Guwahati: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday virtually inaugurated the ‘Desh ka Vallabh’ statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khathing Museum of Valour in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang district.
As inclement weather prevented Singh from visiting Tawang, he inaugurated the projects virtually from the 4 Corps Headquarters in Tezpur, Assam.
Arunachal CM Pema Khandu said, “Proud to witness the inauguration of the “Desh Ka Vallabh” Statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Tawang on his Jayanti, celebrated as #NationalUnityDay. This special occasion was graced by Hon’ble Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik Ji (Retd) and virtually inaugurated by Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsinghJi, in presence of Hon Manipur CM Shri @NBirenSinghJi, Hon Union Minister Shri @KirenRijijuJi and other esteemed dignitaries.”
Proud to witness the inauguration of the “Desh Ka Vallabh” Statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Tawang on his Jayanti, celebrated as #NationalUnityDay. This special occasion was graced by Hon’ble Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik Ji (Retd) and virtually inaugurated by Raksha Mantri… pic.twitter.com/lMRX0mIBL7
— Pema Khandu པདྨ་མཁའ་འགྲོ་། (@PemaKhanduBJP) October 31, 2024
Manipur CM N Biren Singh, who attended the inauguration ceremony in Tawang, said, “Born in Ukhrul, Manipur, Major Khathing was a visionary leader and a true patriot, becoming the first person of tribal origin to serve as India’s Ambassador. This museum will not only preserve the memory of his bravery but will also instill a deep sense of pride and courage in all who visit.”
Singh also paid tribute to the brave soldiers of the 1962 war at the Tawang War Memorial.
The defence minister highlighted Major Bob Khathing’s crucial role in integrating Tawang into India and establishing key security frameworks including the Sashastra Seema Bal and Naga Regiment.
Singh emphasized the significance of upcoming infrastructure projects, particularly the 2,000-kilometer Arunachal Frontier Highway, which he described as a strategic asset for the region. He also commended the Border Roads Organization for their work on the Sela Tunnel connecting Assam and Tawang.
The ceremony was attended by Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd), Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, and senior military officials. Besides, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi virtually joined the ceremony along with other military commanders.
