ONLINE AGE

(Online version of the Arunachal Age newspaper)

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AAPPA conducts career counselling prog

  DOIMUKH :  The All Arunachal Pradesh Psychological Association (AAPPA) organised a voluntary career counselling programme for students of Classes IX to XII at MBD Coaching Centre here on Friday, aimed at helping young learners make informed career choices and develop greater self-awareness. A total of 69 students participated in the programme, which focused on addressing career-related uncertainties and guiding them towards informed educational and professional decisions. The session was led by AAPPA Chairperson Dr Tadar Amar, who highlighted the importance of carefully evaluating one’s interests, abilities and long-term aspirations before choosing a career path. During the interaction, Dr Amar introduced students to the concept of Ikigai in career planning and emphasised the need to align personal interests, skills, values, opportunities and future prospects while making career decisions. He also explained the distinction between conventional and emerging career options, encouraging students to explore diverse opportunities based on their individual strengths and potential. As part of the programme, participants undertook the RIASEC Interest Test Assessment, enabling them to identify their interests and gain insights into suitable career pathways. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by AAPPA General Secretary Rozi Taba, who reaffirmed the association’s commitment to promoting mental health and psychological well-being across Arunachal Pradesh. She also encouraged individuals seeking psychological support to make use of AAPPA’s tele-counselling service, Calm Space.

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Officials trained on electoral roll revision

  TAWANG/DAPORIJO : As part of preparations for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Electoral Rolls 2026, election authorities in Tawang and Upper Subansiri districts conducted training and stakeholder engagement programmes on Friday to strengthen the electoral roll revision process and ensure greater accuracy and transparency. In Tawang, a comprehensive training programme was organised at the Conference Hall of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office for Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs), Booth Level Officer (BLO) Supervisors, Booth Level Officers and Election Department officials. Addressing the participants, Tawang Deputy District Election Officer Rinchin Leta highlighted the critical role of Booth Level Officers in maintaining accurate and error-free electoral rolls. He urged election functionaries to carry out field-level verification diligently to identify and rectify discrepancies, thereby strengthening the democratic process. Earlier, 2-Tawang ST Assembly Constituency Electoral Registration Officer Tsering Choden welcomed the participants and encouraged them to actively engage in the sessions and make full use of the training opportunity. The technical session was conducted by Office of the Chief Electoral Officer Assistant Programmer Sougata Maity, who provided detailed guidance on the SIR process, electoral roll management and operational procedures to be followed during the revision exercise. Meanwhile, in Daporijo, Upper Subansiri district authorities held a meeting with representatives of recognised political parties to discuss the ongoing Special Intensive Revision programme. The meeting was attended by representatives of the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Indian National Congress, along with Electoral Registration Officers and Assistant Electoral Registration Officers. During the meeting, Upper Subansiri DEO presented the timeline and key activities under the revision programme and emphasised the importance of maintaining an accurate, transparent and inclusive electoral roll. The officer called upon political parties to extend full cooperation to election officials in carrying out the revision process effectively, stating that the exercise aims to ensure a clean and error-free electoral roll while safeguarding the integrity of elections. Representatives of the political parties assured their support and cooperation for the successful implementation of the revision programme in the district. (DIPR)

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RTI activists seek enhanced road safety measures along Pena-Tato highway

TATO : The All Shi-Yomi District Unit RTI Activist Association (ASYDURTIAA) has urged Puna Hinda Enterprises to install road safety warning signs, reflectors and caution boards along the National Highway formation cutting areas between Pena and Tato to enhance commuter safety and prevent accidents. The association submitted a representation to the executing agency following a series of road accidents reported along the stretch in recent days, including three fatal incidents involving local residents. ASYDURTIAA President Botha Ragsap said the absence of adequate warning signs, reflectors and safety markers at vulnerable locations has made it difficult for motorists to identify hazardous stretches in time, thereby increasing the risk of accidents. He maintained that the installation of proper safety infrastructure would significantly reduce the likelihood of road mishaps and improve road user awareness. According to the association, the proposed measures include warning and information boards at isolated stretches, traffic safety signage for motorists and pedestrians, and caution boards at sharp bends, steep gradients, narrow road sections, landslide-prone areas and cliff-side portions of the Pena–Tato road formation corridor. Responding to the representation, Puna Hinda Enterprises reportedly assured the association that the matter would be addressed at the earliest. The association expressed hope that the proposed safety measures would be implemented promptly in the interest of public safety and accident prevention.      

