OUR CORRESPONDENT
Itanagar: The Tai Khamti community in Arunachal on Sunday celebrated Poi Pee Mau Tai 2119- marking the beginning of their New Year with traditional fervor at Namsai district.
The celebration, themed ‘Rediscovering the Tai Ethnicity,’ reflected the richness of the Tai Khamti heritage and the dynamism of its youth, an official communiqué said here on Monday.
Taking part in the festival, Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein emphasized the festival’s role in connecting the community with its roots while inspiring the younger generation to take pride in their heritage.
“It fills my heart with pride to celebrate this day with our vibrant youth,” said Mein, adding, “Their passion and creativity reminds us of the immense potential of Arunachal Pradesh. They are not only preserving our traditions but also shaping a future filled with promise and pride.”
Mein also spoke of his vision for Namsai as an aspirational district, focusing on sustainable development, tourism, and addressing societal challenges like drug abuse. He highlighted upcoming cultural milestones, including the Sangken Festival and the ongoing Arunachal Rang Mahotsav, as key opportunities to showcase Arunachal’s diverse cultural legacy.
State Education and Tourism Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona reiterated the state government’s vision of observing 2024 as the ‘Year of the Youth.’
“Our youth are the custodians of Arunachal’s identity and the architects of its future. The government is committed to fostering opportunities that enable them to lead with confidence and pride while ensuring our traditions remain integral to our progress,” Sona said.
Assam’s Sadiya MLA Bolin Chetia emphasized the significance of the festival in strengthening ties between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. He also commended Mein’s efforts in improving road connectivity and infrastructure in the area, which have boosted the region’s tourism potential.
“Poi Pee Mau Tai is a celebration of heritage and aspiration. It symbolizes the collective spirit of the people in this region, and together we must ensure that these traditions flourish on a global stage,” the MLA said.
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