Ukhrul, Manipur: In a gesture underscoring the enduring bond between the armed forces and veterans, the Inspector General of Assam Rifles (South), operating under the Spear Corps of the Indian Army, engaged with ex-servicemen in the northeastern state of Manipur on March 14, 2026.
The interaction, held in Ukhrul, brought together 32 veterans from the district and surrounding villages. The meeting served as a platform to acknowledge their service, understand their concerns, and reinforce the military’s continued commitment to the welfare of former personnel.
As part of the visit, a solemn wreath-laying ceremony was conducted at the Shangshak War Memorial in Shangshak. The tribute honored the martyrs of the historic Battle of Shangshak—a fierce engagement during World War II that remains a defining chapter in the region’s military history.
The ceremony paid homage to the soldiers who laid down their lives in 1944, highlighting the enduring legacy of sacrifice that continues to inspire present-day forces. Military officials emphasized that such commemorations are vital in preserving historical memory while instilling a sense of pride and continuity among serving personnel and veterans alike.
The outreach reflects a broader effort by the Indian Army and its affiliated formations to maintain close ties with ex-servicemen, particularly in strategically significant and remote areas. By combining community engagement with acts of remembrance, the initiative reinforces both social cohesion and the institutional ethos of honoring valour and sacrifice.
As India continues to navigate complex security challenges, such engagements serve as a reminder that the strength of its armed forces lies not only in operational readiness but also in the enduring relationships forged across generations of service.
contact: drrajeshjauhri@gmail.com
Dr Rajesh Jauhri is a Journalist with an experience of over 25 years in Indian and foreign media, a Social Scientist, an Ac-complished Author, a Political & Strategic Analyst, a Marksman (Rifle & Pistol), an Orator, a Thinker and an Educationist. He holds a Ph.D. degree on “Impact of colonial heritage on Indian police”. He runs an NGO dedicated to the social and eco-nomic uplift of tribal communities in MP and two decades back, he established a school in a village of Indore district, providing education and moral values to children belonging to underprivileged and minority families. Has received multiple awards in various fields.
