The Indo-China War
At that time, the Indo-China war spoke of brutality, lasting a month from October 20 to November 20 1962 between India and the neighbouring country of China over the Aksai Chin region along their borders. India, having just gained independence, was still recovering from the aftermaths of being colonised and this garnered the attention of China, which always had territorial ambitions, hoping to expand its borders at India’s expanse.
The tension had been simmering since 1959 when India provided asylum to the Dalai lama, India rejected the proposal of Chinese diplomatic settlement, and China finally abandoned a peaceful resolution on 20th October 1962. This war resulted in 1,300 killed, 1696 missing and 1047 wounded.
The Yarlung army camp bore witness to this war conflict and the soldiers fought bravely. Today, for history enthusiasts, this place gives you the rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the waves of the past.
The Camp of Discipline
As you step into the Yarlung Army Camp your breath staggers by the sense of discipline and order that pervades through the air. The first thing you notice is the maintained parade ground, where soldiers engage in their training. To the left are the barracks, where the soldiers reside.
The buildings are adorned with the Indian tricolour and are simple yet sturdy. The soldiers move with unity in their crisp clean uniforms. As you move further into the camp, you notice various training facilities such as an obstacle course, a shooting ranga and a simulated combat zone.
One thing that fills the soldiers with pride is the presence of artillery and military equipment here. It stands to remind you about the strategic importance of this region.
If you are hungry and wish to rest, the mess hall of this army camp awaits you with delightful food. The mess hall wafts with the fragrance of freshly cooked food and is ready to be served hot.
Further up you come across a memorial dedicated to the soldiers who dedicated their lives to the country and made ultimate sacrifice in service. The names of these soldiers are etched on the stone as a reminder of the price of our freedom. It fills your chest with heartache but respect.
