Itanagar, Aug 29: The newly inducted IFCSAP team led by its President Dr. Emi Rumi called on Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein at his official residence in Itanagar on Thursday to discuss the ongoing efforts to protect, promote and preserve indigenous faith and cultures across the state. 
The Deputy Chief Minister appreciated  IFCSAP's efforts and reiterated the state government's support for these initiatives.
“This government is dedicated to promoting unity in diversity, ensuring that the voices of indigenous people and faith-based communities are heard and respected across all levels of governance ,” he said. 
He called upon IFCSAP being the umbrella body of all the indigenous organisations in the state to spearhead the movement to protect, promote and preserve indigenous faith, cultures, languages in the midst of onslaught of modernisation and globalisation.
The DyCM also called for enhanced collaboration between all the Community Based Indigenous Faith Organisations to ensure that the cultural heritage of all communities is celebrated and preserved for future generations.
While advocating for strengthening the documentation and research wing under IFCSAP, he assured all possible assistance.
President IFCSAP Dr.Rumi presented a comprehensive report on the initiatives undertaken at the state level to protect, preserve and promote these cultures. 
He re-iterated the IFCSAP’s demand for early implementation of Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act,1978( APFRA, 1978) stating that the Act will not only safeguard the indigenous people but shall also safeguard the sentiments of every religious followers in the state.
Dr. Rumi while highlighting the schemes and activities under SJETA of Ministry of Tribal Affairs suggested for involving the Department of Indigenous Affairs and the  Indigenous Affairs Council for implementation of schemes for the welfare of tribals of our state.
Endorsing Gurukul model of schools in every community, he requested the DyCM for inclusion of the Gurukul model in the Arunachal State Education Policy. 
“Four numbers of Gurukuls for boys are functioning in the state. To counter the dwindling number of female priests, we need Gurukuls for girls too,” Dr.Rumi further informed, seeking guidance and assistance as IFCSAP will be entering its 25th year of existence this year. 
Founded on 28th December, 1999 the society seeks to honour, preserve, and promote the rich heritage, traditions, and knowledge of indigenous and cultural communities.
Among others Secretary IFSCAP Smt.Maya Murtem, VPs Pai Dawe, Bai Taba and CEC members were present during the meeting. 

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
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