Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu launched the TRACTION 2026 Residency and Film Challenge on Monday, June 15. This new digital initiative aims to highlight the state's tourism, indigenous culture, and small businesses through creative storytelling.
Supported by the Union Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises under the RAMP scheme, the program is a joint effort between the state Industries Department, the Centre for Cultural Research and Documentation, and Rajiv Gandhi University. Speaking at the launch in Itanagar, Khandu emphasized the need for global visibility for the state's unique ecological and traditional assets.
"TRACTION 2026 is not merely a filmmaking challenge. It is a platform to tell the authentic stories of Arunachal Pradesh to the world," the Chief Minister said. He added that digital media allows creators from the region to serve as cultural ambassadors.
The program will select 25 emerging content creators from across the eight Northeastern states. From August 7 to August 21, these participants will attend a 15-day residency at Rajiv Gandhi University. During this time, they will produce five-minute films focusing on local cuisines, crafts, and entrepreneurial journeys.
State Industries Minister Nyato Dukam noted that the initiative merges creativity with economic growth. Industries and Commerce Commissioner Amjad Tak pointed to specific heritage products, such as handmade paper from Dirang, as items that could benefit from better digital branding. Course director Moji Riba highlighted that the project encourages responsible storytelling that protects the state's cultural identity.
The top two filmmakers will receive cash prizes of Rs 1 lakh, along with trophies and citations. All selected content will be featured on government social media channels to expand its reach.
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