Assam Rifles Celebrates 191st Raising Day, Honours Legacy and Sacrifice

The Assam Rifles , India’s oldest paramilitary force with a history spanning 191 years , celebrated its 191st Raising Day on Tuesday. Director General Lt General Vikas Lakhera paid homage at the war memorial in Shillong , joining all ranks in remembering the brave personnel who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

Raised in 1835 as a frontier militia to protect India’s northeastern borders, the Assam Rifles, often called the “Sentinels of the Northeast” , has evolved into a highly professional force . Headquartered in Meghalaya , it plays a dual role : guarding India’s frontiers, particularly along the Indo-Myanmar border , and maintaining internal security in insurgency-affected areas of the northeast and Jammu & Kashmir .

Addressing the personnel, Lt Gen Lakhera commended their outstanding contributions to counter-insurgency operations, noting that the force had displayed exceptional operational excellence during 2025-26. In recognition, three battalions were awarded the Chief of the Army Staff Unit Citation , while four battalions received the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Unit Citation . The 8 Assam Rifles battalion was also conferred the title of “Bravest of the Brave” on Army Day 2026 .

In addition to operational duties, the force has contributed to community development , supporting healthcare, education, and infrastructure in the northeast, building trust and goodwill among local populations. It has also modernised its capabilities with advanced weapons, surveillance systems, and protective equipment to meet contemporary security challenges.

“As the region progresses towards greater development and prosperity , the Assam Rifles remains a cornerstone of peace and security , safeguarding India’s borders while protecting and supporting local communities,” the official added.