Itanagar, Oct 21 (Reporter) Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Monday flagged off the ‘DAO Cycling Expedition’ from Namsai to Namti. The expedition was organized by the Indian Army in collaboration with the Government of Arunachal Pradesh and North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Ltd (NEEPCO) as a part of the month-long commemoration of 62nd Walong Day. The expedition pays tribute to the sacrifices of the brave soldiers during the 1962 Walong battle. “As a schoolboy at the time, I recall our village choosing to resist rather than flee when the Chinese forces reached Walong, with many volunteering to aid the Indian Army. Today, we remember their valor and honor the legacy they left behind,” Mein said in a social media post. The flag-off ceremony was attended by Arunachal Pradesh Education and Tourism Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona, Women and Child Development Minister Dasunglu Pul, and senior dignitaries from the Indian Army, Indo Tibetan Border Police, Government of Arunachal, Police officials, NEEPCO, NCC cadets and local youth of Namsai and Tezu. A total of 62 cyclists comprising enthusiasts from the Indian Army including lady officers, ITBP, and youth and young ladies of Arunachal will cycle their way through the picturesque landscape of the Lohit Valley on the 62nd Anniversary of the Walong Day, a Defence spokesperson said. The three-day cycling journey started from the Golden Pagoda at Namsai, riding through Wakro, the holy site of Parshuram Kund, the vibrant village of Hayuliang, and will finally finish at Namti, also known as the ‘Tigers Mouth, a site of historic significance where troops of the Indian Army stalled the adversaries offensive. The expedition also participated by two cyclists from Pune, will provide an excellent opportunity for all participants to pay homage to the brave soldiers who had made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of the nation. During their journey, the cyclists will interact with the locals en route while enjoying the mesmerising beauty of the Lohit Valley. The Deputy Chief Minister congratulated the Indian Army’s 181 Mountain Brigade for organizing this meaningful event and the 12 girl cyclists for their inspiring participation. “Let’s work to elevate this event to an international level, promoting cycling for mental and physical fitness while remembering our proud history and tapping the tourism potential of the area,” Mein said. The Indian Army reiterated its commitment to place Lohit Valley on the tourism map of India and empower local youth to facilitate the necessary infrastructure and skills. “Together, let us pedal towards a healthier and more vibrant future, while honouring the legacy of our brave soldiers”, Guwahati-based Defence PRO Lt Col Mahendra Rawat said...////...