ITANAGAR, Aug 20: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt Gen KT Parnaik, PVSM, UYSM, YSM (Retd.) participated in the valedictory function of the TRACTION 2026 - Residency and Film Challenge at Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh on 20th August 2026. The Governor conferred awards to two best film makers, Shri Aron Pradhan of Meghalaya and Ms Rinpi Das of Assam on the occasion, which includes a trophy, citation and a cash prize of one lakh each. received

Addressing the participants, the Governor said the theme aptly reflects the spirit of creativity, innovation and purposeful action. He urged young filmmakers, content creators and influencers to move beyond merely observing the world and instead engage with it, interpret it meaningfully and contribute to positive transformation. Your passion will drive you to open new horizons, inspiring innovation, creativity, and opportunities for growth and achievement.

Highlighting the growing influence of content creators, the Governor said a video, documentary or social media post can reach millions within hours and has the power to educate, inspire and influence society. He emphasized that the real measure of success should not be views, likes or followers, but the positive impact created in society.

The Governor called upon the participants to use their influence responsibly and create content that promotes social harmony, environmental awareness, responsible citizenship and national development. He cautioned against sensationalism and short-lived popularity, urging them instead to pursue credible and meaningful storytelling that informs, educates and inspires.

The Governor further stressed the importance of fact verification, cultural sensitivity, informed consent and dignified representation. He said that integrity and credibility are the true foundations of lasting impact and meaningful storytelling.

The Governor said Arunachal Pradesh offers immense opportunities for storytellers, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity and vibrant cultural heritage encompassing more than 26 major tribes and over 100 sub-tribes. He urged filmmakers and content creators to document the State’s untold stories and take them to national and global audiences.

The Governor encouraged greater collaboration with RIWATCH, cultural organizations, researchers, local communities and knowledge keepers to authentically document indigenous traditions, community wisdom and the harmonious relationship between people and nature. He called for greater focus on artisans, farmers, entrepreneurs, athletes, innovators and cultural custodians, as well as local products, traditional crafts, organic farming, eco-tourism and community-led conservation.

Congratulating the awardees and participants, the Governor said completion of the residency marks not an end, but the beginning of a larger journey. He expressed confidence that the participants would emerge as responsible storytellers capable of inspiring hope, strengthening understanding and contributing to constructive change.

The Governor appreciated the intensive thematic sessions conducted during the residency on the culture and traditions of Arunachal Pradesh, tourism content creation, travel filmmaking, research methodologies, media ethics, storytelling and the One District One Product initiative. He said these areas provide powerful tools for preserving heritage, shaping narratives and promoting sustainable development. He commended Rajiv Gandhi University, particularly the Department of Mass Communication, Centre for Cultural Research and Documentation, and Department of Industries, for conceptualizing the initiative. He observed that such programmes are especially relevant in the digital age, when visual storytelling has become a powerful medium of communication.

Vice Chancellor of RGU, Prof. Shivaraj, Registrar Dr. N.T. Rikam, and Director of Industries Shri Gyabo Perting also addressed the gathering. Course Director of TRACTION 2026 Shri Moji Riba presented a concise report highlighting the key activities, achievements, and outcomes of the 15-day Residency and Film Challenges programme. He said that course began with the premise that social media is not just a source of personal consumption or entertainment alone, but an emerging source of livelihoods

Organized under the theme ‘Explore, Create, Move’ by the Department of Mass Communication, Rajiv Gandhi University, in collaboration with the Centre for Cultural Research and Documentation, Naharlagun and the Department of Industries, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, 25 (Twenty-Five) participants from eight States of North East Region participated in the programme. Twenty Five films were made on the occasion.

Superintendent of Police, Papum Pare Shri Taru Gusar, Deans of Faculties, Heads of Departments and Directors of Institute and participants from all the Eight States of North East attended the valedictory function. (PRO to Governor)