The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) observed the 108th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi with solemn tributes and commemorative programmes across the state, highlighting her monumental contributions to national unity, sovereignty, and socio-economic development.
A central event was organised at Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan, Itanagar, where APCC President Nabam Tuki led the homage by garlanding Indira Gandhi’s portrait and paying floral tributes. Senior party leaders, including former ministers, MLAs, PCC office-bearers, frontal wing presidents, district Congress presidents, and a large number of party workers participated in the ceremony.
Nabam Tuki’s Tribute and Appeal to Youth
In his address, Nabam Tuki described Indira Gandhi as one of the tallest leaders of the 20th century and a global icon whose courage, vision, and decisive leadership continue to inspire generations.
He highlighted her historic role in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, the integration of Sikkim, the Green Revolution that made India self-sufficient in food grains, the nationalisation of banks, and the strong foundation she laid for India’s economic and technological progress.
Tuki particularly emphasised Indira Gandhi’s special affection for Arunachal Pradesh (then NEFA), her frequent visits to the region, and her personal initiatives that accelerated infrastructure and administrative development in the frontier state.
Making a direct appeal to the youth, the APCC chief urged them to:
“Study and follow the ideals, principles, and sacrifices of Indira Gandhi — a leader who always placed the nation above everything and worked tirelessly for the poor, farmers, women, and marginalised sections of society.”
He reminded the gathering that Indira Gandhi’s famous slogan “Garibi Hatao” remains relevant even today and called upon Congress workers to rededicate themselves to the service of the people while upholding secularism, inclusiveness, and social justice.
Statewide Observance
Similar tribute programmes were organised by district and block Congress committees across Arunachal Pradesh. Party leaders recalled Indira Gandhi’s contributions to environmental conservation (she was instrumental in Project Tiger), women’s empowerment, and her bold foreign policy that elevated India’s stature on the world stage.
The Congress party also used the occasion to reiterate its commitment to protecting the constitutional values and democratic institutions that Indira Gandhi strengthened during her tenure, while expressing concern over what it termed as the “erosion of these values” in present times.
The 108th birth anniversary (observed as National Integration Day) served as a reminder of Indira Gandhi’s enduring legacy as India’s first and only woman Prime Minister and one of the most influential leaders in the country’s post-independence history.
(Source: India Today NE)
