July 29, 2026 10:17 pm
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ONLINE AGE

(Online version of the Arunachal Age newspaper)

Author name: OnlineAge

Latest News, Popular News, State News

RGU hosts consultative meeting on strengthening mental healthcare

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RONO HILLS : In a significant initiative to strengthen mental healthcare systems in Arunachal Pradesh, the Indian Council of Medical Research-Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Study (ICMR-AITS) Project Team of Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) organised a consultative-cum-stakeholder meeting of mental health professionals and advocates at the university. The meeting brought together around 25 mental health professionals and advocates representing various organisations and service sectors across the state. Participants included counsellors from District Child Protection Units (DCPU), clinical psychologists and counsellors from Tele-MANAS Arunachal Pradesh, professionals from Midpu Mental Hospital, substance abuse counsellors from Kripa Foundation and Opioid Substitution Treatment (OST) Centres, representatives of Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS), private practitioners, school counsellors and mental health advocates. The deliberations focused on the prevailing mental health scenario in Arunachal Pradesh, covering emerging mental health concerns, contributing factors, help-seeking pathways, barriers to treatment, family and parenting issues, and gaps in mental health infrastructure and service delivery. The consultation was facilitated by ICMR-AITS Project Research Scientist-II Dr Leeyir Ete. During the discussions, participants highlighted the critical role of family environment and parenting practices in shaping mental health outcomes and stressed the need for preventive interventions and stronger emotional support systems within families and communities. Another key recommendation was the development of culturally relevant and context-specific mental health interventions alongside conventional counselling approaches. Participants emphasised the importance of integrating local cultural practices, community resources and indigenous knowledge systems to improve the accessibility and effectiveness of mental healthcare services. Speaking during the meeting, Tele-MANAS Arunachal Pradesh In-charge Dr Hatobin Mai highlighted the programme’s contribution in expanding access to mental healthcare services across the state. He also underscored the role of District Mental Health Programmes (DMHPs) operating in 16 districts in improving outreach and service delivery. ICMR-AITS Project Principal Investigator Dr Tarun Mene described the consultation as an important step towards building a more coordinated and responsive mental healthcare ecosystem in the state. He emphasised that meaningful progress in mental health requires sustained collaboration among professionals, institutions, communities and policymakers. Co-Principal Investigator Dr Amit Kumar highlighted the responsibility of mental health professionals in addressing growing mental health challenges and stressed the need for collective efforts to strengthen support systems and service delivery mechanisms. A major outcome of the meeting was the development of a referral linkage pathway connecting mental health professionals and service providers according to their areas of expertise. The initiative is expected to facilitate timely referrals, improve inter-agency coordination and ensure that individuals receive appropriate care and support. The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from stakeholders to continue collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing mental health awareness, strengthening referral systems and expanding access to quality mental healthcare services across Arunachal Pradesh.    

