Nyukmadung: The Kameng Culture and Heritage Museum, a symbol of Arunachal Pradesh’s rich cultural legacy, was officially inaugurated today by Chief Minister Pema Khandu. The museum, located in the picturesque village of Nyukmadung in Dirang, along the route to Tawang, marks a significant achievement in the Indian Army’s Operation SADBHAVANA and the Government of India’s Vibrant Village Programme.
The inauguration ceremony, attended by dignitaries such as Shri Kamlesh Paswan, Union Minister of State for Rural Development, Lieutenant General Gambhir Singh, General Officer Commanding of Gajraj Corps, Maj Gen Neeraj Shukla of the Blazing Sword Division, and Shri Phurpa Tsering, MLA, Dirang, celebrated the collaborative efforts between the Indian Army and the local community in preserving the cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh.
In his address, Chief Minister Pema Khandu highlighted the historical and cultural significance of the Kameng region, citing references from ancient texts like the Kalika Purana and Mahabharata. He praised the Indian Army for its role in not only establishing the museum but also promoting border area development through the SADBHAVANA projects. “This museum stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit of nation-building, blending tradition with modernity to inspire future generations,” he stated.
The Kameng Museum, housing 343 traditional heirlooms dating back to the Neolithic period, was made possible through the voluntary donation of land and artifacts by the people of Arunachal Pradesh. In addition to preserving the state's cultural heritage, the museum features modern amenities, including a movie hall, souvenir shop, cafeteria, children’s park, and a tourist facilitation center.
Shri Kamlesh Paswan, in his speech, emphasized the museum's role in fostering civil-military cooperation and its potential to contribute to the local economy through cultural tourism. Lieutenant General Gambhir Singh echoed these sentiments, reaffirming the Indian Army’s commitment to the socio-economic development of border regions.
The museum is expected to serve as a key educational and cultural hub, attracting scholars, researchers, and tourists from across the globe. It also stands as a beacon of peace, national integration, and the enduring pride of Arunachal Pradesh.
The inauguration concluded with cultural performances by students of Dirang Senior Secondary School and the Monpa Institute of Performing Arts, and the participation of more than 500 guests, including local villagers, government officials, and tourists. The Kameng Museum is now open to the public, poised to become a symbol of heritage, identity, and unity for both the state and the nation.