Author name: OnlineAge

  CHIMPU : The Arunachal Pradesh Biodiversity Board (APBB) celebrated the International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) 2026 at the Dr Verrier Elwin Conference Hall of the State Forest Research Institute (SFRI) here on Friday under the global theme “Acting Locally for Global Impact.” Delivering the keynote address, APBB Member Secretary HB Abo highlighted the significance of the International Day for Biological Diversity and stressed the importance of local action in achieving global conservation goals. He spoke on Arunachal Pradesh’s rich biological heritage, indigenous conservation practices and the implementation of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 through initiatives such as the preparation of People’s Biodiversity Registers (PBRs) and sustainable use of biological resources. He also appreciated the active participation of students and youth in biodiversity conservation efforts. Addressing the gathering, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife Protection and Information Technology) Devendra Dalai described Arunachal Pradesh as part of one of the world’s most significant biodiversity hotspots. He urged citizens to adopt simple and sustainable practices in their daily lives, stating that collective local efforts could create a meaningful global impact. The technical session featured presentations by G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment Itanagar Centre Head Dr Paromita Ghosh and Rajiv Gandhi University Professor Dr Hui Tag. Dr Ghosh spoke on the global biodiversity crisis, climate change, sustainable use of biological resources and India’s conservation initiatives, while emphasising the role of youth and community participation. Prof Hui Tag highlighted issues relating to global biodiversity governance, the upcoming Conference of the Parties (COP-17) to the Convention on Biological Diversity and the rich biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh. He also stressed the importance of biodiversity documentation, community-based conservation and the provisions of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. APBB Chairman Hawa Bagang reiterated the Board’s commitment to strengthening biodiversity conservation across the state. He highlighted initiatives to strengthen Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs), mobilise funding support for conservation programmes and encourage greater participation of students and local communities in biodiversity-related activities and research. The programme also featured prize distribution to winners of painting, model-making, craft-making and short film competitions organised to promote biodiversity awareness among students, youth and BMCs. Plantation drives were also conducted in several schools as part of the awareness campaign. More than 70 participants, including scientists, senior forest officials, staff of SFRI and APBB, representatives of Biodiversity Management Committees, teachers, students and other stakeholders, attended the programme. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by APBB Research Officer Dr Bamin Yakang, who said that every small action for nature contributes towards creating a lasting global impact.  

DAPORIJO : A state-level review committee of the Arunachal Pradesh State Food Commission (APSFC), led by Chairman Tarh Tarak along with members Ngaasah Tangjang and Maji Chokar, conducted a review visit to Upper Subansiri district on Friday. During the visit, the commission held a review meeting with officials of various line departments to assess the implementation, achievements and challenges of central and state flagship welfare schemes, including the National Food Security Act (NFSA), Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY), Supplementary Nutrition Programme under Hot Cooked Food (SNP-HCF) and PM POSHAN. Chairing the meeting, APSFC Chairman Tarh Tarak said the objective of the district tour was to assess ground-level realities, identify challenges faced by beneficiaries and departments, and explore possible remedies. He also emphasised the need to create greater public awareness about welfare schemes, particularly the NFSA, to ensure benefits reach the deserving sections of society. He urged the concerned departments to remain proactive in implementing welfare schemes in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat so that needy beneficiaries can fully avail the opportunities created by the Central Government for inclusive development. Commission members Maji Chokar and Ngaasah Tangjang also addressed the meeting. Upper Subansiri District Food and Civil Supplies Officer D Lampong presented the status of essential commodity stocks in the district and highlighted the current shortage of LPG supply as a major challenge. The meeting was attended by Upper Subansiri Additional Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Grievance Redressal Officer Biaro Sorum and heads of departments. (DIPR)    

AALO : The seventh day of the 9th State Level Hangpan Dada Memorial Trophy (HDMT) 2026 witnessed intense sporting action across multiple venues in Aalo, West Siang district, with football quarterfinals producing semifinalists while the volleyball league stage concluded successfully. Matches were held at Aalo Football Ground, Pakkam Ground, ITBP Ground, APPBN Ground and Siyom Army Ground, drawing enthusiastic participation and support from players and spectators. In the boys’ football quarterfinals, Keyi Panyor defeated Upper Siang 2–0, while Siang also registered a 2–0 victory over Longding to enter the semifinals. Papum Pare edged past Capital Complex 5–3 in a penalty shootout after regulation time ended in a draw. Lower Siang similarly advanced after defeating Upper Subansiri 5–4 on penalties following a closely fought match. In the girls’ football quarterfinals, Shi Yomi defeated Upper Subansiri 3–0, while Namsai secured a narrow 1–0 win against Longding. Capital Complex registered a commanding 3–0 victory over West Siang, and East Kameng overcame Tawang 1–0 to book semifinal berths. The boys’ football semifinals will be played on May 23 at the Main Ground, with Papum Pare taking on Siang at 1 pm, followed by the second semifinal between Keyi Panyor and Lower Siang at 2:45 pm. The girls’ football semifinals are scheduled for May 24 at Pakkam Ground, where Namsai will face Capital Complex at 1:30 pm, while Shi Yomi will take on East Kameng at 3 pm. Meanwhile, the volleyball league stage concluded at Siyom Army Ground. In the boys’ category, Papum Pare defeated Tirap 2–0, East Siang edged Tawang 2–1, Anjaw overcame Lower Subansiri 2–0, and East Kameng registered a 2–0 win against Shi Yomi. However, the scheduled matches between Namsai and Pakke Kessang, as well as Bichom and Capital Complex, could not be conducted after both teams failed to report within the stipulated time, and the matter was recorded as per tournament rules. In girls’ volleyball, Lohit defeated Upper Siang 2–0, Keyi Panyor overcame Shi Yomi 2–0, and Leparada registered a 2–0 victory over Upper Subansiri. Tirap also defeated Dibang Valley 2–0, while East Kameng secured a 2–0 win against Anjaw. The scheduled fixture between Namsai and Pakke Kessang could not be held as both teams failed to report on time.    

MENCHUKA ; As part of the run-up to the 12th International Yoga Day, the Spearhead Division under the aegis of Spear Corps organised yoga sessions at Menchuka and Manigong in Arunachal Pradesh to promote wellness, mindfulness and holistic living. Held amid the serene surroundings of the region, the sessions witnessed enthusiastic participation and highlighted the importance of yoga in promoting physical fitness, mental resilience and inner harmony. Participants performed various yogic exercises and breathing techniques aimed at enhancing overall well-being and encouraging a balanced lifestyle. The initiative reflected the Indian Army’s continued emphasis on healthy living, discipline and mental wellness, while also spreading awareness about the enduring values and global significance of yoga. The programme formed part of a series of activities being organised ahead of International Yoga Day to encourage wider participation and reinforce the message of harmony between mind, body and nature. (DIPR)