T R Zeliang flags off AR tri-nation rally from Kohima

Kohima, Nov 14. (EMN): Chief Minister TR Zeliang flagged off the Assam Rifles’ Tri-nation (India, Bangladesh and Myanmar) Unity and Heritage Motorcycle Expedition on November 14 morning at HQ IGAR (N), Kohima. With the aim to foster force-to-force connection between border guarding forces of the three countries and also to spread the message of peace and brotherhood, a total of 33 riders are taking part in the expedition which was flagged off from Shillong on October 29 last. The riders would be covering an approximate distance of 2150 km across six north eastern states in India, including Meghalaya, Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland, and a stop-over in Bangladesh and Myanmar before it culminates on November 17 at Shillong. The riders reached Kohima on Nov. 13 evening, while they headed for Guwahati via Dimapur. Addressing the motorcyclists and Army officials at Captain Kenguruse hall, the CM regarded the expedition as a unique experience stating that “it is an outcome of special efforts put in by the Border Guarding Force to reach out to their counterparts in Bangladesh and Myanmar including the north east states.” “This expedition aims at fostering understanding and unity with the neighbouring countries,” Zeliang said maintaining that “the expedition was an excellent opportunity for the young riders not only to test their biking skills and endurance, but also to familiarise with the north eastern region and Nagaland.” He hoped that the experience will allow them (riders) to open up direct contact with the varied cultures and traditions which would help them understand the dynamics of the area and and further to help them serve the people of the north east. Apart from paying homage to the fallen heroes of World War II, 1971 war and establishing contact with ex-servicemen, war widows and their families, they have connected with local populace, youth and the students of the region to spread the message of brotherhood and peace through various cultural activities and interactions, the CM said while appreciating the riders and organisers for the effort they have rendered. The CM expressed happiness that the Assam Rifles has initiated this expedition to commemorate the “Unity Day” which is celebrated in the name of ‘Iron Man of India’, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first home minister of ‘free India’, who through his unflinching efforts had paved the way for unifying the princely states into one nation. Further, Zeliang congratulated the Assam Rifles for the good work being done across the state in not only enhancing security of the region, but also for contributing to the developmental process through civic action programme. Expedition leader Col. Pratyush Kumar Singh Gaur was hopeful that the expedition will strengthen brotherhood and unity among the people of NE region. Ministers Imkong L. Imchen, Dr. Niekiesalie Kire & E E Pangteang and Parliamentary Secretaries Toyang Changkong Chang, Dr. Neiphrezo Keditsu and Kropol Vitsu and IGAR (N) Maj. Gen. Sanjay Gupta also attended the flagging off ceremony among others. A press note from the AR informed that the expedition team reached Dimapur on Tuesday evening and the expedition will commence on Nov. 15 which will be flagged off by Member of Parliament (MP) Neiphu Rio from Kashiram Basti, Dimapur.