Editor,

The recent public outrage across our state over the issue of illegal immigrants is not without reason. Many indigenous people feel that the government has been too lenient in dealing with ILP violators and undocumented outsiders. At the heart of this anger lies a deep fear – the fear of losing our identity, culture, land, and future as indigenous tribal communities.

In this context, the state cabinet’s decision to introduce stricter action against ILP violators and develop a QR code-based ILP system is a welcome move. The government’s initiative to hold consultative meetings with CBOs and student leaders also deserves appreciation. These are positive steps towards addressing a concern that has been building up among the people for a long time.

For a small tribal state like Arunachal Pradesh, with a limited population and very few constitutional safeguards, the ILP system remains one of the strongest protections available to indigenous communities. Strengthening this shield is therefore necessary and justified.

But while demanding stronger ILP enforcement, we must also ask ourselves an uncomfortable yet important question: Are we truly prepared for the consequences that may follow?

Much of the labour force in our state today comes from outside – from Assam, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and other neighbouring states. They work as plumbers, carpenters, electricians, masons, drivers, and construction workers. If stricter ILP rules reduce the presence of outside workers, who will fill that gap?

The reality is that many of our own youths are either unwilling or unprepared to take up such jobs. In our society, vocational and manual work is often looked down upon. Young people who choose these professions are sometimes judged as unsuccessful, even though these are essential and respectable occupations. Because of this mindset, many youths hesitate to enter skilled trades, while others simply lack proper training opportunities.

This is where the larger conversation must begin.

Protecting indigenous rights should not stop at restricting outsiders alone. It should also include preparing and empowering our own people to become self-reliant. Alongside stricter ILP enforcement, the government, educational institutions, CBOs, and NGOs must seriously invest in skill development, vocational education, and employment-oriented training for local youth.

We cannot continue depending heavily on outside labour forever. As we have seen in recent years, overdependence on external workforces can also create social and political tensions. If we truly want to safeguard the future of indigenous communities, we must build a generation that is skilled, confident, and ready to shoulder the responsibilities of the state’s workforce.

Protecting our identity is important. But preparing our youth for the future is equally important. In the end, true protection comes not only from keeping threats away, but also from strengthening ourselves from within.

Yiri Kamcham
Kamcham,
Lower Siang