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The Miao Times, Miao (2026)

11/01/2026

Cabinet approves strengthening healthcare delivery system: approves recruitment rules for Pakke, Namdapha, and Kamlang tiger reserves

TMT | ITANAGAR | 11 Jan 2026: The state Cabinet in its first meeting of 2026 held on Thursday under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Pema Khandu approved a series of important policy decisions aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery, public safety, education, urban governance, environmental conservation, and employment generation in the state.

The council of ministers in the Cabinet meeting approved HLL Lifecare Ltd, a Government of India enterprise under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, to create diagnostic infrastructure (laboratories) in the 256 sub-centres, 82 primary health centres (PHCs), 25 community health centres (CHCs) and 64 block public health units. The creation of diagnostic infrastructure has been done under the mandate of 15th Finance Commission health grants.

In addition, as part of creation of diagnostic infrastructure, HLL Lifecare Ltd has also been approved to implement laboratory management information system (LMIS) in all the health facilities of the state, including the medical college, general and district hospitals, CHCs, PHCs and sub-centres in the state. LMIS is a step forward to improve the functioning of laboratory services by digitalisation of supply chain, logistics, inventory data and other such important processes that improves the quality of laboratory services.

Till date, through the HLL Lifecare Ltd, tele-radiology of CT scan services in Aalo, Bomdila, Khonsa, Namsai Tawang, Tezu, Yingkiong and Ziro have benefitted nearly 12,000 patients. To further improve the diagnostic radiology services in the state, HLL Lifecare Ltd has been approved to provide atomic energy regulatory board certification for all general and district hospitals and CHCs.

The creation of diagnostic infrastructures is an effort of the government towards providing accessible, affordable quality diagnostic services nearer to the community.

This will not only result in reducing out-of-pocket expenditure but will also enable evidence-based patient management, resulting in better patient care.

The Cabinet also approved the procurement of 40 mobile medical units (MMUs) under the Vibrant Villages Programme (funded by the MHA) through HLL Lifecare Ltd, with operational support to be funded under the National Health Mission.

The MMUs will strengthen healthcare delivery in 455 vibrant villages across 11 border districts, namely Anjaw, Dibang Valley, East Kameng, Kra Daadi, Kurung Kumey, Lower Dibang Valley, Shi-Yomi, Tawang, Upper Siang, Upper Subansiri, and West Kameng.

It will enhance healthcare accessibility by delivering essential healthcare services to remote villages lacking health infrastructure, and bridge the healthcare gap between rural and urban areas through mobile health units. It will also serve and provide access to quality primary healthcare services in remote, hard-to-reach, and border areas.

The initiative is expected to significantly improve health indicators, reduce out-of-pocket expenditure, and enhance the overall quality of life of the people residing in border villages, while reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusive development and strengthened service delivery in frontier areas.

Considering the increasing incidence of fire accidents and disaster response requirements, the Cabinet approved the proposal for enactment of the Arunachal Pradesh Fire and Emergency Services Bill, 2025, replacing the existing 1991 Act. The new legislation strengthens the legal and operational framework of the department in line with modern requirements. The bill will go to the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly for passage to become an Act.

The Cabinet also approved special grade promotions for fire & emergency services personnel on completion of 15, 20, and 30 years of service, as a measure to address career stagnation and recognise long years of service. A total of 142 personnel will benefit from this Cabinet decision.

The Cabinet further approved creation of 91 posts for seven sub-jails in Longding, Khonsa, Changlang, Pasighat, Yingkiong, Aalo and Koloriang to enhance effective prison management.

Meanwhile, in a major decision to strengthen human resource in the education department, the Cabinet approved creation of 58 posts. The Cabinet approved the creation of 14 posts of administrative, non-teaching, and teaching posts and 32 assistant professor posts for the Government Model Degree College in Piyong in Namsai district and the Government Model Degree College in Kanubari in Longding district.

Further, 12 posts of assistant professors have been approved for introduction of sociology, commerce, and mass communication courses in select government colleges across the state, aimed at expanding access to higher education and generating employment opportunities for the youths.

