ONLINE AGE

(Online version of the Arunachal Age newspaper)

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Latest News, Popular News, State News

Arunachal launches digital teacher transfer system to ensure transparency

ITANAGAR : The Arunachal Pradesh government has launched a digitised teacher transfer and posting system to ensure transparency in the process, balanced deployment and stricter monitoring of attendance in schools. Announcing the rollout of the Arunachal Pradesh Teacher Transfer and Posting Policy Act on Wednesday, Education Commissioner Amjad Tak said the reform is being implemented under the government’s ‘Reach to Teach’ initiative to improve staffing in remote and underserved regions. A key feature of the new system is the Teacher Registry Portal, an online database that will digitally manage transfer applications, service records and posting histories of teachers. Tak said that 16,068 teachers, accounting for nearly 97.4 per cent of the state’s teaching workforce, along with 107 ministerial staffers, have already enrolled on the portal. He added that the portal would maintain comprehensive records of teachers, including their transfer history, classroom performance, students’ academic results and medical details, enabling the department to strengthen accountability and reduce irregularities in the education sector. “The department now has complete data on teachers,” Tak said. He said the new transfer framework has been designed keeping in view Arunachal Pradesh’s challenging topography, while also attempting to reduce inconvenience for teachers during postings. The department has already issued 2,064 intra-district transfer orders, of which more than 1,000 have been implemented. The commissioner further said that more than 600 teachers have already applied for self-transfer through the digital platform. At the same time, the department clarified that teachers unwilling to opt for voluntary transfers could still be shifted manually depending on staffing requirements and vacancies, particularly in schools facing acute shortages. The government is also working to maintain the prescribed teacher-student ratio of 1:45 in remote institutions. The commissioner warned that teachers failing to join their new place of posting within 15 days could face action under provisions of the Act. The Teacher Registry Portal is expected to become fully functional by the first week of July this year, while the transfer system will be implemented in phases before becoming fully operational by May next year. (Source: PTI)

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NCW Chairperson reviews AI, leadership, welfare progs in Ziro

ZIRO : A high-level delegation from the National Commission for Women (NCW), New Delhi, led by Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, visited Ziro on Thursday to review women’s empowerment, safety, digital inclusion and welfare initiatives in Lower Subansiri district. The visiting delegation was accorded the status of State Guests by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh. The visit was coordinated by the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) under the leadership of its Chairperson Yalem Taga Burang. The day began with a review of the Yashoda AI initiative at Kalung Panchayat Hall. The programme focuses on the use of technology-driven solutions to address challenges faced by mothers and frontline workers. The delegation also attended the She Serve programme at the same venue, which aimed at encouraging women’s leadership in public service and community governance. Later, the team visited Hari Government Secondary School Community Hall, where members interacted with village elders, women and local residents during an awareness session on various central and state government welfare schemes implemented through the health and livelihood sectors. The visit concluded with a review meeting at the District Secretariat, Ziro, where NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar and the delegation held discussions with senior administrative and police officials of Lower Subansiri district. The meeting reviewed issues related to law and order, women’s safety and the handling of legal cases concerning women, with emphasis on ensuring a secure environment and effective delivery of welfare initiatives in the district. (DIPR)

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West Kameng DC reviews academic performance, DBT implementation

BOMDILA : A review meeting of the Department of Education was held on Thursday at the DC Conference Hall under the chairmanship of West Kameng deputy commissioner Dr Dilip Kumar. The DC reviewed the academic performance of students, staffing position, and implementation of programmes under ISSE and PM Poshan. During the meeting, it was informed that the acute shortage of subject teachers has directly affected the results in various State Board and CBSE examinations. The matter regarding the requirement of teachers has already been placed before the Government. Dr. Kumar informed that he would personally visit schools to get a first-hand understanding of the problems being faced and make efforts to mitigate them wherever possible. He further called upon all stakeholders to work in coordination with various departments to ensure better educational outcomes in the district. Earlier, the DC also reviewed the status of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) and students’ bank accounts in the presence of DDSE, Branch Managers of various banks, Block Education Officers (BEOs), BRCCs, CRCCs, Heads of Schools, School Management Committee (SMC) members, parents, and students. During the meeting, the DBT status and issues related to students’ bank accounts were discussed in detail. It was informed that the Department has achieved 88.33 percent DBT coverage for students so far. The DC directed all concerned to ensure 100 percent achievement in DBT implementation and opening/verification of students’ bank accounts by June 2026. He advised schools to make coordinated efforts with all stakeholders and administrative officers to achieve the target within the stipulated timeline. (DIPR)

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APWWS organises FGD on polygamy, women’s mental health

YINGKIONG : An interaction-cum-focused group discussion (FGD) on polygamy and its impact on women’s mental health was organised at the office of the Arunachal Pradesh Women’s Welfare Society (APWWS), Upper Siang district unit, Yingkiong on Thursday. The programme witnessed active participation and deliberations on the social, psychological and cultural dimensions of polygamy and women’s welfare. Speaking as the facilitator, Fakir Mohan University Assistant Professor Moti Pangkam shared her academic interest in studying issues related to polygamy, particularly its impact on women’s mental health. She also highlighted the important role of the media in amplifying women’s voices and addressing social issues affecting them. Addressing the gathering, APWWS Upper Siang district unit President Kasimang Jopir Pazing said the organisation has been actively conducting awareness campaigns on legal literacy, women’s rights, skill development, education and anti-drug initiatives. She stated that creating awareness on issues related to polygamy has become one of the organisation’s top priorities and informed that APWWS would soon organise dedicated awareness programmes on the issue. DIPRO-cum-In-charge Publicity of APWWS Yalik Jerang stressed the importance of proper upbringing and empowerment of the girl child through quality education and financial independence. She also emphasised the need to educate young and vulnerable girls about the consequences of polygamy and said education, coupled with a positive mindset, is essential for bringing meaningful and transformational social change. (DIPR)                    

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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)