Walong: The Indian Army marked the 62nd anniversary of the historic Battle of Walong on Thursday, October 15 launching a month-long series of events to honour the valour and supreme sacrifices made by soldiers and citizens during the 1962 conflict with China. The opening ceremony, organised by the Walong Brigade, was presided over by Dasanglu Pul, Minister for Women, Child Development & Cultural Affairs, in the presence of dignitaries from the Indian Army, the Arunachal Pradesh government, and local residents, including NCC cadets, schoolchildren, and youth from the region.
The ceremony began with a vibrant display of the Pipes & Drums of the Walong Brigade, followed by a cultural program that showcased the region’s rich heritage. The highlight of the event was the flagging off of two battlefield treks by Smt. Dasanglu Pul, in which teams from the Indian Army and NCC cadets will retrace the footsteps of the brave soldiers who fought in the battle. These treks, which explore the Jachep Tso and Kundao Tso lakes amidst snow-capped peaks, aim not only to remember the soldiers’ sacrifices but also to promote battlefield tourism and adventure opportunities in the picturesque Lohit Valley.
Additionally, the Indian Army dedicated several *Sadbhavna* projects to the local community, symbolising their continued commitment to community development, in alignment with the government’s Vibrant Village initiative. The projects were received by Minister Pul on behalf of the people.
In the coming weeks, a range of adventure activities will be conducted, 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 events aim to both honor the memory of the fallen soldiers and promote Lohit Valley as an emerging destination for adventure tourism.
The Indian Army is also organising medical and veterinary camps to further support the local community, showcasing their dedication to improving health and well-being in the border regions.
The month-long commemoration will culminate on 13th and 14th November with a grand closing ceremony featuring a light and sound show, martial arts displays, and tributes to the veterans and the next of kin of those who participated in the Battle of Walong. Special recognition will also be given to the citizens of Walong, who stood by the Indian Army during one of the fiercest battles in India’s history.