The Cabinet also accorded approval for the creation of a directorate of urban local bodies under the Department of Urban Affairs, in alignment with the 74th constitutional amendment, to strengthen urban local governance. A separate directorate would facilitate better coordination between various stakeholders, including local bodies, state government departments and central government agencies, ensuring a more cohesive approach to urban development.

Further, to address acute cadre stagnation, the Cabinet approved a one-time relaxation of residency requirements under the Arunachal Pradesh Forest Service (APFS) Rules, 2019, enabling immediate promotions against existing vacancies without any additional financial burden. A total of 48 APFS officers will get direct benefit and 60 frontline forest officers will get indirect promotional benefits from this decision.

The Cabinet also approved the recruitment rules for the Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) for Pakke, Namdapha, and Kamlang tiger reserves, with a direction to insert “the cut-off date for the departmental absorption, which should be the date of creation of the STPF posts, ie, 6.03.2024, in the recruitment rule.”

This will significantly strengthen wildlife protection and anti-poaching measures under the Project Tiger framework. This decision will ensure recruitment to 324 posts of special tiger guards under the Special Tiger Protection Force,thereby providing employment opportunities to youths.

The Cabinet reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to good governance, public service delivery, employment generation, environmental protection, and inclusive development for the people of Arunachal. (CM’s PR Cell)

10/01/2026

29th National Youth Festival kicks off; Singpho troupe presents beautiful folk dance

TMT | NEW DELHI | 10 Jan 2026: Representing Arunachal Pradesh, the Singpho youths of Changlang district presented a beautiful folk dance at the ongoing 29th National Youth Festival, 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi on Friday night. Organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, this national level youth festival provides a common platform to the youths of all states and union territories of India to showcase their cultural traditions through presentation of folk dances and songs.

In a social media post, the Department of Youth Affairs said, "Captivating the heart of the national capital, the Singpho Tribe team from Changlang District, Arunachal Pradesh, just took the stage at the 29th National Youth Festival 2026. From the hills of the Northeast to the iconic Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, their performance was a breathtaking display of heritage, rhythm, and vibrant culture. Organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, this festival (VBYLD) is a true testament to India’s youthful spirit. We are so proud to see our roots shine on the national stage"., the post added.

The Tai Khamti Singpho Council [TKSC], the Singpho Development Society [SDS], and the Singpho Women Organization, India [SWOI], among others have congratulated the Singpho dance troupe for successfully representing the state in the national stage and winning the hearts of many.

09/01/2026

Pin-tailed Parrotfinch recorded in Arunachal for the first time

TMT | DEBAN | 09 Jan 2026: Arunachal Pradesh’s rich avian diversity received a remarkable addition with the first-ever sighting of the Pin-tailed Parrotfinch [ Erythrura prasina ] in the state. The rare bird was observed on the morning of January 6 inside the Namdapha National Park & Tiger Reserve, marking not only a new state record but possibly only the second record of this species in India.

The sighting was made by a team of birders comprising Binanda Hatibaruah [ Bird Guide ], Lt Gen Bhupesh Goyal, Mistu Basu and Vinod Gupta, who had returned from a birding expedition to the Gandhigram - Vijaynagar area.

At 62 Mile along the Miao - Vijaynagar [MV] road, the team encountered a flock of White - rumped Munias feeding on bamboo flowers, an ordinary sight in the region. However, Lt Gen Bhupesh Goyal noticed a couple of unusual birds within the flock, distinguished by their orangish-red bellies.

Recognising the significance of the sighting, team leader Binanda Hatibaruah urged his colleagues to photograph the birds for proper identification. On closer examination, he confirmed that the “unusual” birds were indeed Pin-tailed Parrotfinches, a species never before recorded in Arunachal Pradesh. The flock consisted of two males and two females, all actively feeding on bamboo flowers alongside the munias. The birds remained on the flowering branch for nearly 30 minutes before disappearing under the cover of dense forests.

The Pin-tailed Parrotfinch is primarily found in several Southeast Asian countries, including Borneo, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia and Thailand, with sightings extending westwards into Myanmar.

