Assam Rifles Pays Tribute to Martyr Havildar Hangpan Dada on Republic Day
In a solemn ceremony marking the 77th Republic Day, the Assam Rifles paid homage to the late Havildar Hangpan Dada, recipient of the Ashok Chakra (posthumous), with a wreath-laying event at the Hangpan Dada Memorial in Borduria, located in Arunachal Pradesh's Tirap district.
Remembering a National Hero
Havildar Hangpan Dada served with the 35 Rashtriya Rifles (35 RR), an elite counter-insurgency battalion of the Indian Army that is affiliated with the Assam Regiment. In May 2016, at the age of 36, he made the ultimate sacrifice during an operation in the Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir. His courageous actions were instrumental in thwarting a significant infiltration attempt along the border, thereby protecting national security.
In recognition of his extraordinary bravery and selfless service, he was posthumously awarded the Ashok Chakra, India's highest peacetime military decoration, in August 2016. This honor underscores his exceptional contribution to the nation's defense.
Ceremony Attended by Dignitaries and Community
The wreath-laying ceremony saw participation from a wide array of officials and community members. Attendees included officers, under officers, and subordinate officers of the Assam Rifles, alongside representatives from the civil administration. Notable figures present were Borduria-Bogapani MLA Wanglin Lowangdong, the zila panchayat chairman, and officials from the Arunachal Pradesh Police.
In his address, MLA Wanglin Lowangdong emphasized the enduring legacy of Havildar Hangpan Dada. "Havildar Hangpan Dada is not just a martyr of Arunachal Pradesh, but a pride of the entire nation. His supreme sacrifice in the line of duty will forever inspire our youth to serve the motherland with courage and dedication. We must ensure that his legacy lives on in the hearts of every citizen, especially our children," he stated.
Inspiration for Future Generations
The event also welcomed school children and family members, who visited the memorial museum to learn about Dada's life and military service. This educational aspect aimed to instill values of patriotism and duty among the younger generation.
An Assam Rifles officer reflected on Dada's impact, saying, "Havildar Hangpan Dada exemplified the highest traditions of the Indian Armed Forces. His selfless act of bravery in foiling the infiltration attempt saved countless lives and upheld the security of our nation. He remains an inspiration to every soldier serving on our borders, reminding us that duty comes before self."
This ceremony not only honored a fallen hero but also reinforced the importance of remembering and celebrating the sacrifices made by military personnel in safeguarding India's sovereignty and peace.
