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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to visit the border district of Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday, where he will inaugurate the Museum of Valour dedicated to Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing and unveil a statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Leaving New Delhi for Tawang on a two day visit to Arunachal Pradesh. Looking forward to interact with Armed Forces personnel and attend the inaugural ceremony of a museum dedicated to brave Indian Army officer Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing.

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) October 30, 2024

Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh will also attend the ceremony, joining the Defence Minister in paying homage to two prominent figures in India’s history of sovereignty and border security.

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Pema Khandu, took to X (formerly Twitter) to welcome the Defence Minister and the Manipur CM to the state. 

“The inauguration of Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing Museum of Valour and unveiling of Desh Ka Vallabh, the statue of Bharat Ratna Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Tawang, by him in the august presence of Hon'ble Manipur CM Shri @NBirenSingh ji and other dignitaries will be cherished by us for ages to come,” Khandu posted.

He highlighted the unique achievements of both leaders, stating, “The heroic deed of Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing, who bravely led an expedition in February 1951 to bring the Indian administration to Tawang, has no parallel in human history. What ‘Iron Man’ Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel did as India's first Home Minister by integrating several princely states into the country leaves us forever indebted to him.”

In his post, Khandu also acknowledged the enduring legacy that the two monuments would leave in reminding generations of their immense contributions to India’s integrity and sovereignty.

“The two monuments dedicated to two great and brave souls will always remind us of their critical contributions to our country's integrity and sovereignty,” he wrote.

Singh’s visit to Tawang comes at a time when India and China have achieved a breakthrough regarding patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh.

Set amidst the majestic eastern Himalayas, Tawang has long stood as a symbol of India’s unwavering commitment to securing its borders.

In addition to the inaugurations, Singh will celebrate Diwali with soldiers stationed along the India-China border, underscoring the government’s appreciation for the service of troops in the region.