Dimapur: A total of 282 recruits, including 36 female recruits, were formally inducted into the Assam Rifles at an attestation parade held at the Assam Rifles Training Centre and School (ARTC&S) in Sukhovi, in Nagaland’s Chumoukedima district, on Saturday.
The recruits marched with impeccable rhythm and synchronisation during the special attestation parade, which marked the successful completion of their 44 weeks of rigorous training.
The training included battle craft, weapon handling, jungle lane shooting, and specialisation in counter-insurgency operations. The parade was led by Capt Anjali Kirola.
Addressing the recruits, Maj Gen JS Bainsla, ADG, Assam Rifles, highlighted the rich legacy of the Assam Rifles, the country’s oldest paramilitary force, and its multifaceted role in safeguarding the nation.
He emphasised the growing contribution of women soldiers, who have been inducted into frontline duties since 2015 and have demonstrated exemplary performance not only in the Northeast but also in Jammu & Kashmir, United Nations missions, and prestigious Republic Day parades in 2019 and 2023.
Bainsla noted that the presence of women soldiers in frontline roles strengthens security and advances the vision of a women-empowered India.
He congratulated the recruits and their parents on the successful completion of training and wished them success and happiness in all their future endeavours.
During the ceremony, recruits were also recognised for outstanding performance. The Overall Best Recruit (Best in Physical & Firing) award went to GD Appu Chakma, the Overall Second Best Recruit to GD (Mahila) T Maloti Devi, and the Best in Drill award to GD Bikash Mandal.