HT Correspondent
TAWANG, Oct 7: In a moving tribute to the heroes of the 1962 Indo-Sino War, a motorcycle expedition commemorating the 63rd Walong Day was flagged off from the Tawang Parade Ground on Tuesday morning.
The eight-day, 1,000-kilometre expedition from Tawang to Walong aims to honour the courage and sacrifice of Indian soldiers who fought valiantly in one of the most challenging theatres of the war.
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The expedition, comprising 20 bikers, was jointly flagged off by Namgey Tsering, MLA Tawang, Colonel M Upadhyay, Deputy Commander of the Tawang Brigade, and the Commanding Officer of the 10 Mahar Regiment.
The ceremony began with the screening of a documentary on the 1962 Battle of Walong, depicting the extraordinary bravery and determination of Indian troops who, despite being heavily outnumbered, mounted a spirited defence with the support of local villagers.
Addressing the gathering, Colonel M Upadhyay reaffirmed the Indian Army’s enduring preparedness and commitment to national security.
“We are prepared for any contingency imposed upon us. We will defend our nation and ensure the safety and security of every citizen — for a Viksit Bharat, a proud India,” he said.
He also encouraged the participants to carry the message of peace, prosperity, and adventure, symbolising the strength and optimism of India’s youth.
MLA Namgey Tsering paid heartfelt tributes to the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the 1962 war at Walong, Bumla, Kenzamani, Dzela, and other battlefronts.
“This ride is not just an expedition — it’s a journey of remembrance, pride, and patriotism,” he said, commending the organisers for dedicating the initiative as a living homage to the nation’s war heroes.
The event also featured a vibrant cultural programme presented by students of Higher Secondary School Tawang and youths of Ketchengha, who performed traditional songs and dances, adding a patriotic fervour to the occasion.
Following the flag-off, the riders paid floral tributes at the Tawang War Memorial in memory of the martyrs of the 1962 conflict.
Their 1,000-kilometre route will take them through Tenga, Itanagar, Likabali, Roing, and Hayuliang before reaching Walong.
Along the way, they will engage with local communities, honour war memorials, and spread awareness about the courage and resilience of the people of Arunachal Pradesh during the war.
The expedition serves as a reminder of the unyielding spirit of India’s soldiers and citizens who stood shoulder to shoulder in defence of the nation’s sovereignty, and as an enduring message of unity, sacrifice, and national pride.
