Itanagar, May 15: In a move blending tourism, symbolism, and strategic intent, the Arunachal Pradesh government has announced plans to host the Sunrise Festival in Dong, the high-altitude hamlet famed for being the first place in India to witness the sunrise.

Dong, perched at 4,070 feet near Kibithu along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with Tibet, catapulted into the limelight on January 1, 2000, when hundreds gathered to greet the first sunrise of the new millennium. Since then, this remote village with just nine households of the indigenous Meyor tribe has remained a point of global curiosity and quiet pride.

The state cabinet, led by the BJP government, approved the plan for the festival during a meeting on Tuesday, although the date is yet to be finalised.

This announcement comes amid renewed Chinese provocations, including the unilateral renaming of places within Arunachal Pradesh—a move India has strongly objected to. By celebrating Dong’s unique geography and culture, the state seeks to reinforce its identity and reaffirm its place on the Indian map through soft power and community engagement.

Located just 7 km from Walong and nestled at the confluence of the Lohit River and Sati stream, Dong isn’t just a geographical marvel — it’s a beacon of heritage, resilience, and strategic symbolism. With its dramatic sunrises, mist-covered hills, and cultural richness, the upcoming Sunrise Festival aims to shine a global spotlight on this remote yet radiant corner of India.

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