Published:
January 07, 2025
The only battle honour in 1962 war in the eastern theatre was bestowed on 4 GARHWAL RIFLES for their heroic performance at Nuranang now called Jaswantgarh on 17 November 1962. Four Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), 147 other ranks and seven non combatant tradesmen were martyred at the Battle of Jaswantgarh.
To provide depth to the defences at Sela, 4 GARH RIF was given the onerous task of occupying Nuranang, between Sela and Jang, as a covering position.
By 16 November 1962, the defences were in reasonable state although there was little overhead protection. The defences were being constantly shelled by the Chinese who had good observation from across the Tawang Chhu. Finally on the night of 16/17 November, the Chinese commenced their offensive and the location came under five heavy attacks and all were beaten back. The action led to award of two Maha Vir Chakra (MVC), 7 Vir Chakra (VrCs), 6 SMS and a host of other awards.
A myth has been created around the battle of Jaswantgarh, crediting the resistance and heroic action only to Jaswant Singh and two young girls, Nura and Sela, who allegedly helped him resist the Chinese. Local folklore has it that the Chinese finally captured Jaswant Singh and beheaded him, taking his head away as trophy. These tales have their own place and have been written about and romanticised by media; even a film is being made about the myth of Jaswant Singh.
Note: 1. Since Jaswantgarh is situated at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet above sea level, tourists are advised to follow the acclimatization process. Please refer to the PDF attached in the important links section.
2. Visitors are advised to get necessary permits before visiting.
Tezpur → Bhalukpong → Bomdila → Sela Pass → Jaswantgarh → Back to Tezpur
