Author name: OnlineAge

  YAZALI :  The mortal remains of noted social reformer and Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF) president Dr Bengia Tolum was laid to rest at his residence, Tolum Polyi, in Yazali on Friday. Dr Tolum passed away at the Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS), Naharlagun, on Thursday at the age of 69. He is survived by his wife, five sons and a daughter. Several political leaders, community representatives, well-wishers and members of the public gathered to pay their last respects to the late leader, whose contributions towards indigenous identity, social harmony and education left a lasting impact on the state. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu also paid homage to Dr Tolum and described him as a towering indigenous leader whose contributions to society would always be remembered. “Paid my last respects and homage to Dr Bengia Tolum at his residence in Yazali. A widely respected figure and a towering indigenous leader of the state, his immense contributions towards society and preservation of our indigenous identity will always be remembered with deep respect and gratitude,” Khandu stated in a social media post. Members of the Arunachal Press Club (APC) and the Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) also attended the funeral service and joined family members, residents and community leaders in paying tribute to the late social reformer. Expressing grief over his demise, APC president Amar Sangno described Dr Tolum’s death as an irreparable loss not only to the Nyishi community but to the entire state. “Dr Bengia Tolum was not merely a community leader; he was a bridge-builder, a guardian of indigenous heritage and a compassionate human being whose life was devoted to uplifting society. His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill,” Sangno said. He added that Dr Tolum’s contributions towards social harmony, preservation of indigenous identity, education and journalism-friendly public engagement would be remembered for generations. The APC and APUWJ also conveyed condolences to senior journalist Bengia Ajum (son of late Dr Tolum) and the bereaved family, praying for strength and peace for the departed soul. Among those present at the funeral service were APUWJ president Dodum Yangfo, general secretary Sonam Jelly, APC general secretary Damien Lepcha, members of the Ziro Press Club and journalists from different parts of the state.

PASIGHAT :  Commerce and Industries Minister Nyato Dukam on Friday inaugurated ‘Tulang’, an edible oil extraction and production unit, at the Industrial Estate in Pasighat. Established as a subsidiary of Elam Industries, the unit will manufacture and supply pure mustard and sesame oil in the region. Speaking at the inaugural function, proprietor and retired Group Captain Mohonto Panging Pao said the factory is committed to producing pure and unadulterated edible oil. He clarified that the products are not being marketed as strictly organic as raw materials are sourced from different suppliers. The factory currently has a production capacity of 200 litres per day and carries out the entire process, including extraction, bottling and labelling, within the facility. Addressing the gathering, Dukam appreciated Pao for his contribution towards economic growth and employment generation in the state. He said Pao’s transition from the Indian Air Force to the industrial sector was an inspiring example of dedication and entrepreneurship. “The state government under Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu is committed to developing Arunachal Pradesh into a key industrial hub,” the minister said. Dukam also assured administrative support to industrial initiatives in the region and said the memorandum submitted by the Siang Indigenous Manufacturers, Producers and Services Association would be reviewed with the Chief Minister and concerned authorities. Pasighat MLA Tapi Darang termed the venture a significant development for the local community and said the factory would provide market opportunities for local oilseed farmers while generating employment for youths. Ruksin MLA Ninong Ering and Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng also addressed the gathering and called for collective support from the community for the success of the new industrial venture.      

ITANAGAR : Timely action by Lok Bhavan staff member Minati Dakuya helped avert a major fire tragedy at the Lok Bhavan complex here earlier this month. In recognition of her prompt response and presence of mind, Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (retd) on Saturday presented her with the Governor’s Citation along with a cash award of Rs 20,000 at Lok Bhavan. According to officials, the incident took place on May 8 at around 7:30 pm when Dakuya noticed an electrical fire breaking out from a nearby electric pole in Sector-B of the complex. Realising the risk of the fire spreading to nearby residential quarters, she immediately alerted the Electricity Department and continuously followed up to ensure that the power supply was disconnected without delay. Her swift intervention prevented what could have turned into a major fire accident, officials said. Commending Dakuya’s exemplary conduct, the Governor said her action reflected a strong sense of civic responsibility, dedication to duty and concern for public safety. He said her presence of mind and prompt response should inspire all officials and staff members to remain alert and responsive during emergencies. The Governor also advised officials and staff of the Governor Secretariat to remain sensitive towards people in need and emphasised that timely action, courage and humanity can save lives and prevent tragedies.