Imphal: The Assam Rifles Tuesday paid homage to the iconic figure of the northeast, Major Bob Khathing, Padmamshree, MC, MBE here on the occasion of his 111st birth anniversary.
The ceremony was led by Lt Gen PC Nair, Director General, Assam Rifles along with Major General Ranjan Sharawat, IG, Assam Rifles. John Khating, son of Major Bob Khathing and other important dignitaries both military and civil also attended.
Born in Manipr’s Ukhrul district in 1912 to the Tangkhul community, Ralengnao Khathing, popularly known as Bob Khathing, was a legendary figure from the North East.
During World War II, he served with the famous V Force and was awarded the Military Cross and Member of the British Empire (MBE).
Apart from his committed service in Assam during the great earthquake of 1950, he played key roles in the transitional period in the State of Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Sikkim.
Major Khathing’s name has special relevance to Arunachal Pradesh; he served as the Assistant Political Officer in erstwhile NEFA. He was also the first Officer to successfully unfurl the Indian Tricolour at Tawang in the year 1951.
Owing to his immense contribution to the North East Region he was awarded the “Padmashree”, fourth highest Indian civilian award, by the first President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad in 1957 for his service to the natin.
Lt Gen Nair, DG Assam Rifles, during his short speech, recalled the valuable contribution of Major Bob Khathing at erstwhile NEFA and his overall contribution towards peace and security of the North East India.
The DG thanked the presence of family members of the hero and highlighted the importance of remembering the contributions of those who helped shape the vibrant and ever developing North-East that it is today.
A felicitation ceremony from the Khathing family was also conducted during the event for Tangkhul students who topped in class 10th and 12th Board Examinations in various streams and cash prizes along with certificates were distributed.
A total of 13 students located in various parts of India received the awards during the function.
The function was very well received by the audiences for whom the name Major Bob Khathing will stand to inspire generations of the youth in years to come.
