ITANAGAR, 16 Aug: The 80th Independence Day was celebrated with great patriotism across the state on 15 August.
In Itanagar, the state Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) celebrated Independence Day with patriotic fervour at the BJP state headquarters.
At Taksing headquarters in Upper Subansiri district, residents of the remote border region joined Indian Army personnel and government employees to celebrate the 80th Independence Day on Saturday amid social media reports and rumours of an alleged PLA incursion near Taksing and Gelemo villages.
As part of the celebrations, a Tiranga Yatra was organised early in the morning through Taksing village. Participants marched holding the Tricolour, raising patriotic slogans and expressing their solidarity with the nation and the Indian Army guarding the country's frontier.
Hoisting the National Flag, Zilla Parishad Member of the area Chatung Mra recalled the sacrifices made by freedom fighters during India's struggle for independence and urged people to contribute towards the country's progress.
He called upon residents of the border villages to extend their support and cooperation to the Indian Army and security personnel deployed in the region.
While referring to the rumours circulating on social media, he appealed to the public not to panic or spread unverified information.
He urged citizens to discharge their moral responsibilities and duties towards the nation and maintain confidence and unity, particularly in the sensitive border areas.
The Indian Army also showcased its weapons and equipment during the programme, giving local residents, particularly children and students, an opportunity to learn more about the equipment used by the troops deployed in the border region.
The celebrations also featured colourful cultural performances by villagers and students, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The 80th Independence Day was celebrated with patriotic fervour in Daporijo, with the main celebration held at the Rijo Outdoor Stadium.
The programme was attended by ZPC Jyoti Jeram Sikom, officers and officials of the district administration, heads of departments, public representatives, members of civil society, self-help groups, and citizens of Daporijo.
The I-Day programme also provided the platform for the formal launch of the Daporijo Clean Town Mission, a district-led, community-based initiative aimed at progressively building a cleaner, healthier and more responsible Daporijo.
Addressing the gathering, the ZPC said, "Independence is not only about freedom from external rule; it is also about taking responsibility for the place we call home. A clean Daporijo requires the participation of every household and every section of society."
Deputy Commissioner Tasso Gambo said, "The Daporijo Clean Town Mission is not merely a cleanliness drive. It is an effort to build a sustainable system for waste management in Daporijo. The government must build and deliver the system, but citizens and community institutions must participate responsibly."
The Upper Subansiri superintendent of police said, "A clean and orderly Daporijo requires collective responsibility and responsible civic behaviour. The police administration will extend its support to the district's efforts towards cleaner public spaces and greater civic discipline. Every citizen has a role in keeping Daporijo clean and protecting our common spaces."
The Independence Day celebration also included the Daporijo Declaration, reaffirming the shared commitment that Daporijo's homes, neighbourhoods, markets, roads, public spaces and rivers belong to everyone and must be protected through collective responsibility.
The national flag was hoisted by state BJP president Kaling Moyong at the state headquarters, in the presence of state office bearers, senior party leaders and dedicated party karyakartas.
"The celebration was a meaningful occasion to honour the spirit of freedom, patriotism and 'nation first', which continues to guide the BJP's commitment to serving the people and strengthening the nation," the party stated in a release.
On the occasion, Moyong extended warm wishes to the people of Arunachal Pradesh and all BJP karyakartas on the 80th Independence Day. He called upon everyone to celebrate the spirit of Bharat and reaffirm their collective resolve to contribute towards building a Viksit Bharat.
He emphasised that the tricolour continues to inspire every citizen to uphold the values of unity, integrity and patriotism, and urged everyone to dedicate themselves to the service of the nation.
In Nirjuli, the Institution's Innovation Council (IIC) of the North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST) organised an idea/prototype/model development & demonstration programme as part of the Independence Day celebration.
The event provided a platform for students to showcase their creativity, innovative ideas, prototypes and working models addressing diverse areas, such as engineering, sustainability, healthcare, agriculture, and emerging technologies.