Readers Forum

Why the next Rajya Sabha MP from Arunachal should be from TCL region

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Wangtum H Lowang Arunachal Pradesh is a land of remarkable diversity, home to more than 20 tribes and over 100 sub-tribes. While it is neither practical nor possible to ensure parliamentary representation for every tribe, it is both achievable and desirable to ensure that all major regions of the state are fairly represented in national decision-making. Broadly, Arunachal Pradesh may be viewed as comprising four major regions: Western Arunachal (from Tawang to Pakke-Kessang), Central Arunachal (from Papum Pare to Upper Siang), Eastern Arunachal (from Dibang Valley to Namsai), and South-Eastern Arunachal comprising Tirap, Changlang, and Longding (TCL). Since Arunachal Pradesh’s first Rajya Sabha election in 1978, representation in the Upper House has come primarily from the Central and Eastern regions. Central Arunachal has produced five Rajya Sabha Members, while Eastern Arunachal has produced two. In contrast, the TCL region remains the only major geopolitical region of the state that has never been represented in the Rajya Sabha. For nearly five decades, Tirap, Changlang, and Longding have remained absent from Arunachal Pradesh’s Rajya Sabha journey despite their significant contributions to the state’s development, security, and cultural heritage. Located along the international border with Myanmar, the region occupies a strategically important position and is home to vibrant indigenous communities whose perspectives deserve a place in national policymaking. The call for a Rajya Sabha representative from TCL is not a demand for special treatment, nor is it directed against any tribe, district, or region. It is simply a call for equitable regional representation. Every major region of Arunachal Pradesh should have an opportunity to contribute its voice, aspirations, and experiences to the Parliament of India. The present Rajya Sabha election offers a unique opportunity to correct this long-standing imbalance. Out of the twelve candidates who have filed nominations, eleven belong to regions that have already enjoyed Rajya Sabha representation. Only one candidate comes from the TCL region. This fact carries special significance. Not only has TCL never sent a representative to the Rajya Sabha, but this is also among the very few occasions—if not the first—when the region has produced a serious candidate for consideration. As such, this lone candidature represents far more than an individual political aspiration. It symbolizes the hopes and aspirations of an entire region that has patiently waited for nearly fifty years to be included in the state’s parliamentary representation. Electing the next Rajya Sabha MP from TCL would therefore be more than the selection of a candidate. It would be a historic step toward ensuring balanced regional representation in Arunachal Pradesh. It would affirm the state’s commitment to inclusivity, fairness, and equal participation, while sending a powerful message that every major region matters and deserves a seat at the national table. The question before the electors is not merely who should occupy the Rajya Sabha seat. The larger question is whether the only major region of Arunachal Pradesh that has remained unrepresented since 1978 should finally be given its rightful opportunity to contribute to national policymaking. After nearly five decades, the case for TCL’s first Rajya Sabha representative is compelling. The time has come to complete the circle of representation in Arunachal Pradesh. The next Rajya Sabha Member from Arunachal Pradesh should be from the TCL region. (The writer is Director of Nocte Digest)

Latest News, Popular News, State News

East Siang launches month-long campaign against malaria

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PASIGHAT : Anti-Malaria Month (AMM) 2026 was formally launched at the Pasighat Municipal Council (PMC) Conference Hall on Monday with a renewed call for collective action to eliminate malaria and strengthen awareness on vector-borne diseases. Organised by the District Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (DVBDCP), East Siang, the month-long campaign is being observed from June 1 to 30 under the theme, “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can, Now We Must.” Pasighat East MLA Er T Darang attended the inaugural programme as the chief guest, while Pasighat Municipal Council Chief Councillor Tagom Padung was the guest of honour and PMC Deputy Chief Councillor Kamin Lego attended as the special guest. Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries underscored the importance of public participation, environmental sanitation, early diagnosis, timely treatment and community awareness in achieving malaria elimination goals. They urged citizens to actively support preventive measures and maintain cleanliness in their surroundings to curb mosquito breeding. Officials of the DVBDCP delivered a detailed presentation on malaria prevention, control strategies and the current disease scenario in the district. The presentation highlighted the need for sustained vigilance and greater community involvement in combating malaria. Among those present were East Siang District Medical Officer (DMO) Dr YY Pertin, Pasighat Municipal Council (PMC) Municipal Executive Officer J Pertin, programme officers of the Health Department, councillors, officials of the PMC and District Medical Office, healthcare workers and students of Government Upper Primary School, Gumin Nagar. The enthusiastic participation of elected representatives, municipal officials, healthcare personnel and students reflected a shared commitment towards achieving a malaria-free East Siang district. (DIPR)  

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Workshop on Solid Waste Management Rules 2026 held

