In a strategic move to strengthen border security and counter-insurgency readiness in Northeast India, Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Indian Army’s Spear Corps, visited an Assam Rifles formation in Assam to assess its operational preparedness. The high-level review comes amid escalating regional tensions, particularly the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur that has claimed over 200 lives since May 2023.
During his visit, Lt Gen Pendharkar conducted an in-depth inspection of the unit’s capabilities with a sharp focus on integrating cutting-edge defense technologies such as drones, surveillance systems, and other niche equipment. Commending the troops for their professionalism and commitment, he underlined the importance of leveraging advanced military technologies under the Indian Army’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative to boost self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
The Assam Rifles, which operate under the command of the Spear Corps, play a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability across India’s volatile northeastern region. On May 14, 2025, the unit carried out a successful counter-insurgency operation in Chandel district of Manipur, near the Indo-Myanmar border, neutralizing 10 armed militants. The operation was intelligence-driven and highlights the Assam Rifles’ proactive approach in tackling cross-border threats and insurgent movements.
Lt Gen Pendharkar’s visit aligns with the Indian Army’s broader strategy to enhance indigenous military capabilities. Since 2022, the Army has approved several Make-II defense projects, including drone kill systems and high-frequency software-defined radios. These efforts are aimed at addressing hybrid warfare and asymmetric security threats using homegrown innovations and industry partnerships.
The Spear Corps, also known as III Corps, is headquartered in Dimapur, Nagaland, and is responsible for military operations in key northeastern states like Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh. It plays a vital role in counter-insurgency operations, border management, and internal security. With its wide-ranging mandate and operational jurisdiction, the Corps is essential to India’s defense strategy in the Northeast and regularly collaborates with other paramilitary forces and civil authorities to maintain stability in the region.
Apart from combat operations, the Assam Rifles actively participate in civil defense and disaster preparedness. On November 14, 2024, they took part in a major earthquake response drill in Agartala, Tripura, showcasing their capability to respond to natural disasters and support civilian administrations during emergencies.
Since taking command in August 2024, Lt Gen Pendharkar has focused on direct engagement with troops through field visits, reinforcing morale and ensuring combat readiness. His latest review highlights the Indian Army’s integrated approach—combining technology, strategic leadership, and operational excellence—to maintain peace in Northeast India amid complex and evolving security challenges.
