Walong Day Commemoration Begins with Wreath-Laying Ceremony in Arunachal Pradesh

The opening ceremony also featured traditional welcomes and cultural performances by members of the Mishmi and Meyor tribes, highlighting the region’s rich heritage.

As part of the commemorative programme, Battlefield Treks were flagged off and the Lt. Bikram Singh Football Tournament was inaugurated in honour of the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers who defended the region.

Participants from different parts of the country are scheduled to take part in the battlefield treks until November 12, ahead of Walong Day on November 14.

The military formation also organised the Walong Half Marathon 2026 on October 27 in the Lohit Valley. Held under the theme ‘Run for the Bravehearts – Remember Walong’, the event paid tribute to the soldiers who fought in the 1962 battle.

Remembering the Battle of Walong

The Battle of Walong remains one of the significant episodes of the 1962 India-China war. Indian troops, despite being outnumbered and facing shortages of equipment and support, resisted the advance of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) in the region for several weeks.

The battle began on October 21, 1962, when Chinese forces attacked the Kibithu post, approximately 40 km from Walong. Two Indian platoons faced a much larger PLA force supported by artillery.

As the position at Kibithu became difficult to defend, the 6 Kumaon Regiment was ordered to withdraw towards Walong on October 22.

The following day, Delta Company of the 6 Kumaon, led by Lieutenant Bikram Singh Rathore, launched an ambush against Chinese troops near a hanging bridge across the Namti Nullah, around 5 km from Walong. The engagement inflicted significant casualties on the Chinese side.

Following the operation, the Indian unit was assigned positions on the West Ridge overlooking the Walong Landing Ground. Chinese forces subsequently reinforced their presence and advanced towards the area.

Indian troops continued to resist the offensive despite facing a substantial numerical disadvantage and limited military support. The fighting around Walong became particularly intense in November, with soldiers of the 6 Kumaon defending their positions against repeated attacks.

Sacrifice of Indian Soldiers on the West Ridge

One of the most intense phases of the battle involved Delta Company under Lieutenant Rathore, which was ordered to hold its position on the West Ridge.

Facing heavily armed PLA troops supported by artillery, the Indian soldiers continued resisting repeated assaults. Even after their ammunition was exhausted, they reportedly fought at close quarters rather than surrendering their positions.

The Chinese eventually overwhelmed the defenders through superior numbers and attacked from multiple directions. Indian forces were subsequently ordered to withdraw, allowing the PLA to take control of Walong.

However, the resistance had delayed the Chinese advance and made further movement through the region difficult. The PLA began withdrawing after China announced a unilateral ceasefire on November 21, 1962.

Several memorials now stand in the Walong region to commemorate the soldiers who fought in the battle. These include the Walong War Memorial, Helmet Top Post War Memorial and Kibithu Hut of Remembrance Memorial.

The annual commemoration seeks to preserve the memory of the battle and honour the courage and sacrifice of the Indian troops who defended the region.