Itanagar, Sep 6: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt. General KT Parnaik (Retd.) participated in the inaugural session of the 47th foundation day celebration of Dera Natung Government College, Itanagar on Saturday. He felicitated achievers of the college, including Rajiv Gandhi University toppers, student achievers in zonal national and international competitions and outstanding alumni. He also released a book, titled, ‘Arunachal Pradesh Ke Galo Loksahitya Mein Stree Jievan Ke Vividh Aayaam: Ek Adhyayah’ authored by Dr. Tumbom Riba ‘Lily’ Jomoh.
Congratulating the college fraternity on the special occasion of the 47th Foundation Day, the Governor said that this celebration marks the birth of a vision, the vision of nurturing youth, imparting knowledge, and shaping responsible citizens who contribute to the progress of society and the State. He commended the college for producing leaders, professionals, thinkers, and change-makers who have strengthened the very fabric of the community.
The Governor, while paying homage to the former Education Minister Late Dera Natung, urged the people to draw inspiration from his vision and to carry forward his legacy by dedicating themselves to the noble cause of education. He appealed for a collective commitment to nurture a brighter, more enlightened future for the State through tireless efforts in shaping young minds.
Highlighting the pivotal role of educational institutions, the Governor described them as the engines of growth and transformation. He expressed hope that the college would continue, with collective commitment, to uphold the values of education, adapt to changing times, excel in new opportunities, and remain a guiding light for generations to come. He emphasized that such efforts would contribute meaningfully to the great national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Addressing the students, the Governor reminded them that they are the torchbearers of the nation’s future. He encouraged them to think creatively, innovate boldly, and embrace skill-based learning, digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving. Stressing the importance of holistic development, he urged the youth to stay educated, disciplined, and motivated, while maintaining both physical and mental fitness. Sharing his NDA prayer, he told them to remain physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.
To the faculty members, the Governor advised fulfilling their duties with dedication and guiding students with empathy. He highlighted their role in shaping character, instilling discipline, and nurturing the next generation. He reminded them that as the true architects of students’ futures, they must keep updating their knowledge and remain aligned with the latest developments, research, and innovations.
The Governor also appealed to the alumni to maintain a strong bond with their alma mater and to contribute to the growth of the institution in whatever way possible.
Looking ahead to Viksit Bharat@2047, the Governor emphasized that the youth must align their personal goals with the larger national vision. “When we progress as individuals, we strengthen society. When society progresses, the State prospers. And when the State prospers, the Nation rises,” he said, calling upon all to move forward with vision, determination, and collective effort, so that the seeds of knowledge sown today may blossom into a brighter tomorrow. He further encouraged the youth to actively participate in the My Gov portal by sharing ideas and suggestions. He noted that such participation not only strengthens the nation-building process but also provides a unique opportunity to directly connect with the Prime Minister of India.
Earlier, on his arrival at the college campus, the Governor was warmly received with a ceremonial Guard of Honour presented by the enthusiastic NCC cadets, reflecting the discipline and spirit of the institution. As a mark of respect and remembrance, the Governor offered floral tributes to Late Dera Natung, the visionary former Education Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, whose name the college proudly bears.
In his welcome address, the Principal of Dera Natung Government College, Dr. M.Q. Khan, shared a detailed overview of the institute’s journey. He highlighted the college’s notable achievements in academics and co-curricular activities, while also candidly presenting the challenges it faces. Dr. Khan further outlined the future roadmap of the institution, emphasizing its commitment to nurturing young minds and contributing meaningfully to the educational progress of the State.
Established in 1979, Dera Natung Govt. College, Itanagar, formerly known as Government Degree College and Govt. College, Itanagar, was rechristened to its present name since 2001 session after the name of the then Education Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Dera Natung, who passed away in a helicopter crash in 2001. The percentage of enrolment of girls in the college in the current academic session stands at 51.33% while it is 48.67% for the boys. Similarly, the enrolment of APST students in the college stands at 91%.

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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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