The Acting President of the Langtang Joint Traditional Council and Ponzhi Zinni, HRH Chief Nimnan Langnim, on Saturday, 22nd November 2026, inaugurated the Central Planning Committee (CPC) for the 2026 edition of Ilum Otarok (Tarok Day). The event took place at the Ponzhi Tarok Palace in Langtang North.
In a press release made available to Trill Times News, the National Publicity Secretary of NIO, Comr. G. C. Fale, said the committee will be led by Chief Mamfa Auta, the District Head of Fungyallang, as Chairman, with Nangor Ndam, Secretary of Ngwang Ishi O’Tarok (NIO), serving as Secretary. They will be working with 26 distinguished members of the Tarok nation selected to ensure a well-organized and impactful celebration.
Comr. Fale quoted HRH Chief Nimnan Langnim as saying that the committee’s work is central to the success of the 2026 edition.
“This assignment demands commitment and clarity of purpose,” the Acting President said. “I urge you to operate as one body, keep truthful records, and carry out every task with the sincerity our people are known for.”
The release further noted that the NIO National President, Amb. Nanpon Danjuma Sheni, presented the Terms of Reference (TOR) to guide the committee. He charged them to uphold excellence as planning progresses.
“The TOR provides a clear path for what needs to be done,” Amb. Sheni stated. “If each member contributes their best, we will deliver a Tarok Day that reflects our pride, our heritage, and our unity as a people.”
Goodwill messages were received, among them one from the Ponzhi Gani, Col. Dauda Nimyel (Rtd), who encouraged the committee to remain focused.
“Tarok Day is more than a celebration; it is a reminder of our shared identity,” Col. Nimyel said. “Let the decisions you make and the work you do strengthen the bond among our people.”
Speaking on behalf of the committee, Chairman Chief Mamfa Auta expressed his appreciation for the confidence reposed in him.
“I consider this responsibility an honour,” he said. “We will approach this task with seriousness and humility, and I call on every member of the team to work hand in hand so that Ilum Otarok 2026 becomes one of the finest editions ever celebrated.”
The inauguration, the statement added, marks the official onset of activities toward the much-cherished cultural festival that continues to unite the Tarok people at home and abroad.
