The Opening Ceremony of the 63rd Walong Day commenced with the wreath laying by GOC Dao Div, in homage to the heroes of the Battle of Walong on Oct 24th, 2025.
A traditional welcome by the Mishmi & Meyor tribes, Chhau Dance, Pipe Band and Tribal Dance displays showcased the region’s vibrant culture.
The event also witnessed the Flag Off of Battlefield Treks, unveiling of Lt Bikram Singh Football Tournament, celebrating valour, heritage and the unyielding Spirit of Walong.
This was disclosed by Army's Spear Corps at Rangapahar.
An Arunachal Pradesh Govt website says -
Step into history and retrace the footsteps of valour with a series of Battlefield Treks where 1962 War was planned and fought across the historic landscapes of Walong to give realtime feel to the Youth of country about the hardships of the soldier to secure the motherland.
These treks are designed to connect participants with the legacy of courage while offering the thrill of adventure amidst the breathtaking terrain. Each route carries stories of sacrifice and resilience, making every step a tribute to the past and a journey into the spirit of endurance.
The following treks were planned:
Dichu to Ashi Hill –
Helmet Post to Tri Junction
Tilam Top to Namti
Ashi Hill to Helmet Post
Walong cradled in Arunachal Pradesh holds immense strategic importance.
Located near the trijunction of India, China and Myanmar, it serves as a critical outpost in safeguarding India’s eastern borders.
It goes without stating that for Walong’s rugged terrain and geographical vantage points play a key role in monitoring the line of actual control (LAC).
The Battle of Walong took place during the Sino-Indian War of 1962.
It took place near the town of Walong in the eastern sector of the conflict, in the present-day Arunachal Pradesh region of India.
Indian forces, despite being outnumbered and under equipped, resisted the Chinese advance for nearly a month. This region then fall under North Eastern Frontier Agency (NEFA).
By October 1962, Chinese forces had already begun advancing into Indian-held territory, and the Indian Army was tasked with defending key positions along the border.
At Walong, the responsibility for defense fell to the Indian 11th Infantry Brigade, led by Brigadier N.C. Rawlley (or Naveen Chand Rawlley).
On Oct 21, 1962:
The Indian defenders, consisting primarily of troops from the 4th Sikh Regiment and the 6th Kumaon Regiment, had prepared defensive positions along the ridges and valleys around Walong.
The Indian forces put up a determined defense, engaging the Chinese in numerous skirmishes for nearly four weeks. Using the difficult terrain to their advantage, Indian troops created bottlenecks and ambushes to slow the advancing Chinese forces.
(( ** Even in 2025 - there are practical challenges for Indian forces and the local population. The remote location and lack of infrastructure pose significant challenges for the local population and the armed forces.
The absence of modern amenities, coupled with harsh winters and unpredictable weather, makes everyday life a struggle.
The tough terrain and limited logistical support often make border patrolling and defence operations arduous. ))
23 October: A landmark 'defensive win' for India:
The landmark Indian win against the 153 Regt of PLA (Chengdu Sub area) when Delta Company of 6 Kumaon under Lt Bikram Singh Rathore was ordered to establish screen position on Ashi Hill (NH 5484).
Lt. Bikram Singh planned and executed a classic ambush at a small hanging bridge over Namti Nallah (5 km away from Walong).
Lt Bikram removed the last few planks of the hanging bridge and positioned his men at various positions adjoining Namti Nullah and sighted the MMGs and Mortars of his men on spots likely to be enemy position and to bring down accurate fire.
He briefed his soldiers to hold fire until he fired the first 'Very Light'.
At 3 a.m. on 23 October, the Chinese Army marching towards Walong walked down Ashi hill to reach the hanging bridge on Namti Nullah.
The first Chinese soldier of 153 Regiment crossed the bridge and stepped on the last few plank and fell into the nullah.
The following Chinese soldiers milled around and Lt. Bikram Singh fired the first Very Light revealing the Chinese in a cramped path of a planned accurate fire of Indian MMG and Mortar fire.
About 200 Chinese troops were killed or wounded in this action against nine Indian fatalities.
After the success at Namti Nullah, The Delta Company of 6 Kumaon was tasked to occupy critical defenses on "West Ridge" overlooking the Advanced Landing Grounds, Walong.
The main Battle of Walong was on 16 November, 1962 when a large number of soldiers of the PLA 130th Division (People's Republic of China) attack on approx.
About 100 soldiers of Delta Company of 6 Kumaon were holding West Ridge.
Lt. Bikram was tasked to hold this defense at all costs till 1100 hours and he had promised Brigadier N.C. Rawley that he would never withdraw.
Waves of Chinese attacks came on his post one after the other. However, Kumaonis fought gallantly and repulsed the attack.
Walong, Kibitho, and Kaho are more than just destinations; they are embodiments of India’s history, natural beauty, and defence resilience.
Here; every Indian must pay homage to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives, appreciate the unparalleled beauty of Arunachal, and also perhaps witness the region’s strategic importance.
In the words of Brig N C Rawlley:
"He (Lt. Bikram Singh) held on as long as humanly possible. Very few men from his Company managed to escape.
The bulk of them being killed and wounded on the hill. Under his courageous and gallant leadership the men fought until all their ammunition was exhausted and they were completely overrun.
Bikram's message to me over the wireless was that he would hold on and not withdraw. He has fulfilled these words to the limit."
ends
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