Indian Army unveils Kumaoni Soldier statues at Walong

The Army has installed statues of the "Kumaoni Soldier" at the Hut of Remembrance at Kibithu and at Walong War Memorial in Arunachal Pradesh to remember the sacrifice and valour of the soldiers who fought in the India-China war in 1962.

Walong (Arunachal Pradesh): More than half a century after the 1962 war, the Indian Army has unveiled the statues of "Kumaoni Soldier" at the Hut of Remembrance at Kibithu and at Walong War Memorial.

General Officer Commanding (GoC) of the Spear Corps of Indian Army's, Lieutenant General RP Kalita unveiled the statues of the the "Kumaoni Soldier" on Friday.

Arunachal Pradesh's Walong, the Easternmost valley of India witnessed the bloodiest battle better known as the “Battle of Walong” during Indo-China conflict of 1962. The battle is remembered for the steely resolve, valour and unparalleled bravery displayed by the soldiers of the Indian Army despite numerous challenges.

The event was made memorable and unique by the presence of 79-year-old Subedar (Honorary Captain) KS Takuli (Retired), a braveheart of 6 KUMAON who gallantly fought at this very location way back in 1962.

The presence of the war veteran along with dignitaries from civil administration, local headmen of Mayor and Mishmi villages, veterans of the Kumaon Regiment and a number of senior Army officers and Jawans was a befitting tribute to the valiant soldiers of 6 KUMAON.

"The 6 KUMAON was one of the five Infantry battalions which played a major role during this glorious battle. These statues symbolise the daredevilry of the brave-hearts of 6 KUMAON who surpassed all limits of human endurance and soldierly valour while facing a formidable enemy in treacherous terrain and weather conditions," said the GOC while interacting with media on the occasion.

The Chinese Army entered the Indian territory through the Nam ka Chu along the Indo-Tibet region and defeated the Assam Rifles who were deployed there in 1962.

Later the Chinese Army advanced to the Walong sector in Arunachal Pradesh.

At Walong, however, the 6 KUMAON put up a brave defence before the Chinese Army with limited arms and ammunition, which forced the Chinese Army to retreat.

Brig. (Retd) Kuldeep Sing said that while the Indian army was prepared for a face-off at Tawang and Sela in 1962, the Chinese Army chose to attack through the Walong sector where there was only one regiment of the Army was kept.

While the Chinese Army lost 70 men in the battle Indian Army had lost over 640 of its brave men at the different sectors in Kameng division of the Arunachal Pradesh. Out of the 640 soldiers killed over 400 were from the 6 KUMAON.