Khandu inaugurates 1st community-driven, community oriented Kameng Museum at Nyukmadung

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaOctober 24, 2024

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Wednesday dedicated the Kameng Culture and Heritage Museum at Nyukmadung to the people of the state. The program was attended by Union Minister of State for Rural Development Kamlesh Paswan and senior officials of the Indian Army.

In his brief speech, Khandu said that this unique institution recognizes and showcases the martial, cultural, and heritage prowess of Arunachal Pradesh and celebrates the historical linkages of this ancient region with Bharatvarsh.

“This location of the museum at Nyukmadung is of special reverence to all of us, as it proudly marks the sacrifice, bravery, and honor of the Indian Army during the 1962 war, along with the camaraderie and compatriotism of local people. This museum is not just a repository of artifacts, heirlooms, and memories but a living bridge between the past and future,” he said.

Khandu expressed optimism that the museum is poised to place Nyukmadung and Dirang on the tourist map, boosting religious and adventure tourism. It will not only contribute to the local economy but also foster a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural canvas on the national and global stage, he remarked. He appreciated the efforts put in by the Indian Institute of Heritage (IIH) under its Vice Chancellor Dr. B.R. Mani and Prof. Manvi Seth, who was also present during the inaugural ceremony.

The Chief Minister acknowledged the remarkable work done by IIH under the leadership of Dr. Mani and Prof. Seth in preparing an informative catalogue on the museum, which highlights local heroes of the 1962 War who fought shoulder to shoulder with the Indian Army in the Indo-China War.

He said that the Indian Army’s initiative through Operation Sadbhavana contributes directly to the Border Area Development and Vibrant Village Programme of the Central government and urged the Indian Army, as well as the CAPF units of ITBP and SSB, who guard the frontiers of Arunachal Pradesh, to undertake collaborative development programmes for the development of border villages and the welfare of the people living along the border.

“Such collaborative efforts will also boost tourism and generate employment opportunities for the people,” Khandu said. He further urged the civil administration and the Indian Army to synergize efforts for transformational changes for the overall development of the people of the region.

Khandu also expressed gratitude to the entire team of Sela Brigade, 16 Madras, and 18 Sikh Light Infantry, who worked with zeal to deliver the historic project.

Union Minister Kamlesh Paswan also spoke at the event, stressing the strategic importance of the Kameng region and commending the Indian Army’s role in fostering civil-military cooperation and regional development. The Kameng Museum stands as a testament to these collaborative efforts, promoting both cultural preservation and development in Arunachal Pradesh.

Paswan highlighted its significant role in preserving the cultural legacy of the people of Arunachal Pradesh. The museum, located in the scenic village of Nyukmadung, Dirang, on the route to Tawang, is expected to be a key institution in safeguarding the region’s traditions and fostering socio-economic growth.

GOC, Gajraj Corps, Lt. Gen. Gambhir Singh reaffirmed the Indian Army’s commitment to ensuring both the security and socio-economic progress of bordering areas, further strengthening collaboration with local communities for regional development.

A film by Capt. Praveen Chaturvedi, CEO of Moonlight Pictures and his team, was screened during the event, highlighting the deep-rooted connection between Arunachal Pradesh and Bharat.

Present at the inaugural program, among others, were the state’s Rural Development Minister Ojing Tasing, local legislator Phurpa Tsering, Kalaktang Legislator Tsetan Chombay, General Officer Commanding 4 Corps Lieutenant General Gambhir Singh, and General Officer Commanding Blazing Sword Division Maj Gen Neeraj Shukla.