Tinsukia : Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday said the State government’s decision to expand the Assam Police commando battalions will significantly bolster internal security and prepare Assam to confront emerging challenges, as he inaugurated the 6th Assam Police Commando Battalion headquarters at Ambikapur in Tinsukia district.

Addressing officials and personnel at the inauguration ceremony, Sarma underscored the government’s long-term strategy to modernise security infrastructure and enhance operational preparedness in view of evolving threats.

“These battalions will prepare Assam for emerging security challenges. Considering the evolving security scenario, we decided to strengthen our forces and enhance preparedness,” the Chief Minister said.

Sarma recalled that upon assuming office in 2021, the government had resolved to expand the State’s specialised security capabilities by establishing multiple new commando battalions.

“When I took office as Chief Minister in 2021, we decided to set up five new commando battalions. Earlier, Assam had only one commando battalion headquartered at Nandakata in Kamrup district,” he said.

The new battalions are being strategically located across various districts to strengthen law enforcement reach, improve rapid response capacity and reinforce border security.

According to the Chief Minister, the battalions have been set up or are under development at Dholcherra in Hailakandi district, Geleki in Sivasagar district, Pabhoi in Biswanath district and Doldoli in Karbi Anglong district. He noted that the 5th battalion at Pabhoi was inaugurated on October 4 last year, and the 6th battalion at Ambikapur now adds to the growing network.

Describing the Ambikapur facility as a major milestone in Assam’s security modernisation drive, Sarma said the campus has been developed with comprehensive and modern infrastructure to support personnel welfare and operational efficiency.

Spread across 331 bighas, the battalion is designed to accommodate around 400 commandos. The campus includes modern barracks, 149 housing quarters, parade grounds and drill facilities. It also features a 10-bed medical centre and a primary school to cater to the needs of personnel and their families.

In addition, amenities such as namghars, ATMs and other essential facilities have been integrated within the premises to create a self-sustained campus environment.

Officials said the development reflects the State’s emphasis not only on operational readiness but also on improving living standards for security personnel posted in remote areas.

Highlighting the broader security framework, the Chief Minister said the upcoming battalion at Diphu is ready for inauguration, while construction work at other locations is progressing steadily.

He added that the battalion at Sadiya will play a crucial role in strengthening security in the sensitive border areas of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.

“These initiatives will ensure better preparedness and stability in the region,” Sarma said, reiterating the government’s commitment to reinforcing internal security architecture amid changing security dynamics.

The expansion of the commando battalions is seen as part of a larger push to modernise policing capabilities in Assam, with a focus on rapid deployment, counter-insurgency readiness and improved coordination in border districts.