In Arunachal Pradesh, the Adi and Apatani communities came together to sign a historic joint declaration at the Adi-Apatani Summit 2025, held at Giidii Notko, Pasighat. The summit, aimed at fostering unity and mutual respect, was graced by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Home Minister Mama Natung, Lok Sabha MP Tapir Gao, and other dignitaries. Chief Minister Khandu lauded the event as a testament to the enduring cultural ties between the Adi and Apatani communities, both tracing their ancestry to Abotani. “This summit symbolizes unity, understanding, and the preservation of Arunachal Pradesh’s diverse cultural heritage,” Khandu remarked. The declaration, jointly signed by the Adi Bane Kebang (ABK) and Tanii Supun Dukun (TSD)—the apex organizations of the Adi and Apatani communities—emphasized communal harmony, peaceful coexistence, and inter-community collaboration. Key provisions included banning traditional revenge practices, promoting inter-tribe marriages, cultural exchanges, and joint celebrations to strengthen inter-community bonds.
Drawing parallels to a similar 2015 pact between the Nyishi and Apatani communities, Khandu praised the initiative as a step towards statewide unity. “This collective leadership ensures peace and prosperity for generations to come,” he said. Home Minister Mama Natung urged other communities to follow this example, aligning with the national vision of “Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat.” He highlighted the need for collective action against societal challenges like drug abuse and the preservation of cultural values. Lok Sabha MP Tapir Gao and other leaders, including Minister for Rural Development Ojing Tasing and Ziro MLA Hage Appa, stressed the significance of youth involvement in sustaining this legacy of harmony. Gao expressed confidence that the resolutions adopted at the summit would have a lasting impact on grassroots development.
The event also witnessed symbolic gestures of unity, including the hoisting of ABK and TSD flags, cultural performances, and a unity dance. A community lunch further reinforced the spirit of brotherhood. ABK President Tadum Libang and TSD President H.K. Shalla, along with other leaders, signed the declaration, committing to mutual respect, collaboration, and peaceful coexistence. Chief Minister Khandu summarized the essence of the summit, stating, “This declaration is more than a document; it embodies the values of love, respect, and trust that define the Adi and Apatani cultures, setting an example for all of Arunachal Pradesh.”