In April 2025, the first photographic record of this species in India was documented at Reiek in Mizoram, where it was also observed feeding on bamboo flowers along with munias, an identical feeding behaviour to the current sighting in Namdapha.

Often referred to as a “ghost bird” by eBird, the Pin-tailed Parrotfinch is known for its sudden and sporadic appearances. It emerges in large flocks during bamboo flowering or paddy harvests, feeds intensively, and then disappears, sometimes for longer period, only to reappear when conditions become favourable again.

The male of the species is striking in appearance, with leaf-green plumage, a blue face and a reddish belly. Its long, pointed tail gives it an overall length of about 15 cm. The female, in contrast, has duller colouring with a faded blue face, pale green upperparts, and no red on the belly. With a shorter tail, the female measures around 12 cm.

With birdwatching gaining popularity both as a hobby and a profession, increasing numbers of observers are contributing to new discoveries. This has led to the steady addition of species to India’s avifaunal records.

“We are hopeful that there will be more sightings of this bird in India in the future, especially in states bordering Myanmar. Birders should keep a watch whenever bamboo is in flower, the Pin-tailed Parrotfinch seems to have a special affinity for it,” said Lt Gen Bhupesh Goyal.

09/01/2026

2 arrested for bribe collection in Lada-Sarli land compensation scam

TMT | ITANAGAR | 9 Jan 2026: In a major development on Thursday, the Anti-Corruption Bureau [ACB] arrested Rajo Gyadi, a former ZPM and known entrepreneur, and one Yayo Yangfo for allegedly acting as brokers in facilitating bribe collection in the Lada-Sarli land compensation scam.

With this, the ACB has arrested four persons so far in connection with the multi - crore compensation scam.

The ACB in a release claimed that Rajo Gyadi was in connivance with former district land revenue and settlement officer Takam Kechak and got the enhanced compensation awarded fraudulently for some private persons. Along with one more absconding accused, they collected a total of Rs 19.51 crore from the beneficiaries.

“Out of the total Rs 19.51 crore collected, Gyadi collected Rs 1.96 crore through post - dated cheques in his own bank accounts and related firms,” the ACB informed.

It further divulged that the other accused, Yayo Yangfo, in connivance with one more accused, collected Rs 1.77 crore through post - dated cheques. This amount of Rs 1.77 crore is included in the above figure of Rs 19.51 crore. The ACB claimed that Yangfo was instrumental in routing the above bribe money through the use of post-dated cheques from the accounts of beneficiaries.

The ACB further added that one Khya Bagang has also been arrested because of his role in the syndicate, leading to the discovery of the above facts. It is alleged that Rs 1.60 crore in total had gone from Bagang’s account to Gyadi’s personal and firm accounts.

The ACB reiterated that the investigation is continuing based on the evidence collected and adduced.

The strict action by the ACB against corruption underscores the government’s firm commitment to curbing corruption. The Bureau urged citizens to report to the ACB if anyone approaches them with demand for bribes.

06/01/2026

Singpho and Puroik troupes depart for New Delhi to compete in National Youth Festival

TMT | ITANAGAR | 07 Jan 2026: Carrying the vibrant cultural soul of Arunachal Pradesh to the national stage, the Singpho folk dance troupe from Changlang district and the Puroik folk song troupe from Bichom district were ceremonially flagged off by Governor Lt. General (Retd) K.T. Parnaik at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar on Tuesday, as they prepare to participate in the prestigious 29th National Youth Festival 2026, scheduled to be held in New Delhi from 10 to 12 January.

The Governor extended his warm blessings to the young cultural ambassadors, expressing confidence that the contingent would perform with excellence and dignity, thereby making Arunachal Pradesh proud on a national platform. The teams departed for New Delhi on Tuesday midnight, accompanied by officials from the Department of Youth and Cultural Affairs, Government of Arunachal Pradesh.

While wishing the participants the very best, Governor Parnaik urged the escorting officials to ensure that the contingent faces no hardship during their journey or stay in the national capital. He expressed firm belief that the young performers would rise to the occasion, perform with dedication and grace, and showcase the cultural brilliance of Arunachal Pradesh before the entire nation.

