Nathu La Day: Sikkim pays tribute to martyrs at Sherathang War Memorial

ISABELLA GURUNG

Nathu La Day to be renamed ‘Nathu La Vijay Diwas’ from next year, announces CM

GANGTOK,: On the occasion of the 58th ‘Nathu La Day’, Governor Om Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister PS Golay, High Court of Sikkim Chief Justice Biswanath Somadder, Sikkim Legislative Assembly Speaker MN Sherpa and 17th Mountain Division GOC Major General Amit Kabhtiyal along with dignitaries and officials of Sikkim Police and Indian Army paid tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives during the Indo-China War of 1967 at Sherathang War Memorial near Nathu La border today.

The dignitaries also visited Nathu La Pass and interacted with the Army officials.

The Nathu La and Cho La clashes, sometimes referred to as Indo-China War of 1967, Sino-Indian War of 1967, were a series of border clashes between China and India alongside the border of the Himalayan Kingdom of Sikkim, then an Indian protectorate. The Nathu La clashes started on September 11, 1967, when China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) launched an attack on Indian posts at Nathu La, and lasted till September 15, 1967. Altogether, 65 Indian Army and 385 Chinese Army personnel lost their lives. China accepted defeat with a white flag and surrendered Nathu La to India, it was informed.

“Instead of calling it ‘Nathu La Day’, I would like to call the celebration ‘Nathu La Vijay Diwas, but the Indo-China War of 1967 is a historic event. 385 Chinese Army personnel lost their lives while India won the war. I encourage that a film should be made based on the historic Indo-China War of 1967 so that we can inspire the youth. When you come to Nathu La you feel proud to be an Indian. The Chinese surrendered with a white flag,” expressed Governor Om Prakash Mathur.

The Governor further highlighted that India is moving forward globally in defence sector. He thanked the Indian Army, adding that Indian Army plays a major role in shaping democracy.

In his address, Chief Minister PS Golay expressed his honour to join the dignitaries at the Nathu la border to commemorate the 58th Nathu la Day.

“Standing among our brave soldiers, who protect our borders with unwavering dedication and courage, was truly humbling. Nathu la Day symbolizes the valour and sacrifice of the Indian Army’s heroes, who defend our nation's sovereignty, often in the harshest of conditions. On this solemn occasion, I extend my deepest gratitude to these courageous souls. Their unmatched service and ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten,” said the Chief Minister.

The Chief Minister also remembered Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose visionary leadership revived the Silk Route through Nathu La and strengthened the nation’s ties with China.

Golay expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose leadership and the ‘Vibrant Village’ initiative have brought development and essential services to remote border regions, strengthening both security and community. To our soldiers, we stand with you, salute your dedication, and thank you for your relentless service to the nation, he said.

The CM further informed that from next year onwards, Nathu La Day will be celebrated as ‘Nathula Vijay Diwas’.

Chief Justice Biswanath Somadder conveyed greetings to the Indian Army. Highlighting the significance of the Nathula Day, the Chief Justice said, “The Army protects the pillars of democracy, i.e. executive, legislature and judiciary. This type of celebration is the first of its kind and Sikkim is a trendsetter.”