The Assam Rifles have taken a noble way to foster peace and harmony in Manipur. The NIT encompassing the youth leaders of the state was a significant milestone towards promoting national unity and youth empowerment. It was stated by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, who flagged in the 10-day National Integration Tour at New Keithelmanbi Garrison today.
The ceremony was conducted in the presence of senior officials from the Assam Rifles and Police, parents, and participants of the tour.
The National Integration Tour, organized under Operation Sadbhavana by 33 Assam Rifles, commenced with a flag-off ceremony on 03 March 2026 by Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh.
24 youths comprising boys and girls from Imphal, Thoubal, Noney, and Kangpokpi districts travelled from Imphal to Kolkata, where they experienced communal harmony during Ramadan Iftar at Zakaria Street, enjoyed a ferry ride on the Hooghly River, and visited iconic landmarks including Howrah Bridge and Millennium Park.
The participants reached Thiruvananthapuram by train on March 6, where they interacted with the Governor of Kerala and visited prominent cultural, scientific, and scenic locations, including the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Vizhinjam Lighthouse, and Kovalam Beach.
On March 8, the group visited Pangode Military Station and the Priyadarshini Planetarium and proceeded to Kanyakumari, witnessing the southernmost tip of mainland India and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial.
The tour further extended to Mumbai, where the participants experienced the iconic Mumbai local trains and visited the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Marine Drive, and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link.
The tour concluded in Kolkata with an interaction with senior officials at Command Headquarters, Eastern Command, of the Indian Army.
Addressing the gathering, the governor lauded the Assam Rifles for its people-centric approach and unwavering commitment towards nurturing harmony and national integration. He highlighted that such integration tours play a vital role in broadening the horizons of youth, instilling confidence and fostering unity in diversity. He also appreciated the emphasis laid on encouraging girl participants, describing them as key agents of social transformation.
In his welcome address, the Deputy Inspector General Assam Rifles (South) underscored the importance of the tour in conveying the message of peace and cultural harmony.
He described the participants as ambassadors of peace and expressed confidence that the lifelong bonds formed between Assam Rifles and participants would continue for eternity.
The National Integration Tour stands as a testament to the Assam Rifles’ enduring role beyond security, reinforcing its commitment to nation-building, youth empowerment, and strengthening the bond with the people of Manipur.
