Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's Tawang Visit Marks New Milestones in India-China Relations

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh began a two-day visit to Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday, focusing on interactions with soldiers stationed along the India-China border in Tawang. He was joined by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, and Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh may also visit Tawang during this time.

Before departing, the Defence Minister posted on his social media handle, sharing his eagerness to meet the Armed Forces personnel and attend the opening of a new museum dedicated to Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing, an Indian Army officer who played a key role in bringing Tawang into the Indian Union. The museum honors his bravery and contributions to the nation.

Singh's visit comes as India and China recently reached a significant agreement on patrolling protocols along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh. This breakthrough aims to reduce tensions after a prolonged military standoff that began with the 2020 Galwan Valley clash.

In October 2023, Singh also visited forward posts in Arunachal, where he assessed operational readiness along the LAC, joined a ‘Shastra Puja’ with troops, and celebrated Dussehra with them. Tawang, particularly areas like Yangtse, has been a hotspot of India-China tensions, notably in December 2022, when Indian and Chinese soldiers clashed, leading to minor injuries. Both sides disengaged promptly following the incident.

Earlier this year, Singh celebrated Holi with soldiers in Leh, commending their dedication to safeguarding the nation under challenging conditions.

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