ITANAGAR, Aug 16: Arunachal Pradesh celebrated the 77th Independence Day with great enthusiasm on August 15, with the main function being held in the state capital Itanagar.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday called upon the people to write the next chapter of the state’s glorious story with wisdom, compassion and courage so that the future generations will read it with pride.
Hoisting the national tri-colour at Indira Gandhi Park here, Khandu urged the people to write a story of an Arunachal that rose to its destiny, not by chance but by choice.
“Every endeavour, every initiative and every stride of the government over those seven years has been to realise the vision of a vibrant Arunachal under the tenets of ‘seva, sushashan and sammridhi’. The ethos of the government and Team Arunachal is crystallized in our citizen-centric and development policies,” the chief said in his address to the people.
Our journey will not be easy. We will fall at times, but together we will rise each time stronger, wiser and more determined, he added.
Khandu said Arunachal is not just a state, it is a promise. A promise of unity, inclusive growth and prosperity for all.
“We are duty bound to fulfil the aspirations of every child, every mother, every farmer and every family. This is not a distant dream but a tangible goal, a goal that we shall achieve through dedication, collaboration and relentless pursuit of excellence. Our journey towards development is about transcending barriers of identity, region, tribe, creed and religion as well as the barriers of our tough terrain,” he said. Khandu asserted that in the coming 25 years, which marks the 100 years of independence, the government’s endeavour would be to transform Arunachal into a ‘Vikasit’ state (developed state).
“Our journey shall echo the vision of ‘Param Vaibhav Bharat’, a nation that stands tall on the global stage, embodying the principles of justice, equality and progress for all,” he said and called upon the people to work together as responsible citizens, fostering harmony, peace and progress in every corner of the nation.
The chief minister added that the resolve of ‘Vikashit Bharat’ and ‘Vikashit Arunachal’ requires commitment from all to work hand in hand. It compels us to contribute our best in shaping India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation and ‘Vishwa-Guru’ by the time we celebrate 100 years of our Independence in 2047, he said.
Highlighting the developmental story of his government in the last seven years in power, the chief minister said that the accolades the state received in recent times are a testament to the hard work, dedication and commitment of Team Arunachal, reflecting its commitment to progress and excellence.
Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt. General KT Parnaik (Retd.) unfurled and saluted the National Flag, as the Echo Company of 33 Battalion of the Indo Tibetan Border Police, attached to the Raj Bhavan, presented the Guard of Honour to the Flag.
Speaking on the occasion, the Governor recalled the freedom fighters of the Indian Independence movement and paid rich tributes to the martyrs on the occasion.
The Governor said that India won freedom due to the non-violence movement led by Mahatma Gandhi and also the armed struggle led by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, India National Army, Chandrasekhar Azad, Rajguru, Rani of Jhansi and others. He said that it was the collective effort of both movements.
The Governor exhorted the people to celebrate the achievements of the past and also resolve to shoulder all responsibilities to take the State and nation to new heights. Addressing the school children, the Governor encouraged them to work hard, be courageous and healthy.  
TATO: The national flag was ceremoniously hoisted by Assembly Speaker, P D Sona. Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Sona urged the crowd to keep alive the memory of the valiant sacrifices made by our freedom fighters, underscoring their pivotal role in securing our cherished freedom. Amidst a sea of hopeful faces, Speaker Sona also emphasized the unwavering commitment of the state government led by Chief Minister, Pema Khandu, towards the holistic development of the state. He highlighted a slew of flagship initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for the citizens of the state.
Speaker Sona lauded the remarkable strides achieved in Shi-Yomi district, underscoring the impressive progress made in critical sectors including road and digital connectivity, water supply, tourism, electricity, and more. These milestones stand as a testament to the district's growth trajectory.
The day-long festivities were marked by several significant moments, including the distribution of appointment letters to the newly appointed Gaon Buras, recognizing their essential role in local administration. Moreover, distinguished stakeholders were honored with awards, acknowledging their valuable contributions towards the advancement of the region.
ROING: MLA Mutchu Mithi, paid tribute to the freedom fighters who gave us this independent nation. He also recognised the contributions made by the unsung heroes of the district who fought during the Mishmi Resistance against British Incursions and the Anglo Adi War of 1894 and stated that the independence that we enjoy is our inheritance from them and it is our responsibility to safeguard it. 
