Indian Defence News

Tuesday, October 29, 2024

The Indian Army has recently conducted a "physical verification" to confirm the withdrawal of Chinese troops from the Depsang Plains and Demchok areas, ThePrint reported.

This operation is part of ongoing efforts to monitor and ensure compliance with disengagement agreements following tensions at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China.

This was to ensure that the Chinese army had dismantled the tents, defences, vehicles and other elements it was supposed to pull down.

The sources said the Indian Army will carry out their first patrol to patrolling points (PP) 10, 11, 12, 12A, 13 shortly. This would be the first time since January 2020 that the Indian Army will be patrolling these areas, they added.

While Indian soldiers were mostly stopped from the patrolling points in Depsang Plains in mid-2017 from an area called the Y-Junction, they managed to push their way through in January 2020.

A decision has been taken to limit the patrolling to twice a month and both sides will coordinate with each other.

This means that each side will inform the other before embarking on the scheduled patrolling. This, the sources said, was to ensure that no kind of confrontation takes place.

In addition to the verification of troop withdrawal, the Indian Army is considering implementing "escorted patrolling" in eastern Ladakh.

Even though Army sources have emphasised that the agreement was specific to only Depsang and Demchok, an understanding has also been reached for restart patrolling in areas where buffer zones were created—northern banks of Pangong Tso, Galwan Valley, Hot Springs, Gogra—where disengagement took place by September 2022.

This strategy aims to enhance security and maintain a visible presence in sensitive regions, particularly in light of previous border confrontations. The move reflects India's proactive approach to safeguarding its territorial integrity while managing relations with China amidst ongoing negotiations regarding troop disengagement.

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Countries like the United States are significant markets for various components exported from different nations. For instance, India has recently emerged as a key supplier of military equipment, including aircraft and helicopter parts, to the U.S. This is part of India's broader strategy to enhance its defence manufacturing capabilities and increase exports of indigenous defence equipment.

Exports To The United States

In 2022, India's overall exports to the U.S. reached approximately $82.9 billion, marking an annual growth rate of 12.1% over the past five years. By July 2024, this trend continued, with notable increases in specific product categories.

Key Products:

Auto Components: From March 2023 to February 2024, India exported 24,657 shipments of auto components to the U.S., representing a 16% growth compared to the previous year. In February 2024 alone, there were 1,308 shipments, although this marked a decline of 47% year-on-year compared to February 2023.
Telecom Instruments: Exports surged by 375%, totalling around $320 million in July 2024.
Petroleum Products: Increased by 44.6%, amounting to about $522 million.
Electronics Components: Experienced a remarkable rise of 292%, with exports valued at $158 million.
Gems and Jewellery: This category remains one of the largest, with exports valued at approximately $9.20 billion in FY23.
Pharmaceutical Products: Exports in this sector amounted to around $6.77 billion.
Petroleum Products: India exported about $6.03 billion in petroleum products.
Electrical and Electronics Goods: This category saw exports worth about $5.8 billion
Engineering Goods: Exports reached approximately $11.46 billion, making it another significant contributor to trade with the U.S.

Additionally, the exports to the US, consisted of sub-systems and components, which include global defence majors like Boeing and Lockheed Martin sourcing fuselage, wings, and other parts of aircraft and helicopters from India as part of their global supply chain networks as well as offset commitments. The TATA Boeing Aerospace venture in Hyderabad, for instance, is making the fuselage and secondary structures for Apache attack helicopters.

The exports involved 277 Indian exporters and 804 U.S. buyers, indicating a diverse trading network.

There are ongoing discussions between India and the U.S. regarding cooperation on critical minerals, which could further enhance trade dynamics.

Software Exports To France

India has also seen a rise in software exports to France. The general trend indicates that India's IT and software services are increasingly sought after not only in France but also in the European markets. The demand for Indian software solutions is driven by France's growing need for digital transformation across various sectors, aligning with global trends of outsourcing and technology integration.

The increase in Indian exports of components to advanced economies like the U.S. and software to France reflects a broader trend of globalization and technological collaboration. This growth not only strengthens India's position as a key player in global trade but also highlights its potential in high-value sectors such as technology and pharmaceuticals.

