ONLINE AGE

(Online version of the Arunachal Age newspaper)

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Lowangdong inaugurates boys’ hostel at EMRS, Khela

KHELA : Forest & Climate Change Minister Advisor and Borduria-Bogapani MLA Wanglin Lowangdong on Sunday inaugurated the newly constructed Boys’ Hostel at Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS), Khela. The hostel has been funded by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs under the Scheme for Grant to State Tribal Education Agencies (SGSTEA). EMRS Khela is a co-educational residential institution functioning under the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), Ministry of Tribal Affairs, and is managed by the Arunachal Shiksha Vikas Samiti (ASVS). Addressing the gathering, Lowangdong lauded the efforts of the school administration, teachers and all supporting agencies in providing quality education to tribal students. He said adequate residential infrastructure is crucial for ensuring holistic development and preparing students to become responsible citizens and future leaders. He urged students to remain disciplined, work hard and make the best use of the opportunities available under the Eklavya Model Residential School system. The MLA also appealed to the people of Khela village to donate additional land for the future expansion of the institution, noting that several essential infrastructure facilities are yet to be developed to meet its growing requirements. He further appreciated the executing agency for completing the hostel project within the stipulated timeframe while maintaining quality standards. Earlier, the school principal highlighted the institution’s academic progress and achievements, stating that EMRS Khela is committed to the holistic development of students through academics as well as co-curricular activities, including yoga, parade, drawing, cultural programmes, games and sports. The principal also recalled that students of EMRS Khela had the rare honour of meeting the President of India on August 15, 2024, as special invitees representing Arunachal Pradesh in traditional Nocte attire. He added that the students have consistently excelled in district- and state-level competitions, bringing laurels to both the school and the state. Among those present were Tirap Deputy Commissioner Techu Aran, Tirap Superintendent of Police Aditya, Zilla Parishad Members Tumwang Lowang, Necha Wangsu and Wanglee Rangyang, Public Works Department Executive Engineer Taro Jeram, Nocte Women Association Chairperson Chasuam Wangchadong, former Zilla Parishad Chairperson Chawang Lowang, CMWS Chairperson Sontung Lowang, Tirap BJP president Lankham Wangsu, besides public representatives, Panchayati Raj Institution members, Gaon Burahs, government officials, teachers, students and parents.    

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21 stray animals seized during enforcement drive in Daporijo

DAPORIJO : A joint enforcement drive conducted by the Upper Subansiri district administration in Daporijo township on Monday resulted in the seizure of 21 stray animals found roaming unattended on roads and in public places. The drive, carried out under the supervision of an Executive Magistrate, was part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to improve public safety, maintain road discipline and enforce cattle control regulations. During the operation, officials seized eight cattle and 13 goats for violating notified restrictions against allowing domestic livestock to stray freely in public areas. The enforcement drive was conducted with the assistance of officials from the concerned departments and field staff. The district administration said owners of the seized animals would be proceeded against under the applicable provisions of law. The animals will be released only after completion of the prescribed legal formalities and payment of penalties, wherever applicable. Stating that stray livestock pose a serious risk to motorists, pedestrians and public sanitation, the administration reiterated that repeated advisories have been issued directing livestock owners to keep their animals properly secured. The district administration warned that similar enforcement drives would continue regularly and that stricter action would be taken against habitual violators. It also appealed to livestock owners to cooperate in maintaining public order, cleanliness and road safety. (DIPR)    

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Heavy rain triggers landslides, flash floods in Lower Siang

LIKABALI : Incessant rainfall on June 28 triggered landslides, flash floods and widespread damage to roads, agricultural land and public infrastructure across several parts of Lower Siang district, prompting the district administration to intensify rescue preparedness and restoration efforts. The worst-affected areas were in the Likabali and Nari-Koyu Assembly constituencies, where road connectivity was severely disrupted due to landslides and flooding. In the Likabali constituency, the Likabali-Bame Road was washed away at several locations, while a major landslide blocked the Siji River, leading to temporary water accumulation and concerns over possible downstream flooding. The Dolok River Bridge at Kangku and its embankment also sustained significant damage, while soil erosion and road damage were reported from KN Village, Rate-Germe and Hime. A motorcycle was washed away near the Siji landslide site, though no casualties were reported. In the Nari-Koyu constituency, a cloudburst triggered massive landslides, mudslides and flash floods, severely affecting 14 villages under Koyu Circle, including Koyu headquarters. Wet Rice Cultivation (WRC) fields, private properties, government infrastructure and public utilities suffered extensive damage. Road connectivity was snapped in Tabiripo Saku, Loglu, Rotte, Rame, Koyu Village, Rina, Sipo (Hipo), Jate, Kakki, Sipu, Rami Camp, Mane, Lipin and Tene, affecting around 3,100 people from nearly 500 households. The district administration, in coordination with the district police, the Army, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), local authorities and community volunteers, launched relief and restoration measures immediately after the incidents. Rescue teams are monitoring vulnerable areas, restoring road connectivity and distributing relief wherever required. According to the administration, water accumulated in the Siji River is draining naturally and the overall situation remains under control. Restoration work is being carried out on a war footing. No loss of life or injuries had been reported from either the Likabali or Nari-Koyu areas till the filing of the report. A detailed assessment of damage to roads, agricultural land, public infrastructure and private property is underway. The district administration has appealed to residents to remain vigilant, cooperate with the authorities and follow official advisories until normalcy is fully restored. (DIPR)    

