Nyukmadung, Arunachal Pradesh, Oct 24: Chief Minister Pema Khandu, along with Union Minister of State for Rural Development Kamlesh Paswan, inaugurated the Kameng Culture and Heritage Museum today at Nyukmadung. The museum is a tribute to the rich cultural, historical, and martial legacy of Arunachal Pradesh, aiming to foster deeper national and global recognition of the region’s heritage.
In his address, Khandu emphasized the museum’s significance, calling it a “living bridge between the past and the future.” He highlighted that the museum not only preserves artefacts and heirlooms but also celebrates the historical connection between Arunachal Pradesh and Bharatvarsh.
“Nyukmadung holds deep reverence for us all as it commemorates the bravery, sacrifice, and honour of the Indian Army during the 1962 Indo-China War, along with the camaraderie and support of local communities,” Khandu said.
The Chief Minister expressed optimism that the museum will boost both religious and adventure tourism, placing Nyukmadung and Dirang prominently on the tourist map. He noted that the museum would positively impact the local economy while promoting the region’s cultural canvas on a national and global scale.
Khandu extended his appreciation to the Indian Institute of Heritage (IIH), led by Vice Chancellor Dr. B.R. Mani and Prof. Manvi Seth, for their role in the project. He also praised the IIH for creating an informative museum catalogue that honors the local heroes of the 1962 war who fought alongside the Indian Army.
The Chief Minister acknowledged the Indian Army’s ongoing contributions to the region through Operation SADBHAVANA, which aligns with the Government of India’s Border Area Development and Vibrant Village Programme. He urged the Indian Army, ITBP, and SSB to initiate collaborative programs for the development of border villages and the welfare of residents living along the frontier.
“Joint efforts between the civil administration and the Indian Army will not only foster tourism and generate employment but also bring transformational changes for the development of the region,” Khandu remarked.
The museum project was supported by the Sela Brigade, 16 Madras, and 18 Sikh Light Infantry, whose dedication was lauded by the Chief Minister. A film by Capt. Praveen Chaturvedi, CEO of Moonlight Pictures, was also screened during the event, illustrating the deep-rooted bond between Arunachal Pradesh and Bharat.
The museum, besides showcasing artefacts and historical exhibits, features amenities such as a children’s park, a cafeteria, a souvenir shop, and a movie hall.
Among the dignitaries attending the inauguration were Rural Development Minister Ojing Tasing, local MLA Phurpa Tsering, Kalaktang MLA Tsetan Chombay, Lt. Gen. Gambhir Singh, GOC of 4 Corps, and Maj. Gen. Neeraj Shukla, GOC of the Blazing Sword Division.
With the inauguration of the Kameng Culture and Heritage Museum, the state government aims to preserve the region’s history while fostering tourism and economic development in Arunachal Pradesh.