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Heavy fighting continues in Jammu and Kashmir's Akhnoor sector as security forces engage in operations against terrorists. As of Tuesday morning, security forces have reportedly killed three terrorists during ongoing encounters, following an earlier incident where two militants were neutralized after an attack on an Indian Army convoy near the Line of Control (LoC) on Monday.

Initial Attack: The situation escalated on Monday when terrorists opened fire on an army convoy, prompting a significant response from security forces. This led to an intense eight-hour gunfight, resulting in the death of at least one terrorist initially.

On Tuesday, operations resumed at first light, with reports indicating that commandos from various units, including the 9 Para Special Forces and the National Security Guard (NSG), are actively involved. An intermittent exchange of fire has been reported as forces search for remaining militants.

By Tuesday morning, officials confirmed that three terrorists had been killed during the encounters. The operations are characterized by heavy gunfire, with security forces employing various tactical measures to neutralize threats in the area.

A four-year-old valiant Army dog, Phantom, died after being hit by a bullet during the operation.

In a first, the Army has also pressed its four BMP-II infantry combat vehicles for surveillance and strengthening the cordon around the attack site, while helicopters and drones were also deployed to locate the hiding terrorists.

The situation remains fluid as security forces continue their operations in Akhnoor, with updates expected as the situation develops.

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The Indian Army has initiated a significant procurement process to enhance its artillery capabilities by issuing a tender worth approximately ₹7,000 crore for the acquisition of advanced artillery guns. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize the army's artillery systems with a focus on indigenously designed and manufactured equipment.

The tender aims to purchase 400 howitzers classified under the Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured (IDDM) category. The primary goal is to procure 155 mm/52 calibre towed artillery gun systems (TAGS) that are lighter and more versatile than existing models.

The weight limit for these new guns is set at 15,000 kg, and they are expected to have a firing range of up to 40 km.

This procurement is crucial for bolstering India's indigenous defence capabilities, aligning with the "Make in India" initiative.

The new artillery systems are intended to replace older models, such as the 105 mm in-field guns, which, while lightweight, lack the necessary firepower for modern combat scenarios.

The new howitzers will incorporate several advanced features:

The emphasis on reducing weight will enhance mobility, especially in high-altitude areas where deployment can be challenging. The 155 mm calibre standardization aims to improve lethality and operational flexibility.

Features will include automated systems for sighting and ammunition handling, improving accuracy and response times during engagements.

Several Indian defence firms are expected to compete for this tender, including:

- Bharat Forge
- Larsen & Toubro
- Adani Defence & Aerospace
- Ordnance Factory Board

These companies have been involved in previous artillery projects and are well-positioned to meet the Army's requirements for advanced artillery systems.

Requirement of Enhance Capabilities

The acquisition of new howitzers by the Indian Army is set to significantly enhance its operational capabilities in several key areas:

Enhanced Firepower

The new 155mm/52 calibre towed guns and 105mm mounted howitzers are designed to deliver greater firepower with improved range and precision. This will enable the Army to engage targets more effectively, especially in high-altitude regions like the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

Mobility And Deployment

The emphasis on lighter artillery systems means that these howitzers can be more easily transported and deployed in challenging terrains. This mobility is crucial for rapid response capabilities in dynamic battlefield scenarios.

Indigenization And Self-Reliance

By sourcing these howitzers from domestic manufacturers, the Indian Army is bolstering local defence industries. This not only supports economic growth but also ensures that the Army has access to cutting-edge technology developed within the country.

Modernization of Artillery

The new systems will incorporate modern technologies such as automated firing systems, advanced sighting equipment, and precision-guided munitions. This integration enhances operational effectiveness and situational awareness on the battlefield.

Strategic Advantage

The upgraded artillery capabilities will provide the Indian Army with a strategic edge against potential adversaries, particularly in light of ongoing tensions in border regions. The ability to deliver accurate firepower quickly can deter aggression and improve overall defence posture.

Requirement of Specialised Ammunition Types

The new 155 mm/52 calibre towed artillery guns being procured by the Indian Army are designed to fire a variety of specialized ammunition types, enhancing their operational flexibility and effectiveness on the battlefield.

