Gelling, Nov 18: The Spear Corps Indian Army celebrated the Kepang La Day on Sunday at the First Village of India, Gelling to pay tribute to the fallen soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the 1962 Indo China War and also to remember the resilient saga of villagers who stood strong to support the Indian Army.
Kepang La, is a significant mountain pass on the Indo-Tibetan Line of Actual Control, which holds a special place in the hearts of the Indian people from Arunachal Pradesh. This strategic location, is situated near the course of the YarlungTsangpo (Brahmaputra) River, which has witnessed numerous heroic sacrifices by Indian soldiers who have guarded the nation's borders. This historic pass is a vital link between Siang and Tibet for centuries, which has played a significant role in shaping the valley’s rich heritage and also known as ancient trade route facilitated the exchange of goods like Tibetan textiles, rock salt, Mishmi coats, and iron, while fostering deep cultural bonds.
Among these sacred sites is the revered stupa at Kepang La called Chorten a Monument of Faith and Resilience, built by local traders in the 1950s and later reconstructed with the support of the Indian Army in 1959. Legend speaks of ancient statues buried beneath the site, making the stupa not just a religious monument but also a symbol of unity and resilience for the community.
The bravery of the Siang Valley people and soldiers was put to the ultimate test during the 1962 India- China war. When villagers from Gelling noticed Chinese PLA footprints near the
NyugongRi stream, Indian forces quickly responded, engaging the enemy in a fierce skirmish.
For eight hours, Indian soldiers defended their positions with remarkable valor, sacrificing their lives to protect the valley. Among the fallen heroes were 2 Madras Regiment Nb Sub Sheikh Subani, Hav B Ramalinga G, Sep Murri Raja, Sep Appa Rao and Sep Ellias. Despite the hardships of war, including the occupation of several villagers by the PLA, the bond between the locals and Indian Army soldiers grew stronger. Villagers stood shoulder to shoulder with the Army, demonstrating an unyielding resolve to defend their homeland. Sherab Memba was among the villagers who was awarded the civilian medal by then Prime Minister of India Jawahar Lal Nehru.
A solemn ceremony was held at the revered Kepang La Chorten, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony and Guard of Honour to pay heartfelt tribute to Martyrs of Kepang La. Prayers were also offered at the historic Gelling Monastery, symbolizing the sacred bond between the Army & villagers. The Army also paid gratitude to the villagers who supported the Army during the war by recognizing and expressing their acknowledgment of their ancestor’s courage & unity.
The event was attended by ADC Tuting Sub division, Schools and local children, residents and civil administration to witness the saga and valour of Siang Valley’s enduring legacy of bravery, unity and cultural heritage. Kepang La Pass in Siang valley is an inseparable part of India’s heritage, symbolizing the sacrifices made by soldiers and villagers. Kepang La Day was observed to honor those heroes, whose steadfast legacy at our borders as reminder of the valor and unity at the heart of our national identity.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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