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(Online version of the Arunachal Age newspaper)

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MLA Dirchi stresses quality execution of projects

BASAR : Local MLA Nyabi Jini Dirchi on Wednesday stressed the importance of maintaining quality in execution of developmental projects while chairing the monthly District Level Monitoring Committee (DLMC) meeting jointly with Leparada Deputy Commissioner Himani Meena at the DC Conference Hall, Basar. The meeting reviewed the implementation status of centrally sponsored schemes, flagship programmes and ongoing developmental projects across the district, including sanctioned, completed and under-construction works. Special focus was laid on infrastructure projects such as the New District Headquarters near Bam and the Central Divisional Commissioner Office at Pagi. Heads of Departments presented updates on departmental activities and project implementation through PowerPoint presentations, following which the chair reviewed progress and issued necessary directions for effective execution and timely completion of works. Highlighting concerns over the poor condition of the Akajan-Likabali-Bam Road, MLA Nyabi Jini Dirchi urged the executing authority to immediately undertake repair and maintenance works, particularly under Packages II and III within Leparada district. Describing the road as a “lifeline” for the people of the district, the MLA stressed the urgency of restoration works. The executing authority informed the meeting that maintenance works in the affected stretches would be taken up within one month. The MLA further directed all executing departments to share master plans of major infrastructure projects with district authorities prior to commencement of work to ensure proper scrutiny, planning and execution. She categorically stated that quality of work should not be compromised under any circumstances and stressed the need for due diligence in implementation of all developmental projects. Emphasising self-reliance and local economic growth, the MLA said agriculture, horticulture, fisheries and allied sectors should be actively promoted to strengthen self-sufficiency and generate livelihood opportunities for local entrepreneurs and farmers. Reviewing welfare schemes, Leparada DC Himani Meena expressed concern over the high pendency of applications under schemes such as Deen Dayal Swavalamban Yojana, Atma Nirbhar Krishi Yojana and Atma Nirbhar Bagwani Yojana at the bank level. She directed concerned departments to designate nodal officers for regular monitoring of pending applications and ensure close coordination with banks and beneficiaries for timely disbursement of loans and subsidies. The DC also appreciated the initiatives of the Arunachal State Rural Livelihoods Mission in promoting women empowerment through Self-Help Groups and directed the District Mission Manager to establish an emporium in Basar township for marketing local handicrafts and indigenous products. During the meeting, departments were instructed to ensure that existing public infrastructure is not damaged during execution of new developmental works, particularly during earth-cutting activities. The meeting also reviewed sanitation issues in market areas, and the Executive Engineer of Urban Development and Housing was directed to initiate action against non-compliant shopkeepers under the Solid Waste Management Rules. The MLA further informed that a Special Surgery Camp is tentatively scheduled to be held at Todak Basar District Hospital on June 22, 2026, under the supervision of renowned surgeon Dr Moji Jini, former Director of Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences, along with surgeons from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi. (DIPR)

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Annual credit plan for Lohit launched

TEZU : The District Consultative Committee (DCC) and District Level Review Committee (DLRC) meetings of Lohit district for the quarters ending December 2025 and March 2026 were held at the Conference Hall of the District Civil Secretariat, Tezu on Thursday. The meeting was chaired by Lohit Deputy Commissioner Kesang Ngurup Damo in the presence of NABARD Assistant General Manager (District Development) Kamal Roy, Lohit Lead District Manager Ojing Taboh, branch managers of various banks and officials from line departments. During the meeting, Damo formally launched the Annual Credit Plan (ACP) for Lohit district for the financial year 2026-27. The ACP has been prepared based on the Potential Linked Credit Plan (PLP) developed by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). Addressing the meeting, NABARD Assistant General Manager Kamal Roy informed that the total credit potential under the priority sector for 2026-27 has been assessed at Rs 80.65 crore, including Rs 40.57 crore earmarked for the agriculture and allied sector. He said the PLP serves as a roadmap for banks to facilitate credit flow to priority sectors and forms the basis for preparation of the district’s ACP. Lohit Lead District Manager Ojing Taboh presented the district’s banking performance through a PowerPoint presentation. The committee reviewed key banking indicators, including the Credit-Deposit Ratio, priority sector lending, implementation of Atmanirbhar schemes under Agriculture and Allied Departments, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Swavalamban Yojana, Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana, social security schemes and Self Help Group-bank linkage programmes. During the deliberations, Roy stressed the need for enhanced credit flow to agriculture, allied activities and other priority sectors. He also highlighted the importance of financial literacy programmes and discussed opportunities under the Agri-Clinics and Agri-Business Centres Scheme. In his concluding remarks, DC Damo stressed the importance of close coordination among banks and line departments for achieving developmental goals. He advised banks to ensure timely processing of loan proposals and called for effective implementation of government-sponsored schemes and state flagship programmes to improve the economic condition of rural households.

