In a major cultural initiative under the Vibrant Village Programme (VVP), the Indian Army has established the Kameng Culture and Heritage Museum in Nyukmadung village, West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. The museum, set to open its doors to the public on October 23, 2024, is a tribute to the region's deep-rooted connection with Indian civilization, reflecting its ancient heritage and cultural continuity. Guwahati-based Defence PRO, Lt Col Mahendra Rawat, emphasized that the museum symbolizes peace, security, and the Army's commitment to nation-building through community integration. He highlighted Arunachal Pradesh’s historical significance, tracing its mentions in ancient Indian texts such as the *Kalika Purana* and the *Mahabharata*. The state is home to countless historical monuments and archaeological sites, further establishing its rich cultural and ancient heritage, which is beautifully showcased at the Kameng Museum.
Conceptualized as part of Operation Sadbhavana and aligned with the Vibrant Village Programme, the museum represents a collaborative effort between the Indian Army and the local community. It features 343 traditional artifacts, voluntarily donated by locals, and highlights the tangible historical, religious, and ethnographic aspects of Arunachal Pradesh. The National Museum Institute of History of Art, Conservation, and Museology has professionally curated the exhibits, which include a state-of-the-art movie hall, a cafeteria, and a children’s park for visitors. Lt Col Rawat noted that the Kameng Museum will serve as a beacon of identity, heritage, and pride for Arunachal Pradesh and India, fostering a deeper appreciation of the state’s culture. The museum’s inauguration will be graced by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Union Minister of State for Rural Development Kamlesh Paswan, and Lt Gen Gambhir Singh, GOC of Gajraj Corps.
