Team L&M
Newly-renovated Rezang La Memorial at Chushul in Ladakh has been dedicated to the nation. The memorial was constructed in 1963 in Chushul plains at an altitude of over 15,000 feet, at the India-China border to honour the troops of Charlie Company of 13 Kumaon Regiment, who on November 18, 1962, had defended Rezang La and the surrounding areas located at over 16,500 feet on the Kailash Ranges in Eastern Ladakh.
It was a saga of unparalleled bravery as Major Shaitan Singh and 113 soldiers had made the supreme sacrifice, fighting one of the world’s rarest ‘last man, last bullet’ battles. Major Singh was bestowed with the Nation’s highest gallantry award, the Param Veer Chakra, posthumously. The entire project of Rezang La Memorial was spearheaded by the troops of Chushul Brigade, the very same formation under which the Armed Forces had defended the entire Ladakh sector in 1962.
The renovated complex includes a double-storied museum, a mini-theatre to screen a special documentary on the battle, a large helipad and various other tourist amenities. Located very close to the Pangong Lake in Ladakh, the memorial is set to become a major tourist attraction.
Dedicating the memorial to the nation, the Raksha Mantri Raj Nath Singh paid homage to the gallant Indian soldiers who fought the Battle of Rezang La and laid wreath. He said the courage and sacrifice of the Charlie Company will always inspire future generations and described the Rezang La memorial as an epitome of passion, determination and fearless spirit of the bravehearts.
“The renovation of the memorial is not only a tribute to our valiant Armed Forces, but also a symbol of the fact that we are fully prepared to protect the integrity of the nation. This monument symbolises the government’s stand of giving a befitting reply to anyone who threatens our sovereignty and integrity,” said Singh. He also lauded the Indian soldiers, who continue to carry forward the valour and patriotism of the fallen heroes and protect the country fearlessly. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the welfare of the Armed Forces personnel and their families.
