The Indian Army marked the 62nd anniversary of the Battle of Walong on Thursday with a grand opening ceremony, launching a month-long series of events to honor the valour and supreme sacrifice of soldiers and citizens in the 1962 Sino-Indian conflict. Smt. Dasanglu Pul, Minister for Women, Child Development & Cultural Affairs, presided over the event hosted by the Walong Brigade, alongside senior Indian Army officials, representatives from the Arunachal Pradesh government, and local citizens, including NCC cadets, schoolchildren, and youth.
The ceremony opened with a captivating performance by the Walong Brigade’s Pipes & Drums band, followed by a vibrant cultural showcase. Minister Pul also flagged off two battlefield treks led by a joint team of Indian Army personnel and NCC cadets, retracing the routes taken by Indian soldiers during the 1962 battle. These treks are a tribute to the heroic resistance of Indian soldiers in harsh terrain and weather, while also aiming to promote battlefield tourism in the serene Lohit Valley.
Adventure expeditions were launched as part of the commemorative activities, including treks to the high-altitude lakes of Jachep Tso and Kundao Tso, with participation from local citizens of Anjaw and Lohit districts. These expeditions are intended to foster adventure tourism and train local youth as future tourism entrepreneurs.
The Indian Army’s commitment to the community was further underscored by the dedication of Sadbhavna Projects, which Smt. Pul received on behalf of the local community. These projects align with the Indian Army’s flagship Operation Sadbhavna for community development, which works in harmony with the government’s Vibrant Village initiative.
A series of adventure sports events have also been scheduled throughout the month, including a cycle expedition from Namsai to Namti, a motorcycle expedition from Mipi to Meshai, white water rafting from Walong to Wakro, and a half marathon from Kibithu to Walong. These activities not only pay tribute to the fallen but also promote the scenic Lohit Valley as a prime destination for adventure tourism.
In addition to adventure sports, the Indian Army will conduct medical and veterinary camps in border areas, reflecting its ongoing commitment to community development and health initiatives.
The month-long commemorations will culminate in a grand ceremony on November 13 and 14, featuring a light and sound show, martial arts displays, and tributes to veterans and the families of those who fought in the Battle of Walong. The events also recognize the steadfast support of the brave citizens of Walong, who stood shoulder to shoulder with the Indian Army in defending their homeland during the 1962 conflict. (PR)