A total of 15 student teams participated in the event, demonstrating their ideas and explaining their technical concepts, applications and potential societal impact before the judges.
The projects were evaluated by Arunachal Pradesh Science Centre Innovation Hub mentors Subu Tarang and Chau Nariani Thamoung.
The programme aimed to foster a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, scientific thinking and problem-solving among students while encouraging them to develop solutions for real-world challenges.
In Pasighat, Apex Professional University celebrated the Independence Day of India on Saturday with immense pride and patriotic fervour.
The national flag was hoisted at the university campus by the university's Vice-Chancellor Dr Tayek Talom, in the presence of faculty members, staff, and students.
Dr Talom paid rich tributes to the architects of modern India, while placing a special spotlight on the unsung heroes of Arunachal Pradesh. He reminded the gathering of the fierce resistance during the Anglo-Abor wars, honouring brave sons of the soil like Matmur Jamoh and Moje Riba. "The flame of liberty burned just as brightly in our dawn-lit mountains as it did in the rest of the nation," Dr Talom said.
He urged the youths and the academic community of Apex Professional University to act as custodians of ancient wisdom. "Here at Apex Professional University, your mission is to merge this rich heritage with modern education. Do not let our ancient wisdom fade. Innovate upon our indigenous knowledge systems, and take the vibrant culture of our people to the global stage," he urged the students.
The ceremony concluded with a collective pledge by the university community to build a progressive India deeply rooted in its indigenous heritage, followed by the singing of the National Anthem.
Also in Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh University (APU) celebrated Independence Day at its campus on 15 August, with Dean of Academic Affairs Prof PC Jena calling on the university community to pursue self-improvement and discipline as part of the collective push towards a Vikshit Bharat.
Teaching staff, non-teaching staff and students participated in large numbers, marking the occasion with patriotic fervour and remembrance of the freedom fighters' sacrifices.
In his address, Prof Jena said that individual growth, discipline, dedication, and a sense of responsibility remain essential to the nation's progress, urging the gathering to adopt these values in their own work.
The celebration also featured the prize distribution for a futsal match contested among teaching staff, non-teaching staff and members of the APU Students' Union, with the non-teaching staff (men), non-teaching staff (women) and APU Students' Union teams emerging winners in their respective categories.
In Siang district, the national tricolour was unfurled by Transport and Cooperation Minister Ojing Tasing at the general ground in Boleng.
Tasing extended greetings to the people on the occasion of Independence Day, and highlighted the importance of collective participation in the development of the district and the state.
The celebration also featured the inauguration of exhibition stalls by Tasing, followed by felicitation and awards recognising contributions and achievements across various fields.
The 80th Independence Day was celebrated also across Dibang Valley district with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm.
At the mini stadium in Anini, MLA Mopi Mihuhoisted the national flag, in the presence of ZPC Sadhu Mihu, DC Bekir Nyorak, and SP Pankaj Kumar.
The celebration brought together students, government officials, community members and the public, reflecting the spirit of unity, pride and patriotism that defines the nation.
Highlighting the district's ongoing development, the MLA spoke about various schemes, projects and proposals currently under implementation and consideration, aimed at strengthening infrastructure, improving public services, and ensuring the overall development of the district.
In Lower Subansiri district, Ziro-Hapoli MLA Hage Appa unfurled the national flag in Ziro, in the presence of Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme, SP, Keni Bagra, and others to mark Independence Day.
Addressing the crowd after an impressive parade display by local contingents, Appa delivered an address centred on unity, civic pride, and ongoing development across the region.
The ceremony hosted the official unveiling of Miji Migung Yarko, followed by a high-energy yoga and school band performance by the students of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Ziro.
Honouring local excellence, the administration presented the MLA Academic Excellence Award 2026, the Ziro Gaurav Puraskar Award 2026, and several commendation certificates to outstanding individuals.
Vibrant traditional cultural performances and a prize distribution programme wrapped up the festivities before the event formally concluded with the evening retreat ceremony.
The 80th Independence Day was celebrated also at all administrative headquarters of West Siang district.
