Tawang honours martyr Subedar Joginder Singh with 15,200-ft bike rally

A tribute to the bravery of Subedar Joginder Singh, PVC, and other soldiers martyred in the 1962 Indo-China War was held at Bumla Pass today, as “Shahid Diwas” was observed to commemorate their sacrifice.

A special bike rally, initiated by Namgey Tsering, MLA of Tawang, traversed from Tawang town to Bumla, reaching 15,200 feet above sea level, as part of the tribute to Subedar Joginder Singh, who heroically fought at the Lumla border during the 1962 conflict. The event drew locals and military enthusiasts to honour the courage of soldiers who defended India’s borders.

On October 23, 1962, Subedar Joginder Singh, commanding a platoon of the Sikh Regiment, faced a Chinese assault at a ridge near Bum La Pass. Despite being heavily outnumbered, Singh and his men held their ground. Even after sustaining a thigh injury, Singh refused to retreat. In a final act of valour, he charged the enemy with bayonets until capture. For his extraordinary bravery, he was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest wartime gallantry award. The Chinese army later repatriated his ashes with full military honours.

The event coincides with the 3rd edition of the Tawang International Marathon, which will be held tomorrow. Thousands of runners from across India and abroad have already reached Tawang, preparing to participate in the marathon at approximately 10,000 feet above sea level.

The dual observance of Shahid Diwas and the marathon highlights Tawang’s commitment to honouring its heroes while promoting international sports and tourism in the high-altitude region.