ONLINE AGE

(Online version of the Arunachal Age newspaper)

Latest News

Latest News, Popular News, State News

DLMC reviews developmental works, public service delivery

DIRANG : A Coordination-cum-Sub-Divisional Level Monitoring Committee meeting was held at Dirang under the chairmanship of Advisor to PWD, Highways and Science & Technology Minister Phurpa Tsering. The meeting was attended by West Kameng Deputy Commissioner Dr Dilip Kumar, Superintendent of Police, Additional Deputy Commissioners, administrative officers, Heads of Departments (HoDs), Zilla Parishad Members (ZPMs), Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members and other stakeholders. Welcoming the participants, Dirang Additional Deputy Commissioner highlighted the importance of the meeting in reviewing developmental activities and addressing issues affecting the subdivision. During the meeting, HoDs made detailed presentations on the progress of ongoing projects, departmental achievements, challenges and future plans. Various issues related to developmental works and public service delivery were also discussed. Among the concerns raised were transportation difficulties faced by departmental staff, installation of smart meters, pipeline connectivity, staff shortages and other infrastructure-related issues. Departments also sought necessary interventions for the smooth implementation of government schemes and development programmes. Addressing the gathering, West Kameng DC Dr Dilip Kumar stressed the importance of inter-departmental coordination for effective implementation of developmental projects. He said close cooperation among departments was essential to ensure quality execution, timely completion of projects and overall progress of the district. He also directed departments to ensure that beneficiaries selected under government schemes are genuine and deserving. In his address, Phurpa Tsering called for greater involvement of Panchayat leaders and PRI members in the implementation of developmental activities. He emphasised that beneficiary selection under government schemes should be carried out transparently and in consultation with Panchayat representatives to ensure fairness, accountability and public confidence. Taking note of transportation challenges faced by administrative officers and contingency staff due to the distance between offices, Tsering assured that efforts would be made to facilitate the provision of a bus for the benefit of staff members.        

Latest News, Popular News, State News

Purple Fest Arunachal 2026 concludes

ITANAGAR : The second edition of Purple Fest Arunachal 2026 concluded successfully at Delhi Public School (DPS), Jollang, following a two-day celebration of inclusion, accessibility and empowerment on June 20 and 21. Supported by the Department of Social Justice, Empowerment and Tribal Affairs (SJETA), Government of Arunachal Pradesh, and organised by the Paralympic Association of Arunachal (PAA), the festival brought together more than 350 Divyangjan, parents, teachers, educators, officials, volunteers and support staff from across the state. Participants from 16 districts attended the event, which aimed to promote dignity, equal opportunities and social inclusion for persons with disabilities while providing a platform to showcase their talents, abilities and achievements. The festival was inaugurated in the presence of SJETA Secretary Dani Salu, Sports Authority of Arunachal Chairman Neelam John, Paralympic Association of Assam Secretary General Rajib Dey, All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union Women Affairs Secretary Techi Tannu, Mr Arunachal 2026 Lhakpa Tsering, Mrs Arunachal 2026 Leyu Abom Yekar, former Directorate of Health Services Director Dr M. Lego, Deepak Nabam Living Home Chairman Deepak Nabam and other distinguished guests. A variety of activities were conducted during the festival, including sports competitions, cultural performances, literary events, drawing competitions, exhibitions, awareness programmes, skill development workshops, educational and career counselling sessions, and recognition of outstanding Divyangjan achievers. Speakers on the occasion underscored the need to build an inclusive society where every individual is provided equal opportunities to participate, contribute and succeed. The event also served as a platform for interaction, learning, networking and empowerment among participants and stakeholders. The PAA expressed gratitude to SJETA, particularly Director Yumlam Kaha and his team, for their support in ensuring the successful conduct of the festival. Appreciation was also extended to DPS Jollang for providing the venue and necessary facilities. In the district-level competition, Papum Pare emerged champion, while East Siang secured the first runner-up position and East Kameng finished as the second runner-up. Reaffirming the message that “Disability is Not Inability,” the festival concluded with a renewed commitment towards building a more accessible, inclusive and empowering society for all.      

Latest News, Popular News, State News

East Kameng SP honours police personnel for anti-drug operations

SEPPA : East Kameng Superintendent of Police (SP) Shivendu Bhushan honoured police personnel with appreciation letters in recognition of their outstanding contribution to the detection and seizure of narcotic substances under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The officers were recognised for their dedication, professionalism and prompt action in successfully carrying out anti-narcotics operations, reaffirming the district police’s commitment to combating drug-related crimes and building a drug-free society. On the occasion, the SP also commended the efforts of the Seppa Traffic Police for their exemplary service in promoting road safety, ensuring smooth traffic management and encouraging responsible road use. The recognition programme highlighted the importance of dedication and professionalism in public service and is expected to inspire police personnel to continue serving the community with integrity and commitment.  