High Explosive (HE) Shells

Standard HE Shells: These are filled with explosives like TNT or Composition B, designed for blast effects and fragmentation against personnel and light fortifications.

Extended Range HE Shells: These include Base Bleed (BB) variants that optimize range while maintaining lethality.

Terminally Guided Munitions (TGM)

These advanced shells feature guidance systems that allow for precision targeting, significantly improving accuracy compared to conventional shells. They can be controlled during flight for enhanced manoeuvrability, achieving a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of around 10 meters.

Smart Artillery Shells

Developed in collaboration with IIT-Madras, these shells will incorporate navigation and control systems based on the Indian NavIC satellite constellation. They are expected to offer improved accuracy and lethality, with capabilities for multiple detonation modes (point detonation, height of burst, delayed detonation).

Smoke And Illumination Rounds

Smoke Shells: Used for obscuring troop movements or marking targets, these rounds can produce multispectral smoke to mask visibility in both visible and infrared spectrums.

Illumination Shells: Designed to light up areas for better visibility during night operations.

Specialized Anti-Structure Ammunition

Certain HE shells are designed specifically for penetrating structures, enhancing their effectiveness against fortified positions.

These diverse ammunition types ensure that the new artillery guns will be versatile and capable of addressing various combat scenarios, from direct fire support to area denial and target illumination. This capability is crucial for modern warfare, where adaptability and precision are paramount.

This procurement initiative reflects the Indian Army's commitment to modernizing its artillery capabilities through indigenous production. By acquiring these new howitzers, the Army aims to enhance its operational effectiveness while supporting local defence manufacturing. The completion of this project is part of a broader modernization plan that targets full operational capability by 2042.

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Recent developments indicate that the Indian government may propose the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir during the upcoming winter session of Parliament. This follows a resolution passed by the newly elected Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, which unanimously called for the restoration of statehood to the region, originally stripped in August 2019 when it was reorganized into two Union Territories.

On October 17, 2024, the J&K Cabinet passed a resolution emphasizing the need for restoring statehood as a means to reclaim constitutional rights and protect the identity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The resolution is seen as a critical step towards healing and governance in the region.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reportedly assured support for this initiative during discussions with Abdullah. The Chief Minister is expected to present this resolution to Prime Minister Narendra Modi soon.

The proposal has elicited mixed responses. While some view it as a positive step towards greater autonomy, opposition parties have criticized it as insufficient, arguing that it falls short of addressing demands related to Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir before its abrogation. PDP leader Waheed Para described the resolution as merely ratifying past decisions rather than pushing for meaningful change.

The restoration of statehood is anticipated to be a significant political move, potentially leading to increased local governance and autonomy for Jammu and Kashmir. However, the ongoing debate about Article 370 remains a contentious issue, with calls for its reinstatement continuing among various political factions in the region. The upcoming winter session of Parliament will be crucial in determining how these discussions evolve and what concrete actions will be taken regarding statehood.

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PM Modi with Spanish Prez Pedro Sanchez during the inauguration of TATA Airbus Complex

India and Spain's Commitment Against Terrorism: During a recent visit by the President of the Spanish Government to India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Pedro Sánchez reaffirmed their strong stance against terrorism. They condemned all forms of terrorism and violent extremism, emphasizing the need for international cooperation to combat these threats effectively.

The leaders also discussed promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. They highlighted the importance of a rules-based international order and expressed their commitment to enhancing security cooperation in this strategic area.

This meeting is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen India-Spain relations, particularly in areas such as defence, trade, and counter-terrorism. Both nations aim to collaborate more closely to address shared security challenges.

Both sides also acknowledged India's invitation to Spain to participate in the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) for collaborative efforts aimed at the management, conservation, sustainability, security, and development of the maritime domain in the Indo-Pacific. They also recognised the complementarity between India's Indo-Pacific Vision and the EU Strategy for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

The leaders expressed their deepest concern over the war in Ukraine and reiterated the need for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in line with international law and consistent with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, the MEA said.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently highlighted significant advancements in India's defence manufacturing sector during the inauguration of the TATA Aircraft Complex in Vadodara, dedicated to producing C-295 aircraft. This event marks a pivotal moment in India's journey towards self-reliance in military manufacturing.

