AR honours bravehearts with community-driven initiatives
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 30 2025: In a tribute to its fallen bravehearts and a resolute step towards environmental stewardship, two solemn and impactful events unfolded in Manipur on September 29 & 30, 2025 .

According to a release issued by the IGAR (South), more than 100 Assam Rifles personnel participated in these commemorative and community-driven initiatives, reflecting the enduring spirit of service and sacrifice.

On September 29, a tree plantation programme was organised at Ishok Ching, Nambol in Bishnupur District as part of Sewa Parv 2025 and the Nation First @75 Campaign.

Conducted in collaboration with the Forest Department, the event saw the planting of 1,800 saplings, including Jamun, Bahera, and Champa�species chosen for their ecological and aesthetic value.

The drive aimed to promote sustainable living and encourage active community participation in conservation efforts.

In a moving gesture, trees were planted in memory of Naib Subedar Shyam Gurung and Rifleman Ranjeet Singh Kashyap of Assam Rifles, who laid down their lives in the line of duty on September 19, 2025 .

Their sacrifice was honoured through these living memorials, symbolising courage, continuity, and commitment to the nation.

The ceremony was graced by RK Sadananga Singh, Village Head of Ishok; Waikhom Romabai, Range Forest Officer, Bishnupur Forest Department; T Meenakshi Devi, Divisional Forest Officer, HQ Forest Department Manipur; and H Geetachandra Sharma, Range Forest Officer, Moirang Range.

Troops of Assam Rifles, forest officials, and villagers came together in a collective pledge to nurture a greener future, reinforcing the shared values of unity and environmental responsibility.

Continuing the spirit of remembrance, a wreath-laying ceremony was held by Assam Rifles on September 30 at Modi village, Chandel District to honour Rifleman Martoba Ao, who made the supreme sacrifice during an ambush at Kakching on the same day in 2007.Despite sustaining grievous injuries, Rifleman Ao held his ground with unwavering resolve until he succumbed to his wounds.

His valour and devotion to duty remain etched in the legacy of the Force.

Floral tributes were offered, and a moment of silence observed by all ranks in solemn remembrance.

These back-to-back tributes - one rooted in nature, the other in memory - stand as enduring symbols of Assam Rifles' commitment to honouring its martyrs and fostering harmony with the people of Manipur.

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