Minister of DoNER, Culture & Tourism Shri G. Kishan Reddy today addressed the 188th Raising Day ceremony of Assam Rifles in Shillong

Minister of DoNER, Culture & Tourism Shri G. Kishan Reddy today addressed the 188^th Raising Day ceremony of Assam Rifles in Shillong today as Chief Guest. Shri Kishan Reddy said that Assam Rifles has an unparalled heritage of gallantry since 1835 and holds a distinction of having been bestowed the most number of gallantry awards. He further added that this unique distinction has been made possible through the supreme sacrifice of the Brave hearts of the Force in the line of duty.

Minister said that Prime Minister of India during his speech from the ramparts of Red Fort has heralded the dawn of "Amrit Kaal" and enlightened the road map of progression of the nation. He further added that it is Vision of Hon'ble Prime Minister that in this Amrit Kaal, the North East region will be established as the growth engine of India. In line with this vision, a new era has begun in the North East region and development has grown rapidly in all sectors, be it infrastructure, connectivity, peace and stability, he added. Minister said that over 8000 Armed Cadres surrendered and joined the mainstream and several peace accords have been signed under the leadership of Prime Minister.

Shri Kishan Reddy outlined various achievements of the government in the region. He said that in the past 9 years over 5 lakh crores have been spent to ensure that development in the region continues unabated and several mega connectivity projects such as 17 new airports, ongoing road projects worth 1.05 Lakh, and ongoing rail projects worth Rs 77,930 Crores etc. today every sector is being expedited in the North East to open up numerous opportunities of growth for the people.

He said that Assam Rifles has a major contribution in achieving this new paradigm for the North East Region. He further added that this era of peace has enabled us to realize the real potential of North East Region and added that we can now confidently showcase our strengths in different sectors to the world community during the various G20 summits being held across North Eastern States. He also said that these G20 conferences being held across the region, will help position the Ashtalakshmi States as Growth centres of India.

Minister also lauded the efforts of the force during disaster management operations and appreciated the fact the force has been deputed as a unit of NDRF due to their rare show of strength and team work during such times. Shri G. Kishan Reddy also appreciated Assam Rifle efforts for combating Drug trafficking and smuggling of other contraband in the region.

Shri G. Kishan Reddy exhorted the rifle women of the force and lauded their contributions not just in India but in peacekeeping forces across the world and becoming symbols of India's Nari Shakti. He further said that Assam Rifles has on many occasions gone beyond the call of duty and have enthusiastically participated in various civic action projects such as medical camps, women empowerment schemes, national integration tours etc. These engagements have massively helped the local population, he added.

Minister said that the force is rightly called the 'Sentinels of North East' and 'Friends of the Hill People' for dedication, passion and sacrifices made for security and stability in the region.

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MG/RNM/RK