Traditional sports competitions under Seva Sankalp Utsav 2026, celebrating India’s rich heritage, indigenous games and the spirit of Arunachal Pradesh, were inaugurated on Friday by Tawang MLA, Namgey Tsering, at the Festival Ground, Mentsem-Tse in Tawang.
The event was organised by the District Sports Office, Tawang, with the participation of Zilla Parishad Members Tenzin Monpa, Sonam Nordzin and Pema Tsering; District PPA president Phurpa Lama; District unit BJP vice president Dorjee Nima,senior public leaders; and enthusiastic participants representing various blocks across Tawang district.
The traditional sports competitions featured six indigenous games: tug of war, bamboo archery, guli danda, bamboo climbing, dali haka hinam (a traditional bamboo game), and bamboo poles running. These games reflect the rich cultural heritage and traditional sporting practices of the region.
The initiative aims to preserve and promote age-old traditions, revive indigenous games, encourage youth participation and strengthen the bonds of unity, teamwork and sportsmanship among local communities.
By providing a platform for participants to demonstrate their skills and abilities, the competitions seek to ensure that these traditional sporting practices continue to thrive among younger generations.
The competitions are being conducted at the district level on a Zilla Parishad constituency-wise basis, with winners progressing to the state-level competitions. This provides local talent with an opportunity to represent Tawang district at the state level while showcasing the district’s rich cultural and sporting heritage.
Addressing the gathering, MLA Tsering expressed his appreciation to the organisers for creating a valuable platform for young people to showcase their talents and earn the opportunity to represent the district at the state level.
He emphasised that such initiatives play an important role in preserving indigenous traditions while fostering discipline, confidence and a spirit of healthy competition among the youth.
Speaking on the significance of Seva Sankalp Utsav, the MLA stated that the celebration forms part of the month-long nationwide observance marking 25 years of public service by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The campaign, which commenced on September 17 and will continue until October 17, 2026, highlights the values of public service, dedication and nation-building.
He appealed to the people to work collectively for the development of the nation while maintaining peace, harmony and brotherhood in society. Emphasising the principle of “Nation First,” he urged every citizen to uphold national interest in their respective responsibilities and contributions.
He further observed that, as residents of a strategically important border district, the people of Tawang have a special responsibility to contribute towards national security, unity and development.
The MLA extended his best wishes to all the participants and encouraged them to compete with discipline, dedication and sportsmanship.
He also urged those selected to represent Tawang at the state level to perform to the best of their abilities and bring pride and recognition to the district.
Earlier, the programme commenced with a welcome address by organising secretary Rinchin Norbu, followed by the felicitation of the dignitaries by District Sports Officer, Sangey Tsering.
The Seva Sankalp Utsav 2026 serves as a meaningful platform to celebrate the region’s indigenous sporting traditions, strengthen community participation and inspire the younger generation to take pride in their cultural identity.
