Assam Rifles celebrates its 187th Raising Day

New Delhi: Assam Rifles, the oldest paramilitary force of India, celebrated its 187th Raising Day today. Extending his best wishes to all ranks and their families Director General of the force Lt Gen PC Nair saluted the valiant soldiers of Assam Rifles who made supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Chief of Army Staff General MM Naravane conveyed his best wishes to all Ranks and families of the force on the occasion of their 187th Raising Day.

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai attended the raising day event in Shillong. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that the Assam Rifles has shown exemplary performance in the fight against insurgency in the northeast region and in preventing drug smuggling along the India-Myanmar border.

Mr Rai emphasized that the Home Ministry has given in-principle approval to the formation of five additional battalions so that after field postings, jawans can get an opportunity to live with their families in a friendly environment.

The paramilitary force was raised in 1835 as the Cachar Levy. From mere 750 combatants at that time, the force has now strength of 46 battalions and has the distinction of being the highest awarded and the most decorated force in India.

It has repeatedly demonstrated its credibility by executing challenging operations with high degree of proficiency, alacrity and discipline. Throughout its long and cherished history, the Force has made immense contribution towards peace, stability and harmony in the country and abroad. The Force has actively participated in all major wars including World Wars, Indo-China conflict, Indo-Pak Wars in 1965 & 1971. The untiring efforts of Assam Rifles in combating insurgency as also in guarding of Indo-Myanmar border has resulted in peace and tranquillity in the North Eastern Region. The Force remains deployed in some of the most remote and underdeveloped areas and provides security to locals.

Through its long deployment in the tribal belt, the Assam Rifles has earned the complete confidence of the locals and has helped considerably in bringing the people of this region into the national main stream. The humane, just and ever helpful approach of the men of Assam Rifles has truly managed to win hearts and minds earning the Assam Rifles the sobriquet of 'Friends of the North East.'

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