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Indigenous crafts and altar-making workshop begins at Liromoba

LIROMOBA :  A three-day workshop on indigenous crafts and altar making, organised by the Department of Indigenous Affairs, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, commenced at Donyi Polo Kargu Gamgi in Liromoba with the objective of preserving and promoting indigenous traditions and cultural heritage among the younger generation. The workshop was inaugurated by Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP) General Secretary Maya Murtem in the presence of Liromoba Senior Medical Officer and In-charge Administrative Officer Dr Jumri Romin, IFCSAP Women Wing General Secretary Mameh Dada and senior members of Liromoba circle. The programme focuses on imparting practical skills to youths in preparing bamboo components used in ritualistic altars associated with indigenous faith practices. Participants are being trained in the crafting of various altar elements, which will later be assembled into a complete structure. Resource persons Yorluk Jilen, Marjum Romin, Kepu Kayi and Bipek Kayi are conducting demonstrations and guiding participants throughout the workshop. Addressing the inaugural session, Maya Murtem underscored the importance of preserving indigenous identity and traditions amid rapid modernisation. “We should embrace modernisation with our feet rooted in our traditions and faith,” she said. Dr Jumri Romin emphasised the need to preserve indigenous mother tongues, stating that the responsibility begins at home. He urged parents to communicate with their children in local dialects to ensure the continuity of linguistic and cultural heritage. He further noted that the younger generation has a vital role in safeguarding indigenous traditions and said such initiatives strengthen efforts towards cultural preservation. During the programme, members of Donyi Polo Kargu Gamgi, led by its president Kige Romin, appealed to the IFCSAP general secretary to facilitate the construction of a prayer hall for the community. The workshop has witnessed enthusiastic participation from local youths and community members committed to preserving indigenous knowledge and cultural practices. (DIPR)  

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Arunachal marks World Environment Day with statewide green initiatives

