Tamenglong, March 25 2010: Zeliangrong community celebrated the 175th raising day of Assam Rifles together with the 11 Assam Rifle here at Tamenglong by participating series of events organised to commemorate the day.

Though the raising day falled on March 25, the 11 Assam Rifles posting here went on to organize 'Run for peace' for both boys and girls and 'Folk Dance Competition' in the district today.

On the last day of the event today, Commandant of the 11 Bn AR, Col PS Chhonkar sent out the message of peace and harmony.

'As friends of the hill people and sentinels of the North East we have come a long way in boosting a sense of confidence and lasting friendship with the people of Tamenglong.

In the recent past, there were times when the security environment in Tamenglong was so terrifying, full of uncertainty and diffidence that people even hesitated to contact the security forces," the commandant in his message said.

The people were petrified to move after dark.

Those, even thinking of visiting Tamenglong, were scared stiff with all sorts of stories of this place and had to drop the idea even before commencing their journey, stated the officer.

The environment of Tamenglong district is totally transformed today.

Once could smell the fragrance of peace and harmony rifle in the air.

Everyone including the young boys and girls and the old people, local or non locals roam freely in the beautiful and scenic Tamenglong and adding that the civil administration is gaining confidence in implementing various developmental activities for the people.

On the occasion of the anniversary the commandant asked all to take a pledge to continue to strive for peace and prosperity in the region and not allow anyone to disturb the tranquillity prevailing in Tamenglong.

"Let us all work for the betterment of the society and mankind as a whole and spread the message of 'peace and friendship' to one and all", the commandant added.

Hundreds of young boys and girls joined run for peace in early morning today where K Ratan Singh, Guingoubou and Keithiupou bagged first, second and third respectively in boy category, while Kungkamliu, Kakhanthailiu and Zian kamei bagged first, second and third respectively in girl category.

The first position holder was awarded with cash prizes of Rs.2000 and tract suit while the second and third position of the run for peace also award Rs.1000 and Rs.700 respectively.

In folk dance competition held here in the afternoon at Indoor Stadium in all ten clubs participating Zeliangrong Women Union Tamenglong, Chabagan Women Rural Development Society and Zeme Youth Club bagged first, second and third respectively.

A citation cash award to the position holders and consolation prizes were also given for all participants in folk dance competition.

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