The facility is the first private sector final assembly line for military aircraft in India, symbolizing a major shift in the defence manufacturing landscape. It will produce 40 out of a total of 56 C-295 aircraft, with the remainder being delivered directly from Spain.

Modi emphasized that India's defence manufacturing ecosystem has evolved dramatically over the past decade. He noted that strategic initiatives, such as increasing private sector participation and restructuring ordnance factories into seven companies, have been crucial for this transformation.

The Prime Minister pointed out the success of the iDEX (Innovation for Defence Excellence) scheme, which has fostered around 1,000 defence start-ups, contributing to a vibrant defence industry in India.

Modi announced that India's defence exports have surged by 30 times over the last ten years, now reaching over 100 countries. This growth reflects the effectiveness of policies aimed at enhancing indigenous manufacturing capabilities.

The new facility is expected to generate thousands of jobs and support the manufacturing of 18,000 aircraft parts, providing opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across India.

Modi expressed confidence that this facility will not only contribute to military needs but also pave the way for producing civil aircraft, further establishing India as an aviation hub.

PM Modi's remarks underscore a transformative era for India's defence sector, driven by strategic planning and robust partnerships. The establishment of the TATA Aircraft Complex is seen as a cornerstone for future advancements in both military and civil aviation manufacturing.

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On October 28, 2024, an Indian Army dog named Phantom was killed during an anti-terror operation in the Akhnoor sector of Jammu. The four-year-old Belgian Malinois suffered a fatal bullet wound from terrorists while assisting troops in the field. Phantom had been deployed with his unit since August 12, 2022, after graduating from the Remount Veterinary Corps in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh.

The Army's White Knight Corps honoured Phantom's bravery, stating, "We salute the supreme sacrifice of our true hero — a valiant Indian Army dog, Phantom." During the operation, as soldiers were closing in on the terrorists, Phantom drew enemy fire, ultimately leading to his injuries. The operation resulted in the neutralization of one terrorist and the recovery of warlike stores.

Phantom's dedication and loyalty exemplified the vital role that military dogs play in operations, often putting themselves in harm's way to protect their handlers and fellow soldiers.

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India and Saudi Arabia are set to enhance their cooperation in key sectors such as energy, digital infrastructure, and manufacturing. This initiative is spearheaded by Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, who will be visiting Riyadh for discussions aimed at deepening bilateral ties.

The discussions will primarily revolve around renewable energy initiatives, reflecting both nations' commitment to sustainable development.

India seeks to leverage Saudi Arabia's advancements in energy technology and investment capabilities.

Another crucial aspect of the talks will be the enhancement of digital infrastructure. This includes exploring opportunities for collaboration in areas such as telecommunications, data management, and cybersecurity.

The goal is to build a robust digital ecosystem that can support economic growth and innovation in both countries.

Cooperation in the manufacturing sector is also on the agenda. This aligns with India's push to bolster its manufacturing capabilities through foreign partnerships.

The collaboration could focus on various manufacturing domains, including electronics, textiles, and automotive components.

According to a ministry statement, these interactions aim to strengthen investor confidence, facilitate investment flows, and promote India as a preferred global investment destination, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Minister Goyal will also co-chair the second Ministerial Meeting of the Economy and Investment Committee under the India-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council, focusing on sectors like agriculture, food security, energy, technology and infrastructure.

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Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi has officially launched the ‘Swavlamban 2024’ exhibition, aimed at promoting indigenization within the Indian Navy. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Make in India program.

The exhibition focuses on showcasing indigenous technologies and capabilities that can support the Navy’s operational requirements. It emphasizes collaboration with local industries to foster innovation and self-sufficiency in defence production.

Admiral Tripathi highlighted that enhancing indigenization is crucial for meeting the Navy's growing needs and addressing security challenges. The event serves as a platform for local manufacturers to demonstrate their products and capabilities, thereby strengthening ties between the Navy and the defence industry.

The Navy is expected to place substantial orders with Indian manufacturers, including an initial order for submarines worth approximately ₹1.6 lakh Crores. This move aims to bolster the Navy's fleet while simultaneously supporting local industry.