ITANAGAR : World Environment Day was observed across Arunachal Pradesh on Friday with plantation drives, cleanliness campaigns, awareness programmes, special Gram Sabha meetings and community-led initiatives promoting environmental conservation and sustainable living. Government departments, local bodies, educational institutions, civil society organisations and community groups organised a series of activities focusing on afforestation, waste management, biodiversity conservation, climate action and public participation in protecting the environment. In the state capital, Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd) participated in a plantation programme organized at Lok Bhavan. Interacting with Lok Bhavan and Forest Department officials, the Governor emphasized that protecting nature is a collective responsibility and called upon every citizen to actively contribute towards increasing the State’s green cover. He particularly stressed the need for extensive plantation drives in urban areas, where rapid development often comes at the cost of natural vegetation. Parnaik suggested that for every tree felled, at least ten saplings should be planted and nurtured to maintain ecological balance and safeguard the environment for future generations. He advised all that tree plantation should become a way of life rather than being confined to occasions such as World Environment Day or Van Mahotsav. He encouraged communities, educational institutions, government departments, and social organizations to incorporate plantation activities into every celebration and public event, transforming each occasion into an opportunity to give back to nature. Calling for greater public participation, Parnaik urged the people of Arunachal Pradesh to combine plantation efforts with cleanliness and environmental awareness drives. He also encouraged citizens to adopt mindful and sustainable practices in their daily lives, including conserving natural resources, reducing waste, and promoting eco-friendly habits. Describing Arunachal Pradesh as one of India’s richest repositories of biodiversity and natural beauty, the Governor appealed to the people to preserve and strengthen this invaluable heritage. “The responsibility of protecting the environment rests with every generation and that today’s efforts will determine the quality of life enjoyed by future generations”, he said. “Let us join hands to nurture nature, protect our forests, and enrich our environment. Together, we can preserve the pristine natural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh and build a cleaner, greener, healthier, and more resilient future for all,” he appealed. Meanwhile, Dera Natung Government College (DNGC), through its Eco Club in collaboration with the Department of Geography and the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Unit of 1 Arunachal Pradesh Battalion, observed World Environment Day with an awareness campaign and public interaction programme. Despite disruptions to normal activities in the region, teachers, students, NCC cadets and Eco Club volunteers participated enthusiastically in the programme, reflecting their commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. Delivering the keynote address, DNGC Principal Dr MQ Khan emphasised the importance of environmental conservation, biodiversity protection and the responsible use of natural resources. He encouraged students to adopt sustainable lifestyles and contribute actively towards building a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future. A major highlight of the observance was a plantation drive conducted on the college campus. Participants planted and adopted 60 saplings comprising ornamental plants, flowering trees and shrubs as part of the institution’s campus greening initiative.   At Ziro: Lower Subansiri DC Oli Perme commended the district-wide plantation drive undertaken to mark World Environment Day, during which more than 5,000 saplings were planted across five forest ranges under the Hapoli Forest Division. The large-scale initiative was organised by the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change through the Hapoli Forest Range, Ziro, under the leadership of Divisional Forest Officer Tilling Takar, in collaboration with the Department of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development, Lower Subansiri. A central commemorative programme was held at the District Dairy Farm in Siiro under the global World Environment Day theme, “Inspired by Nature, For Climate, For Our Future.” The plantation drive witnessed active participation from forest officials, government functionaries, volunteers and local residents, contributing significantly to efforts aimed at enhancing the valley’s green cover and conserving its fragile ecosystem. Addressing the gathering, speakers underscored the collective responsibility of citizens in safeguarding Ziro’s rich ecological heritage. They stressed the importance of sustainable dairy practices, environmentally responsible agriculture and adoption of eco-friendly lifestyles to ensure long-term environmental sustainability. The programme concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders and community members towards environmental conservation and climate-resilient development in the district. A Gram Sabha dedicated to Solid Waste Management (SWM) was also held in Ziro, bringing together residents, village leaders, administrative officials and technical experts to discuss community-driven strategies for maintaining cleanliness and protecting the valley’s fragile ecology. Welcoming the participants, District Panchayat Development Officer Hage Tarung stressed that keeping Ziro clean should be viewed not merely as a government responsibility but as a collective civic duty requiring active participation from every household. Speaking on the occasion, Assistant Commissioner-cum-Member Secretary Radhe Tatung outlined the roadmap for upcoming village-level sanitation initiatives. He emphasised that the success of waste management systems depends on close coordination between local monitoring committees and government departments, particularly in ensuring effective waste segregation and disposal. Dulley Pai called for greater community involvement in environmental conservation and urged residents to actively participate in cleanliness drives while reducing the use of single-use plastics. The meeting also featured an interactive discussion during which residents raised concerns and suggestions relating to waste collection mechanisms, plastic waste management and other sanitation-related issues. Officials responded to queries and assured participants that community feedback would be taken into consideration while implementing future initiatives.   At Pasighat: A district-level meeting on the implementation of the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026, and directions issued by the Supreme Court was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall to mark World Environment Day under the chairmanship of East Siang DC Sonalika Jiwani. The meeting was attended by public representatives, officials of line departments, members of the Pasighat Municipal Council (PMC) and other stakeholders. Discussions centred on waste segregation, scientific waste management, public participation, institutional accountability and compliance with the new rules. During the meeting, it was informed that the Pasighat Solid Waste Management Plant, established by the PMC in collaboration

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Discipline, ethics key to success, Dr BKS Sanjay tells NCC cadets

NERIST : Padma Shri awardee Dr BKS Sanjay, a noted orthopaedic and spine surgeon, delivered a motivational session for National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets during the ongoing Combined Annual Training Camp (CATC) being organised by 1 Arunachal Pradesh Battalion NCC at the North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST), Nirjuli on Friday. Speaking on the theme, “Discipline, Ethics Lead to Excellence,” Dr Sanjay highlighted the importance of discipline, ethical conduct, character building and service to the nation as essential pillars of personal and professional success. Drawing from his experience in the medical profession, he shared insights on leadership, teamwork, resilience and integrity, encouraging cadets to uphold strong values in every sphere of life. He introduced the cadets to his “BKS Formula” — Behaviour, Knowledge and Skill — and said that lasting success is achieved through a balanced combination of these three attributes. He urged the cadets to cultivate self-discipline, effective communication skills, respect for others and a spirit of service. Dr Sanjay also stressed the importance of road safety and responsible citizenship while reminding cadets of the NCC motto, “Not Me But You.” He encouraged them to become role models and contribute meaningfully to nation-building. The interactive session was well received by the cadets, who expressed appreciation for the opportunity to learn from the experiences of the distinguished national awardee. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks and a pledge by the cadets to uphold the values of discipline, ethics and excellence in their lives.      

