Gangtok, 12 Sept (IPR): A delegation of three 1967 War Veterans of Indian Army namely Major (retired) K.V. Chandrashekheran, Lt Col. (retd.) Attar Singh and Vijay Dagar accompanied by their family members and staff today called on Hon’ble Governor Shri Ganga Prasad at Raj Bhavan.
It was a courtesy call by the veterans who are in Sikkim for their annual tour to Nathu-La Border Post to honour and remember the sacrifice made by Indian Soldiers in 1967 conflict with China.
It may be mentioned that Indian Army commemorates 11th September every year as Shaheed Diwas at Nathula Border Post to offer homage and respect to 87 Indian Soldiers who have lost their lives fighting with Chinese troops in Indo-China clash in 1967. A total of 193 soldiers were also injured during what could be called as a full blown conflict in 1967. The annual tour of the members of then Indian Army posted in Nathula is facilitated by Indian Army and coordinated 17 Mtn. Division, Gangtok .
In a brief interaction with the Governor, Lt Col. (retd.) Attar Singh recounted the details of the war and described how Indian soldiers fought tooth and nail to safeguard every inch of Indian territory along the Nathula border. He also mentioned that some 250-300 Chinese soldiers were also reported to be killed during the conflict. The veterans expressed their happiness on the opportunity to visit Nathula after almost 52 years of the conflict on the occasion of Shaheed Diwas yesterday.
The Governor expressed his pleasure on meeting the veterans who have sacrificed their youth in guarding our frontiers. He also acknowledged the sterling contribution of members of Armed Forces in securing our sovereignty and freedom enabling every Indian citizen to live in peace and security. He extended best wishes to the veterans and wished them good health and happiness ahead in life.
