Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday expressed confidence that the longstanding boundary disputes between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh will be fully resolved under the current administrations of both states.
Speaking during his visit to Aalo in West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh, where he attended the central celebrations of the Mopin Festival, Sarma affirmed that efforts are being made in earnest to settle the differences between the neighbouring states.
“Under the present dispensation in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, the border disputes between the two states will be resolved completely,” the Chief Minister said while addressing the gathering as chief guest at the 59th Mopin Festival of the Galo tribe.
Describing the festival as a vibrant reflection of Arunachal Pradesh’s cultural richness, Sarma said Mopin represents the spirit of gratitude, prosperity and unity. He praised the Galo community for preserving such age-old traditions with devotion and enthusiasm.
The Mopin Festival, celebrated every April, marks the agricultural harvest season and is dedicated to Mopin Ane, the deity revered for ensuring good harvests and general well-being.
The festivities include traditional music, feasting and the graceful Popir dance performed by women dressed in white, which all contribute to fostering social cohesion and preserving the tribe’s heritage.
Extending his greetings to the people of Arunachal Pradesh on the occasion, Chief Minister Sarma urged citizens to take pride in the exceptional cultural diversity of the region.
“Arunachal Pradesh is not just a state; it is a living, breathing canvas of cultural magnificence. It is a land where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously. Every festival, dance and dish speaks of heritage and pride,” he remarked. “As we celebrate the essence of Arunachal Pradesh, let us honour the incredible diversity that enriches our country.”
The Assam Chief Minister further emphasised the importance of safeguarding indigenous cultures. He said traditional songs, dances and rituals are more than expressions of identity — they are spiritual and cultural lifelines passed down through generations, offering a deep-rooted connection to nature.
Highlighting the broader transformation of the Northeastern region, Sarma credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for the developmental strides made in recent years. He said the region, once marginalised due to poor infrastructure and lack of investment, is now undergoing a historic shift.
“Through visionary initiatives such as ‘Transformation through Transportation’ and the ‘Act East Policy,’ the Northeast has experienced unparalleled growth in connectivity and infrastructure,” Sarma said.
“This transformation has repositioned the region from being geographically isolated to becoming India’s gateway to the thriving economies of Southeast Asia.”
Referring to the cultural ties between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, the Chief Minister cited the deep friendship shared by both states.
He recalled the emotional bond that legendary musician Dr Bhupen Hazarika had with Arunachal Pradesh and announced that his centenary birth celebrations in 2026 would be commemorated in both states.
“Mopin embodies deep-rooted love and unity, transcending borders and strengthening the heritage shared by Assam and Arunachal Pradesh,” Sarma noted.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu also attended the event alongside several other dignitaries, including Minister for Cultural Affairs and Science and Technology Disanglu Pul, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Kento Jini, MLA of West Aalo Topin Ete, Chief Executive Member of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council Tuliram Ronghang, international football coach Gumpe Rime, and Brigadier Shahid Ahmed Khan of the 5th Mountain Infantry.
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