Latest News, Popular News, State News

APEDP 5.0 awareness, career counselling session held

LIKABALI : An awareness programme on the Arunachal Pradesh Entrepreneurship Development Programme (APEDP) 5.0 and a career counselling session were organised at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Likabali, as part of the silver jubilee celebrations of the Jigo-Yego Students’ Union (JYSU). The programme witnessed the participation of more than 250 students and youths from the 28th Likabali (ST) Assembly Constituency. Resource persons included Police Training Centre Banderdewa Deputy Superintendent of Police Moge Bole, Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences Assistant Professor Dr Jarde Karlo and Lohit District Information and Public Relations Officer Nyatum Doke. The speakers interacted with students and shared insights on career opportunities in administration, policing, medicine, media, entrepreneurship and other professional fields. Representing the Lower Siang District Planning Office under the Mukhyamantri Viksit Arunachal Fellowship Programme (MMVAFP), Fellow Mesin and Assistant Fellow Meera conducted an awareness session on APEDP 5.0. They briefed participants on the programme’s objectives, benefits, eligibility criteria and application process, and informed them that applications will be accepted until July 20. Informational flyers were also distributed among the attendees. During the counselling session, the resource persons encouraged students to pursue their goals with dedication and discipline while making informed career choices. The interactive programme also provided an opportunity for participants to seek guidance and clarify their career-related queries. The event successfully promoted awareness about entrepreneurship opportunities under APEDP 5.0 while inspiring students to explore diverse career pathways and professional opportunities.  

Latest News, Popular News, State News

Fire safety demonstration conducted

LIKABALI : The Fire and Emergency Services Department, Likabali, conducted a Fire Safety Awareness and Demonstration Programme at the Deputy Commissioner’s office complex on Monday to educate government officials and staff on fire prevention and emergency response measures. The programme was led by Station Fire Officer Duge Ete and his team in the presence of Likabali Additional Deputy Commissioner Mokar Riba, Assistant Commissioner Jannes Mary Tayeng, District Disaster Management Officer Tarik Nyitan, and officers and officials from various departments. During the programme, the Fire and Emergency Services personnel demonstrated essential fire safety practices, including the proper use of fire extinguishers and techniques for handling fire-related emergencies. Participants also took part in a live demonstration, gaining practical experience in responding effectively to fire incidents. Addressing the gathering, ADC Mokar Riba appreciated the department for organising the programme and emphasised the importance of such awareness initiatives in ensuring safety at workplaces and in everyday life. He urged officials to apply the knowledge gained during the training to enhance preparedness and prevent fire-related accidents. The programme concluded with an interactive session, highlighting the importance of preparedness, vigilance and adherence to fire safety protocols. (DIPR)

Latest News, Popular News, State News

Sub-health centres inaugurated

ROING : Three Sub-Health Centres at Kebali, Balek and Horupahar were inaugurated on Monday by Advisor to Home and Education and Roing MLA Mutchu Mithi in the presence of Lower Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner Fwwrman Brahma, District Medical Officer Dr Worar Taku, officials of the Health Department and Public Health Engineering and Water Supply Department, Panchayati Raj Institution members and local residents. Speaking on the occasion, Mithi appreciated the Health Department for operationalising the sub-health centres, which were notified by the government on July 31, 2014. He directed the department to ensure the availability of essential medicines and other basic healthcare facilities at the centres. The MLA also urged villagers to cooperate with the Health Department to facilitate effective delivery of healthcare services at their doorsteps. He assured that he would pursue with the government for sanction of funds for infrastructure development of the newly inaugurated centres. Addressing the gathering, DC Fwwrman Brahma appealed to parents to ensure that girls aged between 9 and 14 years receive the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to help prevent cervical cancer. (DIPR)

Latest News, National, Popular News, State News

Anna Hazare to launch fast if amendments to Right to Information Rules not revoked

