Nyukmadung, Arunachal Pradesh – In a move aimed at asserting India's sovereignty over Arunachal Pradesh, the Indian Army will inaugurate the Kameng Culture and Heritage Museum in Nyukmadung, West Kameng district, on October 23rd. This initiative seeks to highlight the state's historical and cultural ties to India, directly countering China's persistent territorial claims.
The museum, established as part of Operation Sadbhavana and the Vibrant Village scheme, houses 343 artifacts showcasing Arunachal Pradesh's rich cultural heritage and its connections to the broader Indian civilization. An Army official emphasized the state's deep-rooted links to India, citing mentions in ancient texts like the Kalika Purana and the Mahabharata, along with numerous archaeological sites that affirm its long-standing history within India.
This move comes in the wake of repeated assertions by China that Arunachal Pradesh, which it refers to as "South Tibet," is rightfully part of Chinese territory. Earlier this year, Chinese officials reiterated their claim that India "illegally occupied" the region in 1987, dismissing India's stance as "ludicrous."
The inauguration of the museum is a strategic step by India to reinforce its claim over Arunachal Pradesh. By showcasing the state's cultural heritage and historical connections to India, the museum aims to solidify the region's identity as an integral part of the country.
The museum will be inaugurated by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Lt Gen Gambhir Singh, General Officer Commanding, 4 Corps at Tezpur. It is expected to attract visitors from around the world, promoting a deeper understanding of Arunachal Pradesh's unique cultural heritage within the context of India.
This is not the first time that tensions have flared between India and China over Arunachal Pradesh. In the past, China has issued stapled visas to residents of Arunachal Pradesh, drawn criticism for assigning Chinese names to places within the state, and objected to the Dalai Lama's visits to the Tawang monastery. The establishment of this museum represents a further step by India to assert its sovereignty over the region and counter China's claims.
