World War II vintage jeep & bike rally marks 80 years of war’s end; Namsai hosts key halt

As part of the 10th edition of the Pangsau Pass International Festival–2026 and the 80th Commemoration of the End of World War II, a World War II Vintage Jeep and Bike Rally is retracing historic wartime routes across Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, highlighting the region’s critical role during the Second World War.

Organised under the chairmanship of Dr. Chowna Mein, Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, the rally commenced from Pasighat, passing through Roing, Alubari (Tezu), and Namsai, before culminating at Nampong in Changlang district near the India–Myanmar border. Over 20 vintage Willys Jeeps and 20 motorcyclists, accompanied by official escort vehicles, are participating in the rally.

On January 20, the third day of the rally, Namsai hosted a formal flag-off programme at Hotel Kinnara. The event drew several public representatives and officials, underscoring its historical and cultural significance.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Mutchu Mithi, MLA and Advisor to the Home and Education Minister, remarked that while the world has evolved dramatically since the war, it remains shaped by the lessons of the past. He emphasized that commemorating World War II is an act of both gratitude and reflection, highlighting Arunachal Pradesh’s deep historical connection with the conflict and the importance of preserving this legacy for future generations.

In his keynote address, Shri Oken Tayeng, MLA and Vice Chairman of the 80th Commemoration Committee, praised Namsai for its unique culture, hospitality, and cuisine, calling it one of the most distinctive regions in the Northeast. He highlighted the historical significance of the Ledo Road (Stilwell Road) and stated that the rally aims to transform this wartime route into a heritage tourism destination. Describing the rally as a “Remembrance Tour,” he expressed plans to include other historically significant sites in Assam in future editions.

Shri Tsetan Chombay, MLA of Kalaktang, described the initiative as a novel and meaningful effort, noting that traversing in vintage World War II jeeps offers a rare, tangible connection to history. He added that Eastern Arunachal Pradesh is emerging as a tourism hub and expressed confidence that the rally would boost both heritage and adventure tourism in the region.

Namsai Deputy Commissioner Shri C.R. Khampa highlighted the town’s growing importance as a tourism and heritage destination. Calling the rally a moving act of remembrance, he reflected on Namsai’s historic battlefield legacy and stressed the role of such initiatives in educating the younger generation about history, culture, and the message of peace.

The programme concluded with the official flag-off of the rally from Namsai towards Jairampur, marking the next leg of this historic journey along the wartime route.

The World War II Vintage Jeep & Bike Rally not only pays tribute to the sacrifices of the past but also seeks to promote peace, preserve heritage, and rekindle awareness of Northeast India’s pivotal role in global wartime history.

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