Rono Hills, May 5: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday attended the inaugural ceremony of the 9th edition of Arunachal Panorama, the flagship cultural and youth festival of Rajiv Gandhi University, held at Rono Hills in Doimukh.
Addressing students, faculty members and dignitaries, the Chief Minister described Arunachal Panorama as a vibrant platform that celebrates the state’s rich cultural diversity while fostering unity among its tribes and communities. Recalling its inception in 2006 under former Vice Chancellor Prof Atul Sharma, he lauded the university for sustaining the festival as a meaningful tradition.
Khandu commended the cultural performances, including a fusion of traditional dances, and praised the creativity and dedication of students, artists and mentors. He noted that with over 26 major tribes in the state, such platforms help present Arunachal’s diversity in a cohesive and engaging manner, particularly for the younger generation.
Reflecting on the journey of the university since its establishment in 1984, he said RGU has played a significant role in shaping the state’s human resource, with its alumni contributing across sectors such as governance, politics, business and public service. He expressed confidence that the present generation of students would carry forward this legacy in line with the national vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047 and a developed Arunachal Pradesh.
Emphasizing evolving educational needs, the Chief Minister stated that academic learning alone is no longer sufficient. He stressed the importance of sports, co-curricular activities and technological adaptability, especially in an era driven by artificial intelligence and machine learning. He advised students to use technology wisely and avoid overdependence.
Reiterating the government’s focus on education reforms, Khandu highlighted the implementation of the National Education Policy and the ongoing Mission Shikshit Arunachal, aimed at strengthening foundational learning, improving secondary-level outcomes and integrating skill development. He said investments are being made to upgrade schools, hostels and overall educational infrastructure.
On higher education, he encouraged RGU to strengthen research and evidence-based policy contributions while improving national rankings. He also announced that the State Cabinet has approved a satellite campus of the university at Kambang to expand access to higher education in eastern Arunachal Pradesh.
Highlighting youth-centric initiatives, the Chief Minister spoke about the Scheme for Academic Excellence, which supports students in gaining admission to top international universities, and urged them to aim beyond geographical boundaries. He also emphasized entrepreneurship, citing initiatives like the Arunachal Pradesh Innovation and Investment Park to support startups and promote job creation.
Khandu further announced plans to establish an Arunachal Creative Economy cell under the Chief Minister’s Office to nurture talent in arts, music and design, and provide wider exposure to youth. He also spoke about encouraging greater participation of Arunachali youth in the Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces through training and institutional support.
Responding to issues raised by student representatives, the Chief Minister assured support for key infrastructure needs at the university, including roads, street lighting and water supply, reaffirming the government’s commitment to creating a conducive learning environment.
The Chief Minister extended his best wishes to the organisers and participants, expressing confidence that Arunachal Panorama will continue to strengthen cultural unity and inspire the youth of the state.
Local legislator Nabam Vivek, RGU Acting Vice Chancellor Prof S K Nayak, Registrar Dr NT Rikam, Controller of Examinations Dr Bijay Raji, Finance Officer Prof Otem Padung, along with faculty members, scholars and students, were present on the occasion.