Taksing, Arunachal Pradesh, February 11: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday paid homage to the legendary 1962 war hero Havildar Sher-e-Thapa at the Havildar Sher-e-Thapa Shaurya Sthal in Taksing, honoring his extraordinary courage and supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.
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| Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu pays tribute at Havildar Sher-e-Thapa Shaurya Sthal in Taksing, honoring the 1962 war hero’s supreme sacrifice, alongside Army and ITBP personnel. (Image: x.com/PemaKhanduBJP) |
Remembering the brave soldier, Khandu described Havildar Sher-e-Thapa as a symbol of valour, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to duty. Popularly known as the “Saviour of Subansiri,” Sher-e-Thapa displayed exceptional bravery during the 1962 Indo-China War. Armed with a Light Machine Gun (LMG), he reportedly held off advancing enemy forces for nearly 72 hours despite overwhelming odds before laying down his life on November 18, 1962.
Paying floral tributes at the memorial, the Chief Minister said the people of Arunachal Pradesh and the nation continue to draw inspiration from the heroic actions of soldiers like Sher-e-Thapa, whose sacrifice helped safeguard the country’s frontiers during one of the most challenging periods in India’s history.
“The courage and dedication of Havildar Sher-e-Thapa will always be remembered with pride and gratitude. His story remains a shining example of selfless service and love for the nation,” Khandu said.
In a separate message, the Chief Minister also expressed appreciation for the Sikh Regiment of the Indian Army and personnel of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) stationed in Taksing. He thanked them for their wholehearted support and cooperation during the inauguration of the Tsari Taksing Gajang Shedup Dargyelling Gonpa and various development-related meetings held in the region.
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Khandu noted that the active participation of the armed forces in civilian activities ensured the smooth conduct of the events and reflected the strong bond between local communities and security personnel deployed in remote border areas. He observed that such cooperation goes beyond official responsibilities and plays an important role in fostering trust, brotherhood, and mutual understanding.
The Chief Minister said the spirit of civil-military cooperation witnessed in Taksing serves as an example of how development initiatives and national security efforts can work together for the welfare of people living in frontier regions.
The visit highlighted both the enduring legacy of a national hero and the continued partnership between civilian authorities and security forces in Arunachal Pradesh’s strategically important border districts.
