Meet Colonel Karan Sandhu: Commandant of 19 Assam Rifles Leading Peace and Development in Manipur

Colonel Karan Sandhu serves as the Commandant of 19 Assam Rifles, a frontline battalion of the Assam Rifles deployed in the sensitive and conflict-affected regions of Manipur. As the commanding officer of the unit, he leads operations that extend beyond conventional military duties, encompassing counter-insurgency, area domination, and meaningful civic engagement aimed at restoring stability and trust among local communities.

The 19 Assam Rifles, which recently marked its Diamond Jubilee spanning six decades of service since 1965, operates extensively in regions such as Noney district, Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and along the strategically important National Highway-37. These areas have witnessed prolonged ethnic tensions and security challenges, making the role of the battalion crucial in maintaining peace and facilitating normalcy.

Under Colonel Sandhu’s command, the unit has actively contributed to both security operations and humanitarian outreach. One of the most notable initiatives took place on 21 February 2024 at the L. Hengjol Community Education Centre in Kangpokpi district. Recognising the disruption caused by ethnic unrest to the education of children, 19 Assam Rifles distributed over 250 sets of textbooks for students from Classes 1 to 10.

In addition, the unit provided computer systems with printers, helping bridge the digital gap in a remote and underserved region. During the event, Colonel Sandhu emphasised the importance of education, stating that empowering young minds is a collective responsibility that shapes the future of the nation.

Continuing this commitment to social development, Colonel Sandhu attended the inauguration of the Agape Friendship School on 29 January 2026 in Raenghzaeng village of Churachandpur district.

The school, catering to students from pre-nursery to Class VI, aims to reduce dropout rates and provide accessible quality education in remote areas. The event saw participation from senior dignitaries and community leaders, highlighting the collaborative approach adopted by the Assam Rifles in addressing grassroots challenges.

The battalion has also been actively involved in community development projects in villages such as Puichi in Noney district and Aling Khundong in Tamenglong district.

These initiatives, often conducted in partnership with organisations like the Sunbird Trust, include distribution of solar lighting systems and support for local infrastructure, improving the quality of life in remote habitations.

In addition to civic outreach, Colonel Sandhu’s leadership ensures that the battalion maintains its core military ethos. The unit regularly conducts operational duties and pays homage to fallen soldiers through solemn wreath-laying ceremonies. On 29 March 2026, 19 Assam Rifles honoured Rifleman Nabab Singh at Noney, reflecting the deep respect for sacrifice and tradition that defines the force.

Efforts such as “A Day with Company Commander” programmes further strengthen the bond between the armed forces and civilians, especially students, by offering them insight into military life and instilling values of discipline and patriotism.

The Assam Rifles, known as India’s oldest paramilitary force, functions under the operational control of the Indian Army and plays a pivotal role in maintaining security in the Northeast. Commandants like Colonel Karan Sandhu, deputed from the Army, are entrusted with leading battalions in some of the most challenging environments in the country.

Through a balanced approach that combines operational effectiveness with compassionate outreach, Colonel Sandhu exemplifies the modern military leader—one who not only safeguards the nation but also contributes to nation-building at the grassroots level. His work with 19 Assam Rifles stands as a testament to the enduring commitment of the force towards peace, stability, and development in India’s Northeast.