Herbal medicine expert presented with Padma Shri

ITANAGAR, Apr 23: Arunachal’s herbal medicine expert Yanung Jamoh Lego has been honored with the prestigious Padma Shri award for 2024.

The award was presented to her by President of India Draupadi Murmu at a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Monday.

Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) KT Parnaik congratulated Lego on being conferred with the award, calling it a proud moment for all Arunachalees.

He noted that the award is a recognition of the indigenous herbal medicine experts, whose healing practices are safe, effective, and ethically practiced.

Parnaik expressed hope that the award will contribute to the revival of traditional herbal treatment practices.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu also congratulated Lego for the prestigious award, highlighting her service to the Adi community in the Siang belt.

Lego, a former deputy director in the state agriculture department, has been treating patients suffering from life-threatening diseases for the last three decades through ancient herbal practices.

She has revitalized the traditional healing practices of the Adi community and operates from her center in the GTC area in Pasighat, East Siang district.

Additionally, she runs a YouTube channel where she shares videos of her medicine preparations for various ailments.

Lego was accorded a rousing reception upon her arrival in Pasighat on Tuesday evening by the locals.

Addressing a media briefing at the Siang Guest House in Pasighat, Lego expressed her gratitude to all present.

She acknowledged that the recognition bestowed upon her comes with immense pressure but also serves as motivation to redouble her efforts.

Speaking on the occasion, Lego Erang Kebang president Atop Lego, ABK East Siang general secretary Kalen Komut, Anggong Society district unit president Takiam Goi, and Adi Bané Aane Kébang (ABAK) president Oming Jamoh Pertin lauded Lego's contributions.

East Siang Deputy Commissioner, Tayi Taggu, also commended Lego for her achievement and remarked, "You are a dedicated healer who has proven yourself."