Itanagar: The Indian Army has assumed responsibility for the upkeep and administration of the ‘Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing Museum of Valor’ in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang.
The Indian Army and the Tawang District Administration formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on Wednesday, transferring the management of the ‘Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing Museum of Valour’ to the Army.
The MOA was signed at a ceremony in the presence of Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and other senior officials.
Tawang Deputy Commissioner Kangki Darang and Brigadier V.S. Rajput of the 190 Mountain Brigade signed the agreement, under which the Indian Army will assume full responsibility for the museum’s operations.
The museum, located near the Tawang War Memorial, commemorates Major Khathing’s pivotal role in integrating Tawang into India in 1951.
During the event, Chief Minister Khandu paid homage to India’s first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who played a pivotal role in integrating Tawang into India.
CM Khandu highlighted Major Bob Khathing’s historic mission in 1951, under Patel’s guidance, which established Indian administrative control over Tawang, then governed by the Tibetan administration.
Brigadier Rajput highlighted Major Khathing’s historic mission, where he successfully annexed Tawang from Tibetan administration, marking a critical moment in securing India’s territorial integrity.
Khandu thanked the Indian Army, particularly the Tawang-based 190 Mountain Brigade, for the allocation of defence land for the museum and their consent to undertake its management. He assured government support for any future maintenance or administrative needs.
Dr. Moji Riba, the creative consultant, elaborated on the museum’s vision, which is to enlighten visitors about the region’s historical significance and Major Khathing’s valiant contribution to securing Tawang as an integral part of India in 1951.
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The event was attended by Tourism Minister P.D. Sona, legislators Oken Tayeng and Namge Tsering, Tourism Secretary, commanders of the 106 and 46 Brigades, senior Army officials, and heads of various departments.
