Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurates Sardar Patel statue and Bob Khathing Museum at Tawang

Itanagar: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually dedicated to the nation ‘Desh ka Vallabh’, the statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khathing ‘Museum of Valour’ at Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, on Thursday, describing them as a symbol of unity and strength.

The Defence Minister, who was supposed to visit Tawang but could not due to bad weather, carried out the inauguration from 4 Corps Headquarters in Tezpur, Assam, an official release said.

The unveiling coincided with the festival of lights ‘Deepawali’ and ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ which is celebrated on October 31 every year to commemorate the birth anniversary of first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

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Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh virtually dedicated to the nation ‘Desh ka Vallabh’ statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khathing ‘Museum of Valour’ at Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh today. pic.twitter.com/tASlWPAaOk

— AIR News Itanagar (@airnews_ita) October 31, 2024 >

The Defence Minister began his address by referring to the broad consensus achieved by India and China to restore the ground situation in certain areas along the LAC.

He paid glowing tributes to Sardar Patel, also known as the ‘Iron Man of India’, acknowledging his instrumental role in unifying over 560 princely states post-Independence, a feat that stands as a testament to his indomitable resolve and commitment to a unified India.

“This statue ‘Desh Ka Vallabh’ will inspire people, reminding them of the strength in unity and the unwavering spirit required to build a nation as diverse as ours,” he said in his address.

The Defence Minister also paid homage to Major Bob Khathing, an extraordinary figure who made invaluable contributions to the Northeast region and national security. “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,” he said.

Singh underscored the significance of unity and harmony and the North-East’s unique role in the nation’s identity. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ensuring economic and 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 that is strong and prosperous not only naturally and culturally but also economically,” he added.

Highlighting the crucial role of Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in the progress of the region, the Defence Minister made special mention of the Sela Tunnel linking Assam and Tawang, a project that enhances connectivity across Northeast regions.

“In the times to come, the Arunachal Frontier Highway project will play a major role in connecting the entire North East region, especially the border areas. This 2,000-km long highway will prove to be an important strategic and economic asset for the region as well as the entire nation,” he added.

Singh also commended the armed forces’ engagement in the region, from NCC initiatives and local economic support to crucial disaster relief efforts.

“Armed Forces not only provide security but also become a medium for development in that region by cooperating with the people of the border areas. This further strengthens India’s commitment to ensuring development, peace, and security in the Northeast,” he said.

Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) KT Parnaik, Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, and the family of Major Bob Khathing were present at the inauguration site.

Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command Lt Gen RC Tewari, GOC 4 Corps Lt Gen Gambhir Singh, and other senior civil and military officials joined the event virtually along with the Defence Minister.