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Guv, NE Chief Postmaster General discuss commemorative stamp series on Arunachal

SHILLONG : North-East Circle Chief Postmaster General Rajesh Kumar called on Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd) at Shillong on Thursday and discussed a proposal to issue a series of commemorative postage stamps highlighting the rich heritage, vibrant culture and unique identity of Arunachal Pradesh. During the meeting, Kumar briefed the Governor on the approval process and proposed themes for the stamp series. The themes include the indigenous tribes and traditions of Arunachal Pradesh, heritage sites, rich flora and fauna, Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged indigenous products and traditional handicrafts. The proposed stamps are intended to celebrate and preserve the State’s diverse cultural and natural legacy while promoting greater awareness of its unique identity. A keen philatelist himself, Parnaik welcomed the initiative and noted that postage stamps are far more than postal instruments, describing them as enduring symbols of history, culture and national pride that connect generations and transcend geographical boundaries. He said commemorative stamps dedicated to Arunachal Pradesh would help document the State’s unique story and secure its place in India’s postal heritage. The Governor further observed that such stamps could serve as cultural ambassadors, showcasing Arunachal Pradesh’s traditions, achievements, biodiversity and indigenous wisdom to audiences across the country and abroad. Expressing confidence in the initiative, Parnaik said it would enhance appreciation of the State’s heritage and inspire future generations to value and preserve its cultural legacy. As a gesture of goodwill, Rajesh Kumar presented the Governor with a postage stamp album and a book titled Journey of India through Philately, which the Governor received with appreciation. North-East Circle Director Postal Services KVLN Murty, Assistant Director (Technology/Vigilance) Chintamary Kharmawlong and Assistant Director (Philately) Poreiton Thokchom were also present during the meeting.    

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A3 village sets example in human-elephant conflict mitigation

SEIJOSA :  In a significant community-led conservation initiative, residents of A3 village in East Kameng district have partnered with the World Wide Fund for Nature-India (WWF-India) to install a solar-powered fence aimed at reducing human-elephant conflict and promoting peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife. The initiative was formally launched on World Environment Day during a programme attended by Health & Family Welfare and Water Resources Development Minister Biyuram Wahge, Forest Department officials, WWF-India representatives, community leaders and local residents. Located within the Pakke landscape, A3 village has been facing recurring incidents of crop depredation and property damage caused by elephant movement. The newly installed solar-powered fence is expected to help protect vulnerable areas while ensuring safe passage for elephants through the landscape. Recognising the ecological significance of the area as an important elephant corridor, members of the village also pledged to undertake plantation activities within the corridor to support habitat restoration and improve wildlife connectivity. Speaking on the occasion, Pakke Tiger Reserve Divisional Forest Officer described the community’s acceptance of solar fencing as a major step towards effective conservation and conflict mitigation. He said the initiative undertaken by A3 village could serve as a model for other villages facing similar challenges. WWF-India Landscape Coordinator for Elephant Conservation David Smith noted that the Seijosa landscape has been identified as a hotspot for human-elephant conflict in the recently launched Management Plan for Elephants in Arunachal Pradesh. He stressed the need for coordinated action by communities, institutions and conservation agencies to address the issue effectively. Addressing the gathering, Wahge said that while elephants are highly intelligent animals capable of overcoming barriers, the success of mitigation measures depends largely on active community participation and vigilance. Congratulating the people of A3 village for their proactive approach, he urged other villages to adopt similar measures to promote coexistence and reduce conflict. Earlier in the day, World Environment Day was also marked by a mass plantation drive under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign organised by the District Administration in collaboration with Pakke Tiger Reserve and the Khellong Forest Division. As part of the initiative, the Forest Department distributed 1,000 saplings to Gram Panchayat members for plantation in their respective villages. The Forest Department appreciated the support extended by the District Administration, WWF-India, public representatives, local communities and frontline staff, stating that collaborative efforts such as those undertaken by A3 village are crucial for ensuring long-term conservation success in the Pakke landscape.            