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West Siang NCORD meeting reviews anti-drug measures

AALO : The monthly meeting of the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) Committee of West Siang district was held on Thursday at the Deputy Commissioner’s conference hall under the chairmanship of Assistant Commissioner-in-charge Deputy Commissioner Koj Tacho. Addressing the meeting, Deputy Superintendent of Police Taba Biroy briefed members on the latest cases registered and arrests made by the Police Department during the reporting period in connection with drug-related offences. He appealed to civil society organisations and stakeholders to intensify awareness campaigns against drug abuse, stating that reducing both demand and supply is essential to break the chain of substance abuse and trafficking. The meeting reviewed the Action Taken Report of the previous NCORD meeting, status of drug law enforcement, rehabilitation initiatives, preventive awareness programmes and inter-departmental coordination efforts undertaken during the past month. Representatives from various departments and agencies shared updates on measures taken to curb drug trafficking and substance abuse in the district and assured full cooperation in tackling the growing menace. During the deliberations, officials highlighted recent achievements as well as challenges faced in implementing anti-drug measures. The committee directed concerned agencies to intensify surveillance and strengthen enforcement against illegal drug-related activities. Members also suggested conducting monthly sector-wise awareness and checking drives across Aalo township to strengthen preventive measures and public awareness. The committee resolved to continue sustained awareness campaigns, intelligence-sharing mechanisms and rehabilitation support for affected individuals through coordinated efforts among all stakeholders. The chairperson also expressed concern over poor attendance by some members during previous meetings and directed all concerned to ensure active participation in future review meetings. (DIPR)

REGIONAL

Combing operations underway to trace those held hostage by armed groups: Manipur CM

IMPHAL : Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Thursday said security forces are carrying out search and combing operations to trace those held hostage by armed forces. During a visit to Makhan Naga village in Kangpokpi district, he told reporters that four persons, suspected to be involved in the kidnapping of the six Naga people, have been arrested. The government is taking the issue seriously, and search and combing operations by security forces are underway to trace the hostages, the chief minister said. More than 38 people were abducted and held hostage by armed groups in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts on May 13, hours after three church leaders were killed in an ambush in Kangpokpi district. Of them, 31 people have been released, including 12 Naga women and 16 Kukis. Six Naga men, however, continued to be held hostage, and their whereabouts are not yet known. Kuki Inpi Manipur, the apex body of the Kuki tribes in the state, claimed that 14 people from the community continued to be held hostage by Naga groups. Singh said investigations were underway to nab the culprits and assured people that the hostages would be traced out soon. The Makhan Naga Village in Kangpokpi district also has a Relief Camp for Internally Displaced Persons. Singh met those taking shelter at the Makhen Baptist Church and distributed relief materials. The village chief told the chief minister that many Nagas in Kangpokpi district had left their villages out of fear. (Source: PTI)

