Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated a statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and opened the Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khating Museum of Valour in Tawang from Tezpur, Assam after his journey to Tawang was cancelled due to inclement weather on Thursday.
The Defence Minister praised the establishment of the memorial in Tawang as a fitting tribute to the historical legacy of Sardar Patel and Major Khating, a critical figure in establishing India’s administrative reach up to the McMahon Line in February 1951.
Singh acknowledged Tawang’s strategic significance and its pivotal role in maintaining national security.
"This museum not only honours Major Khating's contributions but also symbolises national unity and the courage of our armed forces,” Singh said, highlighting the joint efforts of the Indian Army and local communities in creating the institution.
The event saw attendance from Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd), Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, GOC-in-C Eastern Command Lt Gen RC Tewari, 4 Corps GOC Lt Gen Gambhir Singh, and other senior military and civilian officials.
The Major Khating Museum of Valour will house records and memorabilia of Major Khating, who is celebrated for his role in securing India’s northeastern border and fostering unity among local communities.
The museum serves both as a tribute to his courage and as a testament to the steadfast commitment of the armed forces in defending India’s borders.