REGIONAL

Will focus on peace restoration if elected to RS: BJP nominee from Manipur

IMPHAL : BJP candidate for the Rajya Sabha elections, Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi, on Friday said she would first focus on the restoration of peace and resettlement of internally displaced people in restive Manipur, if she is elected to the Upper House of Parliament. Sharda Devi’s comment comes a day after the party nominated her for the June 18 Rajya Sabha elections. The party’s state unit chief also urged the legislators to vote for her and allow her to serve the state. Sharda Devi’s election is almost certain as the BJP has 37 MLAs in the 60-member assembly. “I am deeply humbled and grateful to BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party president Nitin Nabin, for giving me the ticket to contest the Rajya Sabha elections from the state,” she said. Sharda Devi, who had served as the national vice president for the party from 2014 to 2016, will file her nomination on June 8. In a post on X, she said, “This nomination is not merely a personal milestone but a solemn responsibility to serve the people of Manipur and contribute towards the vision of a stronger, united, and developed India under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Modi.” She pledged to work “tirelessly for the welfare of the people and the progress of our beloved state and the country”. “If elected to the Rajya Sabha, I will focus on and take all the possible steps to restore peace in the state and look into the development requirements,” Sharda Devi said. The BJP candidate also said she would be “doing everything in her capacity to rehabilitate and resettle all the internally displaced people in the state”. More than 260 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups in Manipur since May 2023. (Source: PTI)    

REGIONAL

Assam cabinet undergoes expansion; 11 BJP MLAs, one AGP legislator sworn in

GUWAHATI : BJP MLAs Ranoj Pegu, Ashok Singhal, Biswajit Daimary and AGP’s Keshab Mahanta were among the 12 legislators who took oath as ministers on Friday as Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expanded his cabinet, taking the strength of the council of ministers to 17. Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya administered the oath of office and secrecy to the MLAs at a function at the Jyoti-Bishnu Antarjatik Kala Mandir here. The chief minister, Union ministers Sarbananda Sonowal and Pabitra Margherita, Assam Assembly Speaker Ranjeet Kumar Dass, BJP state president Dilip Saikia and several NDA MLAs were present on the occasion. Among the new faces in the cabinet are BJP’s Ashwini Ray Sarkar, Nandini Devi and Sushanta Borgohain. AGP’s Mahanta, who was in Himanta Biswa Sarma’s previous cabinet, was included in the new council of ministers. BJP MLAs Bimal Borah, Jayant Mallabaruah, Kaushik Rai, Krishnendu Paul and Pijush Hazarika, who took the oath, had also served as ministers in the previous Himanta Biswa Sarma government. Rai took the oath in Hindi and all others in the Assamese language. The strength of the Assam cabinet will now be 17, including the CM, with four other ministers sworn in on May 12. The optimal strength of the state cabinet is 19 in the 126-member Assam assembly. The ministers sworn in earlier are AGP’s Atul Bora, BPF’s Charan Boro and BJP’s Ajanta Neog and Rameshwar Teli. The new cabinet will have 13 BJP ministers, two from the AGP and one from BPF. Neog and Nilima Devi are the two women ministers in the cabinet, and the number remains the same as in the previous cabinet. The expanded ministry represents several ethnic communities and geographical regions. There are two representatives, Kaushik Rai and Krishnendu Paul, from the Barak Valley, while BPF’s Boro and BJP’s Daimary belong to the Bodo community. Besides, Pegu is from the Mising tribe, Ray Sarkar from the Koch Rajbongshi and Borgohain from the Ahom community. Borgohain, along with Borah, is from upper Assam, Singhal from the northern part of the state, Pijush Hazarika from central Assam and Mallabaruah from lower Assam. Sarma was sworn in as the chief minister along with four ministers on May 12. The NDA won a record 102 seats in the 126-member assembly, including 82 from the BJP. The BJP allies, the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and the Bodoland People’s Front (BPF), bagged 10 seats each. (Source: PTI)