Will Arunachal lose its heritage? Dy CM issues stark warning

Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein has emphasised the urgent need for communities to preserve their language, culture, and historical legacy to safeguard their identity amid the pressures of modernisation and globalisation.

Addressing attendees at the Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi festival in Miao, Changlang district, Mein said the event is not just about dance and celebration but also features sacred rituals that connect people to their ancestral roots. He urged communities to use such festivals as platforms to reflect on society, heritage, and the responsibility of passing cultural values to younger generations.

The Deputy Chief Minister stressed that language remains the strongest pillar of identity. “No one will come to preserve our culture; we must protect our culture ourselves,” he said. He called for strengthening indigenous language education in schools, ensuring that preservation is meaningful rather than symbolic.

Mein highlighted the importance of documenting and digitising ancient manuscripts, oral traditions, folklore, and archival materials using modern technology. Steps are being taken to digitise rare manuscripts and historical documents to preserve knowledge for future generations.

The Deputy CM paid floral tributes at Martyr Hill to the unsung heroes of the Singpho community, whose sacrifices symbolise courage, dignity, and resistance. He also visited a tea and textile exhibition showcasing the rich legacy of the Singpho people, noting that the discovery of tea in India traces back to the tribe when Singpho chief Beesa Gaum provided tea plants and seeds to Robert Bruce in 1823, marking a turning point in Assam tea history.

Mein acknowledged the challenges posed by modern education, changing fashion, and external influences but emphasised that communities must ensure they do not lose their identity. His message reinforced the idea that heritage preservation is a shared responsibility and vital for maintaining Arunachal Pradesh’s rich cultural fabric.
(With PTI inputs)