Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth on Tuesday, 28 July conducted a comprehensive review of the security situation in Manipur during an official visit to the Spear Corps, also examining the wide-ranging nation-building programmes carried out by Army formations and the Assam Rifles across the state and the broader Northeastern region.

Security Briefings and Operational Review

During the visit, General Seth was briefed on the operational preparedness of the Inspector General Assam Rifles (South), the Inspector General Assam Rifles (East), and the Red Shield Division. He interacted with senior Assam Rifles officers and assessed the readiness of security formations currently deployed in the state.

The Army's Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) confirmed that the Chief of Army Staff also interacted directly with troops, urging them to remain 'vigilant, operationally agile and future-ready' to address evolving security challenges while continuing to contribute to lasting peace and stability in the region.

Nation-Building Initiatives Under Spotlight

General Seth reviewed the extensive development and peace-promotion activities being undertaken jointly by Army formations and the Director General Assam Rifles. These initiatives span infrastructure, community outreach, and stability-building efforts across Manipur and the wider Northeast — a region that has witnessed prolonged ethnic tensions and periodic insurgency over recent decades.

This comes amid an ongoing security situation in Manipur that has drawn sustained attention from the Centre, with Army and paramilitary formations playing a central role in maintaining ground-level stability.

Durand Cup Inauguration in Imphal

General Seth also attended the inaugural ceremony of the Imphal leg of the 135th Durand Cup 2026 at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium in Imphal. Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, and other senior civil and military dignitaries were present at the event.

The ceremony featured a vibrant showcase of India's cultural and martial heritage, including a Military Band Fusion, Mallakhamb, Kalaripayattu, Chenda Melam, Manipuri folk dances, the traditional martial art Thang-Ta, and tribal dance performances. The opening match of the Imphal leg was played between TRAU FC and NEROCA FC.

About the Durand Cup

Established in 1888, the Durand Cup is Asia's oldest football tournament and one of India's most prestigious sporting events, symbolising sporting excellence, military tradition, and national pride. The 135th edition marks a continued commitment to bringing the tournament to the Northeast, a region with deep football culture and passionate fan support.

General Seth's visit signals the Army's sustained focus on both security imperatives and developmental engagement in a state that remains one of the most sensitive in the country. Further assessments and ground-level engagements are expected to continue in the days ahead.