The Yak Mela 3.0 was successfully held at Pangkangteng Tso (PTSO) in Tawang on Sunday, showcasing the rich cultural and pastoral heritage of the Brokpa community. The event was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner of Tawang, Namgyal Angmo, and Commander of Tawang Brigade, Brigadier Bhupal Singh, in the presence of Zila Parishad Chairperson, Leki Gombu, Abbot Jamyang Choekorling Venerable Dobley Rinpoche, and other dignitaries.

Organised by the Monyul Society in collaboration with the Tawang Brigade of the Indian Army and the District Administration, the event was supported by Chief Minister Pema Khandu. The mela saw enthusiastic participation from yak herders across the district. The National Research Centre on Yak, Dirang, distributed emergency tents, gumboots, solar lights, blankets, and animal feed to the participants. Cultural performances by local artists and Indian Army troupes added vibrancy to the occasion.

Speaking at the event, DC Namgyal Angmo underlined the importance of the yak in sustaining the livelihoods of the Brokpa nomadic community. She said the Yak Mela serves as a platform to understand and preserve the Brokpa way of life and the yak species through modern scientific approaches.

The DC also highlighted the potential of yak-based products to boost the local economy and tourism, urging departments to innovate beyond traditional ghee and churpi. She stressed the need for cleanliness at tourist spots and for promoting quality tourism in the district.

ZPC Tawang, Leki Gombu, spoke about ongoing government initiatives for the welfare of Brokpas and yak conservation. Special Guest, Lhamo Yangchin, commended the organisers for preserving traditional Brokpa culture and emphasised the importance of safeguarding the yak species.

Festival Director Tenzin Jordan announced that the Yak Festival will now be an annual event, with continued support from Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Guardian Minister of Tawang, Mama Natung. A message from the Home Minister and Guardian Minister of Tawang was also read out by Co-Director Tenzin Lhendup during the programme.