Dibrugarh, 16 May: Thembang, a historic fortified village located at 2,169 meters above sea level in West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, has been officially included in UNESCO’s final tentative list for World Heritage status, despite ongoing territorial claims by China over the region.
Situated approximately 55 kilometers northeast of Bomdila, Thembang spans just 3.2 acres yet boasts a rich heritage. It is inhabited by the Drikipa clan of the Monpa tribe and is fortified by traditional stone “dzong” walls, featuring two historic gates—one at the northern entrance and the other at the southern exit, which were once utilized for escape during tribal conflicts. The village has a modest population of around 254.
Both Thembang and Ziro Valley were nominated for World Heritage status in 2014, and the following year, Thembang was designated as a state heritage site by Arunachal Pradesh. In April 2018, the Union government provisionally identified the village as one of six northeastern monuments for potential UNESCO inscription.
Moyir Kato, Circle Officer of Thembang block, expressed delight at this inclusion: “We are thrilled that Thembang has entered UNESCO’s tentative list. The state government is tirelessly working to secure full World Heritage status.”
On 13 May 2025, a conference was convened in Dirang, where officials, scholars, and local residents discussed meeting UNESCO’s comprehensive criteria. Dirang MLA Phurpa Tsering urged the local advisory committee to accelerate the process, emphasizing the need for strict quality standards.
Tsering referred to the inclusion as a “proud moment for Arunachal” and stated, “All stakeholders must support development without delay so Thembang can swiftly receive the World Heritage tag.”
The announcement coincides with increased tensions, as China’s Ministry of Civil Affairs recently published a list assigning Chinese and Tibetan names to 27 locations within Arunachal Pradesh, reaffirming its territorial ambitions. However, Thembang locals have dismissed these claims.
“This land belongs to India,” asserted resident Tenzin Thakcho Dirkhepa. “We are proud Indians and will defend our motherland. Thembang’s historic recognition highlights our unique cultural heritage.”
With its defensive architecture, preserved cultural practices, and picturesque Himalayan backdrop, Thembang is now poised for global recognition, reinforcing India’s sovereignty over its easternmost frontier.
Original Source: https://eastmojo.com/free-digest/2025/05/17/arunachals-thembang-village-in-unescos-final-tentative-world-heritage-list/
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Publish Date: 2025-05-17 15:40:00
