GUWAHATI:
Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on December 10 advocated for developing a primer for the schools based on which the children can be taught and nourished so that they learn about the indigenous language and cultures along with the normal syllabus of school education.
Inaugurating the Karguu-Gamgww Kumko (Indigenous Prayer Hall) of the Galo community residing at Nirjuli and Naharlagun at Lekhi Village on December 10, Mein stressed the documentation of rich cultural heritage, oral folklore and folksongs and reviving traditional music system and literature.
While informing that few Indigenous Gurukul Schools are being constructed to promote and educate the children about the rich cultural heritage, he advocated for formulating a prescribed format for education in such indigenous schools.
“It is a blessed day for me to be part of the pious work of dedicating the prayer hall to the followers of Donyi-Poloism. We have to protect and promote our indigenous cultures and traditions,” Mein said.
“The Indigenous Prayer Hall is one of such projects funded by the government under the Department of Indigenous Affairs to preserve and promote our rich cultures & traditions,” Mein said.
Citing the important role played by the priests in the preservation of indigenous rituals and practices, he further assured to look into the welfare of the priests and conveyed the support of the Govt to keep the priest system alive.
Replying to a one-point memorandum submitted by the members of Karguu-Gamgww Kumko, Naharlagun-Nirjuli, he assured to sanction Rs 2 crore for the construction of Research Centre-cum-Library with provision for the accommodation of inmates and the reinforcement/completion of the existing boundary wall with a welcome gate.
Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Alo Libang, MLA Likabali, Kardo Nyigyor, Director of Indigenous Affairs, Sokeph Kri, president, Galo Indigenous Faith & Cultural Council, Dr Emi Rumi and president, Karguu-Gamgww Cultural Centre, Naharlagun-Nirjuli, Emin Rumi also graced the occasion.