ITANAGAR, 8 Sep: Vice President of India, CP Radhakrishnan, arrived in Itanagar on Tuesday on a two-day visit to Arunachal Pradesh.

Governor KT Parnaik, Chief Minister Pema Khandu, and Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, among others, received him at the Donyi Polo Airport, Hollongi. On his arrival, the vice president was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour by the Arunachal Pradesh Police.

The vice president was later accorded a traditional reception at the Lok Bhavan, where members of various indigenous communities of Arunachal, dressed in their vibrant traditional attires, welcomed him. The reception reflected the spirit of Arunachal, renowned for its rich mosaic of tribes, traditions, languages, and customs.

Welcoming the distinguished guest to the state, the governor expressed confidence that the vice president's visit would serve as a source of inspiration for the people of the state. He said that the vice president's engagement with the people of Arunachal and his encouragement towards the state's developmental aspirations would further strengthen the confidence and enthusiasm of its citizens, particularly the younger generation.

A specially curated cultural presentation titled 'The Land of Cultures and Traditions' was organised at the Durbar Hall of the Lok Bhavan in honour of the vice president. The programme celebrated India's cultural unity and Arunachal's vibrant heritage through music and dance. Students of Rajiv Gandhi University's fine arts and music department presented two compositions rooted in the rich tradition of Hindustani classical music, symbolising the harmonious blend of India's diverse cultural expressions.

The musical presentation was followed by captivating performances of the classical dance forms Bharatanatyam and Kathak by students of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya and Jomu Norbu Khrimey Public School, Itanagar. Showcasing the indigenous cultural heritage of Arunachal, artists presented Rikam Pada, one of the most cherished traditional dances of the state.

Adding patriotic fervour to the evening, art and culture department's staff artist Mibi Nyodu Taring rendered a patriotic song that resonated with the spirit of national unity, pride, and devotion to the nation.

Later in the evening, the governor hosted a state banquet in honour of the vice president at the Siddhartha Hall of the Lok Bhavan. The state Cabinet and members of Parliament, and other distinguished guests attended the banquet. The occasion provided an opportunity for interaction and exchange of views on the progress, development, and future aspirations of Arunachal. (Lok Bhavan)