National, REGIONAL

Mandaviya to review National Games preparations in 3-day Meghalaya tour

NEW DELHI : Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will chair a review meeting for the 39th National Games in Meghalaya and also inaugurate an Integrated Multipurpose Indoor Sports Complex in Shillong during a three-day visit to the North-Eastern state starting Friday. The Host State Contract for the National Games to be held in March next year will be signed with Meghalaya in the presence of senior dignitaries and representatives of the Indian Olympic Association. Mandaviya will also participate in a series of programmes related to youth affairs, sports infrastructure development, and review centrally-sponsored schemes in the state. During the visit, the Minister will attend a Chintan Shivir organised by Department of Youth Affairs. Meghalaya Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Shakliar Warjri and other senior officials will also be present. Mandaviya will inaugurate the Integrated Multipurpose Indoor Sports Complex in Shillong on Saturday along with Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma. “The Integrated Multipurpose Indoor Sports Complex, being developed at a project cost of Rs 132.9 crore, is designed as a modern multi-functional sports facility capable of hosting disciplines such as basketball, badminton and volleyball, besides other indoor sporting events,” the ministry stated. The complex is also a key venue for the National Games and will include integrated infrastructure such as multipurpose halls, auditorium, banquet facilities,etc. The review meeting of the Games preparations will include presentations and discussions involving officials from Meghalaya and representatives from other North-Eastern states. As part of the visit, Mandaviya will inspect the Umsawli Sports Complex in Shillong, including the aquatics and tennis facilities, to review ongoing sports infrastructure development in the state. The Minister will additionally review the implementation and progress of centrally sponsored schemes in Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya under the Poorvottar Sampark Setu initiative on May 31. (Source: PTI)

REGIONAL

Prez Murmu confers President’s Police Colour upon Sikkim Police

GANGTOK : President Draupadi Murmu on Thursday conferred the prestigious President’s Police Colour on the Sikkim Police at an event at Paljor Stadium. Sikkim has now become the 15th state of the country and the third in the northeast to receive the award. The President’s Police Colour, also known as ‘Nishaan’, is the highest ceremonial honour bestowed upon a state or central police force in India in recognition of exceptional service, bravery, and professionalism. The officers of the state police honoured with the President’s Police Colour are authorised to wear a special emblem on the uniform. Speaking on the occasion, Murmu said, “I am delighted to have conferred the ‘President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service’ upon the Sikkim Police. This honour is a matter of pride for all members of the Sikkim Police.” She praised the Sikkim Police, founded in 1897, for dedication to maintaining law and order in the strategically important state. Observing that the police have had a colonial bearing, having been set up to control the people instead of serving them, the President said the mindset must change, and police should become citizens’ allies and guides. “By adopting the role of an ally, trust between the public and the police will increase,” she said. Murmu called upon the police to embrace technology to deal with cybercrimes. “Now, new challenges like cybercrime, online fraud, hacking, and deepfakes are emerging. To tackle these new challenges, the police must become proficient in the latest technology, cybersecurity, and digital investigation,” she added. (Source: PTI)

REGIONAL

New species of gecko discovered in Assam

GUWAHATI : A new species of gecko – Cyrtodactylus Bapme – has been discovered in Goalpara district of Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Thursday. “Nature continues to reveal new wonders from Assam. The first confirmed record of the bent-toed gecko (Cyrtodactylus bapme) in Assam from Urpad Beel highlights the extraordinary biodiversity our ecosystems support,” he said in a post on X. The government’s continued conservation efforts are helping preserve these fragile habitats where diverse species continue to thrive, Sarma said. (Source: PTI)

National, REGIONAL

Delhi court issues notice to Assam CM Himanta Sarma over remarks on ‘Miya Muslims’

