Assam Rifles Director General Lieutenant General Vikas Lakhera visited key areas along the India-Myanmar border in Manipur to review security arrangements, inspect ongoing fencing work and assess operational preparedness amid continuing efforts to strengthen border management.
During his visit on October 28, Lakhera travelled to Moreh and Chongjang in Tengnoupal district, where he inspected important border crossing points and interacted with local residents. He emphasised the need for effective surveillance, heightened readiness and coordination to maintain security in the strategically important region.
Manipur’s 398-Kilometre Border Remains a Key Concern
Manipur shares an international boundary stretching approximately 398 kilometres with Myanmar. The border passes through five districts: Churachandpur, Tengnoupal, Chandel, Kamjong and Ukhrul.
Large sections remain unfenced, creating challenges for monitoring cross-border movement and addressing security concerns. Authorities have therefore been reviewing fencing progress and exploring ways to strengthen surveillance and coordination among agencies.
Lakhera’s visit formed part of a broader operational review intended to assess conditions on the ground and examine the progress of ongoing infrastructure work.
Government Pushes to Accelerate Fencing Work
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla recently reviewed the fencing project with senior officials and called for the remaining work to be expedited.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh also raised border-management concerns during a recent meeting of NITI Aayog in New Delhi. He stressed the importance of stronger surveillance systems and coordinated action to address challenges involving cross-border movement.
According to information presented by the Chief Minister, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs had completed fencing along 50 kilometres of the border, while work on another 80 kilometres was underway.
The progress figures underline the scale of the remaining task and the need for continued coordination between central and state authorities.
Operational Reviews Extend Across Manipur
During his visit, Lakhera also reviewed troop preparedness at Kakching Garrison. He was accompanied by Major General Gaurav Sharma, Inspector General of Assam Rifles (South).
The Assam Rifles chief additionally visited Somsai Garrison and the Tusom Company Operating Base in Ukhrul district, as well as Chassad Garrison in Kamjong district. These visits focused on operational readiness and the security situation in the state's border areas.
On Tuesday, Lakhera met Governor Bhalla at Lok Bhavan in Imphal to discuss the prevailing security environment, operational preparedness and coordination among security agencies.
In a separate development, Central Reserve Police Force Director General G.P. Singh held an operational review meeting with Lakhera to discuss security-related issues in Manipur.
Skill Development Also Features During the Visit
Alongside the security reviews, Lakhera visited the Dakshata Dhama Hospitality Skill Centre, where he interacted with 25 trainees preparing for careers as commis chefs.
He encouraged the trainees to pursue skill development and employment opportunities, highlighting the importance of vocational training for young people.
Focus on Border Management and Coordination
The series of visits comes as authorities continue working to strengthen border infrastructure and improve coordination among security agencies in Manipur.
Completing the fencing project, improving surveillance and maintaining operational preparedness remain important priorities for officials. The effectiveness of these measures will depend on sustained implementation and cooperation between the central government, state administration and security forces.
