As Colonel Yang Zi Jang hoisted the flag to mark the 60th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China in this border outpost of the People’s Liberation Army at exactly 10.30 am on Thursday, he had some “special” guests: over 200 people invited from the other side of the McMahon Line.

With media reports of incursions (played down by both sides) focusing renewed attention on this border, the significance of the invitation or the visit wasn’t lost on any of the guests, which included Brigadier C P Mohanty, Tawang Deputy Commissioner Gamli Padu, a host of Army and civil officers and their families, and a number of civilians from the Indian border town of Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh.

Apart from letting them in without passports, China also organised a special cultural function for the invitees. While the practice of delegations from either side crossing over to attend each other’s national days began in 2002, the warmth this time was unmistakable.

“It was a terrific feeling walking into China, and that too at a time when we in India are discussing incursions by the neighbouring country,” said Jonkee Lhamu, a Tawang-based businessman. “Stepping 200 metres into Chinese territory, and that too without a passport, itself is an unforgettable experience.”

The Indian flag was also hoisted, and Brigadier Mohanty — who heads the Korea Brigade of the Indian Army based at Tawang — and Colonel Jang were closeted for 10 minutes of formalities and exchange of greetings, followed by the two-hour-long cultural programme mounted in honour of the Indian delegation.

... contd.