Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein expressed deep respect for the bravery and patriotism of Indian soldiers during the flag-off ceremony of the Walong Cycling Expedition, which commemorates the 63rd Walong Day. This event took place on Friday at the Golden Pagoda in Namsai. Mein paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the 1962 Sino-India war, noting that “in the most challenging conditions, our soldiers courageously confronted the Chinese forces, scripting a glorious chapter in our military history.”
He emphasized the solidarity of the people of Arunachal Pradesh with the Indian Army, stating, “Our people have always stood shoulder to shoulder with the Indian Army, leaving no room for separatism.” Mein further acknowledged the readiness of local veterans to serve during past operations, highlighting their commitment to national integrity. He portrayed the cycling expedition as a continuation of a rich legacy of bravery, endurance, and patriotism, stating it started as a modest initiative that has grown stronger every year, with the state government dedicated to expanding this tradition.
To celebrate the region’s military history, the state government plans to establish a World War II museum at Jairampur in the Changlang district, marking the 80th anniversary of the war. This museum will showcase the historical significance of the Stilwell Road, a critical route connecting India to China via Myanmar during the Burma campaign. Additionally, Mein announced a village jeep expedition from Pasighat (East Siang) to Jairampur (Changlang), retracing battle routes to honor wartime valor.
“This initiative will preserve our wartime legacy, enhance our patriotic spirit, and promote adventure and heritage tourism in the region,” he asserted. The expedition, organized by the Indian Army in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh government, included 100 cyclists, 50 of whom were army personnel. The cyclists are set to travel through Tezu (Lohit) and Hayuliang (Anjaw) before reaching Walong (Anjaw). The event was attended by notable figures including Dambuk MLA Puinnyo Apum and senior military officials such as GOC 3 Corps Dimapur Lt General S Pendharkar and GOC 2 Mountain Division Dinjan Major General RS Chandel.
Original Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/arunachal-deputy-cm-flags-off-cycling-expedition-commemorating-63rd-walong-day/articleshow/124791527.cms
Category:
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-10-24 23:18:00