During his address, Admiral Tripathi reiterated his commitment to advancing the Navy's indigenization efforts. He emphasized that fostering local manufacturing capabilities is essential for operational readiness and strategic independence.

he ‘Swavlamban 2024’ exhibition, inaugurated by Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, has several key goals aimed at enhancing India's defence capabilities through indigenization and innovation. Here are the main objectives:

Main Goals of 'Swavlamban 2024'

1. Promote Self-Reliance: The exhibition aims to foster self-reliance in defence manufacturing, aligning with the broader Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. This includes reducing dependency on foreign technologies and enhancing indigenous production capabilities.

2. Showcase Innovations: Featuring around 115 stalls from various defence agencies, the event serves as a platform for young Indian entrepreneurs to present their innovations, including advanced technologies like air and surface surveillance systems and autonomous vehicles.

3. Collaborate with MSMEs: A significant goal is to strengthen collaboration with Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and start-ups. This partnership is crucial for addressing the Navy's operational needs and bridging existing capability gaps.

4. Accelerate Technological Development: The exhibition seeks to accelerate the development of niche technologies that can be rapidly integrated into naval operations. This includes engaging with academia and research institutions to create a dynamic innovation ecosystem.

5. Address Operational Challenges: By showcasing cutting-edge solutions, the event aims to equip the Navy with technologies that effectively address modern operational challenges in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.

6. Encourage Indigenous Manufacturing: The initiative emphasizes building a robust indigenous defence manufacturing base, with a focus on achieving technological sovereignty and sustainability in defence production.

Through these goals, ‘Swavlamban 2024’ not only aims to enhance the Indian Navy's capabilities but also to contribute significantly to the country's defence self-sufficiency. The exhibition not only showcases India's technological advancements but also reinforces the Indian Navy's commitment to becoming a key player in national defence through indigenous solutions.

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Oil prices experienced a significant decline on October 28, 2024, plunging over 6% after Israel's recent military strikes against Iran did not target the country's oil production infrastructure. This marked the largest drop in oil prices in two years, with West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures closing at approximately $67.38 per barrel and Brent crude at around $71.42 per barrel.

The Israeli military conducted a series of strikes on Iranian military sites as a response to Iran's missile attacks on Israel earlier in October. Notably, these strikes specifically avoided Iranian oil and nuclear facilities, which had been a major concern for oil markets leading up to the attack.

The market reacted swiftly to the news that Iran's oil infrastructure remained intact, easing fears of a broader conflict that could disrupt oil supplies. Analysts noted that this limited military operation might reduce the geopolitical risk premium that had previously inflated oil prices. For instance, Citi analysts revised their Brent price forecast down from $74 to $70 per barrel for the fourth quarter, reflecting diminished concerns over supply disruptions.

The decline in oil prices also coincided with broader economic concerns, particularly regarding weak demand from China, which has been affecting global oil consumption forecasts. Recent data indicated a significant drop in China's industrial profits, further contributing to bearish sentiment in the oil markets.

The Israeli strikes and their aftermath suggest a temporary easing of tensions in the Middle East that could stabilize oil prices in the short term. However, analysts caution that ongoing geopolitical dynamics and economic conditions will continue to influence market behaviour. The situation remains fluid, with potential for future developments depending on Iran's response and broader regional stability.

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NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS), has sent heartfelt Diwali wishes to people around the world in a special video message. In her message, she expressed her unique experience of celebrating the festival of lights from 260 miles above Earth.

Williams began her message with a warm "Greetings from the ISS," and extended her best wishes for a joyous Diwali, particularly to those celebrating at the White House and globally. She reflected on her father's dedication to preserving their cultural heritage by teaching her about Indian traditions, including Diwali. This year, she noted, she had the rare opportunity to witness the festival from space, which added a special significance to her celebrations.

In her message, Williams emphasized that Diwali represents hope and renewal, stating, "Diwali is a time of joy as goodness in the world prevails." She also expressed gratitude to U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for their participation in Diwali celebrations and for recognizing the contributions of the Indian community in America.

