Students, Faculty of DNGC Pay Tribute to Late Dera Natung on His 24th Death Anniversary
ITANAGAR I May 08 :
Students and faculty of Dera Natung Government College (DNGC), along with invited guests, paid tribute to Late Dera Natung on his 24th death anniversary on Thursday.
Among the attendees was Lezen Gyadi, President of the All Nyishi Students’ Union (ANSU), an alumnus of DNGC (2012–13), relatives of Late Dera Natung, and several executive members of the ANSU.
Sunita Natung, General Secretary of the Women’s Wing of ANSU and also a relative of Late Natung, participated in the floral tribute alongside other family members.
The commemoration began with a solemn ceremony on the college campus, where participants gathered to pay their respects with a floral tribute at the statue of Late Natung, followed by a moment of silence to reflect on his dedication and sacrifice for the nation.
Dr. M.Q. Khan, Principal of DNGC, addressed the gathering and reflected on Late Natung’s exemplary life.
“Born to a humble family of Sepai Natung and Yache Natung, Late Dera Natung was raised in Veo village of East Kameng District, Arunachal Pradesh. He was an individual of remarkable versatility. An alumnus of Sainik School, Imphal, he graduated with honours in Political Science from J.N. College, Pasighat in 1984, and completed his post-graduation at Punjab University in 1986,” Dr. Khan noted.
He added that with a philosophy of simple living and high thinking, Late Natung emerged as a prominent student leader and went on to serve as an MLA for three consecutive terms from the 12th Pakke Kessang constituency starting in 1999.
His significant contributions spanned various ministries, including Sports and Youth Affairs, Tourism, Social Welfare, Art & Culture, Fisheries, Library, and Education.
The Principal also recounted the tragic loss of Late Natung, who passed away in a helicopter crash near Bhalukpong on May 8, 2001, while on a noble mission surveying sites for new institutions in the Bomdila-Tawang region.
Dr. Khan emphasized the importance of keeping Late Natung’s spirit alive.
“He was an illustrious figure — a great leader, a thinker, a social worker, and above all, a compassionate human being. His commitment to education was transformative, leading to significant developments in the sector. In recognition of his tremendous contributions, this college was named in his honour on May 27, 2001,” he added.
He urged students to embody the values Late Natung represented, saying, “True homage would be to foster his legacy by working for the betterment of society, as he did during his short but impactful life.”
The event witnessed the participation of a large number of students, teachers, PETs, non-teaching staff, the CTO of the SW NCC unit, and NCC cadets of the college. They actively took part in the tribute and expressed their pride in being part of an institution named after such a legendary figure, appreciating the opportunity to learn about his life and contributions and ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
