Assam Rifles Trains Defence Career Aspirants in Manipur

For increasing youth participation in the armed forces, 20 students of the NextGen Defence Academy were given special training by the Assam Rifles in Singhat, Manipur. The step has been taken to train aspirants for the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Combined Defence Services (CDS) exams.

The programme of training, conducted over a period of weeks, was a combination of class room lectures and exercises designed to simulate the pressures of competitive defence exams. From building intellectual foundations to building mental endurance, the modules had been crafted to give students a competitive edge in national-level tests.

Many spoke confidently that the mentoring of the Assam Rifles had strengthened their preparations and helped instill their morale. Candidates appeatred for the NDA and CDS exams in Aizawl, Mizoram on 14th September 2025.

"The mentoring we received was not just academic in nature. It imparted discipline, perseverance, and the spirit of service — values essential for a career in the armed forces," a trainee from the programme explained.

Assam Rifles officers highlighted that such initiatives are a part of their greater charter to engage with the people of the North-East. By counseling careers among youth at the grassroots level, the paramilitary intends to redirect aspirations into nation service.

"North-East has always contributed committed troops to India's defence. Through guidance of youthful resources and providing them with the appropriate training, we are ensuring that the tradition is kept alive," an Assam Rifles official said.

The program also exhibits a strategic focus on empowering the youth. Defence analysts note that academies and coaching centres are usually out of reach for rural-based students due to exorbitant charges. This program, in addition to filling the void, instills confidence among security forces and the general population.

As India maintains its emphasis on domestic defence capabilities and command in the National Education Policy and Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign, these collaborations are timely forays. For 20 students who took their exams this week, the training with the Assam Rifles can be the start of their journey toward becoming the country's next defence leaders.