Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has announced that the Indigenous Faith Youth Festival will now be organised every two years instead of once in three years, with the next edition scheduled for 2028, signalling increased government support for cultural preservation and youth engagement.
Making the announcement at the inaugural function of the eighth festival in Seppa, East Kameng district, on Thursday, Khandu said the Department of Indigenous Affairs, established in 2016-17, would receive a higher allocation in the forthcoming revised estimates. More than 1,000 delegates attended the event organised by the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh.
Khandu also announced the revival of the Kameng River Festival this year, with financial support from the Tourism Department to promote East Kameng’s tourism potential. He identified river rafting and paragliding as activities that could attract visitors and stressed the need to train local communities in hospitality.
From a regional market perspective, the proposed tourism activities and revival of the Kameng River Festival could create business opportunities for hotels, homestays, transport operators, local traders and small entrepreneurs in East Kameng. Improved tourism infrastructure and community participation could strengthen the district’s local economy.
The Chief Minister also assured support for six functioning Gurukuls, including road, water and electricity improvements at Lada. He highlighted cultural documentation, research and plans for an international tribal learning centre or university.
Khandu further said 30 development projects worth an estimated Rs 340 crore had been dedicated to East Kameng through inaugurations and foundation stone-laying ceremonies. He urged young people to preserve indigenous languages, customs and traditions while respecting religious diversity and mutual understanding.
