Two Trainee Agniveers Die in Shillong; Suspected Meningococcal Infection Prompts Health Alert

Two trainee Agniveers have died in Meghalaya’s capital after reportedly contracting a suspected meningococcal bacterial infection, triggering health monitoring measures at the training facility.
According to officials, the trainees-undergoing training at a military establishment in Shillong-fell ill with symptoms consistent with meningococcal infection, a serious bacterial disease that can lead to meningitis and bloodstream infection. Despite medical intervention, both recruits succumbed.
Military authorities said the cases are being treated as suspected meningococcal infection, and laboratory confirmation is awaited. As a precaution, close contacts and fellow trainees have been placed under medical surveillance, and preventive medication has reportedly been administered.
Health teams have intensified monitoring at the training centre to prevent further spread. Officials emphasized that meningococcal disease, though rare, can spread through respiratory droplets and requires prompt treatment.
The Indian Army has expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that all necessary medical and preventive steps are being taken.
Further updates are expected once test reports confirm the exact cause of death.