On August 6, 2024, the Assam Rifles extended crucial humanitarian aid to internally displaced persons (IDPs) residing at a relief camp in Laphupat Tera village, Imphal West District. This initiative was part of a broader effort to support vulnerable communities in the region, fostering an environment of mutual trust, peace, and harmony.

The relief effort focused on distributing essential supplies to the IDPs, including rice, sugar, milk, refined oil, salt, and eggs. This assistance aimed to address the immediate nutritional and daily needs of the displaced individuals and families, ensuring they have access to basic necessities during a challenging period in their lives.

The event successfully aided 97 IDPs, including 39 children, all of whom have been affected by the ongoing conflicts and disturbances in the region that forced them to seek refuge in the relief camp. The distribution was organized meticulously to ensure that all beneficiaries received the help they needed.

The Assam Rifles’ commitment to providing humanitarian aid underscores the security force’s role not only in maintaining peace and order but also in engaging in community welfare activities that help stabilize and support distressed populations. This initiative is a testament to their dedication to upholding human dignity and supporting community resilience in conflict-affected areas of Manipur.

On August 7, 2024, the Assam Rifles organized a significant Mass Tree Plantation Drive in Sorde village, Kamjong district, Manipur, in collaboration with village authorities and local residents. This environmental initiative is part of Assam Rifles’ ongoing efforts to promote ecological awareness and conservation in the region known for its rich natural resources and substantial forest cover.

Recent concerns about illegal trade and exploitation of forest products, such as timber, have led to notable deforestation and environmental degradation in Manipur. In response, the Assam Rifles has focused on community engagement to foster a greater understanding and proactive stance on environmental issues among the locals.

The event saw active participation from the community, including 42 locals, five representatives from the Sorde village council, and 21 students from Sorde High School. The participants planted a total of 1,250 saplings along the Shangshak-Kasong road, part of State Highway 102A, under the guidance of the Assam Rifles personnel.

The day began with a welcome note emphasizing the critical need to protect and preserve the region’s natural resources, particularly its forests. The message resonated strongly with the attendees, particularly the youth, who expressed their gratitude towards the Assam Rifles for their role in highlighting the importance of environmental protection and nature conservation.

The villagers, including authorities and students, pledged their commitment to safeguarding their local environment. They assured the Assam Rifles of their continued support for such initiatives, promising to uphold the conservation efforts and assist the security forces in their future endeavors to maintain ecological balance.

This event not only highlighted the community’s willingness to engage in sustainable practices but also reinforced the importance of military and civilian collaboration in preserving the natural beauty and resources of Manipur.

Leaders from the Golden Katar Division and the Gujarat, Daman & Diu Naval Area convened in Porbandar to discuss and enhance their operational coordination concerning disaster relief efforts.

The meeting focused on establishing a robust, coordinated, and integrated response mechanism to effectively manage disaster relief operations in the region.

This strategic interaction allowed both Army and Naval leaders to align their resources and capabilities, ensuring a streamlined and efficient response to potential natural disasters.

The discussions highlighted the importance of inter-service cooperation and the need for a unified command structure during emergency situations to maximize the effectiveness of response efforts.

The initiative reflects a proactive approach in strengthening disaster preparedness and management, emphasizing the military’s commitment to safeguarding communities and enhancing resilience against natural calamities.

The leaders’ commitment to a collaborative response framework is a critical step forward in ensuring that the region is well-equipped to handle emergencies promptly and effectively.

The National Cadet Corps (NCC) of India launched its Youth Exchange Program in Hanoi, Vietnam, marking an exciting beginning to what promises to be a deeply enriching experience for the delegates involved. The program commenced with a series of cultural and diplomatic activities that underscored the significance of this international initiative.

Delegates had the opportunity to explore several key historical sites in Hanoi, including the Vietnam History Museum and the Temple of Literature, providing them with valuable insights into the rich heritage and traditions of Vietnam. These visits were not only educational but also instrumental in fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Vietnamese culture among the young cadets.

