BOLENG, Mar 18: The 5th Siang Unying Giidi Festival 2025 was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Giidi Ground, Boleng, with Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein and Education Minister P.D. Sona joining the Adi community in marking the occasion. The festival signifies the arrival of spring and the beginning of the cultivation season.
Addressing the gathering, Mein highlighted the festival’s significance in promoting nature conservation and biodiversity. He emphasized the need to uphold the ancestral commitment to sustainability by protecting natural resources and suggested that the festival be recognized as a “conservation festival.” He also encouraged the younger generation to embrace the deeper cultural and environmental significance of the celebration.
“As tribal communities, we have lived in harmony with nature since time immemorial. It is our duty to preserve this legacy for future generations,” Mein stated.
Speaking on the State Budget 2025, Mein reaffirmed that it is designed to meet the aspirations of the people, ensuring inclusivity across all sections of society, including women, youth, and marginalized communities. He stressed that the primary focus this year is on “investing in human capital” through a comprehensive overhaul of the education system.
“No stone will be left unturned for the development of education in the State,” Mein asserted, informing that ₹3,000 crore has been allocated to the education department, with provisions for additional funding if required to bring about the desired transformation.
The festival witnessed a vibrant showcase of Adi traditions, cultural performances, and community feasts, reaffirming the Adi people’s deep-rooted respect for nature and their commitment to preserving their heritage.
Mein sought blessings from Nanyi Me:té for peace, prosperity, and harmony, further praying for divine guidance toward a future of unity and well-being for all.
The Deputy Chief Minister thanked Minister for Panchayat Raj, Rural Development, Transport & Cooperation, Ojing Tasing for the invitation and applauded the organizers and the people of Boleng for their dedication to preserve their rich cultural legacy. He noted the festival’s remarkable growth over time and acknowledged the efforts of those ensuring its continuity and prosperity.
The festival showcased vibrant cultural performances, including the Mithun Fight (Hobo Molik), Mega Dance, Tapu (war dance), and traditional folk performances by DPYK Boleng, reflecting the region’s rich heritage. The dignitaries also visited the Mihum Kumhung Museum, which provided a deep insight into the history of the Adi community through its collection of artifacts, pottery, costumes, and archival photographs. They also visited indigenous stalls showcasing intricately handcrafted textiles, traditional ornaments, and delicious local delicacies.
The festival was also attended by MLA Basar, Nyabi Jini Dirchi, MLA Aalo (West), Topin Ete, MLA Rumgong, Talem Tabo, MLA Geru-Mariyang, Oni Panyang, MLA Dambuk, Punyo Apum, MLA Nari-Koyu, Tojir Kadu, MLA Pasighat, Tapi Darang and former Ministers Tamiyo Taga & Tahung Tatak, among others.
Later, Deputy Chief Minister along with Minister & Local MLA, Ojing Tasing took a review meeting and had interactions with the District Administration and HoDs of Siang District at DC Office, Boleng. He reviewed the status of various schemes implemented in the district amidst the celebration of Unying Giidi Festival.
He asked the Deputy Commissioner and the HoDs to prepare a Master Plan for the district headquarter which he said to take up the matter with the Chief Minister and discuss with Planning Department for further course of action. Deputy Commissioner, P N Thungon and SP Siang, J K Lego were also present in the meeting.
