In a moment of significant pride and inspiration for the youth of Manipur, a felicitation ceremony took place on Wednesday at the Sector Headquarters of Assam Rifles in Churachandpur to honor Lieutenant Obed Thangminsiam for his remarkable achievements. Lt Obed, hailing from Hiangzou village, was commissioned into the elite 10 Guards of the Indian Army on March 7, 2026, after successfully completing his training at the Officers Training Academy in Chennai.
The incoming ceremony was presided over by the Sector Commander, who praised Lt Obed for his resilience and determination throughout his journey to military service. Despite facing challenges such as a regional conflict that led to delays in his academic examinations and necessitated arduous travel to Aizawl for his Combined Defence Services (CDS) examinations and Service Selection Board (SSB) interviews, he remained undeterred. His success on his second attempt at SSB Bhopal exemplified his steadfast commitment to excellence.
This accomplishment also highlights a proud family tradition, as Lt Obed is the son of Hon Naib Subedar (Retd) Khamkhokam, who served in the 13 Guards from 1990 to 2014, alongside his mother, Smt. Dimhoiching. Following in the footsteps of his father by joining the same regiment has further reinforced the military legacy within the family and the broader community.
Lt Obed’s success has resonated deeply with his alma maters—Young Learners School, Rayburn High, and Churachandpur College—bringing immense joy and pride to these institutions and the local populace. The Sector Commander recalled that this was not the first occasion he had been honored; Lt Obed was previously felicitated in January 2025 for clearing the CDS examination on his first try. Witnessing his transformation from a focused student to a commissioned officer is seen as a proud milestone for the Sector and community.