In addition to the cultural tours, the delegates engaged in important diplomatic interactions. They met with members of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, facilitating a meaningful exchange of ideas and perspectives between the youth of the two countries. The delegates also had the honor of meeting the Indian Ambassador to Vietnam, which added a significant diplomatic dimension to their visit.

The NCC India Youth Exchange Program aims to promote international friendship and cooperation through direct interaction and cultural exchange. This initiative is part of a broader effort to equip young Indians with a global perspective and strengthen international ties through youth diplomacy.

The program in Hanoi is just the beginning of what promises to be an ongoing series of engagements designed to enhance mutual understanding and collaboration between Indian youth and their international counterparts.

Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Southern Command, recently inaugurated the newly renovated P-79 building at Colaba Military Station, which now provides enhanced living quarters for 24 Other Ranks (ORs).

This upgrade was completed following special repairs carried out by the Military Engineer Services (MES), focusing on substantial improvements to the structure and facilities.

The renovation included structural repairs, plastering, new flooring installations, and modernizations of the kitchens and bathrooms, as well as roof repairs. These upgrades were designed to deliver superior quality and comfort, significantly elevating the living standards for the ORs stationed at Colaba.

During the inauguration, Lt Gen Seth expressed his appreciation for the efforts being made to enhance the standard of accommodation for ORs.

He highlighted the importance of providing quality living conditions to the personnel, recognizing that such improvements are crucial for the well-being and morale of the troops.

The project reflects the ongoing commitment of the Southern Command to improve the infrastructure and living conditions of its personnel, ensuring that they are provided with the resources and environment necessary to serve effectively.

Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Southern Command, recently visited the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Node at Cross Island, where he observed the ongoing watermanship training sessions.

These training exercises are particularly significant as they utilize the HADR Brick equipment provided by the State Government, enhancing the preparedness and response capabilities of the forces.

During his visit, Lt Gen Seth inspected the training infrastructure on the Island, taking note of the facilities and resources available to ensure effective training. He highlighted the vital role that such HADR training plays, especially considering the recent deployment of flood relief columns within the Area of Responsibility.

The general stressed the importance of these preparedness measures in enabling quick and efficient responses to natural disasters.

Lt Gen Seth’s visit underscores the importance of continuous training and readiness in disaster management and relief efforts.

His observations and insights are expected to further influence the enhancement of training programs, ensuring that the forces are better equipped to handle emergency situations, thereby contributing significantly to national security and disaster response initiatives.

Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi visited the headquarters of the Director General Border Roads (HQ DGBR) today, where he received updates on critical infrastructure projects and capacity development initiatives spearheaded by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

General Dwivedi expressed his appreciation for the BRO’s dedication to nation-building. He interacted with both officers and personnel, acknowledging their hard work and the pivotal role the BRO plays in the development of border areas.

The COAS’s visit underscores the strategic importance of the BRO’s projects and the Army’s support for their mission.

The efforts of the BRO are integral not only in terms of strategic military support but also in fostering socio-economic development in remote border areas, thus contributing significantly to national integration and development.

General Dwivedi’s visit highlights the ongoing collaboration between the Indian Army and the BRO, aimed at reinforcing infrastructure resilience along the borders.

Brigadier Rajesh Sharma has officially taken over as the Commandant of the Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO) Academy in Dhana. His appointment was warmly welcomed by Lieutenant General Devendra Sharma, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, and all ranks of the Army Training Command (ARTRAC).

The NCO Academy, Dhana, plays a crucial role in shaping the careers of non-commissioned officers, providing them with the training and skills necessary to excel in various facets of military operations.

Brig Rajesh Sharma’s leadership is expected to bring valuable insights and renewed vigor to the academy’s training programs.

Under his command, the academy is poised to continue its tradition of excellence and adapt to the evolving needs of modern military operations.

The entire ARTRAC community, led by Lt Gen Devendra Sharma, has extended their congratulations and best wishes to Brig Sharma, expressing confidence in his capabilities to lead the NCO Academy towards achieving greater heights in the future.