66th Territorial Army Day celebrated
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, October 09 2015 :
Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh felicitated all officers and other ranks of 165 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) (Home and Hearth), popularly known as the Manipur Terriers on the occasion of 66th Territorial Army Day on Friday.
The function organised by the State Government was held at the 1st Manipur Rifles Banquet Hall and was attended by Maj Gen PN Rao, SM, GOC HQ 57 Mountain Division, officers, troops and families of 165 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) (Home and Hearth) besides many civil dignitaries of Manipur Government. The genesis of the Territorial Army can be traced back to the first war of Independence in 1857 when a volunteer force was raised.
The Territorial Army was formally inaugurated by C Rajagopalachari, the first Governor General of free India on this day, October 9, 1949. Thus, October 9 is celebrated as the Territorial Army Day every year.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that it is a proud moment for the State of Manipur to felicitate the 'Citizens Army' and the Manipur Terriers is the first and only Territorial Army unit raised from the domiciles of Manipur.
Raising of this unit has given a direction and impetus to gainful employment of youth of the State and further their involvement in the development of the State by taking part in provision of security to its citizens.
He further remarked that the battalion has come a long way in helping the people of Manipur since its induction into the State in February 2007 and now has become an inseparable part of the security set-up of the State.
He lauded the Manipur Terriers for performing their tasks admirably and setting high standards in all their performances.
The Terriers are playing an important task of being an interface between the local populace and the Army and Assam Rifles units with distinction.
Lieutenant Colonel S Anup Singh, Officiating Commanding Officer of 165 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) (Home and Hearth) in his vote of thanks assured the Chief Minister of continuing the good work being done by the unit and in bridging the gap between the local populace and the security forces thus helping the security force to gain goodwill of the population.
PHED Minister I Hemochandra Singh was the president of function.
MP Dr Th Meinya Singh, Chief Secretary O Nabakishore Singh, DGP Shahid Ahmed, GOC 57 Mtn Divn Maj Gen PN Rao and many others also took part in the event.