KEPANG LA : The Indian Army’s Spearhead Division under the Spear Corps facilitated the pilgrimage of residents of Gelling, Norbuling and Tuting to the sacred Chorten at Kepang La Pass under the Ministry of Defence’s flagship Rann Bhoomi Darshan initiative.

The visit coincided with the observance of the century-old Universal Smoke Prayer Day and highlighted the Army’s efforts to preserve the cultural traditions of border communities while strengthening civil-military ties.

Located along the Indo-Tibet border, Kepang La is a revered site for the local Buddhist community. During the annual observance, devotees offer incense and ceremonial smoke, praying for peace, prosperity, protection and harmony. The Army provided logistical support and coordinated the pilgrimage, enabling the villagers to participate in the rituals.

As part of the programme, the visitors paid homage at the Siang Shaurya Sthal to soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1962 Indo-China War. They also visited a state-of-the-art audio-visual facility, where they were briefed on the history of Kepang La and the strategic significance of the region during the 1962 war.

The villagers also visited the Kepang La souvenir shop, showcasing locally inspired memorabilia and artefacts, and the newly established Kepang La Café, where they were served traditional refreshments and local cuisine.

For many of the participants, it was their first opportunity to revisit the revered Chorten and explore the historical landmarks of Kepang La. The initiative strengthened their connect with the border region and reinforced the partnership between the Indian Army and local communities.

The Army said the Rann Bhoomi Darshan initiative aims to promote tourism at historic frontier battlefields, preserve the cultural heritage of border communities and support the socio-economic development of remote border areas.