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ARPS Khonsa students undertake educational tour under Summer Camp

KHONSA : As part of Summer Camp-2026, Assam Rifles Public School (ARPS), Khonsa, under the aegis of the Khonsa Battalion of Assam Rifles, organised a two-day educational and motivational tour to provide students with experiential learning while promoting patriotism, cultural awareness and an appreciation of Arunachal Pradesh’s rich heritage. On the first day, June 27, the students visited the Golden Pagoda at Namsai, where they gained insights into the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage and admired the architectural grandeur of one of the state’s most prominent Buddhist monasteries. On the second day, the students visited the historic Pangsau Pass and learned about its geographical significance and strategic role in the history of the region. The visit helped them gain a deeper understanding of the landmark’s historical importance. The students later visited the Headquarters of the 25 Sector Assam Rifles, where they interacted with the Deputy Inspector General. Addressing the students, the senior officer encouraged them to pursue excellence through discipline, dedication and education, and inspired them to become responsible citizens committed to serving society. The interaction concluded with a media interaction followed by lunch at the headquarters. The educational tour offered students a valuable blend of academic exposure and cultural and historical learning. The initiative reflects the Assam Rifles’ continued commitment to the holistic development of young minds and its sustained efforts to strengthen ties with the local community through meaningful educational outreach programmes. (DIPR)    

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East Siang launches Intensive Pulse Polio Immunisation campaign

PASIGHAT : The District Health Society, East Siang, on Sunday launched the Intensive Pulse Polio Immunisation (IPPI) Campaign 2026 at the Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC), Banskata, as part of the nationwide initiative to eradicate polio. The programme was attended by Pasighat Municipal Council Chief Councillor Tagom Padung, Adi Bane Kebang president M. Megu Perme, East Siang District Medical Officer Dr Yagling Perme, District Reproductive and Child Health Officer Dr Nidak Angu, and District Epidemiologist-cum-Medical Officer (Routine Immunisation) Dr Kentaii Pangkam. Representatives of the District Programme Management Unit (DPMU), programme officers and UPHC staff were also present. The campaign aims to protect all children below five years of age by administering two drops of the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) free of cost. Health teams have been deployed across Pasighat, Mebo and Ruksin subdivisions to implement the campaign throughout the district. The health department has appealed to all parents and guardians to ensure that every eligible child receives the vaccine by visiting the nearest immunisation booth. (DIPR)    

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Papum Pare DEO urges public to cooperate in electoral roll revision

YUPIA : Papum Pare District Election Officer (DEO) Lobsang Tsering has appealed to all electors to extend full cooperation to Booth Level Officers (BLOs) during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR)-2026 exercise to ensure the preparation of a clean, accurate and error-free electoral roll. The appeal comes amid several challenges being faced by BLOs during house-to-house verification and collection of Enumeration Forms (EFs) across the district. According to the DEO, many electors could not be contacted at their registered addresses during field verification, while in several cases, current occupants were unable to provide information about the enrolled electors. He also pointed out instances of duplicate enrolment, where individuals continued to retain their names in their native places while enrolling at their present places of residence, which is not permissible under electoral laws. Tsering further said that many registered mobile numbers were found to be non-functional or switched off, making it difficult for election officials to contact electors for verification and collection of Enumeration Forms. He urged all electors to promptly submit their Enumeration Forms, update their residential details, ensure enrolment only at their place of ordinary residence and provide functional mobile numbers during the revision process. Electors who have not yet been contacted have also been advised to approach their respective BLOs without delay. The DEO further appealed to citizens to inform BLOs about any change of residence, migration or corrections required in their electoral particulars to facilitate an accurate and updated electoral roll. For public convenience, SIR Control Rooms have been established at the offices of the Assistant Commissioners in Itanagar and Naharlagun to assist electors in filling Enumeration Forms, clarify doubts and resolve issues related to the revision exercise. Tsering emphasised that public cooperation is essential for maintaining a transparent, accurate and updated electoral roll. He informed that the last date for submission of Enumeration Forms is July 16.    

