Conference on ‘Transformation of Tribal Lives through Science and Technological Interventions – Preserving Language, Faith and Culture’ and conferred with Brahmaputra Gaurav Samman at New Delhi.
New Delhi : The Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Chowna Mein, attended the Conference on ‘Transformation of Tribal Lives through Science and Technological Interventions – Preserving Language, Faith and Culture’, held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi organized by the Department of Science & Technology, Govt of India on the occasion of Silver Jubilee Celebration of ITITI, Doon Sanskriti School, Dehradun.
The conference was graced by the august presence of the Vice President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, and the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, along with other distinguished dignitaries, policymakers, and thought leaders from across the country.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Chief Minister emphasized that Arunachal Pradesh stands as a unique example where development and tradition coexist in harmony. He highlighted that the State’s rich tribal heritage, diverse languages, and deep-rooted spiritual values are not obstacles to progress, but guiding forces for sustainable and inclusive development.
“Transformation must not mean erasure. It must mean empowerment with identity intact,” he stated, underscoring that science and technology should act as enablers to strengthen cultural foundations rather than replace them.
Mein elaborated on how technological interventions are already improving lives in remote regions of Arunachal Pradesh. Initiatives such as telemedicine are bridging healthcare gaps, solar energy is powering off-grid villages, and digital education platforms are expanding learning opportunities for children in far-flung areas.
At the same time, he stressed the importance of preserving indigenous languages, oral traditions, and cultural practices. He noted that technology can play a vital role in documenting folk traditions, digitizing ancient manuscripts, and promoting local crafts to global markets, thereby ensuring both cultural preservation and economic empowerment.
Highlighting the significance of linguistic diversity, the Deputy Chief Minister spoke about ongoing efforts to develop digital tools, including UNICODE integration for tribal scripts, to ensure that indigenous languages remain relevant in the digital age.
He also acknowledged the Government of India’s initiatives such as the Gyan Bharatam Mission, which aims to preserve and promote India’s vast manuscript heritage, including traditional knowledge systems from tribal communities.
“True progress is not measured by the speed of change, but by the strength of our connection to our roots,” he remarked.
On the occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister was also honoured with the prestigious Brahmaputra Gaurav Samman during the Silver Jubilee celebrations of ITITI, Doon Sanskriti School, Dehradun, held at Bharat Mandapam. He received the award along with his wife and former MLA, Namsai Nang Sati Mein from the august hands of the Vice President of India. The award has been given to them in recognition of their sterling service to the North East people’s culture.
Expressing gratitude, Chowna Mein dedicated the award to the people of Arunachal Pradesh, stating that the recognition reflects the resilience, cultural richness, and enduring spirit of the State’s tribal communities.
Reaffirming the Government’s commitment, he stated that Arunachal Pradesh will continue to pursue a development path where modernization strengthens cultural identity, empowers local communities, and preserves the State’s unique heritage for future generations.
