Arunachal govt signs MoA with Indian Army for maintenance of Bob Khathing Museum of Valour

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 4, 2024

The Arunachal Pradesh government has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Indian Army for the maintenance and management of the Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing Museum of Valour in Tawang. The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Chief Minister Pema Khandu.

The agreement was signed by Tawang Deputy Commissioner Kangki Darang and Brigadier V.S. Rajput of the 190 Mountain Brigade. Under the pact, the museum will be managed exclusively by the Indian Army, ensuring its upkeep and preservation.

Khandu paid rich tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Home Minister, highlighting his pivotal role in ensuring administrative control over Tawang in 1951. Khandu credited Major Bob Khathing, who, under the directives of Patel and Assam’s then-Governor Daulat Ram, brought the Tawang region under Indian administration, which was earlier under Tibetan control.

“If not for Sardar Patel, Major Bob Khathing, and Governor Daulat Ram, who knows? We Monpas and the Tawang region might have been under China-controlled Tibet today!” Khandu said.

The Major Bob Khathing Museum of Valor commemorates the historic contributions of Major Khathing in integrating Tawang into India. The museum stands as a symbol of patriotism and Arunachal’s rich cultural heritage.

Khandu expressed gratitude to the Indian Army, particularly the 190 Mountain Brigade and for allocating defence land for the museum, taking responsibility for its maintenance and management.

Khandu assured the government’s full cooperation whenever required for the museum’s upkeep.

The event witnessed the presence of Tourism Minister P.D. Sona, legislators Oken Tayeng and Namge Tsering, Tourism Secretary, Commanders of the 106 and 46 Brigades, ZPC Tawang, Heads of Departments, and senior Army officials.