Itanagar, Apr 19: The XIX Nyishi Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and cultural vibrancy across Arunachal Pradesh on Sunday, with major events held at Bhalukpong in West Kameng district, Yachuli in Keyi Panyor district, and Richi Jollang (Itanagar), reflecting the community’s rich heritage and collective aspirations.
At Bhalukpong, the celebration witnessed participation from diverse tribal communities and dignitaries. Minister for Home, PHED and Indigenous Affairs Mama Natung attended as the Chief Guest, while MLA Tenzin Nyima Glow was present as the Guest of Honour.
Among others in attendance were West Kameng Deputy Commissioner Dilip Kumar, Superintendent of Police D W Thongon, ZPMs, Heads of Offices, and community leaders representing Aka, Miji, Bugun, Sartang, Monpa, Apatani, Galo, Bodo, Karbi, and Mishing tribes.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Natung highlighted the importance of Nyishi Day as a celebration of identity and cultural pride. He appreciated the efforts of local leadership in supporting the Nyishi community in the Bhalukpong area and assured government assistance for the development of the celebration ground, including the construction of a proper rostrum.
In a separate message, he extended greetings to the Nyishi community and lauded the organisers for successfully hosting the event at Nyokum Lapang-cum-Nyishi Heritage Centre, describing it as a strong affirmation of tradition, unity, and cultural continuity.
MLA Tenzin Nyima Glow emphasised the need to strengthen brotherhood and communal harmony among all tribes. He noted that the Nyishi community, being the largest in the state, has a key role to play in fostering unity and guiding collective progress, particularly in West Kameng.
Deputy Commissioner Dilip Kumar lauded the Nyishi Elite Society (NES), West Kameng unit, for bringing together communities from within the district as well as neighbouring areas of Assam. He highlighted the organisation’s role in promoting unity and preserving indigenous traditions, languages, and cultural heritage.
In Itanagar, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju attended the Nyishi Day celebration as Chief Guest at the Nyishi Elite Society (NES) Research and Heritage Centre, Richi Jullang.
The programme witnessed the presence of MPs Tapir Gao and Nabam Rebia, MLAs Pani Taram, Tai Nikio and Likha Soni, Itanagar Mayor Likha Nari Tadar, former ministers Atum Welly and Taba Tedir, former MLA Tapuk Taku, NES president Tana Showren, general secretary Nabam Takar, founder president Dr Joram Begi, along with several other dignitaries and representatives of community organisations.
Extending his greetings, Rijiju stated that Nyishi Day, observed on April 19, celebrates the constitutional recognition and rich cultural legacy of the Nyishi community. He wished continued prosperity and pride in their heritage.
Meanwhile, at Yachuli, Nyishi Day was observed with equal fervour at the general ground, organised by the NES Keyi Panyor district unit. The celebration began with the ceremonial hoisting of the Nyishi flag by T D Neckom, setting a solemn tone for the event.
Speakers at the programme emphasised the importance of preserving cultural identity while embracing progressive and inclusive development. They also highlighted the significance of April 19 being recognised as a gazetted holiday, enabling wider participation in the celebrations.
The gathering reflected on the historic movement to replace the term “Dafla” with “Nyishi,” an effort led by Late Tania Sala and supported by the Nyishi Elite Society and the All Nyishi Students’ Union, culminating in the Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order (Amendment) Act, 2008. Speakers described the change as a landmark moment in restoring dignity and identity to the community.
Other dignitaries, including ZPC Nabam Piju and Er Toko Taib, called for unity, cultural preservation, and inclusive development – an agenda that seeks to harmonize tradition with modernity. The event was attended by representatives from various organisations, youth leaders, PRI members, and the general public.
Across all locations, the celebrations featured vibrant cultural programmes with traditional performances, showcasing the richness of Nyishi heritage.
Observances across the Nyishi-inhabited regions of Arunachal Pradesh and adjoining areas of Assam underscored a shared commitment to preserving traditions while advancing towards inclusive development and unity.