Seppa, Oct 21: A coordination meeting for the upcoming 7th Indigenous Youth Festival (IYF) 2026 was convened on Tuesday at Abotani Hall, District Secretariat, Seppa, under the chairmanship of Shri Mama Natung, Hon’ble Minister for Home and Inter State Border Affairs, Public Health Engineering & Water Supply and Indigenous Affairs, Government of Arunachal Pradesh.

The meeting was held to review preparations and discuss the necessary arrangements for the smooth conduct of the three-day festival, scheduled to take place from November 12 to 14, 2026, at Seppa, under the aegis of the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP).This year, the festival aims to bring a fresh approach through the concept “Reimagining the Festival Experience.” Rather than focusing only on cultural performances and celebrations, the festival will encourage young people to take an active part, interact with different communities, learn from one another and develop a deeper connection with their cultural roots and traditions.

The festival will focus on three key principles i.e Identity, Interaction and Legacy. Through these, it aims to help young people reconnect with their roots, bring different indigenous communities closer together, and encourage the younger generation to take pride in their traditions and carry them forward for future generations.

The festival will also feature a variety of cultural and traditional activities, including folk and war dances, storytelling, handicraft exhibitions, indigenous cuisine and traditional sports. Major attractions will include the Indigenous Warrior Challenge, archery, shot put, arm wrestling and tug of war, highlighting the skills, strength and rich traditions of indigenous communities.

The three-day celebration will follow the themes “Discover Your Identity” on the first day, “Learn from Each Other” on the second day and “Carry It Forward” on the concluding day.

The festival aims not only to celebrate indigenous culture but also to encourage young people to take pride in their roots and preserve the faith, values and traditions passed down by their ancestors. Discussions were also held on making the Indigenous Youth Festival (IYF) a regular event in the annual calendar. Held once every three years, the festival will mark its 7th edition this year, continuing its efforts to bring indigenous communities together and strengthen cultural identity among the younger generation. (DIPRO)