Apart from the Singpho and Puroik troupes, two talented youths - Tajo Mihu and Tando Mili are also part of the 43 - member state contingent. They will compete in the categories of painting and poetry respectively, while other participants will represent the state in PPT events, reflecting the rich creative diversity of Arunachal’s youth.

The Singpho folk dance troupe comprises Shri Pisi Zausan Singpho, Ongbu Singpho, Fanong Singpho, Rajib Mirip, Nyangong Singpho, Miss Panlong Singpho, Sanlee Ligum Singpho, Api Singpho, Thuing Singpho and Inphi Roitong Singpho.

With their colourful attire, rhythmic movements and deeply rooted cultural expressions, the troupe embodies the living heritage of the Singpho community. The Puroik folk song troupe, known for its soulful melodies and powerful storytelling, represents the timeless traditions of one of the state’s most distinctive indigenous communities.

The National Youth Festival is a celebration of India’s youthful energy and cultural plurality, where teams from all states and Union Territories converge to compete in art, literature, music, dance and innovation. The National Youth Festival serves not only as a competitive platform but also as a confluence of traditions, ideas and aspirations, fostering unity through diversity. For the participants from Arunachal Pradesh, this festival represents a proud opportunity to present their heritage before a national audience and to stand shoulder to shoulder with the best talents from across the country.

Notably, both the Singpho folk dance troupe and the Puroik folk song troupe recently emerged as first prize winners at the State Youth Festival held in Itanagar, earning them the honour of representing their districts at the national level.

As the contingent embarks on this meaningful journey, they carry with them the hopes of their communities and the cultural legacy of the state. Their participation at the National Youth Festival is not merely a competition but a celebration of identity, tradition and youthful promise, echoing Arunachal Pradesh’s vibrant voice across the nation.

05/01/2026

MISPLACED

While travelling between Dharmapur and Miao today, Shri Jagadish Chakma misplaced his traveller’s bag (Blue & Black in colour) containing the following items:
1. One power bank
2. One charger
3. Identity card
4. One T-shirt
5. One pant
6. One thermo flask
7. One milk bottle

Anyone who finds the bag is kindly requested to contact:
📞 7629946787

The finder is requested to please return the bag to Jagadish Chakma.

Your kind cooperation will be highly appreciated.

01/01/2026

Miao Singpho Ramma Hpung condoles the untimely demise of Chau Sonam Mantaw

TMT | NAMSAI | 01 Jan 2026: With a heavy heart, the Miao Singpho Ramma Hpung [MSRH] mourns the untimely and tragic demise of Chau Sonam Mantaw, S/O Nang Wonna Manlong Mantaw, a resident of Kherem Village in Namsai district. He unfortunately encountered a fatal road accident near 7 Kilo while returning from Chongkham in the wee hours of January 1, cutting short a promising life at the tender age of 35.

Late Chau Sonam Mantaw leaves behind his mother, wife, a young daughter, and three sisters. His heartbreaking and sudden departure has cast a pall of gloom not only over his family but across the entire Tai Khamti - Singpho community, which stands united in sorrow and shock.

Remembered as a kind hearted, selfless, and deeply committed soul, Chau Sonam Mantaw was a progressive youth who consistently worked for the welfare of society. His compassion, humility, and readiness to help others endeared him to all who knew him. His loss has created a void that can never be filled and has left an indelible wound in the collective heart of the community.

Gamseng Singpho, President of Miao Singpho Ramma Hpung conveys his deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. "The MSRH prays for eternal peace for the departed soul and seeks divine strength, courage, and solace for the family to endure this irreparable loss. May his memory remain a guiding light and a source of inspiration for generations to come", Gamseng Singpho stated.

31/12/2025

May 2026 bless everyone with love, happiness, prosperity, peace, compassion, enormous wealth and good health with an everlasting smile.

The Miao Times [ TMT ] wishes everyone a HAPPY NEW YEAR 2026....

28/12/2025

Founder of Arunachal Press Club urges journos to be bold, ethical & responsible

TMT | ITANAGAR | 28 Dec 2025: Veteran journalist and founding father of the Arunachal Press Club [APC] and the Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists [APUWJ], PB Dasgupta (87), on Sunday called upon journalists to be bold, and ethical, while always remaining responsible to society.

