Distinguished officials and guests from the Assam Rifles, the security forces and the civil administration.

It is my great pleasure to be with you all at this Investiture Ceremony of the Governor’s Gold and Silver Medals to the Assam Rifles personnel. At the very outset, I congratulate all the recipients of the prestigious Medals.

The Assam Rifles is the oldest paramilitary force in India. In the North East, The Assam Rifles are popularly known as ‘Friends of the Hill People’, because of the tremendous work done for the safety and welfare of the local people. Particularly in Mizoram, the Assam Rifles is undertaking a huge role in curbing drug menace.

It is a matter of great satisfaction to know that 23 Sector Assam Rifles has recovered drugs worth several crores of rupees in the past one year. The Sector has seized multiple arms consignments and apprehended some dreaded insurgents in recent times.

The troops of Assam Rifles in Mizoram have also contributed socially by undertaking numerous Civic Action Projects for the local people. I applaud the Assam Rifles for having conducted various Health Camps by inviting expert and specialist doctors in Cardiology and others. My compliments to the DIG and all ranks of 23 Sector Assam Rifles for the excellent job. 

I have been given to understand that the present DIG, Assam Rifles (Mizoram Range) is getting posted out of the State. I wish him all the best in his future career. I would also like to convey my compliments to him for a successful tenure in the State.

For the recipients of the awards and their proud families and friends, today is especially significant. Anyone who has been the recipient of an award knows that it takes complete dedication and sincere hard work. It is also because of the support from your friends and families that you have been felicitated at this solemn ceremony. And so, I convey my heartiest congratulations to all those present here today. 

The Governor's Gold and Silver Medals are presented to the most deserving and meritorious personnel of the Assam Rifles. Earlier, the investiture ceremony for all Assam Rifles personnel was done at Shillong only, the Headquarters of the Assam Rifles. In recent times, the ceremony has now been done in the other States of North East India as well, where the Assam Rifles are present. It is my privilege to have the opportunity of handing over these awards at Raj Bhavan Mizoram for the very first time ever.

It is clear from the citations read today that the recipients have been awarded based on their meritorious actions. It is truly wonderful to have this opportunity to recognize the arduous responsibilities discharged by the individuals who have, in a variety of ways, contributed to the betterment of our Nation. 

I also congratulate the Commandant and all ranks of 2 Assam Rifles and 8 Assam Rifles Battalions on receiving the Governor's Unit Citation. The award of citation manifests the amount of efforts taken by all ranks of the Battalions in their professional assignments to uphold the dignity and sovereignty of our great Nation. I thank you for your contributions and congratulate you on receiving this recognition. I am fully confident that you will leave no stone unturned to discharge your valuable responsibilities in future too.

Once again, I congratulate all the recipients of the Governor's Gold Medal, Governor's Silver Medal and Unit Citations. I urge you to continue your noble service, and to use this achievement as an inspiration for even greater service to the Nation.

In conclusion, I commend the Assam Rifles for successfully organizing today's function.

Thank you.

Jai Hind.