NEW DELHI : A Delhi court has issued a notice to Himanta Biswa Sarma on a plea filed by activist Harsh Mander seeking the registration of an FIR against the Assam chief minister for his “provocative” remarks on “Miya Muslims”. Additional Sessions Judge Sonu Agnihotri issued the notice to Biswa while hearing a revision petition filed by Mander against the April 20 order of a magisterial court, which refused to order the filing of an FIR against the BJP leader. In its order dated May 26, the court said, “The counsel for the petitioner further drew my attention to the standard operating procedure (SOP) for Zero FIR and E-FIR issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs filed by the petitioner on record with the revision petition. In view of the submissions made by the counsel for the petitioner, issue a notice of revision petition to the respondents on filing of appropriate reply for July 15, 2026.” In April, Mander had moved an application seeking an FIR against Sarma over an allegedly communally charged statement made on January 27 during an event at Digboi in Assam’s Tinsukia district. According to the plea, Sarma allegedly said that “four to five lakh Miya voters” would be removed from the electoral rolls during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Assam. ‘Miya’ is a pejorative term used for Bengali-speaking Muslims in Assam, and the non-Bengali-speaking people generally identify them as Bangladeshi immigrants. In recent years, activists from the community have started adopting the term as a gesture of defiance. Mander’s application also claimed that the Assam chief minister incited people against ‘Miyas’ by allegedly saying that “only if they face troubles will they leave Assam” and that “we are ensuring that they cannot vote in Assam”. Before the sessions court, the counsel for Mander argued that the trial court had wrongly dismissed the application on grounds of lack of territorial jurisdiction. The counsel submitted that information relating to a cognisable offence could be provided to any police station irrespective of where the offence was committed, relying upon the concept of Zero FIR. The court noted the submissions and said, “Issue notice of revision petition to the respondents.” (Source: PTI)

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NCORD meeting held

PASIGHAT :  The 21st monthly meeting of the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) was held on Thursday under the chairmanship of East Siang Deputy Commissioner Sonalika Jiwani to review enforcement measures, rehabilitation initiatives and awareness programmes against drug abuse, alcoholism and related social issues in the district. The meeting was attended by East Siang Superintendent of Police Pankaj Lamba and officers from various departments and stakeholder organisations. Reviewing the Action Taken Report of the previous meeting, the Superintendent of Police informed that intensive joint checking and inspection drives were conducted by the Police Department, District Administration and Department of Tax and Excise against the illegal sale of liquor, tobacco and narcotic substances across different parts of the district. During the month, enforcement agencies carried out several raids, checking drives and seizures of Indian Made Foreign Liquor, beer and breezer products from various locations. The meeting also reviewed destruction drives against wild cannabis cultivation conducted jointly by the District Administration, Police and Forest Department in identified areas of Pasighat and adjoining regions. Awareness campaigns against drug abuse and substance addiction were organised across the district through coordinated efforts of the Police Department and stakeholders, reaching a large number of people. The functioning of seven de-addiction centres and ongoing rehabilitation initiatives in the district were also reviewed. Officials informed that recovering addicts are being encouraged to undertake vocational and skill-based training programmes, including computer training, mushroom cultivation and electrician courses. East Siang DC Sonalika Jiwani stressed the need to engage youth through constructive activities such as sports events, exposure tours and educational campus visits for students aspiring for higher studies and career opportunities. The meeting also emphasised strict implementation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, particularly the prohibition on the sale of tobacco products within 500 metres of educational institutions. The Education Department was directed to identify vulnerable areas where tobacco counters are operating illegally for necessary action. Concerned departments were also directed to conduct surveys in areas associated with alcohol abuse and gambling activities. The DC stressed the need to make such illegal activities economically unviable through sustained enforcement and strict adherence to bar timing regulations. East Siang SP Pankaj Lamba appreciated the role of government rehabilitation centres and stated that success stories of recovering addicts and facilities available at rehabilitation centres would be promoted through media platforms to spread awareness and encourage more individuals to seek help. The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from all stakeholders to continue coordinated efforts towards building a drug-free and socially responsible society in East Siang district. (DIPR)

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DC inspects Subansiri bridge works

DAPORIJO : Upper Subansiri Deputy Commissioner Tasso Gambo on Thursday inspected the ongoing construction work of the Subansiri Bridge being developed under the Trans Arunachal Highway (TAH) project. The bridge project, initiated during 2022-23, is expected to improve connectivity between West Siang and Leparada districts. During the inspection, the DC reviewed the progress and quality of the ongoing construction work and directed the executing agency to expedite the remaining concrete works while ensuring adherence to quality standards. He also assessed the ground-level status of the project and instructed the concerned officials to maintain the pace of work for timely completion. The DC was accompanied by officials from the Highway Department and representatives of the construction agency. (DIPR)