PUNE : Activist Anna Hazare has threatened to launch an indefinite hunger strike from July 5 at Ralegan Siddhi village in Ahilyanagar district if the Maharashtra government does not immediately withdraw the “illegal” amendments made to the Right to Information Rules. In a letter to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Hazare said the Maharashtra Right to Information Rules, 2026, would “blunt the edge” of the RTI Act and keep citizens away from information. He claimed the amendments made on June 12 violate the spirit of the RTI Act, 2005, and undermine transparency. Hazare objected to the hike in fees, saying no rational explanation or financial analysis was provided. “RTI is not a revenue-generating law. If fees are raised after 20 years, penalties on officers who deny information should also be increased,” he wrote. He opposed making ID proof mandatory, arguing that Section 6(2) of the RTI Act does not require applicants to disclose personal details or reasons for seeking information. Such a condition endangers whistleblowers and activists, he added. The anti-corruption activist also criticised the “one subject, one application” rule, calling it unnecessary and burdensome, and said the provision to summarily close repeat applications would block access to complete or updated information. Other objections included asking applicants for the purpose of seeking information, dismissal of appeals if the applicant remains absent, automatic closure of cases on an applicant’s death, and barring legal assistance during hearings before the Information Commission. Hazare said the rules shift the burden onto citizens instead of fixing systemic failures. He noted that Section 4 of the RTI Act, which mandates proactive disclosure by public authorities, remains poorly implemented, forcing citizens to file applications. “Making the process more technical, costly and administration-centric will reduce transparency,” he said, adding that the amendments were brought without public consultation. Hazare, who led several agitations for RTI in Maharashtra since 1998 and undertook fasts in Mumbai, Ralegan Siddhi and Alandi, said he would not back down. “If the June 12 amendments are not revoked immediately, I will begin my fast on July 5 at Yadav Baba Temple, Ralegan Siddhi, even if it costs my life,” the letter stated. He urged the state to withdraw the rules and strengthen proactive disclosure instead of imposing new restrictions on applicants. (Source: PTI)            

Latest News, Popular News, State News

Arunachal celebrates Yoga Day; Governor, CM highlight wellness benefits

ITANAGAR : Arunachal Pradesh joined the rest of the country in celebrating the International Day of Yoga on Sunday, with Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd), Chief Minister Pema Khandu and other dignitaries leading programmes across the state and highlighting yoga’s role in promoting physical, mental and emotional well-being. The Governor, accompanied by State Health Minister Biyuram Wahge, participated in the state-level programme at Lok Bhavan. The event was organised by Indira Gandhi Technological and Medical Sciences University (IGTAMSU), Ziro, in collaboration with the Department of Youth Affairs. Addressing the gathering, the Governor described the International Day of Yoga as a global recognition of India’s timeless civilisational wisdom. He said yoga, once rooted in ancient Indian traditions, has evolved into a universal pathway to holistic health and well-being. Describing yoga as one of India’s greatest gifts to humanity, he noted that in an era marked by stress, anxiety, lifestyle disorders and sedentary habits, yoga offers a simple, cost-effective and sustainable approach to preventive healthcare. Referring to this year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, he said yoga helps people of all age groups maintain physical fitness, mental alertness, emotional well-being and independence throughout life. The Governor also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s role in securing global recognition for yoga through the adoption of the International Day of Yoga by the United Nations in 2014 with the support of 177 countries. He encouraged people, especially youth and senior citizens, to incorporate yoga into their daily lives. As part of the programme, the Governor distributed copies of his booklet, Yoga for Common Health Challenges, which provides practical yoga-based solutions for managing common health concerns and lifestyle-related ailments. He expressed hope that the publication would inspire individuals and families to adopt healthier and more balanced lifestyles. IGTAMSU Vice Chancellor Prof K Satya Lakshmi also spoke on the importance of yoga and the university’s initiatives to promote wellness. Students of the university presented a synchronised yoga demonstration based on the Common Yoga Protocol prescribed by the Ministry of AYUSH. Personnel from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Arunachal Pradesh Police, NCC, Scouts and Guides, and officials from Lok Bhavan and the Health Department participated in the programme. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pema Khandu led the state’s celebrations at Jang in Tawang district, where he joined school children, personnel of the Indian Army, Central Armed Police Forces, Border Roads Organisation, public representatives, officials and local residents in a mass yoga session. “Incredible energy at Jang as we celebrated International Day of Yoga with school children, the Indian Army, CAPF personnel, BRO, public representatives, officials and citizens. Yoga unites us in strength, discipline and wellness,” Khandu said in a social media post. The Chief Minister described yoga as India’s timeless gift to humanity, offering a path to physical well-being, mental clarity and inner peace. He said yoga has grown into a global movement under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and urged people to make it a part of their daily routine for a healthier and more harmonious society. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein also participated in a yoga session in Itanagar along with Education Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona and others. In a social media post, Mein said yoga nurtures the body, calms the mind and awakens the soul while promoting balance, resilience and inner peace. He called upon people to embrace the transformative power of yoga and adopt practices that support vitality, well-being and graceful ageing. The Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly also observed the day with a special yoga session at the Assembly Complex. MLA Hayeng Mangfi, Assembly Secretary Tadar Meena, Joint Secretary K. Jugli, officers and staff of the Assembly participated in the programme.   Pasighat: Arunachal Pradesh University (APU), Pasighat, observed the International Day of Yoga with a yoga session on its campus. Registrar Narmi Darang, faculty members, employees, staff and students participated in the programme held under this year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.” The session featured yoga asanas, breathing exercises and meditation under the guidance of instructors. Speaking on the occasion, APU Assistant Registrar (Academics) Likha Rinchin highlighted the importance of yoga in maintaining physical and mental well-being and encouraged the university community to make it a part of their daily routine.   Tawang: The District Administration, Tawang, in collaboration with the 190 Mountain Brigade, celebrated the 12th International Day of Yoga at the Gyalwa Tsangyang Gyatso High Altitude Sports Stadium. Among those present were Arunachal Pradesh Industries, Textile & Handicrafts, Labour & Employment and IPR Minister Nyato Dukam, Tezu MLA Dr Mohesh Chai, Tawang MLA Namgey Tsering, Tawang Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo, Brigadier Bhupal Singh, Zilla Parishad members, Heads of Departments, students and members of the public. Addressing the gathering, Dukam described yoga as a way of life that harmonises physical health, mental well-being and spiritual energy. He urged people to adopt yoga as a daily practice for a healthier and more balanced life. Deputy Commissioner Angmo highlighted yoga’s role in promoting healthy living, reducing stress and fostering social harmony. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from government officials, security personnel, students and citizens.   Yingkiong: The District Ayush Society, Upper Siang, celebrated the International Day of Yoga at the Multipurpose Hall, Yingkiong, under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.” Upper Siang MLA Alo Libang, government officials, public leaders, teachers, students and members of the public participated in the programme. Addressing the gathering, Libang emphasised the importance of incorporating yoga into daily life to promote physical, mental and spiritual well-being. He said this year’s theme underscored the significance of healthy ageing and maintaining an active lifestyle. District Reproductive and Child Health Officer Dr Andeng Sitek highlighted the significance of the International Day of Yoga, while the yoga session was conducted by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Awasiya Vidyalaya Headmistress Obul Boli, who guided participants through various yoga asanas and meditation exercises.   Aalo: The 12th International Day of Yoga was observed at Gumin Kinn, Aalo, with enthusiastic participation from government officials, students and members of the public. The programme was organised by the District

