Maksam Tayeng

PASIGHAT, OCT 15:

The Ringgong Banggo Society (RBS), Mebo Block, celebrated its third foundation day at Namsing village under Mebo subdivision of East Siang district on Thursday, announcing the return of the Pertin (Jomut-Mutling) group to its ancestral Dameng clan identity.

Gaon burahs, public representatives and community members attended the programme. Anjaw District Fisheries Development Officer Olik Jomang Libang was the chief guest, while Arunachal Pradesh Rural Bank (APRB) Mebo Branch Manager Mum Pertin Langkam attended as guest of honour. Namsing Circle Officer Toimi Tagi represented the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mebo.

The celebration was held under the supervision of RBS apex president Baling Gamnoh, Mebo Block president Orik Osik and general secretary Anthony Gamnoh.

Addressing the gathering, Libang emphasised community cohesion and collective development, urging members of the constituent clans to work together for a prosperous future. Gamnoh thanked members and stakeholders for their support and called for greater participation in community-building initiatives and mutual assistance.

Welcoming the group’s return to the Dameng clan identity, RBS office-bearers and senior members recounted its ancestral history. According to their account, a young Dameng boy left Milang village in the Mariyang region of present-day Upper Siang district centuries ago after accidentally killing his mother with an arrow while testing his bow and arrow for Kiruk—a community hunting drive to chase away or kill wild boars that damaged crops.

The boy was later found hunting near Moyang Kulek river, locally known as Sitong, along the Yamne river near Damroh village. He was subsequently adopted by a man from the Pertin clan named Mutling, giving rise to the Pertin (Jomut-Mutling) group, the society members said.

RBS office-bearers confirmed that the official procedures for the change in clan identity had been completed.

The foundation day celebration highlighted the society’s commitment to unity, progress and fraternity. The programme concluded with traditional music and dance performances showcasing the cultural heritage of the Ringgong Banggo clans.