Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated the Kameng Culture and Heritage Museum at Nyukmadung, West Kameng district, on Wednesday, marking a significant step towards preserving the state’s rich cultural and historical legacy.
The museum, a collaborative effort between the Indian Army and the local community, was established as part of the government’s broader vision for the region’s development through cultural revival and border tourism initiatives.
At the inauguration ceremony, Khandu emphasised the region’s deep-rooted historical and religious importance, drawing references from ancient texts such as the Kalika Purana and the Mahabharata.
He described the museum as a key institution aimed at safeguarding the state’s cultural heritage for future generations.
“This museum will help preserve the past while inspiring future generations,” Khandu said, as quoted by Defence PRO Lt Col Mahendra Rawat in a statement.
Army’s role
Khandu also expressed gratitude to the Indian Army for its vital role in establishing the museum and for its ongoing contributions to the development of border areas.
He highlighted the army’s initiatives under the Sadbhavana projects, which have played a crucial part in building infrastructure and fostering socio-economic development in various parts of the state.
“The museum is a reflection of the army’s commitment to transforming border areas through initiatives such as model villages, border tourism, and enhancing infrastructure,” Khandu said, noting the alignment of these efforts with the government’s Vibrant Village Programme.
The Chief Minister further underscored the museum’s role in promoting inclusivity, sustainability, and economic growth, particularly through the promotion of border tourism.
He hailed the collaboration between the Indian Army and the state government in achieving the vision of a 'Viksit Arunachal' or 'Developed Arunachal'.
Khandu also extended special thanks to Prof Manvi Seth and her team from the Indian Institute of Heritage, who were instrumental in curating the museum's exhibits, which include both physical artefacts and digital installations.
He commended Praveen Chaturvedi, CEO of Moonlight Pictures, for capturing the essence of Arunachal’s ancient traditions and contemporary life in a film set to be showcased globally.
Union Minister of State for Rural Development Kamlesh Paswan, who was also present at the event, applauded the Indian Army for its efforts in promoting civil-military cooperation and regional development.
He highlighted the museum’s significance in preserving the cultural legacy of the people of Arunachal Pradesh.
Gajraj Corps GOC Lt Gen Gambhir Singh reiterated the Indian Army’s commitment to the security and socio-economic development of the border areas, noting the crucial role the museum would play in strengthening the cultural and community bonds in the region.
A cultural beacon
Lt Col Rawat noted that the museum, developed under the Vibrant Village Programme, serves as a “cultural beacon of peace, security, and commitment to nation-building through community integration.”
The museum houses 343 traditional heirlooms, some dating back to the Neolithic period, and is expected to become a hub for scholars, researchers, and tourists.
Beyond its cultural exhibits, the museum offers modern amenities, including a movie hall, a souvenir shop, a children’s park, and a tourist facilitation centre. There is also a medical emergency setup for visitors, making it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists.
The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Blazing Sword Division’s Maj Gen Neeraj Shukla, Dirang MLA Phurpa Tsering, Lamas from Dirang Monastery, school children, and tourists.
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