IMPHAL, July 30: Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi paid a day-long visit to Manipur on Wednesday to assess the security situation and operational preparedness of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles formations deployed across the state. The visit comes amid ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur, which have persisted since May 2023 despite various peace initiatives by the Centre and the State government.

According to Defence spokesperson Lt Col Mahendra Rawat, General Dwivedi was briefed on the ground realities and the multiple ongoing efforts aimed at restoring peace and normalcy in the region. The Army Chief commended the troops for their professionalism, resilience, and commitment in handling complex and sensitive operations in challenging environments.

During his visit, General Dwivedi also met with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at Raj Bhavan. The two discussed the prevailing security landscape and developmental priorities, underlining the importance of coordinated efforts between the civil administration and the armed forces in fostering long-term peace and progress in the state.

General Dwivedi will also attend the opening ceremony of the 134th edition of the Durand Cup at Khuman Lampak Stadium in Imphal. This marks the prestigious tournament’s return to the state after two years. Ahead of the Group F match featuring local teams NEROCA FC and TRAU FC, the Army Chief is scheduled to interact with players and officials.

The event will include cultural programmes, military displays, aerial demonstrations by Army Aviation, Special Forces skydiving, and musical performances by pipe and symphony bands. The activities aim to showcase Manipur’s cultural vibrancy while reinforcing the spirit of unity, youth empowerment, and civil-military synergy.

Earlier this month, Lt Gen Ram Chander Tiwari, Eastern Command Chief, along with Lt Gen Abhijit S. Pendharkar, GOC Spear Corps, and Maj Gen Ravroop Singh, IGAR (South), also briefed the Governor on the security situation, reflecting continued high-level attention on the region’s stability and development.