In a first, ICG ties up with Assam Rifles to familiarise operation, strategies of defence forces

As many as 60 personnel, including women, from third battalion (Naga Hills) of Assam Rifles have visited the city and participated in the affiliation ceremony held on board coast guard ship ICGS Shaurya.

A coast guard official said that the battalion would stay in Chennai for three days and would learn about the over-sea operation of the coast guard. The affiliation event is followed by a charter of affiliation signed by the director generals of ICG and Assam Rifles on May 22.

Additional Director General VSR Murthy said that for the first time, a land-based force and marine-based force operate together. “They would have their own experiences and ethos. This will increase understanding between the two forces,” he said.

During the event, postmaster general, Chennai city region R Anand released a special postal cover to mark the event. Also, Lieutenant General Sukhdeep Sangwan, director general of Assam Rifles participated in the event.

Meanwhile, an ICG statement said that the objective of the affiliation is to promote bilateral cooperation between the ICG and Assam Rifles in exchanging information and personnel, build up camaraderie and utilize one another’s asset for training. The affiliation came into effect soon after the charter was signed and it would be permanent.

The third battalion of Assam Rifles is one of the oldest battalions in the country that was raised in 1853 and is guarding the easternfrontier.