Itanagar, Feb 21: The 39th Statehood Day of Arunachal Pradesh was celebrated with enthusiasm across the state, with official programs held in district headquarters, administrative circles, and educational institutions. The celebrations featured flag hoisting, cultural performances, exhibitions, sports events, and felicitation ceremonies.
In Papum Pare, zilla parishad chairperson Nabam Yakum unfurled the national flag at Yupia, highlighting the state’s journey from the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA) to full statehood. She urged people to uphold the state’s honor. Various departments, including agriculture, horticulture, the police, and the Arunachal State Rural Livelihood Mission, set up stalls to raise awareness about government schemes. A similar event was held at Sagalee, where ZPM Techi Serbang hoisted the flag, and 15 individuals were felicitated for surrendering air guns under the Air Gun Surrender Abhiyan.
In West Kameng, the main event was held at Buddha Stadium in Bomdila, where deputy commissioner Akriti Sagar urged students to focus on education and develop reading habits. She emphasized tourism opportunities in the district and encouraged students to seek training from the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS). The celebration included cultural programs, sports competitions, and exhibitions.
In Tirap, the event was observed across all administrative circles and schools. At Khonsa, MLA Wanglam Sawin paid tribute to those who contributed to Arunachal Pradesh’s statehood and called for cooperation in infrastructure projects. He urged public participation in Aatmanirbhar schemes, particularly in the agro-allied sector, and stressed the importance of clearing long-pending electricity bills. The day also marked the launch of a 100-day Intensified TB Campaign and the adoption of TB patients under the Nikshay Mitra initiative. Traditional dance performances by Nocte, Tutsa, Ollo, and Wancho communities were among the highlights.
In Upper Siang, deputy commissioner Talo Jerang led the celebration at Yingkiong, where he underscored the state's progress since gaining statehood in 1987. He highlighted infrastructure and connectivity improvements in remote villages. New Gaon Buras were felicitated, and cultural and sports activities, including archery and tug-of-war, were held. A similar event took place in Tuting, where ZPM Tachik Duggong hoisted the flag.
In East Siang, the event was held at the Mini Outdoor Stadium in Pasighat, where deputy commissioner Tayi Taggu reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to the state’s development. The exhibition showcased government schemes, self-help group (SHG) products, awareness on new criminal laws, and road safety. Cultural performances featured traditional dances by the Adi, Galo, and Buddhist cultural troupes.
In Keyi Panyor, the district administration organized "DC Aapke Dwar" at Deed circle, where various departments provided public services. Deputy commissioner Shweta Nagarkoti Mehta emphasized the administration's outreach efforts to remote areas. A career and counselling guide for secondary students was launched, and a posthumous award was presented to a dedicated government employee.
In Lohit, former minister Nakul Chai led the celebrations at Tezu, highlighting the issue of land encroachment and the need for planned urban development. A tug-of-war competition between Gaon Buras and officers added to the event’s appeal. The Department of Forest, Environment, and Climate Change won the award for the best exhibition stall.
In Lower Siang, the event was held at Chidu Chigo Ground, Likabali, with MLA Tojir Kadu as the chief guest. The celebrations included the conclusion of the third Inter-Departmental Sports Meet, which aimed to foster camaraderie among government employees. Prizes were distributed to winning teams and individuals.
In Tawang, deputy commissioner Kanki Darang unfurled the national flag and reflected on Arunachal Pradesh’s journey over the past four decades. He highlighted the state’s ranking as the second-largest producer of large cardamom and oranges in the Northeast. The event featured cultural performances, a blood donation camp, and an exhibition showcasing government initiatives.
In Longding, ZPM Jehai Wangsu led the celebrations, commending the district administration for maintaining peace and ensuring efficient public service delivery. A highlight of the event was the recognition of progressive farmers for their contributions to agriculture and fishery.
In West Siang, the celebration at Gumin Kinn, Aalo, was led by ZPM Jumde Gamlin, who recently received the Padma Shri award. She emphasized the need for cooperation in development efforts and called for collective action against drug abuse. The event included cultural performances and an exhibition of government initiatives.
The Statehood Day was also observed in other administrative circles, including Kamba, Deomali, Borduria, and Soha, with similar enthusiasm.
The celebrations across Arunachal Pradesh reaffirmed the state’s commitment to progress while honouring its cultural heritage and achievements over the past 39 years.