NAHARLAGUN, Aug 17: Former Arunachal Pradesh Chief Secretary Satya Gopal on Monday appreciated the Arunachal Shiksha Vikas Samiti (ASVS) for its three decades of contribution to education in the State, particularly in remote and tribal areas.
Gopal was speaking at the Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) 2026 of ASVS held at its Training Centre at Pachin Colony, Naharlagun. The meeting was chaired by ASVS Vice President Kaling Dai and attended by Dr Pawan Tiwari, Organising Secretary, Vidya Bharati Purvottar Kshetra; ASVS Vice President Niri Chongrowju; RSS Arunachal Pradesh Prant Pracharak Kamlesh Kumar; ASVS Secretary Tumge Lollen; State Coordinator Sukumaran K; presidents and secretaries of School Management Committees, social leaders, special invitees and well-wishers.
During the AGM, ASVS Secretary Tumge Lollen and Treasurer Pawan Jain presented the organisation’s Activities Report for 2025–26, Audited Report for 2025–26 and Budget for 2026–27 before the General Body.
Addressing the gathering, Gopal said Arunachal Pradesh had become his “Karmabhoomi”, recalling his long association with the State, including his tenure as Chief Secretary. He appreciated the enthusiasm and aspirations of the State’s tribal communities towards education and acknowledged the efforts being made to expand educational opportunities.
He noted that providing education across Arunachal Pradesh presents unique challenges owing to its mountainous terrain, remote and landlocked habitations, difficult accessibility and long international border. Despite these constraints, he said, Vidya Bharati Akhil Bharatiya Shiksha Sansthan, through ASVS, has continued its educational mission in the State with dedication.
Gopal appreciated the School Management Committees, principals, teachers, Karyakartas and other workers serving in difficult and remote areas, describing their efforts as an important contribution to nation-building.
He emphasised the need for quality and value-based education, particularly for children in tribal and remote areas, to help develop responsible citizens with strong character and a commitment to society and the nation.
Referring to Vidya Bharati’s guiding motto, “Sa Vidya Ya Vimuktaye”, Gopal said true education should liberate an individual and guide them towards a higher purpose in life. Education, he added, should go beyond academic achievement and contribute to the development of good human beings, responsible citizens and dedicated nation-builders.
He also remembered ASVS founder member and patron Tai Tagak and acknowledged his sacrifices and lifelong commitment to the education and welfare of children in Arunachal Pradesh.
Gopal assured ASVS of his continued cooperation in its educational and social initiatives and said he would remain available to extend guidance and support, including in administrative and legal matters, for initiatives aimed at improving education and society in the State.
Dr Pawan Tiwari, in his address, thanked Gopal for attending the AGM and appreciated his contribution to public service. He said the respect Gopal continues to receive after retirement reflected the lasting impact of sincere and committed public service.
Tiwari stressed the importance of government and society working together for development and said committed administrators and social organisations have a vital role in ensuring that development initiatives reach people at the grassroots level.
He informed that Vidya Bharati Akhil Bharatiya Shiksha Sansthan will celebrate its Amrit Mahotsav in 2027, marking 75 years of its educational journey and service to the nation. He said ASVS would give special emphasis to the educational upliftment of children living in border and remote areas of Arunachal Pradesh as part of its future initiatives.
Calling for greater social participation in educational development, Tiwari urged citizens and well-wishers to contribute towards strengthening education in remote and border areas. He said the growing acceptance of Vidya Bharati’s initiatives also carried greater responsibility to reach communities that continue to lack adequate educational opportunities.
He also highlighted the significance of the commemoration of 150 years of “Vande Mataram”, describing the national song as a symbol of patriotism, cultural consciousness and devotion to Bharat. He said Vidya Bharati has sought to inculcate national pride, character, cultural values and a spirit of service among students
The programme also witnessed the felicitation of achievers associated with Abotani Vidya Niketan, Pachin, for achievements in government service, medical entrance examinations and professional fields.
Tadar Natung and Tadar Kaje were felicitated for their selection through the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission as Junior Engineers in the PWD, while Lokam Yayu and Phassang Nachum were honoured for qualifying NEET in 2026 and 2024 respectively.
Advocate Langku Tado was also felicitated for his professional achievement and association with the office of the Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, Arunachal Pradesh.