Tawang, Jan 15: Veterans’ Day was commemorated with solemn dignity and heartfelt gratitude at Tawang today as the Tawang Brigade organised a special programme at the Tawang War Memorial to honour the selfless service and supreme sacrifices of India’s veterans. The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of a large number of local ex-servicemen and Veer Naris reaffirming the enduring bond between the Indian Army and its veterans.
The celebrations commenced with a wreath-laying ceremony at the War Memorial, where Brigadier Bhupal Singh, SM, along with the seniormost veteran of Tawang, Koncho Dorjee Lama, paid homage to the brave martyrs who laid down their lives in the service of the nation. The solemn tribute evoked deep emotion and served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made to safeguard India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, particularly in the demanding terrain of the Eastern Himalayas.
An interactive session followed, during which veterans shared inspiring experiences from their distinguished military careers. Their narratives of courage, camaraderie and commitment provided valuable insights and served as a strong source of motivation for the younger generation.
In a significant initiative for veteran welfare, a NAMAN Registration Counter was established at the venue to address grievances and concerns of ex-servicemen. Each veteran received personal attention, ensuring their issues were heard and appropriate assistance initiated — reflecting the Army’s continued commitment to the well-being of its veterans.
A key highlight of the event was the felicitation ceremony conducted by the 
Commander, Tawang Brigade, to honour distinguished veterans for their exceptional post-retirement contributions to society.
Among those felicitated was Ex-Serviceman Nk T. Dorjee, currently residing in Shyo village, Tawang. A veteran of the Turtuk sector during Operation Vijay (1999), he has been actively promoting village-based eco-tourism in border areas. As an active member of the Ex-Servicemen Association of Tawang, his initiatives align closely with the Government’s vision of sustainable development in frontier regions.
Another distinguished veteran honoured was Ex-Serviceman Nb Sub Tsering Topgyal of Gomkang village, Tawang. A noted social activist, he has dedicated his post-retirement life to the cultivation of medicinal plants and rare species. Renowned for his scientific expertise in grafting and plantation techniques, his work has earned appreciation from both the Government of India and the Government of Arunachal Pradesh.
The celebrations were further enlivened by a captivating Army Band performance and a vibrant fusion of patriotic music presented by local artists alongside Army musicians, adding warmth and festive spirit to the occasion.
Veterans also visited the Legendary Major Bob Khathing Museum, where they reflected upon the remarkable legacy of Major Bob Khathing — an illustrious soldier, statesman and visionary leader whose contributions played a pivotal role in the peaceful integration and development of the frontier regions of Arunachal Pradesh.
The Veterans’ Day celebrations at Tawang stood as a fitting tribute to those who have served the nation with honour and devotion, reinforcing the values of respect, remembrance and responsibility towards India’s veterans.

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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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