Imphal, July 31: Assam Rifles organised a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at its Battalion Headquarters in Tengnoupal to pay homage to four brave personnel who made the supreme sacrifice during Operation Hifazat on July 30, 2000.

The ceremony was held in remembrance of Second-in-Command P. N. T. Nair, Shaurya Chakra (Posthumous), Havildar Hiralal Prasad, Havildar L. K. Sinha and Rifleman T. M. Mathew, who laid down their lives in the line of duty while safeguarding the nation.
A senior Assam Rifles official laid a wreath at the memorial and led officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), Other Ranks and personnel in paying floral tributes to the fallen heroes. The gathering observed a moment of silence in honour of the martyrs, remembering their extraordinary courage, dedication and unwavering commitment to national service.
During the ceremony, officials recalled the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers during Operation Hifazat and highlighted their exemplary devotion to duty under challenging circumstances. Their valour and selfless service, they said, continue to inspire generations of security personnel serving across the country.
The Assam Rifles reaffirmed its enduring respect for its martyrs and reiterated its commitment to preserving their legacy of courage, sacrifice and patriotism. The Force said the supreme sacrifices of its personnel would always remain a source of inspiration and a reminder of the unwavering dedication required to safeguard the nation's unity, integrity and security.
The commemorative event concluded with tributes to all personnel who have laid down their lives in the service of the nation, reaffirming the Assam Rifles' resolve to uphold the highest traditions of duty, honour and selfless service.