Major General Manish Kumar, Inspector General of Assam Rifles (North), visited a key battalion of the force in Changlang district to assess operational preparedness and encourage further technological integration. The visit, conducted on Tuesday, reaffirmed the Assam Rifles’ commitment to peace and security in the sensitive northeastern region.
During his inspection, Major General Kumar observed a demonstration of drone capabilities, marking a significant step towards modernizing operational tactics. He praised the troops for their readiness and innovative approach to contemporary security challenges, calling them a “combat-ready force of the future.” Emphasizing the strategic importance of the region, he urged all personnel to maintain vigilance and continue working towards a secure and stable Arunachal Pradesh.
Known as the “Sentinels of the Northeast,” the Assam Rifles have a longstanding role in safeguarding India’s eastern frontiers, particularly along the Indo-Myanmar border. Operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs with operational control by the Indian Army, the force has been crucial in counterinsurgency, disaster response, and community engagement since its inception in 1835. With 46 battalions and over 65,000 personnel as of 2019–2020, it remains one of the most prominent paramilitary forces in the region.
Changlang district, located in eastern Arunachal Pradesh, holds strategic significance due to its proximity to both the Myanmar and China borders. The district has seen a mixture of military operations and outreach efforts by the Assam Rifles, including sports-based recruitment drives like the 2023 Meritorious Sportsperson event. However, incidents such as the 2023 clash in Kharsang between villagers and security personnel have underscored the delicate balance required in civil-military relations.
Major General Kumar, who took charge as IGAR (North) on March 15, 2024, brings with him extensive operational experience from key theatres like Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast. His leadership has been characterized by a focus on modern warfare capabilities and robust community partnerships. The latest visit further reinforces Assam Rifles’ twin mandate of operational excellence and civil outreach, in line with its enduring motto, “Service Before Self.”
