CM Khandu announces a memorial for IAF Corporal Tage Hailyang, who died protecting civilians in the Pahalgam terror attack. A government job and ₹50 lakh aid are also assured for the martyr’s family. His legacy will inspire generations across Arunachal Pradesh and India.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has announced the construction of a permanent memorial in honour of Indian Air Force (IAF) Corporal Tage Hailyang, who tragically lost his life in the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
Corporal Hailyang, hailing from Tajang village in the Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, was one of the victims in Tuesday’s brutal attack that claimed the lives of 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen. He had travelled to Pahalgam with his wife, who survived the assault. Displaying immense courage, Hailyang chose to help civilians reach safety rather than escape himself, ultimately sacrificing his life.
Chief Minister Khandu, who visited the martyr’s family in Tajang, expressed his deepest condolences and announced a series of support measures. These include the building of a memorial in Tajang village, a government job for a member of the bereaved family, and financial assistance of ₹50 lakhs.
“In the face of grave danger, Tage Hailyang demonstrated exceptional courage,” the Chief Minister said. “He had the chance to escape but chose instead to protect those around him. Risking his own life, he guided civilians to safety, helping them escape the line of fire.”
Hailing Hailyang’s sacrifice as a rare act of bravery, Khandu stated that his legacy would be immortalized in the history of Arunachal Pradesh. He added that Hailyang’s journey—from his early education in Ziro and Haryana’s Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram to his graduation from Don Bosco, Itanagar, and service in the IAF since 2017—embodies the spirit of patriotism and resilience.
Condemning the terror attack, Khandu called for resolute action against terrorism, particularly Pakistan’s continued support for terror outfits. “We strongly condemn this heinous act of terrorism… I appreciate the firm stand of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and am confident that under his leadership, the nation will respond with strength and resolve.”
Earlier, Hailyang’s body was received at the Air Force base in Guwahati by Assam Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah and senior IAF officials. It was then taken to his home in Tajang village, where thousands, including local leaders, government officials, and residents, gathered to pay their final respects.
IAF Corporal Tage Hailyang will be laid to rest in his native village on Friday, with full honours. His sacrifice will forever be remembered as a beacon of courage and selflessness for future generations.
