Author name: OnlineAge

ITANAGAR : Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday called on Governor Lt Gen K T Parnaik (Retd) at Raj Bhavan, where they discussed the state’s developmental priorities, implementation of key projects and measures to address challenges arising from natural disasters and climate-related events. The Governor congratulated the Chief Minister and “Team Arunachal Pradesh” on completing ten years of public service and leadership, stating that the past decade had witnessed significant progress across infrastructure, education, healthcare, connectivity, tourism and rural development. He observed that the government’s people-centric approach has brought governance closer to citizens, particularly those living in remote and border areas. Appreciating flagship initiatives such as Seva Aapke Dwar (SAD), the Governor said the programme has transformed public service delivery by taking government services to the doorsteps of the people, thereby strengthening public trust and promoting inclusive development. The Governor also commended the state government’s efforts to expand e-governance and digital service delivery. Stressing the importance of technology-driven administration, he advocated greater use of geospatial applications, satellite imagery and data analytics for planning, monitoring and evaluating developmental projects. He said the adoption of such technologies would enhance decision-making, improve disaster preparedness, optimise resource utilisation and ensure the timely implementation of welfare and infrastructure programmes for the benefit of the people of Arunachal Pradesh.      

ITANAGAR : Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development Minister Gabriel D Wangsu on Thursday inaugurated the State Veterinary Polyclinic at Abotani Colony here, marking a significant step towards strengthening veterinary healthcare infrastructure in the state. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Chief Secretary Manish Kumar Gupta, Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development Secretary Y V V J Rajasekhar, Deputy Inspector General of Police Tumme Amo, Itanagar Mayor Likha Nari, Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development Director Dr D Longri and other senior officials. The programme began with the unveiling of the inauguration plaque and a ribbon-cutting ceremony jointly performed by the minister and the chief secretary. The dignitaries later inspected the newly established facility and interacted with veterinarians, officers and technical staff to review its services and infrastructure. Envisioned as a modern referral centre, the State Veterinary Polyclinic has been equipped with advanced clinical and diagnostic facilities to strengthen disease diagnosis and management, improve animal healthcare, provide specialised services for pet owners and enhance livestock productivity across Arunachal Pradesh. During the inspection, Wangsu appreciated the dedication of the veterinarians and technical staff and urged them to continue delivering quality veterinary care and efficient services to livestock farmers and pet owners. Speaking on the occasion, the minister said the facility would significantly improve access to specialised veterinary care and contribute to the development of the state’s livestock sector. “I am confident this institution will play a pivotal role in strengthening our state’s livestock sector and supporting the livelihoods of our farmers,” Wangsu said. He also underscored the importance of modern veterinary infrastructure in ensuring animal health, preventing diseases and improving rural livelihoods dependent on livestock. According to officials, the State Veterinary Polyclinic will serve as the state’s premier veterinary referral centre, providing specialised diagnostic, treatment and advisory services while complementing the existing network of veterinary hospitals and dispensaries across Arunachal Pradesh.      

ITANAGAR : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Arunachal Pradesh, on Thursday accused the Congress of politicising the alleged National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) paper leak instead of participating in a constructive parliamentary debate on the issue. Addressing a press conference at the BJP state headquarters here, Agriculture and Allied Sectors Minister Gabriel D Wangsu said the controversy concerns the future of millions of students and called on the Opposition to engage in meaningful discussions on examination reforms. BJP Arunachal Pradesh General Secretaries Tadar Niglat and Jyunty Singphoo were also present. Wangsu alleged that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was avoiding a parliamentary discussion on the issue and instead attempting to derive political mileage from the controversy. He said the BJP-led government remains committed to protecting students’ interests and ensuring strict action against those involved in examination malpractices. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed the establishment of fast-track courts for the speedy disposal of paper leak cases to ensure timely punishment for those found guilty. Stressing that the issue should not be reduced to political rhetoric, Wangsu said the Centre is open to suggestions from the Opposition to strengthen the examination system and favours a transparent debate in Parliament. Highlighting the government’s response, he said several arrests have been made in connection with paper leak cases and that multiple examinations have been conducted successfully in recent months with enhanced security measures. The minister also highlighted the Centre’s investment in education, stating that the education budget has increased from about ₹8,225 crore during the UPA government’s tenure to ₹1.39 lakh crore under the present government. He added that the expansion of premier institutions, including AIIMS and IITs, along with an increase in higher education seats, reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening the education sector. Reiterating the BJP’s stand, Wangsu said the government is committed to introducing long-term reforms to prevent examination malpractices and safeguard the aspirations of students across the country.      

ITANAGAR : Governor Lt Gen K T Parnaik (Retd) on Thursday handed over a cheque of Rs 2 lakh to Abotani Vidya Niketan, Pachin Colony, Naharlagun, to support the strengthening and expansion of the school’s library. The cheque was presented at Raj Bhavan to Abotani Vidya Niketan Vice Principal Yanya Karlo and Arunachal Shiksha Vikas Samiti (ASVS) State Coordinator Sukumaran K. The financial assistance fulfils the Governor’s commitment made during his visit to the school on June 28 to support the procurement of books and enrich the library. Speaking on the occasion, the Governor, an avid reader himself, highlighted the transformative role of books in shaping young minds. “Reading is one of the most effective ways to nurture curiosity, critical thinking, creativity and lifelong learning among children,” he said, adding that a well-equipped library serves as a gateway to knowledge, broadens horizons and inspires students to realise their aspirations. The Governor observed that fostering a reading culture has become increasingly important in an era of digital distractions. He encouraged students to cultivate the habit of regular reading, describing books as trusted companions that enrich character, strengthen values and open doors to new ideas and opportunities. Appreciating the efforts of the Arunachal Shiksha Vikas Samiti in promoting quality education through Abotani Vidya Niketan, the Governor commended the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and character building. He also lauded the students for their discipline, enthusiasm and impressive participation during his earlier visit, expressing confidence that they would grow into responsible citizens and contribute meaningfully to the development of the state and the nation.    

