ITANAGAR, Dec 4: A Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) has been signed between the Indian Army and the state government of Arunachal Pradesh for the maintenance and management of the Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing Museum of Valor in Tawang. The signing ceremony, which took place in the presence of Chief Minister Pema Khandu, marks a significant step in preserving the legacy of Major Khathing, a key figure in the integration of Tawang into India.
Tawang Deputy Commissioner Kangki Darang and Brigadier V.S. Rajput of the 190 Mountain Brigade formalized the agreement, which grants the Indian Army full responsibility for the museum’s operations. The Indian Army will oversee the day-to-day functioning of the museum, which serves as a tribute to Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing’s historic role in securing Tawang in 1951.
During the ceremony, Chief Minister Khandu paid homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Home Minister, who played a crucial role in integrating Tawang into India. Khandu emphasized Major Khathing’s historic mission under Patel’s leadership, which helped establish Indian administrative control over Tawang, which was then under Tibetan administration.
“If not for Sardar Patel, Major Bob Khathing, and Assam’s then Governor Daulat Ram, who knows—Tawang and the Monpa people might be under China-controlled Tibet today!” Khandu remarked, acknowledging the pivotal role these figures played in Tawang’s integration.
The Chief Minister also expressed deep gratitude to the Indian Army, particularly the Tawang-based 190 Mountain Brigade, for allocating defence land for the museum and agreeing to take over its management. Khandu assured the Army that the state government would support any future maintenance or administrative needs for the museum.
The event was attended by Tourism Minister P.D. Sona, legislators Oken Tayeng and Namge Tsering, Tourism Secretary, commanders of the 106 and 46 Brigades, the Zila Parishad Chairperson of Tawang, senior Army officials, and heads of various departments. The agreement underscores the collaboration between the state government and the Indian Army in preserving the region’s historical and cultural heritage.
