Tenzing T TOTPA
Every autumn, as music reverberates through the pine-clad hills of the Ziro Valley, headlines around the country celebrate the eco-friendly bamboo stages, indie artists, and festive crowds. To anyone walking through the gates, it looks like a smoothly self-contained private cultural gathering. But behind the serene backdrop, the stage lights, and the crowds lies a massive, round-the-clock administrative operation.
Hosting a gathering of this scale in a geographically isolated and ecologically sensitive valley is a massive undertaking. While the music and programming are handled privately, the weight of public safety, law enforcement, traffic management, civic infrastructure, and official protocol for thousands of visitors fall directly on our district administration. This year was no different, especially with the arrival of high-profile guests including the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, foreign ambassadors, and visiting international artists.
Long before the first performance began, the foundation was laid under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme and Superintendent of Police Techi Hanyir. DC Oli Perme set the strategic vision and kept every department aligned, while SP Techi Hanyir managed the extensive security setup and traffic movement, keeping the valley safe without making the presence feel heavy-handed for visitors.
On the ground, field administration required constant attention. Officers like Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Hage Tarung and Assistant Commissioner (AC) Radhe Tatung were out in the field throughout the multi-day event monitoring operations, clearing logistical bottlenecks as they popped up, and keeping things running safely across the valley.
Standing alongside them was Circle Officer (CO) Hibu Kapi, whose dedication truly embodied the spirit of our administrative team. Having recently become a mother, she put public service first, working tirelessly on site to maintain magisterial oversight and ensure visitor safety throughout the festival. Her quiet resolve, balancing motherly care with executive duty, was a deeply inspiring reminder of what public service really looks like.
At the same time, line departments worked continuously to manage the influx of guests. District Tourism Officer (DTO) Khoda Yakang oversaw tourism and hospitality logistics, supported by Tax and Excise Department officials who issued various licenses to local vendors along with Trade Development Officer (TDO) Tai Arun. District Art & Culture Officer (DACO) Tapi Rimu wore multiple hats, bridging cultural affairs with official channels while directly managing delegate accommodations and stepping in to assist with protocol duty.
From my end of handling protocol, public information and managing high profile visits required constant and detailed coordination. Working alongside DACO Tapi Rimu, Protocol staff Chandan Borgohain, Bullo Appa and our liaison team which included officers from various departments, we handled reception, travel arrangements, and official movement for the Governor, foreign diplomats, and other dignitaries, so everything moved quietly according to plan.
Beyond daily logistics, our administration also served as the bridge between private event organisers, local youth groups, and the traditional Apatani village councils. That connection is what ensures that a major influx of visitors respects local customs, protects our environment, and abides by civic guidelines.
Public service isn’t about getting the spotlight. When a major event ends without major traffic gridlock, security issues, or civic disruption, most people barely notice the administration at work and that is usually the best sign that the planning worked. Private festivals bring energy and global attention to our home, but they depend entirely on the public machinery running behind them. The credit for that smooth experience belongs to the officers, magistrates, police personnel, protocol team, and district staff whose everyday work kept the valley running while the music played. (The writer is DIPRO and Officer In-Charge of Protocol)