New Delhi: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh has called upon the people to always put the nation first, remain united, discharge their duties with honesty, and move fearlessly towards achieving their goals. He said these were the core principles of Major Bob Khathing, an extraordinary figure who made invaluable contributions to the North-East region and national security. He was speaking at the fifth edition of the Major Bob Khathing Memorial Event, jointly organised by the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and United Services Institution of India (USI) at Delhi Cantt on March 19, 2025, to honour the life and legacy of the legendary figure.
Paying tribute to Major Bob Khathing, Rajnath Singh said India has been fortunate to have prominent personalities for whom the security, integrity, and sovereignty of the nation were paramount. He described Major Khathing as a great son of India, whose bravery on the battlefield and skill in diplomacy left an indelible mark on the country’s history. He said it is the responsibility of the people to adopt the ideals and principles of such great personalities.
The defence minister praised Major Khathing’s role in integrating, developing, and rebuilding not only Tawang but the entire North-East region. He said Major Bob Khathing played a crucial role in strengthening national unity, comparing his efforts for the North-East to the work done by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the national level.
He noted that Major Bob Khathing efficiently carried out the integration of Tawang into India without firing a single bullet. He said the government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, follows the principles of such revolutionaries. He cited the removal of Article 370 as an example, saying that Jammu and Kashmir was fully integrated into India without firing a single bullet, with the process carried out peacefully and with full security.
Rajnath Singh highlighted Major Khathing’s administrative acumen, particularly his role in the formation of the Sashastra Seema Bal and Nagaland Armed Police, along with other reforms. He said the government is working on similar lines, focusing on administrative reforms. He spoke about reducing the gap between people and the government through initiatives like ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance’ and ‘Good Governance’. He also cited ‘Digital India’ and the ‘Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile (JAM) Trinity’ as efforts that have made administration more people-oriented.
He pointed out that the government’s foreign policy reflects the diplomatic skills of figures like Major Khathing. He said India is balancing hard power and soft power amidst global uncertainties and has strengthened its position on the world stage. He said there was a time when India was not taken seriously in international forums, but today, when India speaks, the world listens, a transformation inspired by the ideals of Major Khathing.
He said India is reaching new heights due to the organisational skills imbibed from personalities like Major Khathing and emphasised the need for the country to remain organised to achieve the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
In October 2024, Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated the Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khathing ‘Museum of Valour’ in Tawang. He was scheduled to visit Tawang but could not do so due to bad weather. Instead, he inaugurated the museum from 4 Corps Headquarters in Tezpur, Assam. He commended the will and courage of the people of the North-East, who continue to contribute to nation-building despite challenging conditions.
He acknowledged the North-East’s role in India’s development and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to increasing the region’s contribution and progress. He said the government has prioritised the development of the North-East, citing major infrastructure projects such as the Sela Tunnel, built at a height of 13,000 feet, connecting Tezpur in Assam to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. He also highlighted the Arunachal Frontier Highway, which will enhance connectivity across the region, particularly in border areas. He said the approximately 2,000 km-long highway will serve as both a strategic and economic asset for India.
He said that the rapid development of the North-East and the significant reduction in violent incidents are a result of the government’s sustained efforts. He pointed out that The New York Times had placed Assam in fourth place on its list of ‘52 Places to Visit in 2025’, reflecting the region’s transformation.
During the event, Rajnath Singh visited a specially curated photo gallery showcasing Major Bob Khathing’s remarkable achievements and enduring legacy. He also attended the screening of a film depicting the pivotal moments of Major Khathing’s life and service.
The event was attended by distinguished dignitaries, including Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Member of Parliament Alfred Kanngam Arthur, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Director General of Assam Rifles Lieutenant General Vikas Lakhera, and USI Director General Major General BK Sharma (Retd).
A keynote address titled ‘Deciphering Implications of Major Bob Khathing's Expedition to Tawang’ was delivered by former Assam Rifles Director General Lieutenant General PC Nair (Retd). He provided insights into the strategic significance of Major Khathing’s expedition and its lasting impact on national security.
John Khathing, son of Major Bob Khathing, shared personal memories of his father’s remarkable life and legacy. The event also featured cultural performances by troupes showcasing the rich and diverse heritage of the North-East.
BI Bureau
