International Relations GS 2 In the news 8 times

Assam Rifles

India's Oldest Paramilitary Force

The Assam Rifles is India's oldest paramilitary force, with origins traceable to 1835 when it was raised as the Cachar Levy by the British to maintain law and order in the Northeast frontier. Currently, it operates under the dual administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of Defence (MoD), with operational control resting with the Army.

Key details

Assam Rifles motto: "Friends of the Hill People"
Headquarters: Shillong, Meghalaya
Primary duties: counter-insurgency in the Northeast, border management along the India-Myanmar border, and aid to civil authority.
The Assam Rifles has participated in UN peacekeeping missions and international ceremonial engagements, reflecting its status as a frontline force.
It is among the few paramilitary forces regularly deployed for diplomatic and ceremonial representation abroad.

In the news

● Tracked since June 28, 2026 · last seen July 15, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes

15 Jul '26

Stone pelting, arson, teargas as mob targets Assam Rifles camp in Manipur

Internal Security

15 Jul '26

Mob vandalises Assam Rifles camp, torches vehicles after search operation conducted in Manipur

Internal Security

06 Jul '26

2 Assam Rifles soldiers killed in militant ambush in Manipur's Ukhrul, several injured

Internal Security

06 Jul '26