Arunachal celebrates first ever zero-waste, plastic-free Solung Festival in Pangin

The Adi community of Arunachal Pradesh marked a historic occasion today with the first-ever zero-waste, plastic-free Solung festival at Model Village Pangin in Siang district. 

The agro-based festival, which began on August 21 and will continue until the first week of September, is celebrated to pray for a bountiful harvest, prosperity, and protection from evil spirits.

The festivities at Pangin featured traditional sports such as archery and tug-of-war, along with artisan and cultural displays. Pangin has now earned the distinction of being the third Clean Model Village in Siang district, following Pagak (Kaying Circle) and Lokpeng (Pangin Circle).

The village’s transformation began in January 2025 under Circle Officer Niyang Pertin, with strong support from former DC PN Thungon. The initiative prioritised a bottom-up, community-owned approach to ensure sustainable development and local participation.

A hallmark of Pangin’s success has been the convergence of multiple government schemes. MGNREGA funds were used for the repair and dredging of PMGSY drains, Panchayat SOR funds for decorative street lamps and iron dustbin stands, and the Department of Sports facilitated an open-air gym. The Forest Department contributed to avenue plantation drives, enhancing the village’s natural environment.

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Infrastructure and rejuvenation projects, including the revival of Ruteng Stream, creation of an artificial lake, bamboo bridge, tree houses, scenic viewpoints, walking trails, and the painting of the welcome gate, have made Pangin an eco-friendly and visually striking destination, ready to welcome tourists.

Circle Officer Pertin emphasised the village’s potential for adventure tourism, citing opportunities in rafting, angling, trekking, and high-altitude expeditions. “Through proper training of youth in tourism, homestays, and guided services, the local population can become self-reliant while promoting cultural and rural tourism,” he said.

Pangin, comprising Pangin Moruk and Pangin Moli, has 104 households with a population of around 1,000. Its success has attracted visitors from across the world, documenting this model village. Pertin also highlighted the significance of traditional Adi homes, which are hubs of cultural tourism, preserve age-old practices, and ensure sustainable living and natural temperature control.

“Cleanliness is not merely a task but a way of life,” Pertin said, urging government departments and the public to adopt villages and actively promote rural tourism and cultural preservation, including weekly showcases of local folk dance and folklore.