Former Arunachal Pradesh legislator Yadap Apang passed away on Friday at Oyan in East Siang district. She was a prominent public figure and a pioneer in the state’s tea industry.
Yadap Apang is survived by her husband, former Chief Minister Gegong Apang, and six children, including former Union Minister Omak Apang. She was also the publisher of The Arunachal Times.
Born in 1954, Yadap Apang was among the few women leaders to be elected to the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly. She represented the Pasighat West constituency from 1995 to 1999 and was known for her commitment to public service and social welfare.
Beyond politics, she made a lasting impact in the tea sector by establishing the Donyi Polo Tea Estate in the mid-1980s. The estate earned recognition for sustainable practices and specialty teas such as ‘Golden Needles’ and ‘Purple Tea,’ with Siang Tea emerging as a popular brand. She was widely respected for her efforts to support small tea growers across the state.
Governor Lt Gen (Retd) KT Parnaik expressed deep sorrow over her demise, describing her as an eminent social worker and dedicated public representative. In his condolence message to former Chief Minister Gegong Apang, the Governor said Yadap Apang was a remarkable and compassionate individual who served the people of Arunachal Pradesh with sincerity, dedication, and dignity.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu also mourned her passing, remembering her as a committed public servant and a gracious personality. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein echoed similar sentiments, describing her as a warm and devoted public figure who worked with compassion and integrity.
Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Bosiram Siram visited the bereaved family to pay his last respects. Conveying condolences on behalf of the Indian National Congress and the APCC, Siram recalled her immense contributions to public welfare and her enduring association with Congress ideology.
He described Yadap Apang as a dignified leader and an inspiration for women, particularly from the Adi community, and acknowledged her lasting legacy within the Congress movement in Arunachal Pradesh.
