SHILLONG, March 24: Assam Rifles, one of the oldest and most prestigious paramilitary forces in India, celebrated its 190th Raising Day with pride and solemnity at its headquarters in Shillong on Monday. The event marks nearly two centuries of dedicated service, valour, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders.
Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, DG Assam Rifles, along with all ranks of the force, paid homage at the War Memorial in Shillong to the Bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice in service to the nation. The DG addressed the force and complimented all ranks for their outstanding contribution in fighting insurgency in the North East and Kashmir.
A significant highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the prestigious DGAR Banner for the year 2023-24 to the top-performing units. Among the recipients, 36 Assam Rifles was awarded as the 2nd runner-up, 3 Assam Rifles as the 1st runner-up, and 4 Assam Rifles as the winner of the DGAR Banner 2023-24. These awards recognized the dedication, professionalism, and outstanding contributions made by various battalions and units in ensuring the security and stability of the region.
Over the course of the year, Assam Rifles has continued to prove its mettle in operations, receiving multiple accolades. Four battalions were honored with the Chief of the Army Staff Unit Citation, while six battalions received the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Unit Citation. Personnel from the force were awarded one Shaurya Chakra, eight Sena Medals, and 400 Presidential and Governor’s Medals. The force also excelled in sports, winning 254 national-level medals and 21 international-level medals in various events during 2024-25.
Assam Rifles has also been focused on modernizing its equipment profile, acquiring state-of-the-art weapons, surveillance, and protective gear to stay prepared for emerging challenges. The force remains deeply rooted among the people of the North East, continuing to provide a sense of security in the region as it moves toward greater development and prosperity.
The Assam Rifles continues to evolve to meet new challenges and live up to its motto and its role as the ‘Sentinels of the North East’.
