The Assam Rifles, India’s oldest paramilitary force, marked its 190th Raising Day with grandeur and patriotic fervor at its headquarters in Shillong, Meghalaya, and New Delhi. Known as the “Sentinels of the Northeast,” the force was originally raised as the Cachar Levy in 1835 and has since played a pivotal role in maintaining peace, counter-insurgency operations, and guarding the Indo-Myanmar border.

A Legacy of Courage and Service

Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, Director General of Assam Rifles, led the celebrations and saluted the valor, discipline, and dedication of the force. Echoing the sentiment, he emphasized that, “To be heroic is to be courageous enough to die for something; to be inspirational is to be crazy enough to live a little.” His words captured the spirit of the brave personnel who not only fight insurgency but also win hearts through humanitarian assistance.
He further added, “A warrior does not give up what he loves, he finds the love in what he does,” referring to the officers, men, and young women of the Assam Rifles.

Honour and Recognition

As part of the Raising Day, the 4 Assam Rifles was awarded the prestigious DGAR Banner for 2023-24, with 3 Assam Rifles and 36 Assam Rifles finishing as runners-up. These honors recognized outstanding contributions in internal security and operational excellence.
At the War Memorial in Laitkor, Shillong, all ranks paid homage to the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation. The Assam Rifles continues to modernize with advanced surveillance tools, weapon systems, and protective gear to tackle evolving challenges.
Celebrating 14 Years of HQ IGAR (East)
Simultaneously, the 14th Raising Day of HQ Inspector General Assam Rifles (East) was celebrated with a ceremonial visit by Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera. The unit, raised in 2010, has gained significant recognition in disaster relief, anti-narcotics operations, and border security, especially along India’s international frontiers.
During the Sainik Sammelan, exceptional personnel were awarded DGAR Commendation Cards for their service.

Inspiring the Next Generation

A unique outreach program, ‘A Day with Company Commander,’ was organized for 115 students from Holy Cross School, Kumarghat, and 65 students from Holy Cross School, Umkiang. These students were introduced to life in the armed forces through:
Live arms demonstrations
Dog tracking shows
Drone Lab experiences
Weapon orientation
Quarter Guard ceremonial displays
Students enjoyed meals with officers and interacted with personnel, many expressing a strong interest in joining the armed forces after the experience.
National Tributes
Prominent leaders extended heartfelt greetings:
Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the force’s courage and humanitarian efforts.
Minister Kiren Rijiju lauded the Assam Rifles for their supreme sacrifices.
CM Himanta Biswa Sarma and Minister Mama Natung paid tribute to the bravehearts.
The Indian Army (ADGPI) extended its best wishes, underscoring the close ties between the two forces.

A Glorious Journey Since 1835

Having served the nation for over 190 years, the Assam Rifles remains a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and commitment. With about 80% of its officers deputed from the Indian Army, and functioning under the Union Home Ministry, the force continues to be a critical pillar in India’s internal and border security framework.
As the celebrations concluded, the heartfelt message echoed loud: “Never stop fighting until you arrive at your destined place – that is, the unique you. And the supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.”
Indeed, under the guidance of leaders like Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, the Assam Rifles continues to live by these ideals—fearless in service, unmatched in commitment.

Email:---------farooqwani61@yahoo.co.in