Ziro, February 18, 2026:
MLA Oken Tayeng of the 39th Mebo Assembly Constituency accompanied a Japanese delegation to the scenic Apatani Valley, highlighting cultural ties and sustainable living practices. The visiting team included Dr. Kiyohiko Toyama, former Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan and former State Minister of Finance, Shri Bhattachan Sub Narsingh, CEO of Silverpeak Global, Nagasaki, and Shri Isaku Mori, Japan & Korea Manager at SPJ Japan.
During the visit, the delegation explored the Apatani Cultural Landscape, which is tentatively listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The valley drew appreciation for its unique balance of nature, traditional culture, and community-based sustainability, which the visitors noted shares similarities with Japanese cultural values.
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| Delegates visiting the bamboo grove. (Photo Oken Tayeng) |
The team was hosted by Shri Habung Lampung, APCS, Joint Secretary to the HCM, and his family. The visit featured local tours, traditional dance performances, interaction with a Nyibu (shaman), and authentic Apatani cuisine, offering the delegation a close look at the region’s heritage and way of life.
