Nongkhlaw (Meghalaya), Aug. 16: DoNER minister Jitendra Singh today stressed upon the significance of introducing "unsung heroes", especially from the Northeast, involved in the struggle against the British rule, in text and reference books for students across the country.

"I agree that in textbooks and other books of reference available for students, we should have adequate references to these unsung heroes, who are going unnoticed," Singh told reporters as he came to pay tribute to Khasi freedom fighter U Tirot Sing Syiem, popularly known as U Tirot Sing, at Nongkhlaw, about 70km from Shillong.

Singh's visit to Nongkhlaw was part of the campaign to remember the sacrifices ( yaad karo qurbani) by freedom fighters across the country.

The function was organised by the BJP's Meghalaya unit in the presence of state party leaders, including president Shibun Lyngdoh, other dignitaries and the people of the area.

On arriving at Nongkhlaw, Singh garlanded the bust of U Tirot Sing to pay tribute to the Khasi freedom fighter of the early 18th century, much before the first war of Independence in 1857. He described U Tirot Sing as "one of the torch-bearers and pioneers of the freedom struggle not only of the Northeast but India". U Tirot Sing, who drew his linage from the Syiemlieh clan, was the syiem (king) of Hima Nongkhlaw (Nongkhlaw state), part of Khasi hills.

Singh said, "I am glad and proud that the Prime Minister had the wisdom, insight and presence of mind to celebrate the unsung heroes. I am sure the campaign we have started will inspire our youths as more than 65 per cent of the population belongs to the age group of less than 40 years and we have to educate our youngsters about our heritage."

Singh said he was delighted to be among the family members, who are the sixth generation of U Tirot Sing.

Asked about the number of freedom fighters from the Northeast, Singh said the process of honouring them has started and would carry on one by one. He said the centenary of Rani Gaidinliu, a Naga leader who led a revolt against the British, would also be celebrated this year.

During the function, the DoNER minister felicitated the family members of U Tirot Sing with a citation and memento.

Addressing the function, Singh said the voice of freedom had risen from the Khasi hills at a time when the British rule was at its prime, when Mahatma Gandhi was not born. He said he was "blessed and fortunate" as in 70 years of Independence, he was the first minister to land at Nongkhlaw and pay tribute to the Khasi freedom fighter.

Referring to some talks that India would be divided further, Singh, said, "The integration of the Union of India is non-negotiable."

The DoNER minister also assured fast-track development, including connectivity by road, rail and air. "We will ensure that the remotest part of the country is developed."

The Syiem of Hima Nongkhlaw, P.M. Syiem, described the tribute to U Tirot Sing as a historic day for the people of Nongkhlaw.