Consequent to the Border Peace and Tranquility Accord (BPTA) and Confidence Building Measures between India and China in early and mid-nineties and the recent visit of the Indian Prime Minister to China in July this year, relations have improved manifold between the two nations. The ties at the local military level are maintained through border personnel meetings which are held at Bumla in Arunachal Pradesh.

It was during one such border personnel meeting organised by the Indian side at Bumla on May 30 that the families of the military officers from both sides interacted for the first time. The Chinese delegation expressed their keen desire for having such interaction between the families more frequently.

To celebrate the 57th Independence Day of India, it was decided that 190 Mountain Brigade would host a special border personnel meeting and invite the Chinese officers and their families to participate in the function.

On August 15, we left Tawang for Bumla, an almost two-hour drive into the rugged mountains. Situated at a height of over 15,000 ft, the Bumla Hut had been beautifully decorated for the occasion. All the officers were smartly turned out in their ceremonials and their family members were in their traditional dresses. Brig PS Paul, Commander, 190 Mountain Brigade, welcomed all the officers and the families to Bumla.

The Chinese delegation led by Col Li Mingang, consisted of 12 officers, nine ladies and children. The flaghoisting ceremony was performed, and the national anthem was sung to mark the Independence Day. This was probably the first time that both sides were participating in such a celebration. Women and children were keen to pose for photographs together, exchanging flags and shaking hands. The chilly winds could not dampen their warmth and camaraderie.

A cultural show was presented by Indian troops depicting the cultural heritage and traditions of the country. This was highly appreciated by the guests who were constantly clicking their cameras and clapping enthusiastically. The programme commenced with a traditional welcome song Tashi Delek, presented by the children of Manjushree, an orphanage at Tawang patronised by the Army. Followed by some melodious Hindi songs, the event reached crescendo with bhangra dance which took everyone to floor.

Speaking on the occasion, Brig Paul thanked all the officers and the families for their enthusiasm. He hoped that this bond of friendship would go stronger with the passage of time and usher in a lasting peace and prosperity for both the countries. On behalf of the Chinese delegation, Col Li Mingang thanked Indian officers for inviting them for the celebrations. He said that it was in the interest of both the countries to pursue a path of peace and prosperity. He wished his Indian counterparts a bright future.

Both the sides were seen eager to learn more about one another. Some officers exchanged currency notes for keepsake. A lavish high tea was laid out, and everyone had a grand treat. There were jovial moments when some Chinese officers, not accustomed to Indian cuisine, poured tomato sauce on gulab-jamuns!

The curtains came down with the presentation of gifts to the Chinese delegation and their families. It was time to say ‘adieu’ and guests were seen off by the officers and the ladies. This was just the beginning of stronger bonds between the two neighbours.