Bosiram Siram, President of the Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), and Dr. A. Chellakumar, General Secretary of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) and in charge of Arunachal Pradesh, recently visited P.K. Thungon, the state’s first Chief Minister, at his home to pay their respects. Thungon is remembered as a prominent statesman and one of the early political architects of Arunachal Pradesh, recognized for his foundational role in the state’s democratic evolution and contributions to national governance. The Congress leaders expressed gratitude for his lifelong service to the Indian National Congress, the people of Arunachal Pradesh, and the nation.
Thungon’s political career began during Arunachal Pradesh’s transition from the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA) to a Union Territory. As a dynamic youth leader from the West Kameng district, he significantly influenced the early political landscape of the state. As the first Chief Minister, he played a crucial role in establishing governance and aligning the state’s needs with national priorities.
During his tenure under Congress-led governments at the Center, particularly under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, Thungon held several significant positions as Union Minister of State. His various roles included Minister of State for Supply and Rehabilitation from 1980 to 1982, MoS for Education, Culture, and Social Welfare from 1982 to 1984, and MoS for Commerce and Industry from 1991 to 1992, among others. Through these positions, he amplified the aspirations of Northeast India in Parliament and contributed to policies focused on tribal welfare, education, and industrial development. He championed the Congress vision of inclusive growth, national integration, and local empowerment, especially in border regions like Arunachal Pradesh.
Siram and Chellakumar commended Thungon’s efforts in promoting Panchayati Raj institutions and encouraging the use of Hindi and pan-Indian cultural practices, which aided in integrating Arunachal Pradesh into the broader Indian society. On this occasion, Siram expressed heartfelt appreciation for Thungon’s lasting legacy, stating, “His leadership laid the cornerstone of modern Arunachal Pradesh. We draw inspiration from his life’s work and remain committed to carrying forward the Congress values of inclusivity, development, and national unity.”
Dr. Chellakumar’s visit was particularly notable as it marked the first time an AICC General Secretary personally visited Thungon in Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting the Congress party’s acknowledgment of his historical contributions. The meeting was characterized by warmth and respect, offering a moment for reflection on the political journey of Arunachal Pradesh under the Congress banner. The APCC reaffirmed its commitment to visionary governance and grassroots democracy, principles established by leaders like P.K. Thungon.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/arunachal-pradesh/story/congress-leaders-visit-arunachal-pradesh-first-cm-pk-thungon-honour-legacy-1252487-2025-07-29?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-07-29 16:00:00
