National Integration Tour - Hyderabad leg
Youths visit MCEME, IAF Academy, enjoy tank ride
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 11 2025: As part of its efforts to foster national integration and broaden the horizons of Maipur's youth, Assam Rifles organised a National Integration Tour (NIT) for 20 young participants from the State.

The tour was flagged off by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on January 8, 2025, said a release issued by HQ IGAR(South).

The tour, which is scheduled to conclude on January 16, 2025, aims to provide the participants with exposure to India's military, sports, and technological advancements.

On January 10, 2025, the participants began their Hyderabad leg of the journey with remarkable enthusiasm, despite a late-night arrival.

The day's itinerary was designed to inspire and educate the youth, offering them invaluable insights into India's defense and sporting infrastructure.

The tour commenced with a visit to the Military College of Electronics and Mechanical Engineering (MCEME), where the youth explored the Cadet Training Wing and gained exposure to the technological advancements in the Indian Army.

The highlight of the visit was an interaction with Lieutenant General Neeraj Varshney, VSM, Commandant of MCEME, who shared valuable insights into the evolving role of technology in modem warfare.

The group then proceeded to Headquarters 54 Infantry Division, where they were briefed on the Division's illustrious history, particularly its contributions during Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka.

The youth had an engaging interaction with Brigadier Maheshwar Singh, Deputy General Officer Commanding (Dy GOC) of HQ 54 Infantry Division, who inspired them with stories of valor and dedication.

In the afternoon, the participants visited the Indian Air Force Academy at Dundigal.

They received an overview of the Air Force's rigorous training programs and interacted with Flight Cadets.

They also had the privilege of meeting Air Marshal S Shrinivas, AVSM, VSM, Commandant of the IAF Academy, and touring the Air Traffic Control and hangar facilities, further deepening their understanding of India's aerial defense capabilities.

The group later visited the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy, where they were introduced to worldclass sports training facilities.

They had an opportunity to interact with K Srikanth, the former World No 1 badminton player, who shared his inspirational journey and words of encouragement with the young participants.

The day concluded with an exciting tank ride at the Bison Division, providing the youth a hands-on experience of the Indian Army's armored capabilities.

Notably, the National Integration Tour is a commendable initiative by Assam Rifles to instill national pride and unity among the youth of Manipur.

By exposing them to India's rich military heritage and cutting-edge sports and technological institutions, the tour aims to inspire them to contribute to the Nation's growth and development.

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