Army Chief reviews Eastern Theatre security, operational preparedness during two-day visit

Imphal, July 29 (IANS): Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Dhiraj Seth concluded a two-day visit to formations under the Eastern Theatre on Wednesday, during which he reviewed the prevailing security situation, assessed operational preparedness, and evaluated ongoing initiatives aimed at fostering peace, stability and development across the region, officials said.

A defence spokesman said that during the visit, the COAS reviewed the prevailing security situation, vigilance, operational preparedness and ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting lasting peace, stability and development across the region. The Army Chief was also given an update on ongoing flood relief operations.

The spokesman said that General Seth on Tuesday reviewed the security situation in Manipur and the operational preparedness of Inspector General Assam Rifles (South), Inspector General Assam Rifles (East) and the Red Shield Division of the Army. He reviewed the coordinated efforts of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles towards maintaining a secure and stable environment in the state.

The Army Chief also witnessed the extensive nation-building and community outreach initiatives being undertaken by the formations and Assam Rifles. He interacted with troops deployed in the area and commended them for their professionalism, dedication and steadfast commitment under challenging conditions.

According to a post on the X handle of the Army's Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) on Tuesday, the Chief of the Army Staff also interacted with troops and exhorted them to remain vigilant, operationally agile and future-ready to effectively address evolving security challenges while continuing to contribute towards lasting peace and stability in the region.

General Seth also attended the inaugural ceremony of the Imphal leg of the 135th Indian Oil Durand Cup at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium in Imphal.

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh and other senior civil and military dignitaries were present on the occasion.

The Durand Cup, popularly known as Desh Ka Cup, continues to serve as an important platform for nurturing sporting talent and fostering national integration.

The presence of the COAS reaffirmed the Indian Army’s commitment to promoting sport as a means of uniting communities, engaging the youth and strengthening the enduring bonds between the people of the Northeast and Indian football.

“The visit culminated with a security review of Dao Division and Spearhead Division on Wednesday. The COAS was briefed on the operational environment and the formations’ preparedness and ongoing flood relief operations. He exhorted all ranks for the support being extended to the civil administration,” the spokesman said.

He noted that the visit underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to maintaining operational readiness, promoting peace, stability and aid to the civil authorities across the Northeast.

A Raj Bhavan official said that on the first day of his two-day visit to Manipur, General Seth, accompanied by the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Eastern Command, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 3 Corps, and the Inspector General of Assam Rifles (South), called on Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at Raj Bhavan in Imphal.

During the meeting, they discussed the prevailing security situation and other key issues related to the state's security, the official said.