In headquarters Aalo, Sports & Youth Affairs Minister Kento Jini hoisted the national flag at the Aalo outdoor stadium.
In his address, Jini urged the gathering to remember with gratitude the countless freedom fighters and national heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country's freedom.
In Kurung Kumey district, Urban Affairs Minister Balo Raja unfurled the national flag in Chambang.
He extended greetings on the occasion of Independence Day and paid tribute to the freedom fighters for their sacrifices. He highlighted the importance of unity, discipline, and collective responsibility in nation-building, and urged the youths to actively contribute towards the progress of the state and the nation.
He stressed on quality education, skill development, cleanliness, environmental conservation, and preservation of local culture and traditions, while encouraging citizens to take ownership of developmental assets and government initiatives.
The celebration featured cultural items presented by various schools of the subdivision, showcasing rich traditional dances, songs, and performances that reflected the vibrant cultural heritage of the area.
Certificates of appreciation were presented to subdivisional awardees in recognition of their commendable service and contribution to the community.
The 80th Independence Day was celebrated in Roing in Lower Dibang Valley district, with MLA Mutchu Mithi hoisting the national flag in the presence of PRI members, DC Fwwrman Brahma, SP Ringu Ngupok, dignitaries, students, and the public of the area.
Addressing the people, Mithi appreciated the sense of patriotism inherent in the public of the area, and informed the public about the development initiatives being implemented in the district.
The event saw a march past and cultural performances by schoolchildren, exhibition stalls by departments and SHGs, and felicitation of achievers and people dedicated to discharging their duties with commendation certificates.
The day was celebrated also in Dambuk, where MLA Puinnyo Apum hoisted the national flag, and in Parbuk, where the national flag was hoisted by ZPC Kabang Gamno.
Independence Day was celebrated with patriotic fervour and colourful cultural programmes at the Yachuli general ground in Keyi Panyor district on Saturday.
Yachuli MLA Toko Tatung unfurled the national flag, in the presence of ZPC Nabam Piju, Deputy Commissioner Ankita Mishra, Assistant Commissioner Dr Mumne Borang, and others.
On the occasion, the MLA launched the Keyi Panyor Mission Plan 2040, an ambitious roadmap envisioning the long-term development and transformation of the district.
The DC in her address extended greetings to the people of the district, and said that government must remain accessible to the people. She expressed deep grief over the loss of lives in the flash flood at Possa on 24 June. She paid tribute to those who lost their lives, and appreciated the courage, unity and dedication displayed by the local community, volunteers, officials and rescue teams during and after the disaster.
Tatung in his address remembered the supreme sacrifices of the freedom fighters and called upon the people to collectively envision a brighter future for the district. He said that the goal should be to make Keyi Panyor not only the best district in India but also among the best in South Asia.
He described the Keyi Panyor Mission Plan 2040 as a reflection of the dreams and aspirations of the people of the district, comprising 20 important development priorities aimed at transforming Keyi Panyor into a model district.
The celebration featured vibrant cultural performances by local cultural troupes, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and diversity of the district.
As part of the programme, academic awards were presented to meritorious students, while commendation certificates were awarded to achievers of various competitive examinations.
Workers and volunteers who rendered dedicated service during the Possa flash flood were felicitated for their contribution to relief and rescue operations.
Various sports competitions were also organised among the officers and officials of the district administration, fostering team spirit, camaraderie and a healthy work environment.
The 80th Independence Day was celebrated with enthusiasm, patriotic spirit, and strong public participation across Upper Siang district, as people came together to honour the nation's freedom struggle and its journey so far.
In Yingkiong, MLA Alo Libang unfurled the national flag. The event was joined by dignitaries, heads of departments, PRI leaders, gaon burahs, teachers, students, cultural groups, police personnel, and members of the public.
In his speech, Libang paid tribute to the freedom fighters, and encouraged everyone to stay committed to building a Viksit Bharat by 2047, as envisioned by the prime minister.
