Dibrugarh: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Wednesday emphasized his government’s primary commitment to safeguarding, conserving, and promoting the indigenous culture of the state, ensuring comprehensive coverage across all tribes and regions.
Speaking at the conclusion of the 8th Triennial International Conference and Gathering of Elders organized by the International Centre for Cultural Studies (ICCS) here in Assam, Khandu underscored the significance of cultural traditions and the value systems handed down by ancestors, shaping the lives and identities of each generation.
“The rich legacy of our traditions and cultures is passed down to us by our families, communities, and societies. Our elders are the living encyclopedias of our knowledge systems. I commend the elders of Arunachal, our forefathers, for preserving our cultures and traditions and instilling those values in our youngsters,” he said.
Expressing confidence in the success of the conference, themed around reviving traditions, ecological knowledge, and collaborative governance, Khandu highlighted the potential of knowledge sharing, research, and submitted papers to provide a new dimension to preserving the rich culture and traditions of diverse global communities.
“I am sure the manifesto declared today will develop mutual respect and understanding, creating a harmonious society,” he said.
Khandu informed that Arunachal, with one of the world’s most diverse cultures, has allocated funds for constructing Tribal Cultural Centres in all districts, along with three Gurukuls for Galo and Nyishi tribes and two Gurukuls for Adi and Tangsa tribes.
Detailing the government’s efforts, he mentioned the success of Gurukul – Nyubu Nyvgam Yerko in East Kameng district and financial support for the celebration of local festivals, Indigenous Faith Day, and Indigenous Youth festivals in all districts.
The chief minister assured the active involvement of local communities in cultural heritage protection and preservation, providing corpus funds to Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) for strengthening culture and traditions.
Highlighting initiatives such as the sponsorship of 20 students annually for studies at the Indian National Fellowship Centre in Pune, documentation of tangible and intangible aspects of indigenous cultures, and the establishment of the Department of Indigenous Affairs, Khandu emphasized the government’s increased resource allocation for this department.
He appreciated the ICCS for fostering unity among diverse cultures and extended an invitation for the organization to host its next conference in Arunachal Pradesh.
Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein also attended the event.
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