Northeast Desk, 24th May: Nabam Atum, the former chairman of the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC), passed away on May 23 at his residence in Doimukh after a battle with throat cancer. He was 75.
Atum was a renowned social worker and public leader, notably serving as the president of the Arunachal Vikas Parishad. He also led the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP) as its President, championing the preservation of indigenous faiths and cultures.
In addition to his work with IFCSAP, Nabam Atum was a founding member and office bearer of the Janjati Faith & Cultural Protection Forum of North East India. His contributions earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious ONE India Award, along with various state and national honors.
Born in 1948 to Nabam Epo and Nabam Yeni in Priapu village, Papum Pare district, Atum dedicated his life to protecting and preserving the Donyi-Polo faith of the Nyishi people. IFCSAP noted that Atum’s commitment began in his school days when he recognized the need to safeguard this ancient faith from extinction.
Nabam Atum’s last rites will be performed on May 25 at his Doimukh residence in Arunachal Pradesh. His legacy of social work and cultural preservation will be remembered by many in the region and beyond.