Addressing journalists during his visit to the Arunachal Press Club after nearly 20 years, Dasgupta said that journalists are powerful agents of social change if they work with honesty, research and a positive mindset. He stressed that the media must highlight social evils without fear, while also promoting constructive and meaningful stories for the welfare of the people.

Visibly emotional on seeing the present APC building, Dasgupta recalled the humble beginnings of the Itanagar Press Club, which once functioned from a small rented office at IG Park. He said it was deeply satisfying to see a permanent and well-equipped press club, a dream he had once nurtured during his long association with journalism in Arunachal Pradesh.

Sharing memories, he narrated how APUWJ was formed in 1981 and how, with just around 10 journalists, the proposal for a press club was placed before the state government in 1993. He reminded journalists that their profession is a service to society and the nation, not a means for personal fame or appreciation.
“Journalists should never expect praise. We must work for society and the country,” he said.

Dasgupta also recalled founding Echo of Arunachal, the state’s first newspaper, at a time when no local newspaper existed. He urged unity among journalists and said every news report shapes public opinion and must therefore be accurate, well-researched and responsible.

Earlier, APC President Amar Sangno and APUWJ General Secretary Sonam Jelly felicitated Dasgupta, honouring his lifelong contribution to journalism in Arunachal Pradesh.

27/12/2025

Yadap Apang, former MLA, publisher of The Arunachal Times passes away

TMT | OYAN | 27 Dec 2025: Former Member of Legislative Assembly Yadap Apang passed away here in East Siang on Friday.

She is survived by her husband, former chief minister Gegong Apang, and six children, including former union minister Omak Apang. She was the publisher of The Arunachal Times.

Born in 1954, she was elected as a member of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly and was among the few women leaders to have been elected to the Assembly to date. From 1995 to 1999, she represented the Pasighat West constituency in the Legislative Assembly. She was also a pioneer in the state’s tea sector, having established the Donyi Polo Tea Estate in the mid-1980s.

The estate is known for its sustainable practices and specialty teas, such as ‘golden needles’ and ‘purple tea’, with Siang Tea remaining a bestseller. She was widely respected in the tea industry for her efforts in supporting small tea growers in the state.

Governor KT Parnaik mourned the demise of Yadap Apang and offered prayers for eternal peace of the departed soul.

“In her passing, the state has lost an eminent social worker and a devoted public representative,” the governor said.

In his condolence message to former chief minister Gegong Apang, the governor said that Yadap Apang was a remarkable woman, widely respected, deeply compassionate, and known for her gracious personality. “She served the people of Arunachal Pradesh with sincerity, dedication, and dignity, leaving behind a lasting impression through her commitment to public service and social welfare,” he said.

“I join the people of Arunachal Pradesh in praying to Donyi Polo to grant eternal peace to the departed soul and to bestow strength and courage upon you and the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss,” the governor said in his message to Gegong Apang.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu has also expressed condolences and remembered late Yadap Apang as a committed public representative and a gracious personality who served the people with dedication and dignity.

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein in his condolence message remembered her as a devoted public servant and a warm, gracious personality who served the people with sincerity and compassion.

Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Bosiram Siram visited the residence of the bereaved family of Yadap Apang and paid his last respects to the departed soul.

Siram conveyed condolences on behalf of Indian National Congress and the APCC, recalling the immense contributions of Yadap Apang towards the welfare of people, and her enduring association with the Congress’ ideology and values.

Expressing deep sorrow, the APCC chief described her as a dignified leader and compassionate public figure who remained committed to the principles of democracy, social justice, and women’s empowerment.

He also acknowledged her role as an inspiration for women leaders, particularly from the Adi community, across the state and remembered Yadap Apang’s legacy as an integral part of the Congress movement in Arunachal.

Siram expressed solidarity with the bereaved family in its moment of grief, and prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul.

