NAHARLAGUN, Oct 13: A three days state level priest/shaman workshop organized by the Indigenous Faith & Culture Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP) began at the Bharat Scouts & Guides Centre in Polo Colony, here on Saturday.
Addressing the indigenous priests and IFCSAP members from across the state at the inaugural function, Department of Indigenous Affairs (DIA) Chairman Nabam Atum said that the DIA is always ready to help in promoting indigenous culture and extend support to the IFCSAP in such endeavours.
He also lauded the IFCSAP for organizing the workshop and expressed gratefulness to Chief Minister Pema Khandu under whose leadership the DIA was created.
Highlighting the role and function of the DIA, its director, Tai Taggu said that the state government is always supports preservation and protection of indigenous cultures of the state. He further called for preservation and promotion of local medicine and indigenous sports through documentation.
IFCSAP advisor and former minister, Talo Mugli emphasized on the need of the rules and regulations in order to bring changes in ritual practices. He hoped that the workshop will provide a platform to have a look on this matter.
IFCSAP president Tajom Tassung said, “History will be created with documentation of all ritual practices of the priests in this workshop,” and sought cooperation of all for success of the mission.
Speaking about the aims and objectives of the workshop, IFCSAP general secretary Bai Taba exhorted the indigenous priests to work in unison for preservation and promotion of indigenous knowledge for the wellbeing of the society.
In his motivation speech, renowned priest Tabin Karlo called upon all indigenous priests of the state to the shoulder responsibility of preservation of all indigenous rituals while facing the challenges of present day society.
Among others, priest wing president and Itanagar ADC, Talom Dupak also spoke on the occasion.
Around 100 IFCSAP delegates and priests from all over the state are attending the programme.
