Nampong: Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Pema Khandu on Saturday inaugurated the seventh edition of the three-day Pangsau Pass international festival here in Changlang district.

Speaking on the occasion, Khandu said the main objective of the festival was to showcase the rich culture of Arunachal Pradesh.

"This is my maiden visit to Nampong and I am very much delighted and proud of the rich and diverse culture of Arunachal Pradesh. Earlier the festival was known as Pangsau Pass winter festival but now it has changed to Pangsau Pass international festival. Under the initiative of late former minister Setong Sena, the festival was first started in 2007 and we celebrate it every year," Khandu said.

This year, the state tourism department has sanctioned Rs 1 crore for the festival.

Stressing on the development of the state, Khandu said parts of eastern Arunachal also have the potential for tourism. He highlighted the government's focus on development of the state tourism sector.

"We have to promote the tourism sector of the state which is endowed with rich culture. The three districts of eastern Arunachal - Tirap, Changlang and Londing - are less developed compared to other districts of Arunachal. So, the BJP government has announced a special package for the development of these districts," Khandu said.

"We have a cordial relationship with our neighbouring country, Myanmar, and under the initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are trying to engage trade ties with Myanmar. I appeal to all the people to live in peace and harmony and play an important role in the development of the state," Khandu added.

More than hundred delegates from Myanmar participated in the festival. Altogether 24 indigenous communities of Arunachal Pradesh along with a troupe from Myanmar displayed their rich culture through traditional dances.

State cabinet ministers Kamlong, Mohesh Chai and Mossang, MLAs Laisem Simai, Tesam Pongte and P. Khimhun and BJP state president Tapir Gao, among others, attended the festival.