Arunachal Pradesh is set to develop Walong into a major historical and tourism hub, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein announced on Sunday during the 63rd commemoration of the 1962 Battle of Walong in Anjaw district. He said the government intends to preserve the area’s war legacy while opening it up to visitors through improved connectivity and new cultural and tourism facilities.
Mein said the sacrifices made during the Battle of Walong would remain permanently etched in the nation’s memory. He recalled how 800 Indian soldiers held their ground for 27 days against nearly 4,000 Chinese troops in the harsh terrain around Kibithoo, Namti and the tri-junction. The episode, he said, stands among “the most valiant chapters” of India’s military history.
The deputy chief minister highlighted ongoing and proposed initiatives to promote Walong as a heritage destination, including the annual sunrise festival, a war memorial museum, and significant upgrades in road and digital connectivity. He said this year’s commemoration, described as the grandest held so far, reflects the state’s commitment to honouring its heroes while creating new opportunities for the local population through tourism.
Mein praised the Dao Division of the Indian Army for organising treks, expeditions, the Walong half-marathon and cultural performances by the Monpa, Tai Khamti and Gatka groups alongside personnel from the Northeast. Such events, he said, will help showcase the region’s diverse culture and enhance visitor interest.
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Arriving in Walong on Saturday, Mein inaugurated a high flag post bearing the National Tricolour and new facilities for tourists at Bara Kundun under the Kibithoo circle. He described the project as “another step towards boosting border tourism” and strengthening economic prospects in the remote frontier district.
He later visited the Helmet Top war memorial at 8,500 feet, where he laid floral tributes to the soldiers who fought in 1962 and interacted with troops of 16 Bihar B-Coy stationed at the post.
Among the veterans present at the observance was honorary Captain (Retd) Karnail Singh, who fought the Battle of Walong with the 4 Sikh Regiment at the age of 24 and was held captive by the PLA for six months. Mein also met Maj Gen (Retd) Narpat Singh Rajpurohit, who continues to work for the welfare of ex-servicemen.
The event was attended by state minister Dasanglu Pul, MLAs Dr Mohesh Chai, Mopi Mihu and Puinnyo Apum, and senior Army officers including Lt Gen Ram Chander Tiwari, GOC-in-C Eastern Command, and Lt Gen A S Pendharkar, GOC 3 Corps.
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