Parnaik highlights strategic role of 17 Mountain Division at Raising Day

Itanagar, Jan 12 (PTI) Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) K T Parnaik on Monday described the 17 Mountain Division of the Indian Army as the guardian of the Northeast and the sentinel of the Siliguri

Corridor, urging its officers and troops to embrace technology and innovation to meet emerging security challenges.

Addressing a sainik sammelan on the occasion of the Division’s 65th Raising Day at the Army Cantonment in Gangtok, the governor stressed the operational necessity of artificial intelligence, drones, modern surveillance systems, cyber capabilities and emerging technologies, particularly in the evolving post–Operation Sindoor security environment, an official statement said here.

Parnaik emphasised the need for agility, innovation, continuous learning and perception management, while also urging the Division to further strengthen people-centric initiatives such as Operation Sadbhavana and military-civil fusion to win hearts and minds alongside securing vital terrain.

The governor complimented the 17 Mountain Division for its illustrious legacy, exceptional professionalism and unwavering dedication to duty, paying rich tributes to its historic contributions, from the World Wars and the liberation of Goa to its pivotal role in the merger of Sikkim with the Union of India.

Expressing deep faith in the officers and troops, Parnaik said the armed forces and the people of India repose complete trust in their courage, discipline and moral strength.

He expressed confidence that the Division would continue to uphold its glorious legacy, rise to future challenges with resolve and contribute decisively to national security and the vision of a strong, secure and self-reliant Viksit Bharat.

The governor conveyed his best wishes to all ranks, veterans and families, and urged the Division to always place nation before self, marching forward with courage, wisdom and unwavering faith in the Tricolour.

Recalling his own tenure as the Division Commander, Parnaik spoke with pride about landmark initiatives such as the opening of the Nathu La Pass for trade in 2006 and the Division’s continued role in promoting development, tourism and community welfare in Sikkim.

He also placed on record his appreciation for the General Officer Commanding, Maj Gen Mahipal Singh Rathore, and all ranks for the meticulous planning and dignified conduct of the Raising Day Sammelan, reflecting the highest traditions of the Indian Army. PTI UPL UPL MNB