“This democratic nation receives its power from the people, its rich culture, heritage and traditions. It is the country of sages and scientists, the rich and the poor and all have an equal right to live in it,” hee added.
The MLA highlighted the developmental works going on in the district and informed the people about his commitment to improve the lives of the people through various projects.
Mutchu Mithi also enjoined the student and the youth communities to focus on their studies and stay away from drugs and intoxicants.
The day witnessed the honouring of 11 unsung heroes of the district and felicitation of teachers whose students had performed well in the Class 12 Board Exams.
YUPIA: Deputy Commissioner Cheechung Chukhu hoisted the National flag at Yupia headquarters.
Addressing the gathering, the  DC gave a clarion call to the public, civil societies, NGOs and the student communities to strengthen the fight against the drug menace and  stated that “ If  not controlled the drug menace would destroy the younger generation.”
He highlighted  the initiatives of the government and the Papum Pare Rural Police under the aegis of ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan’ to fight the drug menace and called for cooperation from all the stakeholders.
The DC also highlighted the development activities undertaken by various departments in education, road connectivity, health, Medical, Power,  Agriculture and Horticulture sectors.
Unsung hero Tana Nana, who fought against the Britishers  in Amtola in 1873 was felicitated on the occasion.
BOMDILA:  In unison with the rest of the nation, the 77th Independence Day was celebrated here at the Buddha Stadium.  MLA Dongru Siongju highlighted the developmental activities that have taken place in the constituency during his tenure.
The winner of the literary activities, the best cultural troupe, the best exhibition stall, the best parade contingent, and academic toppers, unsung heroes were also felicitated on the occasion.
TEZU:
Hoisting the national flag at the Lohit district headquarters, MLA Karikho Kri paid floral tribute to the martyrs who laid down their lives to win freedom for the country and highlighted the fast paced developments going on in Arunachal Pradesh and Tezu-Sunpura in particular.
Further he appealed the people of Lohit District especially young generation to desist from the drug abuse and make the district drug free.
Handing over of Mitti ka kalash to designated person followed by Pran-Pledge of Meri Maati Mera Desh was also carried out. 11 farmers were handed tractors under Atma Nirbhar Krishi Yojana Scheme.
The MLA also felicitated the family members of unsung hero late K. Manyu on the occasion.
KHONSA:
Along with the rest of the country, Independence Day was celebrated in all administrative headquarters as well as in all Panchayat blocks throughout Tirap District with joy and enthusiasm. Earlier, Meri Maati Mera Desh campaigns was carried out in different blocks from August 9 last as part of closing ceremony of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’.
MLA cum Adviser to WRD & DoTCL Wanglam Sawin in his address said that during the last nine years of his tenure, he has worked to address problems being faced by public. Khonsa township road has been constructed with CC pavement which was in worst shape earlier, Power supply is now improved after installation of new Transformers in different locations, Water supply is now improved, Sawin counted. He also praised the District Administration, Arunachal Pradesh Police, 6 Assam Rifles, 36 Bn CRPF and other security agencies for working tirelessly for development of the district and restoring peace in the region.
On the occasion, Gaon Buras certificate along with Red coat and Badge were handed over to two Gaon Buras. Best parade contingent was awarded to NCC (Army wings), Khonsa and Best Stall awarded to Horticulture department, Khonsa.
YINGKIONG: Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Alo Libang hoisted the national flag amidst the presence of former Chief Minister Gegong Apang, Deputy Commissioner Hage Lailang, SP T.Saring, and other dignitaries.
Libang, highly appreciated the government initiative to felicitate unsung heroes posthumously which led to more than two hundred freedom fighters being identified  across the state in recognition of their supreme sacrifices to free the country from the shackles of the British.
The Minister also highlighted the innumerable developments taking place in Upper Siang District and called upon all denizens to work in unison for better development of the district, state and nation as a whole.
To mark the day unsung heroes Kengki Megu, Jongkeng Pertin and Koyi Lego were felicitated posthumously and the honour was received by their great grandsons.
Besides, appointment letter and red coats were handed to Gaon Burahs, CBSE toppers were felicitated and Commendation certificates awarded to government employees.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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