ITANAGAR, Feb 2 � Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has called upon the people of the State to take full advantage of festivals by strengthening relationships and inter-mingling for peaceful coexistence, which he said is paramount for paving the way for overall development.
Attending the mega Reh festival � a novel concept of the Mishmis to celebrate Reh under one umbrella � at Teluliang near Tezu, headquarters of Lohit district, on Friday, Tuki said such festivals are great occasions to know each other, mingle and develop a relationship of mutual understanding and respect.
�Festivals are not only a bridge between us and our tradition, but also an occasion to rebuild a society of mutual understanding and trust,� he pointed out.
Praising the Mishmis � inhabiting Lohit, Dibang Valley, Lower Dibang Valley, Anjaw and upper reaches of Upper Siang district � for sticking to their roots and preserving their rich and colourful traditions, Tuki expressed concern over the alienation of youths of some tribes from their cultural roots.
�Most of our youngsters do not even speak their mother tongue. This is not good for our future. It�s our elders� duty to pass on our rich cultural heritage to our youths. Let our festivals be a gateway to our culture not only for the outside world, but our youngsters, too,� he beckoned.
Ninong Ering, Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs, who was the guest of honour at the celebration, also appreciated the Mishmis for coming together to celebrate Reh under one umbrella for the first time. He said the initiative would further strengthen the bond between the Mishmis who are spread across five districts of the State.
Also present on the occasion were Rajya Sabha MP Mukut Mithi, Lok Sabha MP Takam Sanjoy, Finance & PWD Minister Chowna Mein, UD Minister Rajesh Tacho, Principal Advisor to CM TN Thongdok, Advisor to CM Kalikho Pul, MLA Nang Sati Mein and others.
