Shillong, Feb 05: As part of the Press Tour to Meghalaya organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India, a media delegation from Karnataka today visited the Directorate General Assam Rifles (DGAR) at Laitkor.
During the visit, the delegation was briefed on the rich history and evolution of the Assam Rifles, its force strength, operational significance, and its crucial role in maintaining peace and security in the North Eastern region.
Officials highlighted the force’s achievements across a wide spectrum of operations, including counter-insurgency, border management along the Indo-Myanmar frontier, and close coordination with Myanmar authorities to curb transnational crime.
The briefing also covered the Assam Rifles’ exposure to international combat environments and overseas deployments. Special emphasis was laid on the participation of Assam Rifles personnel, including women riflemen, in United Nations peacekeeping missions such as the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), where they have made noteworthy contributions to peacekeeping, security, and humanitarian assistance.
The growing role of women in the Assam Rifles, who were first inducted as riflewomen in 2015, was highlighted in detail. Officials underscored their active participation in operational duties, border guarding, intelligence operations, civic action programmes, and international peacekeeping assignments, reflecting the force’s commitment to gender inclusivity and operational excellence.
During the interaction session, Brigadier Sandip Chatterjee, SM, Brigadier Swarn Singh, VSM, and other senior officials engaged with the media delegation, addressing their queries and sharing insights into the operational preparedness, challenges, and people-centric initiatives of the force.
The media delegation also visited the Assam Rifles Museum, which showcased the force’s illustrious legacy through historic artefacts, weapons, uniforms, and accounts of gallantry.
In addition, the delegation was briefed on the Assam Rifles’ sustained efforts in combating smuggling and transnational crime, including the seizure and confiscation of contraband such as narcotics, arms, and ammunition, significantly enhancing border security in the region.
The journalists expressed appreciation for the professionalism and dedication of the Assam Rifles, acknowledging the force’s significant contribution to national security and its role in supporting international peacekeeping efforts.
