Arunachal Bids Tearful Farewell to IAF Hero Tage Hailyang

Itanagar:In a deeply emotional homecoming, the mortal remains of Indian Air Force Corporal Tage Hailyang were received with full honors in his hometown of Ziro, located in Arunachal Pradesh's Lower Subansiri district. The solemn ceremony took place at Hapoli Check Gate on Thursday, where local leaders, officials, and community members gathered to pay their last respects.Lower Subansiri MLA Er Hage Appa, Deputy Commissioner Vivek HP (IAS), the district’s Superintendent of Police, and representatives from community-based organizations were present to receive the brave soldier’s body. Corporal Hailyang tragically lost his life in the April 22 terrorist attack at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir.Prior to his arrival in Ziro, a tribute was held at Guwahati airport where Assam Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah and Guwahati City Police Commissioner Partha Sarathi Mahanta laid floral wreaths in his honor. The ceremony marked the beginning of Corporal Hailyang’s final journey back to his homeland.Originally from Tajang village in Arunachal Pradesh, Corporal Hailyang had been on a personal trip to the popular tourist destination of Pahalgam with his wife, who survived the harrowing attack. His untimely demise has cast a shadow of sorrow over the region.Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “It is heartbreaking to lose such a courageous son of Arunachal. His sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Khandu said, acknowledging the airman’s bravery and commitment to the nation.As the town of Ziro mourns, the air remains heavy with grief and pride. Locals remember Tage Hailyang not just as a serviceman, but as a beloved son of the soil who laid down his life while off-duty — a symbol of unwavering patriotism.His death, though tragic, stands as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by the nation's guardians, even beyond the battlefield.