HT Correspondent
RAMSING, Aug 5: A momentous chapter in the educational journey of Upper Siang unfolded recently with the formal commencement of academic classes along with hostel facilities at Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya (VKV), Ramsing (Pittung).
The inaugural ceremony was marked by traditional rituals, community participation, and spirited addresses from dignitaries and public representatives, all celebrating the operationalisation of VKV Ramsing after years of anticipation.
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The event was graced by Hanumantha Rao Ji, All India Vice President of Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari, as the chief guest, and Sujatha Nayak Ji, secretary of the VKV Arunachal Pradesh Trust, Dibrugarh, as the guest of honour.
The ceremony commenced with a traditional Bhumi Pujan performed by the Donyi Polo Yelam Kebang team, led by priest Takong Mingki.
This was followed by a tree plantation drive within the school campus, organised by the Department of Forest and Environment, Yingkiong, symbolising the ideals of growth, sustainability, and harmony with nature.
Addressing the gathering, Hanumantha Rao highlighted the historical association of VKVs with Arunachal Pradesh, tracing it back to the establishment of the first VKV in 1977.
He emphasised that VKVs have evolved not only as centres of academic excellence but as institutions that nurture cultural values, patriotism, and holistic character among students.
Lauding the collective efforts that led to the realisation of VKV Ramsing, he specifically acknowledged the role of the Deputy Commissioner and community leaders, stating that studying in a VKV is indeed a matter of pride and honour.
Guest of honour Sujatha Didi described VKV Ramsing as the 45th VKV in the state and said its inauguration marks a new chapter for education in Upper Siang.
She underlined the indispensable role of dedicated teachers in shaping future citizens and stressed the need for value-based, holistic education.
MLA and advisor to the chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Alo Libang, described the day as “historic and a dream come true” for the residents of Ramsing and the entire Upper Siang district.
Recalling the early challenges of establishing a VKV in the area, he expressed deep gratitude to all stakeholders, including the land donors from Rotgo Banggo and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) contractors, for their support in making the long-cherished dream a reality.
Deputy Commissioner Talo Jerang provided an account of the steps taken to make the school functional.
He noted that although the school infrastructure had been completed in 2017, it had remained unused for years.
It was only in the last two months, through a concerted effort by the District Administration, community leaders, Heads of Departments, and local well-wishers, that the school was finally readied for operation.
He expressed joy over the collective achievement and shared that boys from Classes III to V have already begun classes at Ramsing.
He added that the remaining classes, from VI to X, will be shifted from the temporary campus at Yingkiong to Ramsing by October or November, while Classes Nursery to II will continue at Yingkiong for now.
He also acknowledged the generous contributions of the community, noting that 571 individuals came forward to support the school, enabling the procurement of over 200 pieces of furniture from locally raised funds.
He further directed the DDSE to conduct monthly inspections and ensure continuous logistical support to the new institution.
Zilla Parishad Chairperson Lumgeng Litin also addressed the gathering and congratulated the entire team involved in the successful operationalisation of VKV Ramsing.
He stressed the vital role of community engagement in transforming education in remote regions and expressed hope that the school would become a centre of academic excellence for future generations.
Dr R Karkare, principal of VKV Ramsing, expressed gratitude to the district administration and pledged to make the school one of the best-performing VKVs in the state.
Lobo Apang, a retired teacher and member of the school committee, spoke about the background and vision behind establishing VKV Ramsing and its relevance to the community.
Earlier in the programme, organising committee chairman Dungge Apang welcomed the dignitaries and attendees.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Shri Kabir Apang, retired APCS officer, who called the event a milestone for education in Upper Siang.
He extended heartfelt thanks to MLA Alo Libang, Deputy Commissioner Talo Jerang, and all individuals and organisations whose support helped bring the school to life.
The grand ceremony witnessed the presence of all Heads of Departments, PRI members, Gaon Burahs, local leaders, officials from the BRO, VKV staff, and members of various Self Help Groups (SHGs), underscoring the strong community ownership of the initiative.
Located amidst scenic natural surroundings near the Siang River, VKV Ramsing is spread across an 8-acre campus and is well-connected by road.
With its serene setting and robust infrastructure, the school promises to provide an environment conducive to learning, growth, and value-based education for generations to come.
