Rung tribals vows to involve younger generation in preservation of high Himalayan culture, language and traditions

Rung tribals vows to involve younger generation in preservation of high Himalayan culture, language and traditions
B.D.Kasniyal
Pithoragarh, Oct 21
The tribal Rung community residing in Darma, Vyans and Chaudans valleys of high Himalayan region of Pithoragarh district, have appealed to the younger generation of tribe to adopt their ancient cultural traditions, language, religious rituals and livelihood patterns to maintain their distinct cultural identity.
The appeal was delivered by veteran members of community at the annual general meeting (AGM) of Rung Kalyan Sanstha held on October 19, at meeting hall of Government Inter College (GIC), Makam Kailash in Chaudans valley.

Rung Tribals women participating in the AGM of Rung Kalyan Sanstha. held at Makam Kailash in Chaudas valley of Pithoragarh on October 18, 2024.
“Our organisation is working towards preservation of rare Himalayan traditions, language and culture to give Himalayan region its identity and such aim cannot be achieved unless and until we involve the new generation of the community dwelling in the cities, “said Nrip Singh Napalchyal, a former Chief Secretary of Uttarakhand and chief patron of Rung Kalyan Sanstha.
The annual general meeting elected its’ new executive for next two years in which Arvind Singh Hyanki was elected as president and Nar Singh Napalchayan as new general secretary.

Rung Tribals presenting a traditional dance at the AGM meet of Rung Kalyan Sanstha hed at Makam Kailash in Chaudas valley of Pithoragarh on October 18,2024.
The AGM expressed its concern over taking over the community land of Vyans valley by forces in Vyans valley without giving alternative land for community needs. ” We have appealed to the state government to take the community into confidence and work for mutual benefit in case of acquisition of local community land, “ said Napalchyal.
Over 2000 participants, including representatives of community organisations from Delhi, Bareilly, Dehradun, Haldwani and Pithoragarh took part in the AGM that also included cultural and sports activities by community youth.”The participants have expressed their concern over entry of non-tribal elements in to interiors of high Himalayan valleys and demanded shifting of inner line from Chiyalekh to Jauljibi,” said Janak Singh Payar, an organiser of this year’s AGM.

Rung tribals gathered for the AGM of Rung Kalyan Sanstha. held at Makam Kailash in Chaudas valley of Pithoragarh on October 18,2024.
According to Payar, the community is now aware of growing crisis on its pasture land temple places and community land in high Himalayan region and would want amicable solution from concerned government departments so that the social and cultural activities of Rung community would not get disturbed and the border villages could remain vibrant.