Imphal: Assam Rifles conducted a series of civic outreach initiatives, sports events and veteran welfare interactions across Bishnupur, Chandel and Tengnoupal districts of Manipur on 10 and 11 August 2026. The programs, organised in close coordination with local residents, aimed at fostering environmental sustainability, youth development, patriotic fervour, and security awareness in the run-up to the 80th Independence Day celebrations.
The outreach commenced on 10 August 2026 at Maibum in Bishnupur district, where Assam Rifles joined hands with the local population for an extensive environmental conservation drive. The tree plantation initiative brought together 20 Assam Rifles personnel alongside 15 local youth, 15 women, and prominent village members to plant 75 saplings. The planting was carried out systematically in designated zones with meticulous soil preparation and spacing to ensure maximum survival rates. Interactive awareness sessions were held alongside the drive to highlight the ecological significance of native plant species and to promote sustainable land practices for enhancing regional biodiversity and air quality.
Continuing the momentum on 11 August 2026, Assam Rifles organised a 10.2 km patriotic ‘Tiranga Run’ mini marathon at Chakpikarong sub-division in Chandel district to mark the countdown to Independence Day. Flagged off at 0530 hours from the Chakpikarong Public Playground, the run saw dynamic participation from over 98 local youth, including students and teachers of Kendriya Vidyalaya Chakpikarong, Territorial Army aspirants, sports enthusiasts, and Assam Rifles personnel running shoulder-to-shoulder with the National Flag. Dedicated medical teams provided comprehensive support along the route. The event reinforced physical fitness, national pride, and civil-military harmony, earning warm appreciation from the teaching faculty of Kendriya Vidyalaya Chakpikarong for providing constructive platforms to the local youth.
Simultaneously on 11 August 2026, an Ex-Servicemen meeting was convened at the Ex-Servicemen Welfare Association Office in Moreh, Tengnoupal district. The platform enabled direct interaction with veterans to address welfare concerns and streamline support mechanisms. In a poignant gesture of gratitude, special welfare assistance was presented to Rifleman Shatri Dhan Thapa of 4 Assam Rifles, a 104-year-old Second World War veteran, acknowledging his historic service to the nation. The meeting also focused on local security preparedness, with veterans pledging their active cooperation to ensure peace and harmony during the forthcoming national celebrations.
Together, these initiatives in Maibum, Chakpikarong, and Moreh reflect a unified effort to uplift local communities, empower the youth, honour military heritage, and promote environmental resilience across Manipur.
