Additional DGP (law & order) Sandeep Tamgadge, Unit’s Raising Commandant L Bendang Lemtur and others during the 9th NAP (IR) 25th Anniversary at Saijang on March 1. (Photo Courtesy: PRO, 9th NAP (IR) Battalion)
‘Daring Ninth’ marks 25th anniversary since inception
DIMAPUR, MARCH 2 (MExN): The 9th NAP (IR) Battalion marked its 25th Anniversary since its inception in 1999 with a grand celebration on March 1. The event, signifying the Battalion's longstanding commitment to service and excellence, was honored by the presence of Sandeep Tamgadge, IPS, Additional Director General of Police (Law & Order) as chief guest, a press release received from PRO, 9th NAP (IR) Battalion informed.
The commemorative event began with a respectful wreath laying ceremony at the memorial park by the chief guest, senior officers and families of the martyrs. This was followed by the inauguration of the newly constructed Jubilee Park, a collaborative effort of the Unit's ranks, which features an amphitheatre dedicated to both past and present members of the Battalion.
Chief guest Tamgadge, in his address, commended the Battalion's significant and primary role in the beginning of the downfall of the left-wing extremism, particularly highlighting its impactful deployment in Chhattisgarh. He also underlined the Unit's important role as a benchmark for subsequent IR Units to emulate and follow.
Special guest L Bendang Lemtur, IPS (Retd), the Unit's Raising Commandant, shared insights into the early challenges and resilience of the Battalion, encouraging the continuation of its legacy. Other speakers shared nostalgic experiences and recalled stories of their training, operations and hardship faced.
The jubilee Morung, commemorating the service of past Commandants over the last 25 years, was inaugurated by L Bendang Lemtur.
A solemn moment of silence was observed in memory of the fallen heroes. This was followed by the unveiling of the jubilee memento and a souvenir book detailing the Battalion's proud history and achievements.
The formal proceedings were attended by several previous Commandants, officers, families of martyred personnel, and current members of the Unit. Presided over by Dy Commandant Shouka Kakheto, the event included a dedicatory prayer by Rev Rukuveyi Nienu, the Unit Pastor, and a welcome address by Commandant V Alo John.
The event also saw the release of the Unit's Anthem and was followed by a Barakhana, reinforcing unity and camaraderie among attendees. Kilemtoshi Jamir, Dy Commandant, delivered the vote of thanks, concluding the formal part of the event.
The celebrations continued into the evening with a musical extravaganza, featuring captivating performances by the Mahila Band and comedian Michael Ketz, the press release stated.
