Indian Army pays tribute to 1962 Indo-China war hero Neelam Tebi in Arunachal's Keyi Panyor

In a poignant tribute to the unsung hero of the 1962 Indo-China War, Neelam Tebi, the Indian Army, alongside BJP leader Tai Tagak and local dignitaries, gathered today at the site of a new war memorial dedicated to his memory. This significant event coincided with the anniversary of Tebi's sacrifice on October 20, 1962, during a conflict that claimed approximately 4,000 soldiers' lives.

The ceremony was led by the 13th Battalion of the Rajputana Rifles, who honored Tebi's legacy at the under-construction memorial in Keyi Panyor district. Tai Tagak, a senior BJP leader and former advisor to the Chief Minister, emphasized the importance of commemorating the brave soldiers who defended the nation’s territorial integrity.

Neelam Tebi, hailing from Nyelam village in Lower Subansiri district, made the ultimate sacrifice while serving as a jawan in the 5 Assam Rifles. He was killed in action during 'Operation Bumla' in the Kameng sector as the Chinese forces advanced. For many years, Tebi's heroism went unrecognized in his home state, but the upcoming memorial aims to ensure that his contributions are remembered and celebrated.

The Arunachal Pradesh state government has allocated ₹5 crore for the first phase of the memorial’s construction, which will cover an area of approximately 45,000 square meters. The memorial will feature an approach road, an entry gate, a nearly completed martyr cenotaph, a martyr wall, a museum-cum-armory hall, a cafeteria, scenic viewpoints, an artificial pond with fountains, a walkway bridge, a parking area, and a statue of Tebi, all set against beautifully landscaped surroundings. The land for this project has been generously donated by the residents of Nyelam village.

According to preliminary reports, the construction will occur in three phases, including the installation of an unused artillery tank and a helicopter. The memorial is envisioned not only as a tribute to Tebi but also as a potential tourist attraction, akin to the Tawang and Walong war memorials in Arunachal Pradesh.

Speaking exclusively to India Today, Tai Tagak highlighted the month-long commemorative events marking the 62nd anniversary of the Indo-China War and Tebi’s death anniversary. He recounted Tebi’s valiant stand against overwhelming odds, stating, "Neelam Tebi, the martyr of Assam Rifles, refused to retreat during the Chinese aggression. After being injured on October 19, he succumbed to his injuries the next day, sacrificing his life for the nation."

The planned memorial will include significant features such as a grand cenotaph, a war museum, high mass lights, a flag area, a viewpoint, and a wall of flame inscribed with the names of martyrs. Tagak commended the Neelam society for their generous donation of land, expressing optimism that the memorial will become a major destination for war tourism in the future.

Colonel Sangam of the Rajputana Rifles also spoke to India Today, emphasizing Tebi's bravery. He recounted how Tebi faced 300 People's Liberation Army (PLA) soldiers without flinching, stating, "Tebi didn’t bow down and fought until the last drop of blood. This war memorial aims to recognize the sacrifices of the 1962 martyrs, with a special focus on Neelam Tebi."

The Colonel further praised the strong relationship between the army and the local community, acknowledging the support received from the Neelam society, which has even provided a transit camp for the army. "It's a proud moment for me to connect with the family of brave martyr Tebi. The pain of a soldier's family is something no one can truly understand, as they bear so much," he concluded.