IGAR (South) interacts with villagers
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 03 2012:
IGAR (South) Maj Gen UK Gurung, accompanied by 26 Sector Assam Rifles Commander Brig Upendra Dwivedi visited Sajik Tampak in Chandel district today for which the villagers organised a gala cultural programme in honour of the dignitaries.
According to a PRO IGAR (S) release, group song by school children and a traditional dance by the youth club were the highlight of the Major general's visit.
Speaking on the occasion, Maj Gen Gurung, emphasised the synergy between the AR and locals which has led to peace and development returning to the area.
He also stated that in view of the recent visits by the study groups, namely the Kuki Research Forum and the joint group of DM College, Imphal and the Archeological Survey of India, very soon the motto "Terrorism to Tourism" will ring true in the Sajik valley.
He also lauded the participation of the villagers during the "Agro Fest" conducted by 35 AR in July last year and said that it was indeed encouraging to see that the locals had switched to alternate means of livelihood shunning poppy cultivation.
The IGAR (South) also presented piglets and chickens to some of the enterprising locals who had adopted these alternate means.
Addressing the school children, he said that they being the future, should study hard and participate in the development of the area.
In order to broaden their horizons, the Major General declared that a "National Integration Tour" for the school children will be organised by the Assam Rifles in the coming months.
Gen Gurung announced a financial grant of Rs.50,000 towards repair of the dilapidated foot bridge over the Kanalok river.
The proceedings were also witnessed by Nunghlung Victor, the newly elected MLA of Chandel.
The chiefs of Kana area expressed their gratitude for the efforts of the Assam Rifles in the area and pledged to work in close cooperation with Assam Rifles in combating insurgency and promoting peace in the area.