HT Correspondent
TUTING, Nov 28: Kepang La Day was commemorated on November 17 with ceremonial grandeur and patriotic fervour across the Upper Siang frontier, with events organised by Spear Corps in coordination with the Upper Siang district administration, an official statement said on Friday.
The observances highlighted the strategic significance of the region and paid homage to the soldiers and civilians who defended the frontier during the 1962 Battle of Kepang La.
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The presence of Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar, AVSM, VSM, GOC Spear Corps, and Tuting MLA Alo Libang lent prominence to the commemorations and underscored the Army’s long-standing commitment to safeguarding India’s northern borders.
The day’s events began at Tuting, a frontier town known for its strategic location and steadfast loyalty to the nation.
At Tuting Top, a 72-feet National Flag was inaugurated with full military honours.
The installation, completed through the contribution of philanthropist Uma Maskai and the efforts of Indian Army personnel, was described by officials as a symbol of national unity and the resilience of the border population.
A 30-feet iron-forged “TUTING” signage was also unveiled, marking the site as a landmark of frontier identity.
The commemorations continued at Gelling, the first Indian village where the Tricolour meets the morning sun. Located at the point where the Siang River enters Indian territory, Gelling holds both strategic and symbolic importance as the northern gateway of the valley.
On these grounds, Lt Gen Pendharkar visited the cemetery at Kepang La Pass to honour the memories of soldiers and civilians who held the line during the 1962 conflict.
During the solemn ceremony, he laid a wreath at the Chorten dedicated to the fallen personnel of 2 MADRAS and 11 Assam Rifles who died during the Battle of Kepang La. Officials said the tribute reaffirmed the Army’s respect for the sacrifices made in one of the most remote and challenging terrains of the eastern frontier.
The cemetery, bearing the engraved names of the fallen, stands as a reminder of the courage and discipline that shaped the defence of the region.
As part of the observance, a bike rally was held from Tuting to Kepang La, with 25 civilian riders from nearby border towns participating.
Their involvement reflected the close bond between the local population and the Armed Forces and added public enthusiasm to the commemorative events.
An inter-school sports meet was also organised in Vibrant Village Tuting, featuring performances by AMAR-trained children, further strengthening community participation.
The day concluded with calls to uphold the resilience, unity and national resolve associated with the frontier. Officials said Kepang La Day serves as an enduring reminder of the sacrifices made in the region and the collective responsibility to safeguard India’s sovereignty.
