Governor lays foundation stone for Major Bob Khathing Memorial at Tawang.

The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Brig. (Dr.) B.D. Mishra (Retd.) unveiled the bust and laid the foundation stone for the Memorial of Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing at Tawang on 14^th February 2021. It was on this day in 1951, when Major Khathing consolidated the civil administration. Amidst the chanting of mantras by Reverent Lamas, the Governor was joined by the sons, viz Shri John Khathing, IRS (Retd.), Dr Darlando Thanmi Khathing, and one of the daughters, Prof. Sela N Khathing on the occasion. Major Bob Khathing is fondly remembered as Metho Saheb by locals of Tawang.  

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor said that the accomplishment of Major Khathing is an inspiration to every Indian, particularly to the people of Arunachal Pradesh. Major Khathing’s feat must be preserved and passed on to the younger generation. He said that significant contributions of many extraordinary people have been overlooked in history and it must be brought in public domain particularly in the School Text Books for the youth to read about the great people.

The Governor thanked the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Shri Raj Nath Singh, Chief Minister Shri Pema Khandu and Army Commander Lieutenant General Anil Chauhan for their directional and organizational contributions for the memorial project. He also thanked the Chief of Defence Staff for concurring that the maintenance of the memorial will be done by the Army Units stationed at Tawang.

First Lady of the State Smt Neelam Misra, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Shri Pema Khandu, Chief Minister of Meghalaya Shri Conrad K. Sangma, Union Minister of State Shri Kiren Rijuju and special guest Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat were present on the occasion.

Audio visual presentation on Major Khathing was presented in the foundation stone laying ceremony. Monpa Institute of Performing Arts presented a grand cultural programme.

Earlier in the day, the Governor, accompanied by the First Lady of the State laid a wreath at the war memorial and paid homage to the Brave Hearts who laid down life in the Indo-China war.