Shillong:
A batch of 868 women recruits took part in the Assam Rifles passing-out parade at the Assam Rifles Centre and School, Dimapur, Nagaland, on March 2.
Led by Maj Sita Shelke, the parade was reviewed by Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Brigadier (Retd) B D Mishra in the presence of Director General Assam Rifles Lt Gen PC Nair, AVSM, YSM, and other senior officers of the Indian Army and the Assam Rifles.
The parade marks the completion of 44-weeks of gruelling training in warcraft, weapons handling, jungle lane shooting and other specialisations in counter-insurgency operations.
While addressing the recruits, Governor Mishra highlighted the multifaceted history of the Assam Rifles as the oldest paramilitary force in the country and its diversified roles through the years. He also called on the fresh female recruits to serve the nation faithfully and to keep track of emerging technologies.
Mishra also added that he was pleased to be attending this unique passing out parade and noted that this was perhaps the “largest number of Mahila recruits passing out from any academy or training centre in the country.”
Presently, the Assam Rifles has 36 Rifle Women deployed in the Kashmir Valley and more than 34 have served in the UN Mission at Golan Heights, Israel (UNDOF) and Congo (MONUSCO). Their presence at the frontline not only instils a sense of security amongst the local women and children but also enhances the image of the country as a pro-woman country.
These new recruits will now join their assigned units and participate in all frontline duties and serve the country dutifully.