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HAWAI : Anjaw Deputy Commissioner Millo Kojin emphasised the importance of strong civil-military coordination for balanced development and security in border areas while chairing the second Civil-Military Fusion Meeting held at Hawai on Wednesday. The meeting brought together officials of the district administration and the Indian Army to review issues related to border area development, public welfare, infrastructure, security and community participation. Addressing the gathering, Kojin lauded the Indian Army for its continued support towards civilian welfare, infrastructure development and community-oriented initiatives in the district. He said civil-military cooperation is particularly crucial in a strategically sensitive district like Anjaw, where developmental needs and security concerns must progress hand in hand. The DC assured full cooperation from the district administration in addressing local issues, including land matters, waste management, public awareness programmes, infrastructure development and preparations for the forthcoming Walong Day celebration. He also stressed the need for greater community participation to ensure that developmental initiatives benefit residents of remote border villages. Speaking at the meeting, 82 Mountain Brigade Brigadier Jaspreet Singh highlighted the strategic significance of the region and reiterated the need for close coordination between civil and military authorities. He informed that the Indian Army had spent Rs 1 crore under Project Sadbhavana on civilian welfare initiatives, including support for the Walong Day Celebration in 2025, and announced plans to enhance the allocation to Rs 1.5 crore for community-oriented projects. The Army also sought the administration’s support in creating public awareness to prevent civilians from crossing sensitive areas such as Bipin Rawat Gate and Dichu Nallah without prior intimation to military authorities. The meeting reviewed progress on action points from the first Civil-Military Fusion Meeting held in 2025. Officials informed that repair, widening and blacktopping of the road connecting the highway to the Surgical Centre would be taken up during the current working season, with funds already sanctioned for the project. Discussions were also held on land-related issues affecting infrastructure projects, extension of power supply to Wacha, strengthening banking facilities in Walong, procurement of vegetables from local farmers, solid waste management and the progress of the Community Radio Station at Walong under Project Sadbhavana. Concern was expressed over low participation of local youth in the Agniveer recruitment process, with the Army urging educational institutions and the district administration to undertake awareness campaigns to encourage greater enrolment. Preparations for the forthcoming Walong Day celebration were also reviewed, including participation of cultural troupes and the showcasing of traditional costumes, dances and cultural heritage. The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from both the district administration and the Indian Army to work together for infrastructure development, public welfare, security and youth empowerment in the border region.  

ITANAGAR : Animal Husbandry, Veterinary & Dairy Development Minister Gabriel D. Wangsu on Wednesday underscored the importance of accurate data collection, youth participation and infrastructure development for the sustainable growth of the livestock sector during the District Veterinary Officers’ (DVOs) Conference-cum-Chintan Baithak held at DK Convention Hall here. The conference, organised by the Department of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary & Dairy Development (AHV&DD), was attended by Minister’s Advisor and MLA Talem Taboh, AHV&DD Secretary YVVJ Rajshekhar, Director Dr Danjan Longri, Joint Directors Dr Taba Heli and Dr Talo Taggu, besides DVOs and nodal officers from across the state. In his address, Wangsu highlighted the vast potential of the animal husbandry sector as a major source of employment generation and directed officers to take livestock census activities seriously. He said accurate ground-level data is essential for effective planning and implementation, while incorrect reporting often leads to policy and execution gaps. The Minister emphasised the need to identify genuine and trained farmers so that government assistance reaches deserving beneficiaries. He also called for continuous handholding and monitoring of trained youths even after completion of skill development programmes. Highlighting infrastructure as a priority area, Wangsu observed that excessive expenditure on repairing old structures often results in inefficient utilisation of resources. He assured officers that efforts would be made to secure adequate funding for new infrastructure and announced that high-performing districts would receive priority support. Referring to dairy farming as an emerging livelihood opportunity in the state, he stressed the need for awareness generation and motivation among tribal communities. He also encouraged trained youths and progressive farmers to form Dairy Cooperative Societies (DCS), describing them as key drivers for expanding dairy-based livelihoods. Wangsu further emphasised the importance of fodder development and informed the gathering that the state government would soon formulate a fodder policy. He directed officers to earmark adequate land for fodder cultivation to support the long-term growth of the livestock sector. Calling for innovative and practical approaches, the Minister advised officers to focus on need-based infrastructure development and identify areas lacking suitable land for veterinary establishments. He also stressed stronger inter-departmental coordination and assured full support in addressing departmental challenges. Earlier, AHV&DD Secretary YVVJ Rajshekhar presented an overview of the department’s achievements, challenges and priorities in the livestock sector. He emphasised the preparation of modern and practical Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) and urged officers to work closely with district administrations to address cases of encroachment on departmental land. During the deliberations, MLA Talem Taboh lauded the department’s achievements and expressed concern over encroachment of departmental properties. He suggested effective utilisation of available land resources and proposed the formation of committees headed by respective Additional Deputy Commissioners to address land-related issues. He also recommended linking youths trained under the “Catch Them Young” initiative with government support schemes, including the Atmanirbhar Yojana. The conference also featured district-wise presentations by DVOs and nodal officers, followed by an extensive discussion on operational challenges, infrastructure gaps and strategies for strengthening the animal husbandry sector in the state.  

