Archery an integral part of tribal traditions: Simai
TAWANG, 10 Oct: The 5th State-level Archery Championship 2026 began at the GTG High Altitude Sports Stadium here on Saturday.
A total of 13 teams, comprising 100 archers from various districts and Khelo India Centres across the state are participating in the 5-day event. Winners in different categories will represent the state at the national level.
Inaugurating the championships, MLA Laisam Simai said that archery has been an inseparable part of tribal traditions, historically practiced for hunting and other traditional purposes, and is now earning recognition as a professional sporting discipline.
He said that the youths of the state have immense potential to bring laurels to the state and the country in archery if they are provided with the right platform, systematic training and sustained encouragement. Simai said also that Arunachal Pradesh has achieved remarkable progress in the field of games and sports under the leadership of Chief Minister Pema Khandu.
The MLA praised the Indian Army for its continued support and for maintaining cordial relations with local communities through various youth engagement initiatives. He encouraged the participating archers to remain focused, disciplined and committed to their goals, and wished for their success in the championship and upcoming competitions.
On the occasion, Simai unveiled the logo for the upcoming Tawang Music Festival, scheduled to commence on 29 October.
General Officer Commanding of the Indian Army's 5 Mountain Division, Maj Gen` Amit Nautiyal, highlighted the strategic, cultural and national significance of Tawang, stating that the district is not merely a beautiful tourist destination but also a symbol of India's frontier strength, rich cultural heritage, valour and national pride. He noted that "Tawang reflects the dedication of the Indian Army in safeguarding the nation's borders and the commitment of its people towards nation-building."
He lauded Arunachal for establishing a distinct identity in archery, with its talented athletes bringing laurels to the state and the country through commendable performances at national and international competitions.
Maj Gen Nautiyal further underscored the importance of military-civil fusion, describing it as a strong foundation of Tawang's frontier identity and a catalyst for regional development. He observed that when the Indian Army, civil administration, sports organisations, coaches, parents and young people work together, their collective efforts foster mutual trust, cooperation, stronger social bonds and national unity.
Highlighting the broader significance of military-civil cooperation in a strategically important border district like Tawang, he stated that, while the Army safeguards the nation's borders, civil society contributes to nation-building through education, sports, community development and youth empowerment.
"Such collaborative efforts can transform border regions into vibrant centres of development, talent and opportunity," he said.
Earlier, Tawang District Archery Association president Tashi Tserin said that the state government has agreed to include the state-level archery championship in its annual sports calendar, "which will help promote archery in a systematic manner in the state."
Tawang Deputy Commissioner (i/c) Rinchin Leta, Tawang Brigade's Deputy Commander Col AK Singh, ZPMs Tenzin Monpa and Pema Tsering, Tawang SP Tasi Darang, DoKAA Vice Chairperson Sange Chodup, and sports enthusiasts attended the inaugural ceremony. (DIPRO)
