Itanagar, Dec 26 (NationPress) The Indian Army and the Assam Rifles on Friday successfully conducted a validation of troop insertion via helicopter at Vijaynagar in the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh, officials reported, showcasing improved operational readiness in this remote border region.

Defence spokesman Lt Col Mahendra Rawat stated that as part of a collaborative exercise between the Assam Rifles and the Indian Army, a rapid heli-borne insertion of troops was effectively executed in the strategically important Vijaynagar Salient.

This exercise focused on validating the rapid troop insertion capabilities while enhancing operational strategies in challenging and isolated terrains.

According to Lt Col Rawat, this meticulously planned operation showcased the forces' capability to rapidly deploy acclimatized troops into a simulated operational environment, demonstrating readiness to react promptly to emerging security threats.

Key aspects included speed, coordination, and precision, ensuring flawless execution under realistic conditions. “The troops exhibited a remarkable level of professionalism, flexibility, and combat preparedness throughout the exercise,” noted the spokesman.

This joint drill significantly improved operational reach and reinforced inter-force collaboration, underscoring the strong coordination and mutual understanding between the Assam Rifles and the Indian Army.

Such exercises are crucial for refining standard operating procedures, boosting interoperability, and strengthening collective response strategies in strategically important areas, as mentioned by Lt Col Rawat.

The Changlang District, adorned with scenic hills, is located in the southeastern part of Arunachal Pradesh, marking the easternmost boundary of India with Myanmar.

In a separate event, the Army held a Christmas celebration in the scenic hills of Menchuka in Arunachal Pradesh’s Shi-Yomi District on Thursday.

Lt Col Rawat described how the tranquil hills of Menchuka resonated with the spirit of Christmas, as educators from St. Francis de Sales (SFS) College, Aalo, embarked on a significant journey of faith, culture, and community bonding facilitated by the Indian Army.

Set against the stunning Himalayan landscape, this initiative reflected the Army's ongoing commitment to fostering harmony, mutual respect, and community engagement in remote frontier areas under Operation Sadbhavna.

The day began with a festive atmosphere at the Menchuka market, where seasonal decorations and local interactions set a celebratory tone.

The group then visited the local Church, where prayers and hymns marked a solemn observance of Christmas, reinforcing values of peace, compassion, and unity. Continuing their journey, visits to local Gompas added a significant cultural layer, symbolizing coexistence, tolerance, and the unique shared heritage of the region.

Moments of quiet reflection and interaction throughout the day deepened understanding among the visiting educators, local community members, and the Indian Army personnel involved.

This experience not only celebrated Christmas in its true essence but also highlighted the role of the Indian Army as a bridge connecting communities, cultures, and faiths in remote border areas.

The defence spokesman emphasized that this initiative reinforced the Army’s holistic approach to nation-building, which extends beyond security concerns by promoting cultural integration, emotional connections, and trust with local communities.

By facilitating such engagements, the Indian Army continues to strengthen social ties and affirm the message that development, harmony, and human values remain central to its role in frontier regions.

As Christmas was celebrated at the intersection of faith and the frontiers, the event left lasting impressions of warmth, goodwill, and shared joy, reaffirming that unity and compassion form the strongest foundations of national integration, as stated by Lt Col Rawat.