SPEECH BY HER EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA, SHRIMATI PRATIBHA DEVISINGH PATIL, ON THE OCCASION OF THE 175TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS OF THE ASSAM RIFLES

New Delhi, 9th April 2010

Ladies and Gentlemen,

This year, the Assam Rifles, the oldest Para Military Force of our Nation, completes 175 years of their odyssey as the Sentinels of the North East. I am, indeed, very pleased to join you all on this momentous occasion.

It was on 24th March 1835, that the Assam Rifles was raised as the Cachar Levy. Today, it has grown into a strong and vibrant force, protecting our borders with vigil and determination. It has rendered invaluable service in guarding our frontiers and earned many laurels for its sterling contributions during its operational deployment in the 1962, 1965 and 1971 Wars. The Assam Rifles have also actively served overseas during the World Wars and along with the Indian peacekeeping Forces in Sri Lanka.

The Assam Rifles continue to render invaluable service in guarding our North East Frontiers and in maintaining internal security. They have played an important role in containing counter insurgency in the North East Region and in creating an atmosphere of security and peace. They have also contributed to ensuring peaceful elections in the region and thereby, strengthening democracy.

As President, I have been to the North East on two occasions, and will be going there again later this month. I have always looked at these visits as special. During my stays there, I have observed that this region of our country holds immense development potential. Every effort must be made to ensure that it is realized. Construction of good physical infrastructure as well as in enhancing the capacity of the people through education and skill building are tasks of high priority.

I am told that the Assam Rifles have been carrying out various civic action programmes for the welfare of the people in remote and inaccessible parts of the North East. They must continue to do so. Their long association with the region gives them a special understanding of its people, because of which they are referred to as "Friends of the Hill People". In recognizing the achievements of the Assam Rifles, the Nation also acknowledges the contribution of the Force in nation building, by assimilation of the people of the North East into the national mainstream.

For their selfless devotion, professionalism and courage, the Nation salutes them with a sense of gratitude and appreciation. I extend my good wishes to all members of the Assam Rifles' fraternity and wish them continued success in their future endeavours. I am certain that at this important milestone, the Force will renew its resolve to meet all challenges confidently and to contribute to the unity, prosperity and peace of our Nation with selfless devotion and dedication.

In conclusion, I once again congratulate the Director General of Assam Rifles and his team. I also complement all those who participated in presenting the cultural programme of the North East.

JAI HIND.