Lieutenant General Abhijit S Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Spear Corps, conducted an important visit to the Assam Rifles units stationed in Manipur to assess their operational preparedness amid the region’s ongoing unrest. His visit comes as Manipur continues to face the fallout of ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023, leading to the loss of over 200 lives and displacement of thousands.

During his visit, Lt Gen Pendharkar reviewed the deployment strategies, coordination mechanisms, and security protocols of the Assam Rifles. The paramilitary force, along with the Indian Army, has been at the forefront of efforts to stabilize the volatile region, conducting flag marches, area domination exercises, and working closely with civil administration and other security agencies to curb violence and restore normalcy.

The Corps Commander’s assessment aimed to ensure that the forces remain vigilant and proactive in addressing emerging security threats, while also being sensitive to the socio-political complexities of the region. His interaction with troops served as a morale booster, reinforcing the Army’s trust in their role during this challenging time.

Lt Gen Pendharkar also met with ex-servicemen from the region during his visit. In a gesture of respect and recognition, he lauded their contributions to the nation and highlighted the Indian Army’s renewed focus on veteran welfare. He underscored how the knowledge and leadership of veterans continue to play a vital role in community development and societal resilience. The engagement is part of the Army’s broader initiative, including the Veteran Achievers Award, which celebrates the positive impact of former soldiers in diverse fields such as education, environmental stewardship, and social service.

This visit reflects the Indian Army’s dual commitment to security and social stability in Manipur. While military operations remain essential to maintaining law and order, the Army also supports peace-building initiatives led by the government, such as the National Convention on Peace, which aim to mend fractured communal ties and promote dialogue.

Lt Gen Pendharkar’s presence in Manipur not only affirmed the Indian Army’s operational readiness but also reinforced its long-standing relationship with the people of the region, demonstrating a balanced approach between enforcing peace and fostering community engagement.

To bolster security and improve communication in the remote terror-affected areas of Billawar in Kathua district, Jammu and Kashmir, two army brigades have been deployed and a mobile network has been established, Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced on Saturday. These measures aim to enhance surveillance capabilities and provide a greater sense of safety for local residents.

Addressing a public gathering in Billawar, Singh, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), emphasized that the deployment of two armed brigades—one already stationed at Sarthal and another recently set up in Rampur township—will ensure round-the-clock army presence and seamless coordination between military and civil administration. “The brigadier and the district magistrate will maintain continuous liaison to ensure effective monitoring and response,” Singh added.

The mobile network installation marks a major breakthrough for far-flung areas like Lowang in the Bani region, which had been without connectivity since independence. The first mobile call was made on Friday evening following the activation of the new mobile tower. Singh noted that this connectivity will not only benefit residents and students but also enable the armed forces to maintain real-time surveillance in the region.

Singh also informed that the long-pending demand for widening the Dhar Road, which connects Samba and Udhampur districts, is now underway, with the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) preparing to hand over the road to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for expansion. This infrastructure improvement is expected to boost both security and local development, especially following the recent India-Pakistan conflict.

Highlighting other regional improvements, Singh said 55 Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) schemes have been approved for the area to address drinking water shortages, with nearly 70 percent of the work completed, benefiting almost 15,000 households. Additionally, under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme, 1,250 households in Billawar town will soon receive drinking water facilities.

Singh also proposed developing a Master Plan for the Sukrala Mata temple to attract tourism similar to destinations like Mussoorie, which could bring economic growth to the area.

Singh credited these developments to the consistent day-to-day follow-up and personal attention by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying the measures have instilled confidence and a greater sense of security among local communities in Kathua.

In a deeply moving ceremony marked by military precision and heartfelt emotion, the Assam Rifles laid to rest Naib Subedar Kunjabihari Singha with full military honors in his native village of Madaripur, Hailakandi district. The soldier, who served with the 27 Assam Rifles, passed away on May 22 in Shillong. The final rites were performed in the presence of fellow soldiers, grieving family members, and local villagers who came together to pay their last respects.

The ceremony reflected the time-honored traditions of the armed forces. The coffin, draped in the national tricolor and adorned with marigold garlands, was carried in solemn procession by uniformed personnel of the Assam Rifles. A ceremonial guard of honor was presented as a mark of respect, while fellow soldiers stood in formation to salute their comrade one last time. The ground, covered in a blue tarp, hosted a modest yet dignified memorial setup, including a signboard commemorating Singha’s service and sacrifice.

Assam Rifles officials spoke of Singha’s dedication and courage, emphasizing his role in maintaining peace and security in one of India’s most challenging regions. The force, often referred to as the “Sentinels of the North East,” has a long and distinguished history dating back to 1835 when it was established as the Cachar Levy. Today, it continues to play a pivotal role in counterinsurgency operations and border security, especially along the India-Myanmar frontier.

Military funerals are among the highest honors an active service member can receive in India. Although typically reserved for those in active duty or select high-ranking veterans, the full ceremonial tribute for Naib Subedar Singha underscores the deep respect and reverence the armed forces extend to those who serve with distinction.

The event served as a moment of unity and reflection for the villagers, many of whom expressed pride in Singha’s legacy. It was not just a farewell, but a tribute to a life spent in service to the nation. The Assam Rifles’ gesture reaffirmed their commitment to honoring their fallen and reminded the nation of the silent sacrifices made daily by those guarding its borders.