Security and Skills: DG Assam Rifles Reviews Preparedness in Manipur’s Kakching
Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera visited Kakching Garrison to assess operational readiness and promote youth empowerment through skill training.
In a strategic move to bolster regional stability, Lieutenant General Vikas Lakhera, Director General of Assam Rifles, conducted a high-level visit to the Kakching Garrison in Manipur to assess security preparedness in Manipur and review the operational grid. Accompanied by Major General Gaurav Sharma, Inspector General of Assam Rifles (South), the DG’s visit focused on ensuring that the forces are fully equipped and ready to maintain peace in the region.
Boosting Troop Morale and Operational Readiness
During his assessment, Lt Gen Lakhera took a deep dive into the operational readiness of the troops stationed at the garrison. He spent time reviewing the security frameworks currently in place to handle potential challenges in the area.
The Director General expressed his appreciation for the personnel on the ground, praising the troops for their unwavering dedication, professionalism, and high morale. He emphasized that their commitment is crucial for the continued security and stability of the region.
Beyond Security: Empowering Local Youth
While the primary focus of the visit was security, Lt Gen Lakhera also highlighted the importance of social development and youth empowerment. As part of this vision, he visited the 'DAKSHATA DHAMA' Hospitality Skill Centre located within the garrison.
The DG interacted with 25 Commis Chef trainees, urging them to refine their skills and embrace the professional opportunities available to them. The 'DAKSHATA DHAMA' initiative is designed to provide local youth with industry-standard vocational training that is directly linked to assured employment, bridging the gap between skill acquisition and career stability.
Broader Security Context in Manipur
The visit comes amidst a period of heightened vigilance in the state. In a separate but significant development on October 25, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh visited the Sinai Camp in Khongbal Kuki village, located in the Kangpokpi district.
The Sinai Camp Raid
The Sinai Camp, which was a designated camp for the Kuki National Organisation (KNO)/Kuki National Army (KNA) and KNO/Kuki Liberation Army (KLA) under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, was recently taken over by joint security forces. This action followed a major operation involving the Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, CRPF, and CoBRA.
The security forces conducted a raid and cordoned off the camp after reports emerged of individuals impersonating cadres registered under the SoO agreement using fraudulent identities. During the operation, 18 people were detained for verification, and 17 were subsequently arrested for the alleged impersonation.
During his visit to the camp, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, accompanied by MLA Thokchom Radheshyam Singh, interacted with the security personnel and commended their efficiency in executing the operation and securing the facility.