In a heartfelt tribute, the Indian Army’s Gajraj Corps is orchestrating a remarkable seven-day motorcycle expedition, dubbed ‘Saddle-Borne Warriors’. This significant rally aims to honor the enduring memory of four brave Assam Rifles soldiers who tragically lost their lives five decades ago near a challenging Himalayan pass, close to the Tibetan border in 1975.
Spanning over 320 kilometers, the demanding route begins at Missamari Cantonment in north-central Assam and ascends to Tulung La in Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kameng district, with riders navigating altitudes exceeding 15,000 feet above sea level.
Located close to Tezpur, which serves as the headquarters for the Gajraj Corps, Missamari will be the starting point for this commemorative journey, scheduled to take place from October 26 to November 1.
“This motorcycle rally stands as a testament to the exceptional courage, unwavering discipline, and profound patriotism of our Indian soldiers,” stated Lt. Col. Mahendra Rawat, spokesperson for the Defence Ministry in Guwahati. “The primary goal of this endeavor is to preserve the legacy of their ultimate sacrifices and to instill a deep sense of duty and national pride in the hearts of the younger generation.”
The rally poignantly recalls the fateful incident of October 20, 1975, when four soldiers from the 5 Assam Rifles were tragically killed in an ambush by Chinese forces. This hostile encounter occurred within sovereign Indian territory at an altitude of 17,250 feet, despite subsequent claims from China that Indian troops had trespassed.
Personnel from both the Indian Army and the Assam Rifles will form the riding contingent, navigating through challenging locations such as Bhalukpong, Tenga, Bomdila, Sela, Jaswantgarh, Mago, Tulung La, Damteng, Tawang, and Jung, before concluding their journey back at Missamari.
Along this significant route, participants will pause at various war memorials, solemnly paying tribute to the immense courage and selfless sacrifice of India’s brave heroes, Lt. Col. Rawat added.