Arunachal Pradesh government will set up a memorial in Tawang to keep alive the sacrifice and bravery of Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khathing, who had established Indian administrative control over the border town 70 years ago. Before February 1951, Tawang, despite being part of India since 1914 through the Simla Convention, was administered from Lhasa.
The government would set up the memorial land for which was donated by the people of Tawang. Union Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said he would request the Union Education Ministry to include the story of Major Khathing in school textbooks.
The foundation stone of the memorial was laid by Governor Brig B.D. Mishra (retd) in presence of Chief Minister Pema Khandu, his Meghalaya counterpart Conrad K. Sangma, Rijiju, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, other top army officers and family members of Major Khathing.
In his speech, Khandu said: “Today is a historic day for Arunachal Pradesh as we’ve finally got the opportunity to honour Major Khathing for the sacrifice and contributions he made for the state and the country which was long due.” He also added that the memorial would go a long way in promoting tourism and also make people aware of one of the significant heroes of India.
Strengthening people’s love for Major Khathing, the state government also announced to posthumously award him with the state’s highest civilian award, “Arunachal Ratna”.
