NAMSAI : Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Saturday felicitated meritorious Class X and XII students at a programme organised by the All Tai Ahom Students’ Union (ATASU), Namsai District Committee, and called upon the younger generation to pursue educational excellence while preserving their rich cultural heritage.
The felicitation programme, held at the Multipurpose Cultural Hall in Namsai under the theme “Honouring Excellence, Preserving Heritage, Inspiring Future Generations”, recognised outstanding academic achievers and special performers from the 2025–26 academic session.
Congratulating the students for their achievements, Mein lauded their hard work, dedication and perseverance. Reflecting on his own student days, he noted that opportunities for higher education in Arunachal Pradesh were once limited, with Jawaharlal Nehru College (JNC), Pasighat being the state’s only college, forcing many students to pursue higher studies outside the state amid significant communication and connectivity challenges.
He said the educational landscape has transformed considerably over the years with improved infrastructure, greater access to institutions and expanded opportunities for higher learning.
Urging students to make the most of these opportunities, Mein encouraged them to remain focused on their goals and pursue higher education with determination and commitment.
In a significant announcement, the Deputy Chief Minister said that five students from the Tai Ahom community would be sponsored for free coaching at the UPSC coaching centre in Namsai run by the Tai Khamti Students Union.
Highlighting the importance of cultural preservation, Mein spoke about the shared heritage of the six Tai communities of Northeast India — Tai Ahom, Tai Khamti, Tai Phake, Tai Aiton, Tai Khamyang and Tai Turung. He said that despite differences in language, customs and traditions, these communities are bound by common historical roots and a shared civilisational legacy.
Expressing concern over the gradual disappearance of traditional vocabulary, customs and practices, Mein called for collective efforts to preserve indigenous languages and cultural identity while strengthening unity among the Tai communities. He stressed that safeguarding cultural heritage is essential for ensuring future generations remain connected to their roots.
Addressing the gathering, Namsai MLA and Advisor to the Ministers of Rural Works Department and Sports & Youth Affairs Chau Zingnu Namchoom urged students to remain disciplined, focused and committed to continuous learning. He observed that academic scores alone do not determine success and that perseverance, dedication and clarity of purpose are equally important in overcoming challenges and achieving one’s aspirations.
Emphasising the transformative power of education, Namchoom encouraged students to acquire knowledge and skills that would enable them to contribute meaningfully to society. He also advised the youth to stay away from drugs and other social evils, uphold moral values and remain connected to their cultural heritage and identity.
Namchoom commended the ATASU Namsai District Committee for organising the felicitation programme and motivating young students to strive for excellence.
The event was attended by members of the All Tai Singpho Council, Tai Khamti Development Society, Tai Khamti Students’ Union, All Namsai Youth Association, ATASU office-bearers, community leaders, teachers, parents and students.