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ANINI : The Department of Panchayati Raj, Dibang Valley, on Tuesday organised a district-level workshop on the implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026 at the Circuit House in Anini. Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner Bekir Nyorak attended the programme as the chief guest. The workshop was attended by Zilla Parishad Members Eta Mihu and Siyo Mihu, Heads of Departments, member secretaries and Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members. District Panchayat Development Officer (DPDO) Lijum Ete presented the district’s preparedness and action plan for effective implementation of the Rules. The deliberations focused on strengthening waste management systems in rural areas in compliance with the directions of the Supreme Court, with emphasis on coordinated and sustainable efforts. Addressing the participants, the DPDO directed PRI members to identify and geo-map campsites and other vulnerable locations prone to solid waste accumulation by October 31, 2026. He also urged Panchayats to promote source segregation and responsible waste disposal practices at the community level. Concerned authorities were further instructed to conduct detailed surveys and submit proposals for scientific solid waste management and door-to-door waste collection systems to ensure cleaner and healthier villages across the district. The workshop concluded with a collective commitment from all stakeholders to advance sustainable waste management practices and environmental stewardship throughout Dibang Valley. (DIPR)      

Latest News, Popular News, State News

RGU conducts AIFF D certificate coaching course

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RONO HILLS :  The Department of Physical Education, Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), successfully conducted the All India Football Federation (AIFF) D Certificate Coaching Course from May 28 to June 2 in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association (APFA). A total of 24 aspiring coaches from Arunachal Pradesh and Assam participated in the six-day programme aimed at enhancing grassroots football coaching skills and practical competencies. The course was conducted by AIFF-certified Coach Educator and RGU Assistant Professor Sangey Tsering, while Dawa Tsering served as Course Coordinator and Tasi Leya provided physiotherapy support. The training combined classroom sessions with extensive field-based instruction, covering coaching methodology, player development, session planning, football teaching principles and grassroots football development. More than 85 young football trainees from various academies across the state took part in practical sessions, enabling participants to gain valuable hands-on coaching experience. A key highlight of the programme was the Grassroots Football Festival, which provided trainee coaches with practical exposure to organising football activities for young players in a fun and development-oriented environment. The course concluded with a theory examination and a valedictory function at the university. Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) Vice Chancellor Prof Jayadeba Sahoo attended the event as the chief guest, while RGU Registrar Dr NT Rikam was the guest of honour. Also present were Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences Dean Prof Sambhu Prasad, Department of Physical Education Head Dr Tadang Minu, APFA representatives, faculty members and participants. Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries underscored the importance of coach education in strengthening grassroots football and nurturing future sporting talent. They congratulated the participants on successfully completing the course and encouraged them to contribute actively to football development in their respective communities. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, group photograph and refreshments, marking another significant step towards the promotion of football in Arunachal Pradesh.    

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Nomination process begins for Arunachal’s lone RS seat election

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ITANAGAR : The nomination process for polls to the lone Rajya Sabha seat from Arunachal Pradesh commenced on Monday with the issuance of the Election Commission notification, an official said. The last date for filing nominations is June 8, while scrutiny of papers will be taken up on June 9, he said. The last date for withdrawal of candidature is June 11. Sitting MP Nabam Rebia’s term ends on June 23. In the event of a contest, polling will take place on June 18 and counting of votes will be held the same day, the official said. The EC has earlier announced the elections to 27 Rajya Sabha seats, including 24 biennial vacancies in 10 states. A total of 14 candidates have submitted applications, seeking the ruling BJP’s nomination for the lone Rajya Sabha seat from Arunachal Pradesh, state party president Kaling Moyong said. Those in the fray include Environment and Forest Minister Wangki Lowang, incumbent Rajya Sabha MP Nabam Rebia, Pasighat West MLA Ninong Ering, former ministers Taba Tedir and Tage Taki, and former state BJP presidents Tai Tagak and Tangor Tapak. BJP sources, however, said that no candidate has been finalised and the party’s Parliamentary Board is yet to meet to decide on the nominee. With the BJP commanding an overwhelming majority in the 60-member Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, the party nominee is expected to comfortably win the Rajya Sabha seat. (Source: PTI)      

