Union minister Kiren Rijiju today said the Assam Rifles plays a significant role by providing security to the northeastern region which is important due to its strategic location.
The minister of state (MoS) for home affairs while speaking at the attestation parade at the Assam Rifles Training Centre and School at Sukhovi in Dimapur highlighted the antecedents of the Assam Rifles as the oldest paramilitary force of the country and its diversified role ranging from security to providing welfare, and developmental assistance to the people.
Appreciating the role played by Assam Rifles in ensuring security, peace and development of the northeastern region, Rijiju complimented the Assam Rifles for their professional commitment and excellence, which he said, has been aptly illustrated by the laurels and the gallantry awards won by the force.
The MoS also asked the personnel to keep up the good name of the force keep the Assam Rifles flag flying high in the true spirit of it being the "Sentinels of the North East" and "Friends of the Hill People".
The minister also witnessed the training activities of 'Mahila' recruits in the centre insurgency training area where the recruits displayed their weapon handling and fighting skills.
Earlier, he also presented awards to the passing out recruits for their performance during training.
All together 233 new recruits, including 22 'Mahilas' were inducted into the force.