles, including recent sports-related recruitment drives exemplified by the 2023 Meritorious Sportsperson event. However, the balance in civil-military relations remains delicate, as evidenced by incidents such as the clash in Kharsang, where tensions arose between villagers and security personnel.
Major General Kumar, who assumed his role as IGAR (North) on March 15, 2024, brings a wealth of operational experience from critical theatres like Jammu & Kashmir and the northeastern states. His leadership is marked by an emphasis on enhancing modern warfare capabilities and fostering strong community ties. This latest visit further solidifies the dual mandate of the Assam Rifles—ensuring operational excellence while engaging with the civilian population—consistent with its longstanding motto, “Service Before Self.”