AALO : Sports & Youth Affairs, Legislative Affairs and SJETA Minister Kento Jini on Wednesday inspected the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) Centre at Rokken Kabu in West Siang district and directed the authorities to resume the collection and transportation of dry waste from Aalo Township from June 25. The Minister, accompanied by West Siang Deputy Commissioner Mindo Loyi and officials from various departments, reviewed the functioning of the facility and the overall waste management system serving Aalo Township. The MRF Centre was made operational following the initiative of Minister Kento Jini to address long-standing challenges in garbage management in the township. Dry waste generated in Aalo is transported through Patum Bridge and the Pessing area under Jomlo Circle in Siang district, where it is processed and managed in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) prescribed by the Urban Development Department. However, transportation of waste has recently been disrupted due to objections raised by some residents of the Pessing area, who have reportedly prevented Urban Development Department vehicles from passing through the route. Taking note of the issue, the Minister directed the Urban Development Department, Aalo, to ensure the immediate resumption of waste collection and transportation for the smooth functioning of the MRF Centre. He also instructed the Power Department to provide adequate and uninterrupted electricity supply to the facility. Jini further requested Siang district authorities to issue necessary administrative directions to prevent any obstruction to vehicles engaged in waste transportation. Stating that all prescribed SOPs are being followed, he appealed to residents of the Pessing area to cooperate with the waste management initiative and avoid creating hindrances to the movement of departmental vehicles. Among those present during the inspection were Urban Development Department Executive Engineer Hali Welly, BJP West Siang District President Lige Lollen, officials of the Power Department and officers of the Urban Development Department.  

KHONSA : Environment and Forest Minister Wangki Lowang on Wednesday inaugurated “The Tirap Police Gym” at Khonsa, marking a significant step towards promoting physical fitness and the overall well-being of police personnel in the district. The programme was attended by Khonsa East MLA Wanglam Sawin, Khonsa Additional Deputy Commissioner Namneet Singh, Tirap Superintendent of Police Aditya IPS, and officers from the district administration and police department. Speaking on the occasion, Lowang said the gym would help foster a culture of fitness, discipline and operational readiness among police personnel, thereby enhancing their efficiency and capacity to serve the public. He lauded the initiative of Tirap Superintendent of Police Aditya in establishing the facility for the welfare of the police force. Following the inauguration, the Minister, accompanied by MLA Wanglam Sawin and Additional Deputy Commissioner Namneet Singh, inspected the ongoing construction of Nehru Stadium at Khonsa. Reviewing the progress of the project, Lowang directed the executing agency to ensure its timely completion while maintaining the highest quality standards in accordance with the Detailed Project Report (DPR). He said the stadium would emerge as an important sports infrastructure asset for the youth and people of the district once completed. The visit underscored the government’s commitment to strengthening public infrastructure while promoting the welfare of security personnel and creating better opportunities for youth development through sports.  

