DEFENCE Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said the disengagement process in certain areas along LAC was “almost complete” based on consensus achieved between India and China. Unveiling a statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and inaugurating the Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khating Museum of Valour at Tawang, Singh referred to the broad consensus achieved by India and China to restore the ground situation in certain areas along the LAC. “India and China have been holding talks at both diplomatic and military levels to resolve the differences in some areas along the LAC. As a result of the talks, a broad consensus was developed on the basis of equal and mutual security. The consensus includes the rights of patrolling and grazing in traditional areas,” he said. “Based on this consensus, the process of disengagement is almost complete. Our efforts will be to take the matter beyond disengagement; but for that, we will have to wait a little longer,” he added. Singh, who could not travel toTawang due to inclement weather, virtually inaugurated the statue of Patel and the museum from Tezpur in Assam’s Sonitpur district.

 

The Defence minister recognised Major Bob Khating’s crucial role in establishing Indian administration up to McMahon Line in February 1951, highlighting Tawang’s strategic significance. “Major Khathing not only led the peaceful integration ofTawanginto India butalso established essential military and security frameworks, including the Sashastra Seema Bal, NagalandArmedPolice,and the Naga Regiment. The ‘Museum of Valour’ now standsasatributetohisbravery and foresight, inspiring generations to come,” he said. Singh commended the Indian Army and local communities for their initiative in creating the museum. Singh paid glowing tributestoSardarPatel,acknowledginghis instrumentalrole in unifying over 560 princelystatespost-independence, a feat that stands as a testament to his indomitable resolve and commitment to a unified India. “This statue ‘Desh Ka Vallabh’ will inspire people reminding them of the strength in unity and the unwavering spirit required to build a nation as diverse as ours,” he said. The Defence Minister underscoredthesignificance of unity and harmony, and theNorth-East’sunique role in the nation’s identity. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ensuring economic and infrastructure development of the entire region. “Holistic development of the nation is possible only when the North East prospers. We will create such a North East which is strong andprosperousnotonlynaturallyandculturallybutalso economically,” he added. Singhalsohighlightedthe crucial role of Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in the progress of the region.

 

He made special mention of the Sela tunnel linking Assam and Tawang, a project which enhances connectivity across Northeast regions. “In the times to come, the ArunachalFrontierHighway projectwillplay a majorrole in connecting the entire North East region, especially the border areas. This 2,000-km long highway will prove to be an important strategicandeconomicasset for the region as well as the entire nation,” he said. Singh further commendedtheArmedForces’engagementintheregion,fromNCC initiatives and local economicsupporttocrucialdisaster relief efforts. “Armed Forces not only provide security but also becomeamediumfordevelopment in that region by cooperatingwiththepeople ofthe border areas. This furtherstrengthensIndia’scommitment to ensuring development, peace, and security in the Northeast,” the Defence Minister said. Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd), Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Manipur Chief MinisterNBirenSingh,Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi,GOC-inC Eastern Command Lt Gen RC Tewari, 4 Corps GOC Lt GenGambhirSinghandother senior civil and military officials attended the event at Tawang.