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Khonsa futsal ground inaugurated to boost sports infrastructure

KHONSA : A newly developed futsal ground in Khonsa’s main market area was inaugurated on Monday by Tirap Deputy Commissioner Techu Aran in the presence of Zilla Parishad Chairperson John Matey, Additional Deputy Commissioner Namneet Singh, public leader N Tangjang, Tirap District Football Association president, Khelo India Centre coach, District Sports Officer Noah Mongku and members of the public. Developed by the Department of Youth Affairs, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, the facility is expected to strengthen sports infrastructure in the district and provide young athletes with a modern venue for training and competition. Addressing the gathering, Tirap Deputy Commissioner Techu Aran underscored the role of sports in fostering discipline, leadership, teamwork and a healthy lifestyle. He encouraged trainees of the Khelo India Centre to remain dedicated, work hard and make full use of the new facility to enhance their skills. He urged aspiring athletes to aim for higher levels of competition and represent Tirap and Arunachal Pradesh with distinction, adding that sports can provide rewarding career opportunities while encouraging youth to engage in positive and constructive activities. The DC also assured the district administration’s continued support for sports promotion and youth development initiatives. The programme concluded with appreciation for the Department of Youth Affairs and all stakeholders involved in developing the facility, expressing confidence that the futsal ground would emerge as an important centre for nurturing sporting talent in Tirap district. (DIPR)    

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Hari Sports Club clinches 59th Central Dree football title

ZIRO : The 59th Central Dree Football Tournament 2026 concluded successfully at Padi Yubbe Outdoor Stadium, Hapoli, with Hari Sports Club defeating Sojang Lapang Sports Club 3-1 in the final to lift the prestigious title. Organised by the Central Dree Festival Committee (CDFC), Ziro, under the aegis of the Lower Subansiri District Football Association (LSDFA), the tournament was held from June 14 to 28 and featured leading football clubs from across Lower Subansiri district. The annual tournament, regarded as one of the oldest and most prestigious football competitions in Arunachal Pradesh, witnessed spirited competition and enthusiastic public support throughout its two-week run. Displaying impressive teamwork and composure in the summit clash, Hari Sports Club outclassed Sojang Lapang Sports Club 3-1 before a packed crowd to emerge champions. All Hija Sports Association secured the third position, while Zamra FC received the Fair Play Award. Hari Sports Club’s Hage Sarbo was adjudged the Player of the Tournament, while teammate Hage Tayo was named Best Goalkeeper. Hage Hari of Hari Sports Club received the Emerging Player Award and was also declared Player of the Match in the final. Taro Hirung of All Hija Sports Association finished as the tournament’s highest scorer with seven goals. Radhe Vyoda of Sojang Lapang Sports Club was named Best Defender, Hage Kemo of Hari Sports Club was adjudged Best Coach, and Kago Loder of Zamra FC received the Best Manager Award. The closing ceremony was attended by chief guest Hage Mali, guest of honour Narang Doley, special guest Landi Tajang and Sports Authority of Arunachal chairman John Neelam, along with other dignitaries. The Central Dree Festival Committee expressed gratitude to the participating teams, match officials, volunteers, security personnel, sponsors, media partners and football enthusiasts for their support in making the tournament a success.    

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Khonsa Battalion conducts sub-national polio immunisation drive

KHONSA : Reaffirming its commitment to community welfare and public healthcare, the Khonsa Battalion of Assam Rifles conducted a Sub-National Polio Immunisation Drive at its Unit Hospital in Khonsa on Sunday in support of the Government of India’s mission to eradicate poliomyelitis. The drive witnessed encouraging participation from families of Assam Rifles personnel, the Indian Army, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and members of the local community. A total of 47 children were administered the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV), including 33 children from Assam Rifles families, one child each from the Indian Army and CRPF families, and 12 children from the local civilian population. The successful conduct of the immunisation drive reflects the Khonsa Battalion’s continued commitment to promoting preventive healthcare and supporting national public health initiatives. Through such outreach programmes, Assam Rifles continues to work in close coordination with civil authorities to improve healthcare access and contribute to the well-being of the local community.    

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BRO Project BRAHMANK marks 16th Raising Day, showcases infrastructure achievements

RANAGHAT : The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) Project BRAHMANK celebrated its 16th Raising Day at Ranaghat in East Siang district on Monday, highlighting its sustained contribution to strengthening strategic road connectivity and border infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh. Project BRAHMANK is responsible for the maintenance of 811 km of roads and 86 bridges across Siang, East Siang, West Siang, Upper Siang, Shi-Yomi districts and parts of Assam’s Dhemaji district. During the 2025–26 financial year, the project achieved significant milestones by completing 13 bridges with a combined span of 390 metres and blacktopping 61 km of roads to National Highways Double Lane (NHDL) standards, further enhancing connectivity in remote and strategically important border areas. To mark the occasion, the project organised a series of community outreach programmes, including medical camps, tree plantation drives, Swachhata campaigns and road safety awareness initiatives at various locations. Despite operating in difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions, Project BRAHMANK continues to play a crucial role in improving border infrastructure while contributing to the socio-economic development of Arunachal Pradesh.