Mingkeng Osik

PASIGHAT, AUG 26:

The Giidang Angong Society (GAS) unveiled its Ethno Museum in Pasighat on Tuesday with the objective of preserving and showcasing the traditional practices, cultural heritage and tribal way of life of the Adi community.

East Siang Deputy Commissioner Sonalika Jiwani attended the inaugural programme as the chief guest, while Pasighat DFO (DCF, AG) Boken Pao was the guest of honour.

Speaking on the occasion, GAS spokesperson Tobom Dai said the museum was established to document and preserve the traditional methods, practices and cultural identity of the Adi tribe. He said GAS began informally in 2007 as a group of friends from the Bogong Balek area who came together to support one another and gradually evolved into a collective working for the welfare of people and villages in the surrounding areas.

The group undertook several community initiatives, including construction of the Balek School Gate. In 2024, it organised a social service programme at the Botanical Garden, where members also observed concerns related to weed overgrowth and drug use. The society subsequently registered itself as a non-governmental organisation in March 2024.

Appreciating the initiative, Pasighat DFO (DCF, AG) Boken Pao suggested that the information displayed inside the museum should remain clearly readable from a distance of about two metres. He also advised GAS to introduce revenue-generating activities to ensure the museum’s long-term sustainability.

Pao assured support for planting additional trees around the museum and suggested displaying their botanical and Adi names. He also proposed developing accommodation facilities for visiting guests.

DC Sonalika Jiwani applauded GAS for establishing the community-driven museum, saying it reflected a vision she had discussed with various Heads of Departments after her initial posting in the district. She said the museum had the potential to emerge as an important tourist attraction and assured administrative support for addressing existing gaps and its future development.

As an immediate measure, she announced that the district administration would undertake the flooring work of the museum.

District Art and Culture Officer Monnong Tayeng, District Tourism Officer Lina Perme, members of GAS and other guests were also present at the programme.