ITANAGAR, March 24: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) K T Parnaik on Monday stressed the importance of a holistic approach to address security challenges in the Northeast, emphasizing the need to build public trust, minimize civilian casualties, and uphold human rights. Speaking at a seminar on Northeast India’s military history at Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), Parnaik highlighted the long-term impact of the region’s historical neglect, which has fueled insurgency over the years.
He noted that addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort and a focus on sustainable peacebuilding. The seminar, organized by RGU’s history department, delved into the region’s evolution, particularly after India’s independence, and examined how British colonial policies and military strategies had significantly diverged from those implemented in other parts of India, leaving a lasting influence on the region’s sociopolitical landscape.
As the chief rector of RGU, the Governor commended Vice-Chancellor Prof. S K Nayak and the organizing team for their efforts in fostering academic discussions on such a critical subject. Parnaik also encouraged young researchers to explore doctoral studies in military history, suggesting that fresh perspectives could contribute to national security and integration strategies.
The keynote address was delivered by former North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) professor Imdad Hussain, who offered valuable insights into the region’s military and historical context. Faculty members from RGU’s history department also shared their views during the event, which saw vibrant participation from students and research scholars from across Northeast universities. A total of 13 research papers were presented, reflecting diverse viewpoints and sparking meaningful discussions on the region’s historical and security dynamics.
Parnaik concluded by emphasizing the importance of understanding the region’s history to inform future policies and ensure sustainable development while effectively addressing security concerns in the Northeast.
