ITANAGAR, Nov 9: Chief Minister Pema Khandu today inaugurated the Annual College Week celebration of Dera Natung Government College (DNGC), Itanagar — the oldest and premier higher education institution of Arunachal Pradesh.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister lauded the college for its outstanding contribution to higher education over the past 46 years and for shaping the lives and careers of countless Arunachalees serving the state and nation with distinction.
Established in 1979 and renamed in 2001 in memory of Late Dera Natung, one of the state’s most visionary education ministers, the college continues to uphold his legacy of learning, enlightenment and empowerment, Khandu said.
Expressing satisfaction over the college’s inclusive approach, he noted that girls’ enrolment stands at 51.33%, slightly higher than that of boys, while 91% of students are APSTs — a clear indication of the institution’s pivotal role in empowering indigenous youth.
Highlighting DNGC’s early adoption of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Chief Minister commended the college for being among the first to implement the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) under Rajiv Gandhi University. From the next academic session, the college will run four semesters simultaneously, allowing students to pursue a four-year UG degree with Honours or Research — enabling direct progression to PhD programmes.
Khandu praised the dedication of the faculty led by Principal Dr MQ Khan, noting that half of them hold doctoral degrees. He also appreciated the college’s commitment to promoting research, innovation, and critical thinking among students.
Recognizing the college’s infrastructure needs, the Chief Minister announced several ongoing projects, including a new Administrative Block, 300-bedded boys’ hostel, 100-bedded girls’ hostel, pre-fabricated badminton-cum-judo-karate hall, and a Siddharth Community Hall with a seating capacity of 1,200 persons. “Once completed, these facilities will greatly enhance the academic environment and student experience,” he said.
Responding to a demand for a compound wall, Khandu assured that funds would be sanctioned soon. He also informed that two new departments — Sociology and Mass Communication — have been approved in addition to the existing 14 departments, and classrooms for these will be constructed immediately to start classes from the next academic session.
Acknowledging that DNGC is operating beyond its capacity, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for another college in the state capital region. He directed the local MLA and Deputy Commissioner to identify a suitable site for the new institution.
Announcing new opportunities for students, Khandu informed that the government will provide 100% scholarships for APST students gaining admission to IITs and 75% scholarships for up to 10 students annually pursuing Commercial Pilot Licenses. Similarly, 10 youths will receive support each year for Merchant Navy training and certification.
He further announced 100% scholarships for APST students securing admission to undergraduate and postgraduate courses in the top 150 global universities as per QS Rankings.
Listing key youth-oriented initiatives — including the Arunachal Pradesh Entrepreneurship Development Programme (APEDP), Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Swavalamban Yojana, Atmanirbhar Arunachal, Chief Minister’s Paryatan Vikas Yojana, Chief Minister’s Vidya Scheme, and the Chief Minister’s Talent Hunt and Youth Engagement Programmes, Khandu said these schemes aim to build a confident, skilled, and self-reliant generation.
“We have adopted the State Youth Policy 2025 this August, which outlines nine youth development goals covering quality education, employment, entrepreneurship, skills, sports, culture, and civic engagement,” he added.
Urging students to be the torchbearers of a new Arunachal Pradesh, Khandu called on them to take pride in their rich tribal heritage, uphold unity and integrity, and stand firm against drug abuse, corruption, and gender discrimination.
Encouraging students to participate actively in the College Week activities, he said such events nurture leadership, creativity, teamwork, and cultural harmony among the youth.
The Chief Minister congratulated the Principal, faculty, and organizing committee of DNGC for their continued dedication in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.
Also present at the event were local MLA Techi Kaso, Deputy Commissioner Toko Babu, and other dignitaries.