Shillong, Nov 26 (NationPress) - On Wednesday, Meghalaya's Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma graced the attestation parade for the 6th batch of Agniveers at the Assam Regimental Centre located in Happy Valley. This event celebrated the successful culmination of 31 weeks of rigorous military training for the young recruits as they officially joined the Indian Army.

A total of 783 trainees participated in the grand ceremony, comprising 274 Agniveers and 509 Territorial Army recruits, all of whom commenced their challenging training on May 1.

This Agniveer batch represented a variety of communities, including Naga/Kuki (8), Mizo/Lushai (2), Assamese/Kachari (20), Arunachali (18), and 226 youths from other regions of the North East, showcasing the area's enduring connection to the armed forces and its rich martial heritage.

Chief Minister Sangma took the time to review the parade, which featured an impressive march-past, the presentation of Regimental Colours, the trooping of the National Flag, and the solemn administration of the oath to the recruits.

During the event, select parents were honored with the ‘Gaurav Padak’ in acknowledgment of their invaluable contribution and support to the nation through their children's service.

In his address, Sangma paid tribute to the Assam Regiment’s commendable history, recalling its establishment in Shillong on June 15, 1941, and its significant role in combat against Japanese forces during the Second World War.

Describing the occasion as a moment of pride for both the recruits and the region, he emphasized that these young soldiers have now become integral members of one of the most esteemed regiments of the Indian Army.

Highlighting the challenges ahead, he noted that soldiers would face deployment in extreme weather conditions in high-altitude and remote border areas.

Sangma encouraged the recruits to embody the regiment’s motto, 'Asam Vikram', and always uphold the fundamental values of the Army: duty, sacrifice, discipline, and patriotism.

He also congratulated the families present and commended the dedication and commitment of the instructors and training staff for molding the recruits into disciplined soldiers ready to serve the nation.

The program concluded with a slow march, renditions of Army and Regimental songs, the National Anthem, and a group photograph featuring the passing-out batch.

A physical training display and a session for parents were also conducted before the Chief Minister's departure.