REGIONAL

New yellow-throated marten found in Assam’s Kaziranga

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GUWAHATI : A new species of marten has been found in Kaziranga National Park in Assam, the government said on Tuesday. In a social media post, the Chief Minister’s Office said the sighting of the yellow-throated marten in Kaziranga underscores the strength of Assam’s conservation model, where protected habitats continue to support remarkable biodiversity and wildlife resilience. “Under the leadership of HCM Dr. @himantabiswa (Himanta Biswa Sarma), Assam is creating conservation success stories that extend beyond protecting landscapes to nurturing thriving ecosystems,” it said. The Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve is the largest in the Northeast and is thronged by domestic and international tourists in large numbers for its famed one-horned rhinoceros. Tourist footfall to the forest rose by over 15 per cent in 2025-26 to 4.68 lakh, of which foreign tourist arrivals increased from 17,693 to 30,474 in a year. The Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was declared a national park in 1974. It is inhabited by the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinos as well as many mammals, including tigers, elephants, panthers and bears, and thousands of birds. The park is located in Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam. It is also located beside the Brahmaputra river on the north and the Karbi Anglong Mountains on the south. (Source: PTI)    

REGIONAL

3 militants arrested on extortion charges in Manipur

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IMPHAL : Three militants were arrested on charges of extortion in Manipur, police said on Tuesday. Two cadres of the proscribed Peoples’ Liberation Army were arrested from Imphal East district on Monday, they said. The suspects were identified as Maibam Arun Singh (49) and Thangjam Surankumar Singh (30), they added. A member of the Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup was arrested from an office complex in Imphal West district. He was identified as Bramacharimayum Sana Sharma alias Ibungo alias Manisana (38), police said. These militants used to threaten locals and small businesses, demanding money, they said. (Source: PTI)    

REGIONAL

Tripura: 6 forest personnel injured in attack by suspected timber smugglers

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AGARTALA : Six forest personnel, including a range officer, were injured as suspected timber smugglers attacked them in a remote area of North Tripura, officials said on Tuesday. Two vehicles of the Forest Department were extensively damaged in the attack that happened in the Kanchapur police station area on Monday night, they said. Acting on a tip-off, a team of the department tried to intercept a timber-laden vehicle near Chandipur around 11 pm. As the driver did not stop the vehicle, the forest personnel chased it on a jeep, they said. “A few kilometres away, the driver fled, abandoning the timber-laden vehicle. But shortly after, a group of about 50 smugglers returned with dao and sticks, and attacked the forest personnel. To save their lives, the personnel took shelter in the dense forest,” said Sub Divisional Forest Officer (SDFO) Suman Mitra. “Six personnel, including a ranger officer, were injured in the attack and two departmental vehicles were vandalised,” he said. A case has been lodged in connection with the attack, Mitra said, adding that no arrest has been made so far. (Source: PTI)        

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Lower Siang reviews monsoon preparedness

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LIKABALI  : A preparedness meeting for the ensuing South-West Monsoon 2026 was held at Likabali on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Lower Siang Additional Deputy Commissioner Mokar Riba to review disaster management measures and strengthen emergency response mechanisms across the district. The meeting was attended by administrative officers, Heads of Departments of Central and State government establishments, representatives of the Army, District Police, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Border Roads Task Force/Border Roads Organisation (BRTF/BRO) and other stakeholder agencies. The deliberations focused on formulating strategies to effectively manage and mitigate disaster or disaster-like situations that may arise during the monsoon season. Representatives of various departments and agencies shared updates on preparedness measures undertaken within their respective jurisdictions. Highlighting the vulnerability of the Akajan–Bame road stretch, a vital lifeline connecting several upper districts, ADC Riba advised commuters to avoid night travel and unnecessary journeys during adverse weather conditions. He emphasised that disaster management is a collective responsibility and requires close coordination among all stakeholders for effective response. Lower Siang Superintendent of Police Bomken Basar stressed the need for the District Disaster Control Room to remain operational round the clock throughout the monsoon period. He also underscored the importance of extending preparedness measures beyond the district headquarters and ensuring that all administrative circles remain alert and equipped to respond promptly to emergencies. Earlier, District Disaster Management Officer Tarik Nyitan welcomed the participants and outlined the agenda of the meeting. He urged all departments and agencies to furnish details of preventive and preparedness measures being undertaken to tackle monsoon-related disasters. Following detailed discussions, the participants resolved to strengthen coordination among departments and establish a robust framework for monsoon preparedness and disaster response across the district. (Source: DIPR)