In an investiture ceremony of the Assam Rifles, the Governor of Nagaland and Assam, Prof Jagdish Mukhi, awarded the Governor’s Gold and Silver medal to 16 Jawans of the Assam Rifles at Raj Bhavan, Kohima on 23 August 2022.
Addressing the ceremony, Mukhi expressed that he was glad to felicitate and award the brave soldiers of the paramilitary forces and said that the country needs a strong defence force not only for ensuring peace but also to safeguard the territorial integrity.
He briefed that Assam Rifles was the pioneer and the oldest paramilitary force of India, dating back to 1835 under the British Raj, raised under the name Cachar Levy. The present name of Assam Rifles has been used since 1917.
Mukhi expressed that Assam Rifles has been known for their dedication, sincerity, achievement and most importantly for the sacrifices made by the valiant officers and jawans in the country. The force has been doing a tremendous job not only in security but also in several other fields. He further stressed that the force played important roles in the two World Wars and is also taking roles in counter-insurgency operations, in maintaining law & order by helping civil administration in disaster management, and also in the socio-economic development of the far-flung areas.
Mukhi stated that the country needs an effective deterrence through a strong defence force which is essential for preserving peace in the march on the path of economic growth and as a nation, we should stand firmly committed to peace, stability and prosperity. The resilience and tenacity displayed by the nation’s forces while undertaking operational commitments as well as during disaster relief contingencies is a great source of strength and also a matter of immense pride for the nation, he added.
He also acknowledged the jawans for their selfless service towards the people and urged them to continue to strive for excellence with professional zeal and serve the nation selflessly to uphold the dignity and sovereignty of the nation.
Earlier, Mukhi felicitated the awardees and as a token of appreciation rewarded a cash of Rs 5000 each. Seven jawans were presented the Governor’s Gold Medal and nine other jawans with the Governor’s Silver Medal.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Maj Gen Vikas Lakhera, SM IG AR (North).