Williams has been aboard the ISS since June 2024, alongside fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore. Their mission was initially planned as a week-long test flight but has been extended to approximately eight months due to safety concerns regarding their return spacecraft. They are expected to return to Earth in February 2025.

This heartfelt message from Williams not only highlights the cultural significance of Diwali but also underscores the contributions of individuals of Indian origin in space exploration and their efforts to maintain cultural traditions even while in orbit.

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President Joe Biden celebrated Diwali at the White House on October 28, 2024, hosting over 600 distinguished Indian Americans. This event marked one of the largest Diwali receptions in the history of the White House, underscoring the administration's commitment to honouring the diverse cultural fabric of the nation.

Biden emphasized the significance of Diwali, urging Americans to reflect on "the strength of our shared light" and the enduring spirit of unity that the festival represents. He acknowledged the contributions of South Asian Americans, stating that they have woven Diwali traditions into American culture and highlighted their roles in various sectors, including government and society.

Biden lit a Diya in the Blue Room, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and expressing gratitude for the South Asian American community's contributions to democracy.

The event featured remarks from notable figures, including U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy and a recorded message from astronaut Sunita Williams, who extended her Diwali wishes from the International Space Station.

Biden recalled past celebrations and reflected on America's journey toward inclusion, stating, "This is not my house; this is your house," emphasizing that diversity is a cornerstone of American democracy.

The celebration not only honoured Diwali's significance but also reinforced a message of resilience and unity within a diverse nation.

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Spanish President Pedro Sánchez and his wife Begoña Gómez celebrated Diwali in Mumbai on October 28, 2024. The couple participated in various festivities, including lighting Diyas and setting off fireworks, which are traditional elements of the Diwali celebration.

They also had their hands on delicious Indian sweets, including ladoos.

Sanchez, who arrived in India in the early hours of Monday, is on a three-day visit to India. He is scheduled to attend a programme in Mumbai today and depart for Spain tomorrow.

During the celebrations, Sánchez expressed his appreciation for Indian culture and the significance of Diwali, emphasizing the festival's themes of light and joy. This visit is part of a broader engagement with India, where Sánchez also inaugurated a Tata aircraft complex alongside Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

During their bilateral talks at the Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, the two leaders discussed various topics, including trade, defence, and technology collaboration. They shared lunch at the palace, which was constructed in the late 19th century by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad-III, the former ruler of Baroda.

The event was marked by vibrant displays of lights and sweets, embodying the festive spirit of Diwali.

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The Indian Army recently held a series of commemorative events to honour the heroic soldiers who fought in the Battle of Walong during the Sino-Indian War in 1962. This year marks the 62nd anniversary of the battle, which took place from October 21 to November 16, 1962, near the town of Walong in Arunachal Pradesh.

1. Month-Long Commemoration: The tribute began on October 17, 2024, and will continue until November 14, 2024. This period includes various activities aimed at celebrating the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers who defended India's eastern front against overwhelming odds.

2. Half Marathon: A notable event was a half marathon held on October 27, which saw participation from over 558 runners, including military personnel and local civilians. The marathon was flagged off by Subedar Narinder Singh Rawat, an Olympian, emphasizing both athleticism and remembrance.

3. Cultural and Adventure Activities: The celebrations feature a variety of activities such as battlefield treks, white-water rafting, motorcycle and bicycle rallies, and medical camps. These events not only honour the soldiers but also aim to engage local communities and promote adventure tourism in the region.

4. Inauguration of Memorials: The newly renovated Walong War Memorial will be inaugurated during this period, culminating in a wreath-laying ceremony on Walong Day, November 14. This day will also include traditional performances by local dancers, further connecting the military history with cultural heritage.

The Battle of Walong is remembered for the valiant defence mounted by Indian forces against Chinese troops, who significantly outnumbered them. Despite facing dire shortages in resources and ammunition, Indian soldiers managed to delay the Chinese advance for nearly a month, showcasing remarkable bravery in harsh terrain. The battle is considered a pivotal moment in India's military history, symbolizing resilience and sacrifice.

These commemorative activities serve not only to honour those who fought but also to educate new generations about their legacy and the importance of national defence.

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