Tura, Jan 18, 2025: The members of Garoland State Movement Committee (GSMC) CEC HQ, Tura on Wednesday addressing to Droupadi Murmu President of India, to profound cultural, historical and emotional impact on the people of the Garo Community in Meghalaya and Assam, as well as on the broader Indian population.

The relocation, restoration and preservation of renewal of guns, which were made in the United States of America (USA) and Germany during the First and Second World Wars (1914-1945). These guns have been gifted as a token of love and reverence from the International War Memorial, which is institution dedicated to honoring the sacrifices made by soldiers during the both world wars.

These guns, relics of the immense global conflicts of the early 20th century of tremendous historical importance. The legacy of the wars in which they were used, as well as the courage, sacrifice and commitment of the soldiers who fought for the defense of freedom and peace across the globe. The presence of Garo Community from Meghalaya and Assam would not only serve as a profound reminder of sacrifices made, but also create an enduring educational and cultural connection between the history of global wars and the community’s own rich history of patriotism, service and sacrifice.

“We seek your intervention and support in granting tax exemption for the renewal of guns intended to be placed in these regions, which have a historical and symbolic significance for the people of Garo Community. This tax exemption will enable the efficient relocation, restoration and maintenance of these historic weapons, ensuring that they are preserved for future generations to appreciate and learn from Historical Context and Significance of the Renewal of Guns” said Tony Tojrang B.Marak General Secretary of GSMC CEC HQ, Tura.

The renewal of guns in question were originally manufactured in the United States and Germany during the First and Second World Wars (1914-1945). These guns played pivotal roles in two of the most significant conflicts in global history. During these wars, the world witnessed unprecedented violence, loss of life and suffering, but also profound moments of courage and heroism. The renewal of guns are living testimony to these tumultuous times. They are not merely artifacts; they embody the sacrifices made by countless soldiers who fought in the defense of liberty, democracy and national sovereignty.

After these guns were retired from active military use, they became part of the International War Memorial, an institution dedicated to commemorating the sacrifices of soldiers from across the world. The guns were not only symbolic of the conflicts they participated, but also served as enduring memorials to the lives lost and courage displayed during the wars.

The International War Memorial recognized the deep cultural and emotional significance of the guns for different communities around the world. In this spirit, these guns have been graciously gifted to the Garo Community in Meghalaya and Assam as tokens of love and respect. This gift is a gesture that acknowledges the contributions made by the Garo people to the defense of India and the values of freedom and justice during the conflict. The Garo Community, the renewal of guns are symbol of their pride in the nation’s history, as well as their own legacy of patriotism, courage and sacrifice.

The presence of these guns in the Garo region will not only honor the fallen soldiers of the world wars, but also serve as a symbol of unity between the people of Garo Community and larger Indian nation. These weapons, the community will provide a permanent reminder of the importance of peace, liberty and sacrifices made to preserve these values.

The Cultural and Educational Importance Renewal of Guns, the renewal guns are not only important from historical and military perspective, but also hold immense cultural and educational value. The presence of Garo Community would offer a unique opportunity to educate future generations, about the global history of the world wars and the sacrifices that shaped the world live in today.

These guns will serve as tangible connections to the past, creating a space for reflection and learning about the importance of unity, patriotism and sacrifice,
for the youth of the Garo community, the guns will be a source of inspiration. These artifacts will foster a deeper understanding of courage exhibited during the wars, the importance of defending peace and legacy of soldiers from India and around the world. Schools, colleges and other educational institutions will be able to organize programs and exhibitions, allowing students and young people to gain a profound insight into world history, as well as India’s contributions to the global struggle for peace and justice.

In addition, the renewal of guns will serve as an important cultural bridge, linking the people of the Garo community with the broader national and global histories. Showcasing these weapons, the Garo region will create a space where visitors, both local and international can learn about the role of community in the larger narrative of India’s defense and participation in the world wars. This will provide an educational resource that will not only preserve history, but also promote cultural exchange and understanding.

Tax Exemption while the significance renewal of guns cannot be overstated, the process of relocating and preserving them involves considerable financial investment. The guns, which are to be transported to Meghalaya and Assam, require significant restoration, maintenance and security measures to ensure their longevity. The financial implications of such a task, the Garoland State Movement Committee humbly requests that the Government of India grant a tax exemption for the relocation, restoration and maintenance of these historic weapons.

The costs involved in the transportation, installation and preservation of these guns are substantial and without the exemption of customs duties, tariffs and other taxes, the process could face significant delays or financial constraints. Tax exemption would provide the necessary financial relief to ensure that these weapons are properly handled, displayed and maintained for the benefit of the public.
By granting this tax exemption, your esteemed office would not only help in the preservation of crucial piece of global history, but also support the people of the Garo community in efforts to honor the legacy of the soldiers who fought in the First and Second World Wars. It will allow the community to showcase their deep respect for those who contributed to the defense of liberty, creating permanent educational and cultural resource for future generations.

“We the Garoland State Movement Committee, appeal to you to grant tax exemption for the renewal of guns intended for placement in Garo Community in Meghalaya and Assam. These guns, which were made in United States and Germany during the First and Second World Wars, it carry immense historical, cultural and educational significance. As a tokens of love from the International War Memorial, they embody the sacrifices of soldiers from around the world and stand as symbols of peace, patriotism and unity. Granting this tax exemption will ensure the proper relocation, restoration and maintenance of these guns, allowing them to serve as enduring symbols of courage, sacrifice and global unity. It will also create an invaluable resource for educating future generations, promoting national pride and fostering cultural understanding. We remain confident that your esteemed office will look favorably upon our humble appeal and extend the necessary support to ensure the preservation of this important historical legacy” added Marak.