AR pays homage to Major Bob Khathing
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 28 2023:
Lieutenant General PC Nair, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, PhD, DG Assam Rifles along with Major General Rajan Sharawat, VSM, IG Assam Rifles paid homage to the iconic figure of the North East, Major Bob Khathing, Padmashree, MC, MBE at Imphal on the occasion of his 111th birth anniversary.
The ceremony was attended by John Khathing, son of Major Bob Khathing and other important dignitaries both military and civil, a statement from IGAR (S) has informed.
Major Bob Khathing, Padamshree, MC, MBE was a legendary figure from the North East.
During World War II, he served with the famous "V Force" and was awarded the Military Cross and Member of the British Empire (MBE) for his gallantry.
Apart from his committed service in Assam during the great earthquake of 1950, he played key roles in the transitional period in the State of Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Sikkim.
Major Khathing's name has special relevance to Arunachal Pradesh; he served as the Assistant Political Officer in erstwhile NEFA.
He was also the first Officer to successfully unfurl the Indian Tri-colour at Tawang in the year 1951 .
Owing to his immense contribution to the North East Region he was awarded the Padmashree by the first President of India, Dr Rajendra Prasad in 1957 .
DG Assam Rifles, during his short speech, recalled the valuable contribution of Major Bob Khathing at erstwhile NEFA and his overall contribution towards peace and security of the North East India.
The DG thanked the family members of the hero for their presence and highlighted the importance of remembering the contributions of those who helped shape the vibrant and ever developing North East.
A felicitation ceremony from the Khathing family was also conducted during the event for Tangkhul students who topped in class X and XII board examinations in various streams and cash prizes along with certificates were distributed.
A total of 13 students received the awards during the function.