ITANAGAR : North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST) Director Prof Narendranath S called on Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd) at Lok Bhavan on Tuesday and briefed him on recent developments on the institute’s campus and the measures being taken to restore normalcy and ensure the well-being of students and faculty members. The Governor, who is also the President of the NERIST Society, expressed concern over the recent incidents and stressed the need to take appropriate measures to prevent any recurrence. Emphasising the importance of maintaining peace, discipline and a conducive academic environment, the Governor said NERIST is one of the premier institutions of higher and technical education in the Northeast with a distinguished legacy of nurturing scientific temper, innovation and skilled human resources. Parnaik observed that any disruption to the academic atmosphere adversely affects the aspirations and future of students and underscored that the interests of students and the reputation of the institution must remain paramount. The Governor said he has been in regular contact with the institute’s administration, faculty members and state police authorities regarding the situation. He further stated that he had received assurances from the state government that a thorough inquiry would be conducted and that those found responsible for the unruly episode would be dealt with in accordance with the law. Highlighting the importance of accountability, discipline and respect for institutional values, Parnaik said these principles are essential for maintaining harmony and ensuring a conducive learning environment. Expressing confidence in the institute’s stakeholders, the Governor said the NERIST administration, faculty members, students and other concerned groups would work collectively to restore normalcy and uphold the institution’s longstanding tradition of academic excellence and inclusivity. He also urged all stakeholders to exercise restraint and contribute towards preserving the dignity and reputation of one of the region’s most respected educational institutions.    

NAHARLAGUN : The Department of Agriculture on Tuesday conducted its annual Chintan Baithak-cum-Review Meeting at Krishi Bhawan here under the chairmanship of Arunachal Pradesh Agriculture Minister Gabriel D Wangsu, with a strong focus on administrative reforms, programme implementation and improved fund utilisation. The 12-hour review meeting was attended by Agriculture Secretary Samuel Changkija, Director of Agriculture Toggul Perme Pertin, Arunachal Pradesh Agriculture Marketing Board (APAMB) Chief Executive Officer Tadak Dabi, joint directors, deputy directors, District Agriculture Officers from all 27 districts and other senior officials. Reviewing the performance of flagship programmes and district-level initiatives, Wangsu stressed greater accountability, administrative efficiency and outcome-oriented governance. He urged officials to ensure full utilisation of allocated funds while maintaining transparency, quality execution and measurable outcomes. Commending the department’s improved financial performance, the minister noted that fund utilisation had reached nearly 62 per cent, a significant improvement over previous years when utilisation remained below 50 per cent. The functioning of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) across the state also came under review. Representatives highlighted various administrative and operational challenges, to which the minister assured government support and reiterated its commitment to resolving pending issues. The future of the State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (SAMETI) at Pasighat was another major agenda item. Discussions focused on strengthening the institution and protecting its land assets. Following concerns over alleged encroachment, Wangsu called for strict legal action against encroachers, while the Agriculture Secretary directed officials to prepare a comprehensive master plan for safeguarding and optimally utilising the institute’s land. The meeting also reviewed the progress of the Krishi-Himveer Mission, a collaborative initiative involving the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). Officials emphasised greater participation of farmers, Self-Help Groups and Farmer Producer Organisations under the programme. Expressing concern over the rapid increase in Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs), Wangsu directed APAMB to conduct annual audits and grading of FPCs to assess their performance, sustainability and effectiveness. Organic farming and certification systems were also discussed, with officials exploring the expansion of the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) certification framework for crops intended for domestic markets. APAMB further proposed engaging NABARD-supported agencies for project preparation and monitoring of value-addition initiatives. Highlighting the growing importance of digital agriculture, Wangsu underscored the role of AgriStack, including Farmer IDs, crop surveys and farm mapping, in future agricultural governance and service delivery. “All future benefits and schemes will increasingly depend on authentic digital farm data,” he said, adding that pilot farm mapping has already been completed in six districts and will be expanded across the state over the current and next year. The minister appealed to farmers, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Gaon Burahs and community leaders to support the initiative to ensure wider access to government schemes and services. During the meeting, Wangsu also launched the online portal for the Atmanirbhar Yojana aimed at streamlining service delivery, improving beneficiary outreach and strengthening digital governance in the agriculture sector. District Agriculture Officers presented reports on the implementation status, achievements, challenges and success stories under various Central and State-sponsored schemes. Concluding the marathon deliberations, Wangsu described agriculture as the backbone of the state’s rural economy and called upon officials, particularly from underperforming districts, to rededicate themselves to the welfare of farmers and the development of the sector.