Investiture ceremony of the Assam Rifles personnel was graced by the Governor La. Ganesan at Dr. Imkongliba Ao Hall, Raj Bhavan Kohima on 21st October 2023.
The Governor felicitated the meritorious Assam Rifles personnel with Gold and Silver medal and the appreciation certificates to AR Units for their distinguished service and devotion to duty. He said that this ceremony signifies the spirit of service, bravery, and commitment that the Armed Forces of our country embodies.
The Governor stated that the Assam Rifles has profoundly shaped the fabric of our nation's defence as the oldest paramilitary force of our country. He mentioned that their role in safeguarding our frontiers, particularly in the challenging terrains of the North-East region of India is commendable in fortitude itself. He also said that they have also played a significant role towards peace and prosperity in the region and had worked in close coordination with various other organizations and departments.
The Governor appreciated their proactive and people friendly approach which is indeed commendable. Over the years, they have constantly proved themselves to be the ‘Friends of the Hill People’.
Addressing to the brave medal awardees, the Governor said that that their exceptional service and heroism do not just make them recipients of these prestigious awards, but it underscores their undeniable commitment to our great nation. He said that their valor serves as a beacon of inspiration for all. He added that these awards are indeed apt recognition of their sustained hard work, perseverance and always keeping Service before Self.
The Governor urged them to renew their commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity of Nagaland, and India as a whole through collective strength and unity.
The Governor handed over 30 Individual Awards and 4 unit Appreciation Certificates. The Awards were consisting of 17 Governor’s Gold medal and 13 Governor’s Silver medal. The awardees were from the 1AR, 23 AR, 28 AR and 41 AR units. The commandants from four unit, Col. SBB Sharma, Col. Viplove, Col Deval Dixit, R M Tripathi, officers, lady wives, IGP (INT) K. Martin Pienyu, IPS, Deputy Director SIB, Kohima, Don K Jose IPS and other officials from different department attended the program.
Maj Gen. Vikas Lakera, IGAR (North), acknowledged the Governor for sparing his valuable time and also thanked the organizers of the programme. He mentioned that the weapon is to save life and not to kill. Therefore, he assured to the Governor that they will stand and commit to their duty for the cause of the people of the Nagaland and the Nation as a whole.
(PRO Raj Bhavan)