Libang, along with DC Talo Jerang also felicitated newly appointed head gaon burahs and gaon burahs, CBSE examination toppers (2025-26), best teachers, and best schools, and distributed commendation certificates.
In recognition of their work in the health sector, 42 staff members from the district hospital were felicitated. AAM SC Ramsing and AAM SC Simong were also honoured for achieving NQAS certification.
In East Siang district, the Bogong panchayat celebrated the 80th Independence Day by paying solemn tribute to three unsung heroes of the Anglo-Abor War of 1859 at the memorial pillar erected in their memory.
The programme was held to honour the supreme sacrifice of late Jorin Perme, late Seltum Yomso and late Basing Moyong, who laid down their lives in the line of duty while discharging responsibilities entrusted to them by the Romkang Village Council.
The observance was attended by Bogong Banggo Kebang president Basalung Jamoh, all GPCs, GPMs, and village presidents and secretaries, besides members of the public.
On the occasion, the gathering paid floral tributes and remembered the valour, courage and sacrifice of the three local heroes. The programme highlighted the importance of preserving the memory of those who made significant sacrifices in the course of duty and whose contributions form an important part of the local history.
Also in East Siang, Pasighat East MLA Tapi Darang called upon the people of the district to work collectively towards building a developed, peaceful and prosperous district, while highlighting the major development achievements of the district during the 80th Independence Day celebration in Pasighat on Friday.
Addressing the gathering, Darang said development is not the achievement of any individual or department but the outcome of collective efforts by the administration, elected representatives, government employees, and the people.
Highlighting key achievements, he said that 42 of the 43 Pasighat smart city projects, worth Rs 511.50 crore, have been completed, with the sewage treatment plant nearing completion. He also highlighted strengthening of educational infrastructure at Jawaharlal Nehru College and Arunachal Pradesh University, improvement of school facilities, and the functioning of four girls' residential schools, benefiting around 300 girl students.
On healthcare, he termed East Siang's achievement of zero indigenous malaria cases for four consecutive years as remarkable, crediting the dedication of doctors, nurses, ASHAs and frontline health workers.
Calling for continued collective action against drugs and crimes against children, Darang said a safe and peaceful society is the foundation of sustainable development. He stressed the need to focus on better education and healthcare, improved connectivity, employment, agriculture, tourism, transparent governance and a clean, green and drug-free East Siang.
In Papum Pare district, Deputy Commissioner Mamo Hage hoisted the National Flag on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day at the Mini Ground in Yupia.
Addressing the gathering, which included government officials, security personnel, teachers and students, the DC called upon citizens to uphold the values of the Constitution, unity and inclusiveness.
Highlighting the development journey of Papum Pare, she spoke about achievements in agriculture, healthcare, education, horticulture, fisheries and animal husbandry.
She also urged citizens, particularly the youth, to stay away from substance abuse and stressed the importance of environmental conservation, cleanliness, waste segregation and fire safety. She encouraged people to participate in the Air Gun Surrender Abhiyan and called for collective efforts to protect the district's rich biodiversity.
On the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner presented commendation certificates to officials and others in recognition of their dedicated service.
Attending the I-Day celebration at Likabali, Deputy Speaker Kardo Nyigyor appealed to the people to maintain peace, harmony and tranquillity, and uphold the spirit of patriotism so that the government can focus on development and deliver greater benefits to the people.
He highlighted the achievements of the government across various sectors over the past few years.
At Bomdila, the National Flag was hoisted by West Kameng ZPC Phurpa Droima.
Addressing the gathering, the ZPC encouraged the youth to remain focused on their studies and urged them to stay away from drugs and alcohol, emphasizing their role in nation-building.
At Yupia, Deputy Commissioner Mamo Hage hoisting the National Flag and paid rich tribute to the freedom fighters and martyrs.
Speaking on the occasion, the DC called upon citizens to uphold the values of the Constitution, unity and inclusiveness. Highlighting the development journey of Papum Pare, she spoke of achievements in agriculture, healthcare, education, horticulture, fisheries and animal husbandry. (DIPROs)
