DIMAPUR — The 9th NAP (IR) Battalion, popularly known as ‘Daring Nine’ celebrated its 25th anniversary on March 1 at its battalion headquarters, Saijang in Peren district, with the Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order), Sandeep Tamgadge, as the chief guest.
An update from 9 NAP (IR) PRO stated that the commemorative event began with wreath laying ceremony at the Memorial Park led by the chief guest, senior officers and families of the martyrs. It was followed with inauguration of the newly constructed Jubilee Park, a collaborative effort of the unit, which features an amphitheatre dedicated to both past and present members of the battalion.
The programme was chaired by deputy commandant, Shouka Kakheto, while the dedicatory prayer was said by the unit pastor, Rev. Rukuveyi Nienu, and a welcome address was delivered by commandant, V Alo John.
A solemn moment of silence was observed in memory of the fallen heroes followed with unveiling of the jubilee memento and souvenir book detailing the battalion’s proud history and achievements.
The special guest and unit’s raising commandant, L Bendang Lemtur, shared insights into the early challenges and resilience of the battalion, encouraging the continuation of its legacy.
It stated that the chief guest commended the battalion’s significant and primary role, which resulted the beginning of the downfall of the left-wing extremism, particularly highlighting its impactful deployment in Chhattisgarh. He also underlined the unit’s important role as a benchmark for subsequent IR units to emulate and follow.
The Jubilee Morung, commemorating the service of past commandants over the last 25 years was inaugurated by Bendang Lemtur.
The event also saw the release of the unit’s anthem and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Kilemtoshi Jamir, deputy commandant.
The musical extravaganza in the evening featured captivating performances by the Mahila Band and comedian Michael Ketz.
Several past commandants, officers, families of martyred personnel and current members of the unit attended the celebration.
Also read: Down memory lane as ‘Daring Ninth’ prepare to mark 25th raising day
