SEPPA, Nov 12: The Arunachal Pradesh Government will strengthen institutional and financial support for the preservation of indigenous faith and cultural traditions, Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced on Thursday, while outlining a series of initiatives to promote cultural identity and tourism in the State.
Addressing the inaugural function of the 8th Indigenous Faith Youth Festival at Seppa in East Kameng district, Khandu announced that the festival would henceforth be organised every two years instead of once in three years, with the next edition scheduled for 2028. He also announced the revival of the Kameng River Festival from this year with State Government support.
More than 1,000 delegates from across Arunachal Pradesh are attending the festival, organised by the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP).
Khandu said the Department of Indigenous Affairs, established in 2016-17, would be further strengthened, with an enhanced budget allocation proposed in the forthcoming Revised Estimates to expand its activities and reach more youths. He also assured early consideration of the gap funding sought by IFCSAP in a memorandum submitted on November 6, citing the larger-than-anticipated participation this year.
The Chief Minister said the Council constituted under the Department of Indigenous Affairs would be made more effective through regular meetings and greater empowerment. He stressed that IFCSAP should be consulted in identifying and prioritising projects, given its understanding of the needs of indigenous faith communities.
Emphasising that cultural preservation must keep pace with development, Khandu urged the younger generation to remain rooted in their languages, customs, faith and traditions even as they embrace modern technology and opportunities. He called upon every community to take responsibility for documenting, practising and transmitting its heritage to future generations.
Describing Arunachal Pradesh as a living heritage, he encouraged youths to learn about the diverse belief systems and cultural practices of different communities in the State and promote mutual understanding.
He said the preservation of indigenous faiths must be accompanied by respect for other religions and beliefs. Cautioning against the misuse of social media to create misunderstandings, he called for dialogue, maturity and peaceful coexistence.
Khandu also stressed that legislation alone could not ensure the survival of indigenous faiths, and called for greater involvement of individuals, community organisations and faith leaders in research, discussions and initiatives to strengthen traditional belief systems.
Referring to the documentation and research work of the RIWATCH Institute on Mishmi traditions, he said discussions were underway on a proposal to establish an international tribal learning centre or university in Arunachal Pradesh, which he hoped could be placed before the Assembly next year.
On tourism promotion, Khandu said the Kameng River Festival would receive financial support through the Tourism Department in the current year's allocation. Responding to the request of the East Kameng Social Welfare and Cultural Organization (EKSWCO), he said the event would showcase the district's natural beauty and cultural heritage and help place it on the State's tourism map.
He encouraged the organisers to go ahead with their proposed January schedule and assured continued government support in the coming years. Identifying river rafting and paragliding as potential attractions, he called for greater tourism awareness and hospitality training among local communities.
The Chief Minister also assured continued support to the six Gurukuls functioning in the State, including improvements in basic infrastructure. He specifically directed that the road leading to the Gurukul at Lada be taken up during the current financial year.
Appreciating EKSWCO for raising development issues and undertaking social audits of public projects, Khandu urged community-based organisations to adopt similar practices to promote transparency and accountability. He also called upon citizens to speak out against wrongdoing irrespective of the position or influence of those involved.
On development initiatives in East Kameng, he said 30 projects with an estimated combined cost of Rs 340 crore had been dedicated to the people of the district through foundation stone laying and inauguration ceremonies.
Khandu expressed hope that the festival would help participating youths gain a deeper understanding of indigenous games, faiths, traditions and the diverse ways of life of the State's communities.
The inaugural programme featured the hoisting of the IFCSAP flag, rendition of the organisation’s anthem and ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Khandu also visited the Promise Tree, Wall of Identity and community huts showcasing the traditions and cultural practices of different communities.
Festival chairman Er Pai Dawe delivered the welcome address, while IFCSAP president Dr Emi Rumi presented the presidential address. Padma Shri awardee Nivedita Raghunath Bhide and Seppa East MLA Ealing Tallang were among the speakers.
A mega dance performance showcasing the cultural diversity of indigenous communities was one of the highlights of the inaugural ceremony. Cultural performances by Delong Padung and the Seppa Nyibu Namlo Ane Team added to the celebrations.
The afternoon session featured the Indigenous Warrior Challenge and traditional sporting events, including archery, shot put, tug-of-war and arm wrestling.
The festival follows three daily themes — “Discover Your Identity”, “Learn from Each Other” and “Carry It Forward” — and will continue until November 14 with cultural performances, indigenous sports, storytelling sessions, exhibitions and interactive activities.