ITANAGAR, Oct 9 : The All Nyishi Youth Association (ANYA) is celebrating its Golden Jubilee 2026 with a series of sporting, cultural and community activities at Indira Gandhi Park (IG Park), Itanagar, marking 50 years of the association’s journey, commitment and contribution to the Nyishi community.
The Golden Jubilee celebration, scheduled from October 1 to 15, brings together youth, community leaders, public representatives, sportspersons and well-wishers to commemorate the association’s legacy and promote unity, cultural preservation, sportsmanship and youth empowerment.
The celebrations began today with a marathon race that witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 400 men and women. Neelam John, Chairman of the Sports Authority of Arunachal, attended the flag-off ceremony as the Chief Guest, while Tadar Appa, Director of Sports, Arunachal Pradesh, was also present.
In the men’s category, Toko Tab secured first position, followed by Taba Zobang in second place and Chamu in third. In the women’s category, Tadar Chuku won first position, Chera Loku secured second place, and Bengia Appi finished third.
The grand opening ceremony of the Golden Jubilee Celebration 2026 and the inauguration of the Namlo were held on October 7 at IG Park, Itanagar. Home Minister Mama Natung attended the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Er. Nabam Takar, General Secretary of the Nyishi Elite Society, attended as the Guest of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, Home Minister Mama Natung appealed to bandh callers to consider the economic losses and hardships caused to the people, particularly the Nyishi community.
Er. Nabam Takar, in his address, emphasised the importance of channelising the energy of young people in a positive direction. He encouraged the youth not to remain passive spectators of change but to become active architects of transformation and contribute meaningfully to society.
As part of the inaugural programme, the Nyishi Baptist Church Council, led by James Techi Tara, organised Durum Rum Nam, a traditional Nyishi ritual associated with a major celebration, reflecting the community’s cultural identity, traditions and collective spirit.
On October 8, the sports competitions were formally inaugurated by Sports Minister Kento Jini, who attended the ceremony as the Chief Guest. Jikke Tako, MLA representing the 20-Tali Assembly Constituency, attended as the Guest of Honour, while Likha Soni, MLA representing the 46-Lekang Assembly Constituency, was present as the Special Guest.
Congratulating the ANYA leadership and members on completing 50 years, Sports Minister Kento Jini appreciated the association for honouring its legacy and inspiring the younger generation. The sporting events are intended to encourage healthy competition, discipline, unity and greater participation of youth in sports.
The evening programme on October 8 featured Namlo Durum and a gala dinner hosted by ANYA as part of the Golden Jubilee festivities at IG Park. Former Member of Parliament and former All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) leader Takam Sanjoy graced the occasion, adding significance to the celebration.