Rajnath Singh Calls Assam-Tawang Connectivity a Strategic and Economic Asset for India

During the event, Rajnath Singh paid tribute to Major Bob Khathing’s contributions to India’s security and diplomacy.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has acknowledged the strategic and economic significance of Assam and Tawang in India’s development journey, highlighting key infrastructure projects aimed at boosting connectivity and regional growth.

Speaking at the fifth edition of the Major Bob Khathing Memorial Event at Delhi Cantt on March 19, Rajnath stressed the government’s commitment to strengthening the North East’s role in India’s progress.

“We have always prioritised the development of the North East. Among the key infrastructure projects is the Sela Tunnel, built at a height of 13,000 feet, connecting Tezpur in Assam to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. The opening of the Arunachal Frontier Highway, approximately 2,000 km long, will further enhance the connectivity of the entire North East, especially the border areas. This highway will act as both a strategic and economic asset for India,” Rajnath Singh said.

Rajnath Singh credited the government’s developmental initiatives for the rapid progress of the North East, adding that violent incidents have significantly reduced as a result. He noted the growing recognition of the region, citing The New York Times’ list of ‘52 Places to Visit in 2025,’ which placed Assam at the fourth spot.

During the event, Rajnath Singh paid tribute to Major Bob Khathing’s contributions to India’s security and diplomacy. He visited a specially curated photo gallery showcasing Khathing’s remarkable achievements and attended the screening of a film highlighting pivotal moments of his life and service.

“Major Bob Khathing made a significant contribution to the integration and development of Tawang without firing a single bullet. The work he carried out for the North East is similar to what Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel did at the national level,” Singh stated. He praised Khathing’s diplomatic skills and administrative reforms, including his role in the formation of the Sashastra Seema Bal and the Nagaland Armed Police.

Drawing a parallel to the government’s handling of Jammu and Kashmir, Singh said, “We completely merged Jammu and Kashmir into India by removing the biggest hurdle Article 370 without firing a single bullet. This was carried out peacefully, with full security and consideration for all stakeholders, following the principles of leaders like Major Khathing.”

Rajnath stressed that India’s current strength on the global stage reflects the ideals of Major Khathing. “There was a time when India was not taken seriously at international forums. But today, when India speaks, the world listens. This is the result of a strong and organised India,” he said.

He expressed satisfaction over the North East’s growing contribution to the nation and commended the resilience and courage of its people despite challenging conditions. Singh urged citizens to adopt the principles of Major Khathing by putting the nation first, staying united, and moving fearlessly towards their goals.

The event was attended by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Member of Parliament Alfred Kanngam Arthur, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Director General Assam Rifles Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, and USI Director General Maj Gen BK Sharma (Retd).

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