HT Correspondent
DAPORIJO, Sept 19: The golden jubilee celebration of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly (APLA) reached another milestone recently with the successful conduct of the sixth edition of the APLA@50 Outreach Connect Programme at the Government Model Degree College, Daporijo.
Organised in collaboration with Rajiv Gandhi University’s Centre for Distance and Online Education (the nodal institute), the initiative reaffirmed the Assembly’s vision of nurturing youth as active participants in the democratic journey of the state.
The day-long event drew an enthusiastic response from students, faculty, panchayat members, invited dignitaries and resource persons, reflecting the growing impact of the outreach programme across Arunachal Pradesh.
Related Posts:
The gathering resonated with the spirit of celebration, awareness and civic engagement that underpins the Assembly’s golden jubilee theme: Celebrating Democracy and Inspiring Future Leaders.
The programme opened with a spirited debate competition on the theme “Integrating Customary Law into the Formal Legal System of Arunachal Pradesh.”
Participants displayed clarity, confidence and logical reasoning, engaging with the complexities of governance and cultural preservation.
Their performance was widely appreciated for reflecting both preparation and passion, and left the audience inspired by the commitment of young minds to civic discourse.
The formal proceedings began with the rendition of the National Anthem, followed by a welcome address from Principal Dr Tagio Kodak.
He underlined the importance of the Assembly’s 50-year journey and the responsibility of today’s students to embrace democratic values, leadership and public service.
“Platforms like these allow our youth to not only learn about governance but also develop the confidence to contribute meaningfully in the future,” he remarked.
Felicitations of distinguished guests followed, symbolising mutual respect between the organisers and contributors. Dr Nyajum Lollen, Assistant Professor at RGU’s Centre for Distance and Online Education, then addressed the gathering.
He explained that the APLA@50 Outreach Connect Programme was more than a commemoration of the Assembly’s golden jubilee—it was an effort to sensitise students about their role as responsible citizens. “This initiative bridges the Assembly with classrooms, ensuring our youth see themselves as the future architects of Arunachal Pradesh,” he said.
The keynote address delivered by Prof Ashan Riddi of RGU’s History Department proved to be the highlight of the day.
Tracing the trajectory of APLA over the last five decades, Prof Riddi spoke about the Assembly’s legislative excellence, evolving responsibilities and its role in shaping Arunachal Pradesh’s identity within the Indian Union.
He urged students to carry forward the democratic legacy of the state while remaining rooted in cultural traditions.
“Preserve your heritage, but engage fearlessly with the challenges of modern governance. This balance will define the future of our democracy,” he said, calling upon students to view themselves as agents of change.
Winners of the debate competition were felicitated with prizes, receiving encouragement to continue honing their skills in reasoning, articulation and public speaking.
The recognition not only celebrated individual achievements but also symbolised the Assembly’s intent to nurture young talent.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by APLA Librarian Dedu Poyom, who expressed gratitude to the organisers, faculty, participants and dignitaries for making the programme a success. The closing moments, marked by light refreshments, provided an opportunity for students and guests to interact informally, fostering camaraderie and dialogue beyond the stage.
With each edition, the APLA@50 Outreach Connect Programme has strengthened its impact across Arunachal Pradesh’s higher education institutions.
It continues to serve as a bridge between the Assembly and the state’s youth, inspiring students to see democracy not as a distant institution but as a living process they can actively shape.
The next edition will be held at Government Model College, Basar, on September 19, further extending the programme’s reach to another section of the state’s young citizens.