Latest News, Popular News, State News

Wangsu calls for wider adoption of natural farming in TCL region

KANUBARI :  Agriculture and Allied Departments Minister Gabriel D Wangsu on Sunday called for the wider adoption of natural farming practices across the Tirap, Changlang and Longding (TCL) region, emphasising their importance for sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation and improved farmer livelihoods. Addressing a Natural Farming Training Programme organised by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Longding at the ADC Office Auditorium in Kanubari, Wangsu urged farmers to embrace eco-friendly and climate-resilient farming methods to enhance productivity while preserving natural resources for future generations. More than 200 farmers from the TCL region participated in the programme, which aimed to promote sustainable agricultural practices and provide practical knowledge on natural farming techniques. Delivering the keynote address, KVK Longding Senior Scientist-cum-Head Dr Utpal Kumar Bhattacharya highlighted natural farming as a sustainable approach that relies on locally available resources and biological inputs while reducing dependence on chemical fertilisers and pesticides. He said the practice improves soil health, lowers cultivation costs, enhances environmental sustainability and results in healthier agricultural produce. The Minister and other speakers noted that the TCL region’s abundant natural resources and favourable agro-climatic conditions make it ideally suited for the adoption of natural farming. They also underscored the need for greater awareness and capacity building among farmers to ensure long-term agricultural sustainability. Among those present were Arunachal Pradesh Food Commission Chairman and BJP Vice-President Tarh Tarak, BJP Kisan Morcha President Gumsen Lollen, Zilla Parishad Members and other dignitaries. On the occasion, the Department of Agriculture distributed farm machinery, quality vegetable seeds and certificates of appreciation to farmers from Kanubari and adjoining areas. The Minister commended KVK Longding for its continued contribution to agricultural development and farmer empowerment, and called for stronger collaboration among farmers, extension agencies and government departments to accelerate the adoption of natural farming across the TCL region.      

