ITANAGAR, Oct 23: The need for a legal framework to protect Arunachal Pradesh’s indigenous faith, cultural heritage, traditions and identity was the focus of a Youth Parliament organised by the Youth Wing of the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP) at the Pare Hall of DK Convention Centre here on Friday.
Around 60 students from various colleges across the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR) aparticipated in the event, organised as part of the Indigenous Faith Youth Festival 2026, scheduled to be held at Seppa in East Kameng district from November 12 to 14.
Addressing the valedictory function, Roing MLA and Advisor to the Home and Education Minister Mutchu Mithi appreciated the participation of young people in constructive discussions on issues concerning society and the state. He urged the youth to take pride in their indigenous identity and work towards preserving their faith, customs, traditions and cultural heritage for future generations.
Mithi also cautioned students against the spread of misinformation and the misuse of social media, advising them to verify facts and conduct proper research before accepting or sharing information online. He stressed that differences of opinion should be addressed through constructive dialogue rather than street confrontations.
He said platforms such as the Youth Parliament encourage critical thinking, healthy debate and responsible participation in public life, expressing confidence in the younger generation’s leadership potential.
BJP general secretary Jyoti Singpho, who attended as a jury member, congratulated the participants and appreciated their ability to articulate ideas and present their views confidently. She said their performances reflected the growing awareness and intellectual maturity of Arunachal’s youth.
IFCSAP president Dr Emi Rumi and general secretary Maya Murtem attended the inaugural session.
In the competition, Dekie Tsomu Bapu, a BEd student of VKCTE, secured first prize, followed by Sanghi Tayang, an LLB student of Government Law College, in second place and Mijat Mama, a third-semester Political Science student of Rajiv Gandhi University, in third place. Bapu argued against the motion, while five other participants received consolation prizes.
The Youth Parliament provided students with a platform to exchange views on indigenous identity and cultural preservation ahead of the Indigenous Faith Youth Festival 2026.