TAWANG : The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Tawang, in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (ICAR-IIVR), Varanasi, has conducted a series of Frontline Demonstrations (FLDs) on high-yielding vegetable varieties and distributed agricultural inputs to farmers across seven villages of the district. The programmes were organised at Khimney, Changprong, Kyidphel, Themghar, Woongla, Sazo and Shakti between July 13 and 22, drawing enthusiastic participation from local farmers. During the technical sessions, KVK Tawang Subject Matter Specialist (Agronomy) C K Singh highlighted the importance of soil health management, natural farming, inclusion of leguminous crops in cropping systems and scientific vermicomposting to improve long-term soil fertility and productivity. Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Protection) Lakshmipriya Borah conducted practical demonstrations on Integrated Pest Management (IPM), focusing on environmentally sustainable methods of pest and disease control. She also demonstrated seed treatment using the biofungicide Trichoderma viride to protect crops from seed-borne diseases and improve productivity. The programme was coordinated by KVK Tawang Subject Matter Specialist (Horticulture) and Nodal Officer Dr Abhimanyu Chaturvedi, who guided farmers on the scientific cultivation of garden pea, carrot, long bean, faba bean, cole crops and other vegetables. He encouraged the adoption of improved high-yielding varieties to enhance productivity, increase farm income and strengthen household food and nutritional security. To facilitate the adoption of the demonstrated technologies, farmers were provided with improved seeds of garden pea, long bean, faba bean, carrot, cauliflower, water spinach and rajma, along with agricultural inputs such as vermi beds, spades and biopesticides under the support of ICAR-IIVR, Varanasi. The initiative reflects KVK Tawang’s ongoing efforts to promote scientific, sustainable and climate-resilient farming practices while transferring improved agricultural technologies to farmers at the grassroots level. (DIPR)      

KHONSA : Tirap Deputy Commissioner Badonlum Tawsik on Thursday unveiled the District Disaster Management Plan (DDMP) 2025-26, marking a significant step towards strengthening disaster preparedness and streamlining relief measures during the ongoing monsoon season. The plan was launched during a meeting of the District Executive Committee (DEC) chaired by the deputy commissioner at the DC’s conference hall. The meeting reviewed flood- and monsoon-related damage across the district and discussed measures for restoration, relief and disaster preparedness. District Disaster Management Officer (DDMO) Emily Tingkhatra presented a comprehensive assessment of losses to residential houses, public infrastructure and other sectors based on field reports. Heads of Departments from the Public Works Department, Rural Works Department, Public Health Engineering Department, Water Resources Department, Agriculture, Horticulture, Food and Civil Supplies, Education, Power and other line departments briefed the committee on the extent of damages, restoration measures undertaken and the status of essential public services. Following detailed deliberations, the DEC approved eligible pending compensation cases for disbursement under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) norms, subject to the availability of funds and completion of the prescribed formalities. Addressing the meeting, Tawsik directed all departments to accord top priority to restoring essential services and critical infrastructure. He instructed departments to keep emergency response teams, manpower, machinery and other resources on standby throughout the monsoon to ensure a swift response to any emergency. The Department of Food and Civil Supplies was directed to maintain adequate stocks of essential commodities to avoid supply disruptions, while the Public Health Engineering Department was asked to ensure the timely restoration and uninterrupted supply of safe drinking water in affected areas. The deputy commissioner also instructed administrative officers and Heads of Departments to regularly submit updated damage assessment reports, incident reports and geo-tagged photographs for consolidation and submission to the government. Departments were further asked to maintain close coordination with the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) and promptly report emergencies to the District Emergency Operations Centre (DEOC) for timely intervention. Copies of the DDMP 2025-26 were distributed to members of the committee to serve as a guiding document for disaster preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery, while strengthening inter-departmental coordination and institutional readiness. Emphasising that preparedness is key to minimising the impact of natural disasters, Tawsik called for continuous monitoring of vulnerable locations, timely dissemination of early warning messages and coordinated action to safeguard lives and property during the monsoon. (DIPR)    

LIKABALI : Law, Legislative and Justice, Social Justice, Empowerment and Tribal Affairs, and Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Kento Jini on Thursday inspected landslide-prone and road blockade points along the Akajan-Likabali-Bame Road to assess the extent of damage and review ongoing restoration works. Accompanied by district Heads of Departments and officials of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), the minister reviewed the impact of recent landslides and heavy rainfall on the affected stretches. Jini appreciated Henli Riba and his team for their sustained efforts in clearing road blockages and maintaining connectivity despite challenging weather conditions over the past several months. He said emergency disaster maintenance packages would be made available to support the restoration and upkeep of the road. The minister also assured that he would take up the matter with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu to expedite the implementation of the Bame-Akajan Road as a strategic road project, as declared by the Central Government, considering its importance for regional connectivity and public welfare. (DIPR)