26/12/2025

Sunrise Festival at India’s easternmost village to usher in the New Year with hope and heritage

TMT | D**G | 27 Dec 2025: As the first rays of the New Year’s sun touch Indian soil, the remote hamlet of D**g in Arunachal Pradesh’s Anjaw district is set to script history with the maiden Sunrise Festival, a celebration of nature, culture and conscious travel.

From 29 December 2,025 to 2 January 2026, D**g - India’s easternmost village and India's first point to witness sunrise will transform into a vibrant confluence of tradition and adventure.

Nestled close to the India-China-Myanmar tri-junction and home to the indigenous Meyor tribe, the village will welcome visitors from across India and abroad to experience the nation’s earliest dawn of 2026.

The five-day, community-led festival is designed not merely as a New Year celebration, but as a statement placing Arunachal Pradesh firmly on the global tourism map while preserving its fragile ecology and living heritage.

Artists, explorers, scholars, photographers and travellers from across the globe are expected to gather at this far eastern frontier to celebrate together the country’s first sunrise.

The festival itinerary blends spirituality, culture and adventure. It will feature traditional sunrise ceremonies, colourful cultural performances by communities from across Arunachal Pradesh, guided treks through pristine landscapes, nature walks, river-based activities, eco-camping, village immersion tours and photography expeditions.

Visitors can also participate in workshops, folk art and craft sessions, and savour authentic local cuisine prepared by the villagers themselves.

True to its setting, the event carries a strong environmental message. Organisers have adopted a strict sustainability ethos under the theme “No trash, No trace, No excuses”, encouraging responsible tourism and eco - friendly practices. A Sunrise Pledge will be administered on January 1, urging participants to commit to environmental conservation and respect for indigenous cultures.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu described the Sunrise Festival as a tribute to D**g’s unique geographical distinction and cultural soul. He said the festival offers a rare and powerful blend of nature, culture and adventure, while highlighting the traditions of indigenous communities that have safeguarded this land for generations.

Khandu noted that the initiative aims to promote sustainable tourism, create livelihood opportunities for local residents, and establish D**g as a symbol of India’s geographical and cultural identity. “This is not just a festival, but a journey to the very edge of the nation where the day begins for India,” he said.

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, dense pine forests and the flowing Lohit river, D**g lies about 7 km from Walong on the river’s left bank. Despite its remoteness, the village has steadily drawn attention for its unmatched sunrise views and raw natural beauty.

The nearest airport is Tezu, around 200 km away, while the closest railway station is Tinsukia in Assam, approximately 300 km from D**g. From there, visitors must undertake a long but scenic road journey to reach the last village of India.

Hopefully, the Sunrise Festival will evolve into a signature event for Northeast India, showcasing the region’s breathtaking landscapes, cultural diversity and deep - rooted commitment to eco-tourism where every sunrise is not just seen, but felt.

Meanwhile, cultural troupes representing different communities from across Arunachal Pradesh will reach the festival venue on December 29 to present beautiful folk dances.

The Singpho Dance Troupe of Miao Singpho Ramma Hpung that represented Changlang district in the State Youth Festival held recently in Itanagar and won first prize in folk dance competition will also perform Singpho folk dance in the Sunrise Festival. The troupe will leave for D**g on December 28.

After the D**g visit, the troupe will leave for New Delhi via Itanagar on January 5 to represent Arunachal Pradesh in a national folk dance competition. Hopefully, the Singpho dance group will succeed in winning the hearts of audiences in the national capital and make Arunachal's head high.

23/12/2025

Singpho heritage faces systematic appropriation, MSRH issues stern warning

TMT | MIAO | 23 December 2025: Culture is not a decorative accessory to be borrowed at convenience. It is a legally and morally protected inheritance, rooted in history, sustained through collective memory, and safeguarded by constitutional principles. When such heritage is misappropriated, the act is no longer artistic imitation, it becomes cultural trespass. The Singpho community today finds itself confronting precisely such a challenge.

In a sharply worded and uncompromising press release, the Miao Singpho Ramma Hpung [MSRH] has accused some non - Singpho communities of deliberate and systematic appropriation of Singpho traditional dress patterns, warning that continued encroachment will compel the community to seek legal and constitutional remedies.