Latest News, National, Popular News, State News

NEET-UG retest held at over 5,400 centres in India, abroad amid tight security

NEW DELHI : The NEET-UG re-exam was held at centres across the country and overseas on Sunday amid tight security arrangements for the smooth conduct of the examination. The examination was conducted across 5,440 centres in 551 cities in India and 14 centres abroad by the NTA after the cancellation of the earlier May 3 exam amid an ongoing probe into the question paper leak. Over 22 lakh students were to appear in the retest. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan reviewed arrangements for the smooth conduct of the NEET-UG re-examination at the NTA headquarters in Delhi’s Okhla. “NTA apprises the Minister of the logistical and technical arrangements put in place for the efficient and transparent conduct of the examination,” the Ministry of Education said. The examination was scheduled from 2.00 PM to 5.15 PM. Candidates with disabilities (PwD/PwBD) eligible for compensatory time will be allowed to write the examination till 6.20 pm. In Kolkata, an injured candidate was allowed a separate room at the examination centre, along with medical support and a standby ambulance. The candidate, Shrishti Dubey, suffered severe injuries in a road accident on June 14 and sought assistance from the authorities to make special arrangements. Pradhan personally spoke to the aspirant’s parents, who conveyed their gratitude for the assistance provided by the NTA and the authorities. However, some aspirants and their families flagged commuting difficulties in reaching the examination centres. In Bhopal, two students were denied entry to the centre after arriving late. Amir Qadri, uncle of one of the aspirants, said, “I have come here with my nephew for his examination. While on our way to the examination centre, we met with an accident and got a bit late, since my nephew received first aid. Now that we have reached here, we are being denied entry. The authorities are saying the exam has already begun and that it won’t be possible to permit us entry.” Heavy rains lashed Kolkata and its adjoining areas, triggering severe waterlogging in several parts of the city and disrupting traffic movement. The showers brought respite from humid conditions but caused difficulties for commuters, including NEET aspirants travelling to examination centres for the re-test. In Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Undertaking arranged special bus services for students appearing in the re-examination amid the ongoing strike by its employees. According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, nearly 180 bus trips were planned during the day, with 60 buses deployed on 24 routes to facilitate travel to 63 examination centres across the city. In Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delayed his travel to his residence after arriving at IGI airport from Kolkata, to ensure NEET re-exam candidates did not face inconvenience due to traffic restrictions. Sources said after arriving at the IGI airport around 1 PM, Modi chose to wait at the airport instead of immediately leaving for his residence at Lok Kalyan Marg. Meanwhile, nearly 79,400 aspirants appeared for the re-examination at 211 centres across Gujarat, which was held amid extensive security arrangements. State police deployed drones and additional personnel at the centres to ensure the smooth and fair conduct of the examination. In some states, including the national capital, free drinking water and refreshments were also arranged for parents and guardians waiting outside examination centres, officials said. A candidate, Kishan, before entering the examination centre in Delhi to take the retest, said security arrangements were tighter this time than during the earlier test. “Security is tighter this time than last time. A lot has happened over the past month. I have revised as much as I could, and now, I just want to write the exam. I only hope the exam is conducted fairly,” he told PTI Videos. “Everyone who took that exam was under immense pressure, especially the students who were on the verge of qualifying,” he added. Another NEET-UG candidate, Sonia, also noted that security was tighter this time. “If such security arrangements had been in place the last time, the chances of a paper leak would have been lower, and students would not have had to face so much trouble,” she said before taking the retest. According to a media report, a NEET aspirant wearing a burqa alleged that she was denied entry to an examination centre in Rajasthan’s Ajmer. The candidate, Kulsum Bano, claimed she had appeared for the earlier exam wearing the same attire. “I have come from Beawar to take the NEET exam. When I took the exam on May 3, I was in the same attire then as I am now, wearing a burqa and a dupatta. Initially, they said I would have to remove the dupatta to enter; then they insisted I had to remove the burqa as well,” she said before the exam started. “If the NTA has permitted us, these people cannot stop us… If I am to take the exam and they don’t allow me in this attire, then I simply won’t take it,” she said. “The exam doesn’t matter to me; what matters is my ‘burqa’ and my identity,” she asserted. The NTA later clarified that the aspirant was allowed entry to the centre. The examination was conducted in English and 12 Indian languages. According to NTA, more than 95,000 examination rooms were equipped with CCTV surveillance. A total of 1,38,560 CCTV cameras were installed, with feeds monitored virtually at the national, state and ministry levels, officials said. To secure the examination against electronic malpractice, 51,311 jammers have been deployed. Ahead of the retest, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had urged candidates to appear for it fearlessly and free of anxiety. (Source: PTI)