In a significant event aimed at paying tribute to the brave soldiers who fought in the 1962 India-China war, the Indian Army has initiated a motorcycle expedition from Mipi in the Dibang Valley district. This expedition not only commemorates the valor displayed during the conflict but also specifically honors the Battle of Walong, highlighted by defense spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mahendra Rawat.
The expedition is comprised of a team of 20 individuals, including 10 personnel from the Army Spear Corps and 10 civilians, who will embark on a challenging route through the breathtaking landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh. The riders have scheduled stops at key locations: Roing in the Lower Dibang Valley district and Hayuliang in Anjaw district. Their journey will take them through the Mishmi ranges, navigating across the pristine valleys of Dibang and Lohit, ultimately concluding at Meshai in Anjaw district.
The ride is not merely a journey; it is a tribute that traces a historic path, culminating at the evocative Walong War Memorial on November 11. Along the way, each halt will serve as an important connection with local communities, providing opportunities to highlight the strength, resilience, and solidarity that characterize the region. This interactive engagement is designed to foster a sense of national integration and showcase the unique cultural richness of the areas the expedition traverses.
The expedition was officially flagged off on Friday, with notable presence by Major General VS Deshpande, the General Officer Commanding of the Dao division, and local MLA Mopi Mihu, alongside state government officials. This initiative reflects the Army’s enduring commitment to promoting unity, honoring sacrifice, and enhancing adventure tourism in the border regions of India.