Friends of Northeast People praises by Rajnath Singh

Last Updated on September 24, 2023 by SPN Editor

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday visited Headquarters Inspector General Assam Rifles (South) at Mantripukhri in Manipur and interacted with over 1,000 troops of the Red Shield Division and Assam Rifles. And, urged them to consider their service as “more than service, more than profession” as he emphasized their role as “Friends of Northeast people and Sentinel of Northeast India.”

During the visit, he was accompanied by Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande, GOC-in-C Eastern Command Lieutenant General RP Kalita and GOC Spear Corps Lieutenant General RC Tiwari along with other senior officers of Army and Assam Rifles.

Addressing the troops, he appreciated the officers and soldiers for performing their duty with courage and conviction despite challenges posed by terrain and weather condition and improving the security situation in Manipur.

“It’s a matter of great pride to stand amongst the Indian Army and Assam Rifles troops,” he said.

Briefing about the counter-insurgency as well as border management operations on India-Myanmar border to maintain peace and tranquility in the region, the Union minister lauding the contribution of the Red Shield Division ever since its raising, be it in the 1971 War, as part of IPKF in Sri Lanka, or in its present role.

Rajnath Singh lauded the contribution of Red Shield Division ever since its raising, be it in 1971 war, as part of IPKF in Sri Lanka or in its present role. He commended the stellar role of Assam Rifles in the last seven decades and their immense contribution in internal security, securing Indo-Myanmar border and key role in bringing North East into the national mainstream. “For this reason, you are called ‘Friends of Northeast people’ and ‘Sentinels of North East’,” he stated.

Encouraging them to take pride in their great service to the nation, the Defence Minister exhorted the forces to keep the National Flag high through unflinching dedication, asserting that India can achieve absolute potential only when its borders are safe.