Arunachal governor Dr B D Mishra inaugurated the Tawang Maitree Diwas, the 10th festival of friendship and bonhomie between the Indian Army and people of Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday.
Accompanied by First Lady Neelam Misra, the governor with appreciation witnessed the programme which a twitting mosaic of heroic activities put up by the soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces from across the country.
Speaking on the occasion, Mishra said Tawang Maitree Diwas has laid a strong foundation in building good relationship between the armed forces and the civilian population.
He paid his rich tribute to Late Dorjee Khandu, who initiated this unique programme for cementing the trust between Indian Army and local people in the frontier district.
Impressed by the cultural and martial display by the armed forces personnel and joyous cultural presentation by the school and college students, the governor complimented the Army and district administration for the magnificent show put up by them.
“Such joint efforts promote sense of security amongst the civil population and also reinforces the trust between the people and security forces,” the governor said.
He wished that the Tawang Maitree Diwas continues to be celebrated regularly for promoting friendship and cooperation in the district.
Mishra informed that till now the Maitree Diwas was been financially supported by the family members of chief minister Pema Khandu. However, from next year the festival will be organised officially by the state government.
“National and international tourists will be invited to participate in event,” he said.
The governor said that under the political leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the centre and Chief Minister Khandu in the state, the pace of development, security and progress are surging ahead.
The governor assured the people of Tawang to pursue the issue of Tawang-Lumla-Guwahati road through Bhutan with the minister concerned for the welfare of the people of Tawang.
Chief Minister Khandu and General Officer Commanding 4 Corps Lt General G S Sangha also spoke on the occasion.