Assam Rifles has undertaken a series of community outreach initiatives across Manipur, reinforcing its engagement with local communities through civil-military interaction programmes, security meetings and healthcare services in Tengnoupal, Kamjong and Kakching districts.
Community Outreach Programme Held at Kwatha:
As part of its efforts to strengthen civil-military relations and promote community engagement in border areas, Assam Rifles organised an outreach programme titled “A Day with Company Commander” at Kwatha in Tengnoupal district on August 2.
The programme witnessed the participation of 215 villagers, including students, youth, women and community leaders. During the interactive session, residents engaged with the Company Commander on issues concerning local development, peace-building, responsible citizenship and youth empowerment through education and civic participation.
The event also featured recreational and sporting activities such as a friendly volleyball match, balloon burst, sack race, jalebi catch, spoon-and-lemon race, musical chairs and tug of war. According to Assam Rifles, the activities were aimed at promoting teamwork, strengthening community ties and fostering mutual trust between security personnel and local residents.
Security Interaction Meetings Conducted in Kamjong:
Assam Rifles also organised a series of Security Interaction Meetings across Kamjong district from August 1 to 3 at the Kasom Khullen, Kasong and Sorde Company Operating Bases (COBs).
The meetings, chaired by senior Assam Rifles officials, were attended by 44 civilian representatives, including village headmen, village secretaries and members of civil society organisations.
During the discussions, officials emphasised the importance of cooperation between security forces and local communities in maintaining peace, law and order and preventing unlawful activities. They also explained the operational framework of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), stating that it governs security operations in notified disturbed areas. Officials reiterated that all operations are conducted with professionalism, restraint, transparency, accountability and respect for citizens’ rights and dignity.
Participants appreciated the force’s continued engagement with local communities and shared suggestions to further strengthen cooperation for peace, stability and development in the district.
Medical Camp Benefits 167 Residents in Kakching:
On August 3, Assam Rifles organised a comprehensive medical camp in Kakching district to provide essential healthcare services to local residents, including wards of serving soldiers.
A total of 167 beneficiaries received medical consultations, specialised treatment and diagnostic services. The camp was conducted by a combined team comprising two doctors and three nursing assistants from the security forces, along with civilian specialists including a gynaecologist, microbiologist, paediatrician, ophthalmologist and dentist.
Healthcare services included laboratory investigations, refractive error screening, diabetes-related nerve conduction and peripheral neuropathy screening, and the distribution of free medicines.
The camp also featured an HIV awareness session conducted by Dr. Bijendra Yengkhom, Officer-in-Charge of the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP), Kakching District. Voluntary HIV screening was subsequently carried out by NACP personnel with the written consent of participants.
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the healthcare services provided during the camp. Assam Rifles stated that such initiatives are part of its ongoing efforts to support the well-being of communities and strengthen its engagement with residents across the region.
