Marking the dual celebrations of Deepawali and Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh today virtually inaugurated the ‘Desh Ka Vallabh’ statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and the Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khathing ‘Museum of Valour’ at Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. The event, held from the 4 Corps Headquarters in Tezpur, Assam, saw the Defense Minister highlighting these newly inaugurated landmarks as emblems of unity and strength. He had intended to visit Tawang in person but was unable to do so due to inclement weather.
The unveiling coincided with the nation’s annual Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebration, commemorating the birth anniversary of India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Beginning his address, Shri Rajnath Singh referenced the significant progress achieved through ongoing talks between India and China on resolving issues in certain areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
“India and China have reached a broad consensus to restore normalcy along the LAC through diplomatic and military dialogues. Based on mutual security principles, the consensus encompasses patrolling and grazing rights in traditional areas. Disengagement is nearly complete, and we aim to progress beyond this milestone. However, further steps will take some more time,” he shared.
Paying homage to Sardar Patel, popularly known as the Iron Man of India, Rajnath Singh lauded Patel’s contribution to India’s unity through the integration of over 560 princely states post-independence. “The ‘Desh Ka Vallabh’ statue stands as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the strength in unity and the determination needed to forge a cohesive nation,” he stated.
The Defense Minister also paid tribute to Major Bob Khathing, an influential figure in the Northeast region’s security and integration. Major Khathing is celebrated for his pivotal role in Tawang’s peaceful integration into India and for establishing key security frameworks, such as the Sashastra Seema Bal, Nagaland Armed Police, and the Naga Regiment. Singh described the ‘Museum of Valour’ as a fitting tribute to Khathing’s foresight and bravery, aimed to inspire future generations.
Underscoring the Northeast’s unique contributions to the nation’s identity, Shri Rajnath Singh reaffirmed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dedication to the region’s development. “The Northeast must thrive for the holistic progress of our country. We envision a strong, culturally vibrant, and economically prosperous Northeast,” he emphasized.
Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the vital role of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in advancing the Northeast’s infrastructure. He commended the BRO’s work on the Sela Tunnel, which will significantly enhance connectivity between Assam and Tawang. He also emphasized the strategic importance of the forthcoming 2,000-km Arunachal Frontier Highway project, set to bolster connectivity and serve as an invaluable economic and strategic asset for the region and the nation at large.
The Defense Minister further praised the Armed Forces’ extensive engagement in the Northeast, including initiatives with the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and support for local economies and disaster relief efforts. “Our Armed Forces are not just security providers; they play an essential role in fostering development in border regions, working hand-in-hand with local communities to strengthen India’s commitment to progress, peace, and security in the Northeast,” he noted.
Several dignitaries were present for the inauguration in Tawang, including Arunachal Pradesh’s Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd), Chief Minister Shri Pema Khandu, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju, Manipur Chief Minister Shri N Biren Singh, and Arunachal Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister Shri Chowna Mein. Family members of Major Bob Khathing were also in attendance. Among the virtual attendees were Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Eastern Command’s General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Lt Gen RC Tewari, and 4 Corps GOC Lt Gen Gambhir Singh, as well as senior civil and military officials. (PR)