YINGKIONG, Feb 10: Spearhead Division of Spear Corps of Indian Army organized a unique border tourism initiative at Gelling, India’s First Vibrant Village, located in the remote Upper Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh.
The initiative was aimed at promoting border tourism while fostering awareness, a sense of pride and a deeper connection among the younger generation with India’s frontier regions.
As part of the programme, a group comprising 21 students and three teachers from Siang Valley School, Tuting, undertook an educational and experiential tour through the pristine landscapes of the region. The participants traversed the scenic Kepang La Pass, witnessing majestic waterfalls, vibrant wildflowers and dense forests rich in biodiversity. The journey offered first hand exposure to the natural splendour and ecological wealth of the eastern Himalayas.
During the visit, the group paid homage at the newly constructed Siang Surya Sthal, a site of national importance symbolising reverence, resilience and a deep cultural connect with the sacred Siang River. Flowing through largely unspoiled terrain, the mighty river added grandeur to the experience while reinforcing the region’s spiritual, cultural and environmental significance.
The initiative encouraged experiential learning and nurtured a strong sense of pride in local heritage among the students. It also highlighted the immense potential of Gelling as a hub for border, religious, eco-tourism, adventure and cultural exploration, while underscoring the need to preserve its fragile ecosystem.
Through sustained outreach efforts such as Seema Darshan, the Indian Army continues to go beyond its traditional role, strengthening bonds with local communities and bringing national attention to the pristine beauty, vibrant culture and strategic importance of India’s border villages. The initiative stands as a testament to the Army’s commitment to nation-building, inclusive development and the promotion of responsible tourism in India’s northeastern frontier. (DIPRO)