Ukhrul: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated the statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, titled ‘Desh ka Vallabh,’ and the Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khathing Museum of Valour at Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, in a ceremony held from the 4 Corps Headquarters in Tezpur. Singh was originally scheduled to attend the event in Tawang, but unfavorable weather conditions necessitated his virtual participation.
The unveiling took place on Thursday, coinciding with Deepawali and Rashtriya Ekta Diwas. During the inauguration, Rajnath Singh highlighted Major Bob Khathing’s instrumental role in integrating Tawang into India, as well as his foundational work in establishing security forces such as the Sashastra Seema Bal, Nagaland Armed Police, and the Naga Regiment. According to PIB, Singh paying homage to Major Bob Khathing, an extraordinary figure who made invaluable contributions to the Northeast region and national security stated, “Major Khathing not only led the peaceful integration of Tawang into India but also established essential military and security frameworks, including the Sashastra Seema Bal, Nagaland Armed Police, and the Naga Regiment. The ‘Museum of Valour’ now stands as a tribute to his bravery and foresight, inspiring generations to come.”
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Rajnath Singh underscored the significance of unity & harmony, and the North-East’s unique role in the nation’s identity. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ensuring economic & infrastructure development of the entire region. “Holistic development of the nation is possible only when the North East prospers. We will create such a North East which is strong & prosperous not only naturally and culturally but also economically,” PIB quoted Rajnath Singh.
Rajnath Singh took to X saying, “Virtually inaugurated ‘Desh ka Vallabh’ statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khathing ‘Museum of Valour’ at Tawang from Tezpur. Major Khathing not only led the peaceful integration of Tawang into India but also established essential military and security frameworks, including the Sashastra Seema Bal, Nagaland Armed Police, and the Naga Regiment…”
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Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu celebrated the legacy of both figures, remarking, “This museum stands as a tribute to Major Bob Khathing, whose expedition in 1951 secured Tawang and established Indian administration in this remote region—a final gift to our country by Bharat Ratna Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, added Pema Khandu.”
The State of Arunachal Pradesh in February 2021 presented Lt. Major Bob Khathing with the highest civilian award, the Arunachal Ratna Award posthumously while the museum’s foundation was laid by former Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Brig (Dr) BD Mishra Ji (Retd).
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Pema Khandu took to X and said, “Extremely honoured to have the family members of Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing join us for the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebration, paying tribute to unity and integrity in the presence of Hon CM of Manipur Shri N Biren Singh ji, his ministers and esteemed MLAs.”
The important ceremony was joined by R Somi John Khathing (IRS), Lt. Bob Khathing Ralengnao’s eldest son, Darlando Thanmi Khathing and their close family members at Tawang in the presence of Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd), Chief Minister of Manipur N Biren Singh and senior Army officers among others.
N Biren Singh in his remark over X 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.”
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh who was joined by his cabinet ministers and MLAs to Tawang held a meeting with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, along with Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu.
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