Embodying the spirit of compassion and community bonding, Assam Rifles organised a series of heartfelt Christmas celebrations across multiple districts of Manipur, including Churachandpur, Ukhrul, Chandel, Tengnoupal, Bishnupur and Imphal. These initiatives, ranging from festive gatherings at IDP camps to outreach in remote border villages, were designed to strengthen the social fabric and spread festive cheer among diverse communities.
In Churachandpur, celebrations were held at the Dorcas IDP camp, Bijang Orphanage Home and Happiness Home in Lanva, reaching over 170 residents, including nearly 125 children. These events featured the distribution of gifts and sweets, creating an atmosphere of joy for those in relief centres and care homes. Simultaneously, officials and troops hosted a social evening for Civil Society Organisations at the Khuga Battalion Headquarters to honour local instructors and reinforce mutual trust.
The festive spirit extended to Ukhrul, where students and clergy from the Assam Rifles Centre of Educational Excellence participated in a vibrant programme of prayers, carols and traditional dance. Similarly, in the Nambol and Tengnoupal regions, the festivities reached St. John’s English High School and several remote habitations such as Ichum Kom and Sadu Chiru. Gifts and snacks were distributed to children and villagers, reinforcing the bond between the security forces and the local populace in the border areas.
The celebrations culminated in Chandel district with a two-day event at Sehlon, featuring cake-cutting ceremonies, church prayers for regional prosperity and cultural performances. In Sajik Tampak and Chakpikarong, personnel undertook door-to-door outreach to distribute hampers, while a festive fair at Saibol Joupi brought together village chiefs and authorities for carols and community bonfires. Such festivals play a pivotal role in healing and bringing people together, with these events acting as a catalyst for cultural harmony. By sharing in the festivities, the local populace and the approximately 250 personnel involved helped create an environment of hope, ensuring that the essence of Christmas—peace and goodwill—is felt at the grassroots level.
