PASIGHAT, Sep 29: The Department of Mathematics and IQAC, Jawaharlal Nehru College (JNC), Pasighat, in academic collaboration with Arunachal Pradesh University (APU), Pasighat, and Dera Natung Government College (DNGC), Itanagar, inaugurated the five-day Residential Mathematical Thinking Camp (MTC-2026) at JNC here on Monday.

The camp, being held from September 29 to October 3, is organized under the aegis of the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE), TIFR Mumbai, with support from the National Board for Higher Mathematics (NBHM), Government of India, and the DBT Star College Programme and IQAC of JNC.

Speaking as Chief Guest, APU Registrar Shri Narmi Darang appreciated the initiative, stating that mathematics forms the foundation of several disciplines, including economics, commerce, computer science and the sciences. He encouraged the participants to develop their mathematical aptitude and informed that APU has already introduced M.Sc. and Ph.D. programmes in Mathematics.

Dr. Leki Sitang, Vice Principal, JNC, urged the students to work hard, remain confident and not be discouraged by difficult problems.

Dr. Gete Umbrey, Head of the Department of Mathematics, JNC, and Coordinator of MTC-2026, said the camp aims at "nurturing problem-solvers, critical thinkers and innovators of tomorrow." Highlighting the importance of mathematics in the age of Artificial Intelligence, he said a deeper understanding of mathematics would enable young minds to become creators of technology rather than merely consumers.

Dr. Umbrey also informed that MTC-2026 is the second HBCSE mathematical camp in the region, following the first three-day camp held at Roing in 2024. He further highlighted the growing Mathematical Olympiad movement in Arunachal Pradesh and informed that efforts are being made to establish an INMO examination centre in the State, preferably at Pasighat.

Organising Secretary Shri Botem Moyong, Assistant Professor of Mathematics, DNGC, welcomed the participants and urged them to actively participate in the sessions.

The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Rinchin Drema, Head, Department of Mathematics, APU, and Joint Coordinator, MTC-2026.

The five-day camp is being attended by meritorious students of Classes VII to X selected from schools across the State. The participants will take part in lectures and hands-on sessions conducted by experts from reputed institutions. The camp will conclude on October 3 with a competition, valedictory ceremony and cultural outing. (DIPRO)