Singpho traditional attire is not merely ceremonial wear. It is an intellectual and cultural property nurtured across centuries. Each component, from Bukang [Mekhela] and Ningwaat, to Dato Bongchop [Phagup] to Dato Bungbam [Scarf], from Khaichyi [Necklace] to Lakhon [Bangle] among others, represents a codified cultural expression, developed through indigenous knowledge systems and preserved by Singpho women through oral tradition and artisanal mastery. These designs, patterns, and motifs constitute traditional cultural expressions as recognised under national and international legal frameworks.

The Miao Singpho Ramma Hpung has categorically stated that the unauthorised use, reproduction, and misrepresentation of Singpho dress patterns by other tribes amounts to cultural misappropriation, a violation not only of ethical norms but of constitutional safeguards guaranteed to indigenous communities under Articles 29 and 49 of the Constitution of India, which protect the right to conserve distinct culture and heritage.

What has alarmed the MSRH further is the reported attempt by certain groups to seek Geographical Indication (GI) registration for dress patterns historically and exclusively associated with the Singpho people. MSRH has termed this move “a calculated legal intrusion” and “an attempt to institutionalise cultural theft.”

“Applying for GI tags for Singpho designs is not ignorance, it is intent,” the organization asserted. “It seeks to rewrite ownership through paperwork, erasing historical truth and depriving the rightful community of recognition and control over its heritage.”

The MSRH warned that such actions could amount to fraudulent misrepresentation, as GI laws are designed to protect the genuine origin of cultural products, not to legitimise appropriation by those with no historical claim.

MSRH President Gamseng Singpho expressed deep anguish and firm resolve. He also addressed an internal concern that has further complicated the matter, instances where Singpho women married into other communities have allowed Singpho dress patterns to be used for the benefit of non-Singpho groups.

“This is not a personal matter; it is a collective responsibility,” he said. “Marriage does not dissolve cultural ownership. No individual has the moral or legal authority to transfer or dilute community heritage.”

Gamseng Singpho cautioned that such actions, whether intentional or inadvertent, has the potential to weaken the community’s collective claim and expose Singpho culture to further exploitation.

While MSRH has refrained from naming the tribes involved, citing the need to preserve social harmony, the organization made it unequivocally clear that patience has limits. “Our restraint must not be interpreted as silence, and silence must not be mistaken for acceptance or surrender,” the press release warned.

It is a fact that cultural appropriation, when combined with commercial or institutional claims, can escalate into serious disputes involving intellectual property rights, tribal customary law, and constitutional protections for Scheduled Tribes. The MSRH has indicated that it is actively exploring all available avenues, legal, administrative, and institutional to safeguard Singpho cultural property.

The MSRH issued a stern appeal to all concerned groups to immediately cease the use, display, promotion, or commercial exploitation of Singpho dress patterns, whether in festivals, documentation, applications for GI tags, or public representation.

“Cultural theft is not a benign act,” the MSRH stated. “It fractures trust, deepens social fault lines, and breeds long-term resentment. True unity among indigenous communities cannot be built on the erasure of another’s identity.”

The MSRH has issued a firm appeal to all concerned groups to immediately cease the unethical use of Singpho dress patterns and to respect the rightful cultural ownership of the Singpho people. The organization emphasised that true harmony lies not in imitation, but in mutual respect where every tribe celebrates its own heritage without encroaching upon another’s.

Reaffirming its commitment, the MSRH declared that it will continue to stand as a guardian of Singpho cultural integrity, dignity, and historical rights. “Our traditions are not for appropriation,” the organisation asserted. “They are our inheritance, our pride, and our responsibility to defend today and to pass on intact to generations yet unborn.”

The MSRH reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to defend Singpho heritage with dignity and determination. “We will not allow our ancestors’ legacy to be diluted, repackaged, or claimed by others. Our culture is not negotiable.”

As debates around indigenous rights and cultural ownership gain national relevance, the Singpho community’s stand serves as a stark reminder that heritage is not a free-for-all domain. It is owned, protected, and defended by those to whom it belongs.

[ Pictures shown below are some of the patterns of Singpho costumes ]

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