Eastern Frontier Rifles Revival: 1,000+ Gorkha Youths to Be Recruited
Updated: Jul 7
Date: June 22, 2026
Location: Kurseong, West Bengal, India
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced the revival of the historic Eastern Frontier Rifles (EFR), with more than 1,000 Gorkha youths set to be recruited into the force. The announcement was made during a public rally in Kurseong, Darjeeling district. According to information reported by News On AIR, the move is aimed at creating employment opportunities and restoring the role of the historic force in the state.
Eastern Frontier Rifles Revival
Addressing a public gathering in Kurseong, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said the Eastern Frontier Rifles would be revived and recruitment of over 1,000 Gorkha youths would begin. According to the Chief Minister, the force had witnessed a decline in recent years and now requires expansion and strengthening.
The Eastern Frontier Rifles is a state armed police force under the West Bengal Police and has a history dating back to the colonial era. The force has traditionally played a role in maintaining law and order and handling security operations in the state.
Latest Developments
According to information reported by News On AIR, the Chief Minister also announced that recruitment to the West Bengal Police would be opened soon, creating additional employment opportunities for Gorkha youth in the Darjeeling Hills.
He further stated that at least 30% of positions in state recruitment drives would be reserved for women.
Official Statements
According to the Chief Minister, the previous state administration had frozen recruitment into the Eastern Frontier Rifles, resulting in a reduction in the force's operational strength. He said the state government is committed to reviving the historic force and expanding employment opportunities in the region.
The announcement was made in the presence of several political leaders and public representatives during the rally in Kurseong.
Key Facts at a Glance
Date: June 16, 2026 announcement
Location: Kurseong, Darjeeling, West Bengal
Organization: Eastern Frontier Rifles (EFR)
Person Involved: Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari
Key Figure: Over 1,000 Gorkha youths to be recruited
Additional Measure: 30% reservation for women in state recruitment
Current Status: Recruitment and revival plan announced
The announcement is significant for the Darjeeling Hills, where employment opportunities for young people remain a key public issue. Recruitment into the Eastern Frontier Rifles could provide government jobs to more than 1,000 Gorkha youths while strengthening a historic armed police force in West Bengal.
The development may also have political significance as the state government seeks to increase engagement with communities in the hill region.
Who Are the Gorkhas of Darjeeling? History, Culture and Identity
