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ITANAGAR : Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday described bamboo as the state’s “Green Gold” and called upon local youth to harness its vast potential for entrepreneurship, employment generation and sustainable economic growth. Inaugurating the Arunachal Pradesh Bamboo & Cane Technology Centre at Gungu near here, Khandu said the new centre would transform the state’s abundant bamboo resources into value-added products and create livelihood opportunities for youth, artisans, self-help groups and entrepreneurs, an official release said. Arunachal possesses the country’s second-largest bamboo stock and over 60 bamboo species. “Bamboo is not a new subject for us. It has always been an integral part of the social, cultural and economic life of our tribal communities,” the chief minister said, adding that the facility would serve as a hub for innovation, skill development, value addition and commercialisation of bamboo products. Highlighting the expanding industrial applications of bamboo, the Khandu said it is no longer confined to traditional handicrafts but is now being used in furniture, construction materials, textiles, biofuel and even aviation fuel. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for reforms that removed bamboo from the category of trees under forest regulations, making its cultivation and commercial use easier. The chief minister urged unemployed youth, especially from the Gungu and Sangdupota areas, to take advantage of the training facilities at the centre and government-backed entrepreneurship schemes. He said bamboo-based enterprises can tap national and international markets through e-commerce platforms and benefit from initiatives such as the Prime Minister’s UNNATI Scheme and various MSME programmes. Advocating bamboo-based prefabricated housing technology, Khandu said such structures are lightweight, cost-effective and environmentally sustainable, making them particularly suitable for earthquake-prone Himalayan regions. He also stressed the need for a comprehensive bamboo policy and directed experts and officials of the Arunachal Pradesh Bamboo Resources and Development Agency (APBRDA) to prepare a long-term roadmap for bamboo cultivation, processing, regeneration and industrial utilisation. Emphasising the importance of skill development, the chief minister said the state must reduce its dependence on outside labour by equipping local youth with market-relevant skills. He observed that with major hydropower projects underway, Arunachal Pradesh would require thousands of skilled workers in the coming years. Khandu also said Sangdupota and adjoining areas are emerging as a key growth corridor for the Capital region due to the presence of major educational and institutional establishments. Responding to local demands, he assured support for improving water supply infrastructure and constructing a bridge to enhance connectivity to the Bamboo & Cane Technology centre. Forest Minister Wangki Lowang, local MLA Nabam Vivek, APBRDA Chairman Kipa Tatar, Vice Chairman Techi Necha, NEC Member T N Thongdok, senior officials, scientists and representatives of various boards and agencies were present on the occasion. (Source: PTI)          

ITANAGAR : Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday launched the online portal of TRACTION 2026 – Residency and Film Challenge at the Civil Secretariat here, marking the commencement of a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at promoting the state’s tourism, culture, indigenous products and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through digital storytelling and visual content creation. The initiative is being implemented under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Scheme of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India. Launching the portal, Khandu described TRACTION 2026 as a transformative platform capable of projecting Arunachal Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage, tourism potential and entrepreneurial success stories to national and international audiences. “TRACTION 2026 is not merely a filmmaking challenge. It is a platform to tell the authentic stories of Arunachal Pradesh to the world,” he said. Highlighting the growing influence of the digital economy and social media, the Chief Minister said the initiative would empower aspiring filmmakers, vloggers and content creators from across the Northeast to become ambassadors of the region’s cultural and economic strengths. He noted that visual storytelling has emerged as one of the most effective tools for destination promotion and cultural preservation, adding that authentic digital content can help showcase the state’s tourism destinations, indigenous traditions, geographical indication (GI)-tagged products, handicrafts, handmade paper and local enterprises to a wider audience. Khandu expressed confidence that the programme would strengthen Arunachal Pradesh’s creative economy while generating long-term benefits for local communities, entrepreneurs and tourism stakeholders. He also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the Department of Industries, Centre for Cultural Research and Documentation (CCRD), Department of Mass Communication Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) and other partner institutions in conceptualising and organising the initiative. Speaking on the occasion, Industries, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Textile and Handicrafts, Trade and Commerce, and Information, Public Relations and Printing Minister Nyato Dukam said the initiative would serve as a powerful platform to promote Arunachal Pradesh’s diverse cultural traditions, indigenous practices, crafts, cuisines and tourism destinations through compelling visual narratives. He appreciated the collaborative efforts of the Department of Industries, RAMP, CCRD, Directorate of Urban Local Bodies (DULB) and RGU in creating a platform that combines creativity with economic development. Industries and Commerce Commissioner Amjad Tak elaborated on the objectives of the programme and said TRACTION 2026 seeks to strengthen the creative content ecosystem by nurturing filmmakers, vloggers and digital storytellers from Arunachal Pradesh and the wider Northeastern region. He informed that 25 emerging content creators from all eight Northeastern states would be selected to produce visual content highlighting the state’s tourism destinations, MSMEs, GI-tagged products, handicrafts, food processing sector and entrepreneurial success stories. Tak said creative storytelling can become a powerful marketing and brand-building tool for local entrepreneurs and startups by helping them connect with wider consumer markets. Referring to initiatives such as the traditional handmade paper project in Dirang, he highlighted the immense potential of Arunachal Pradesh’s heritage and GI-tagged products. RAMP State Project Lead Dr Arinam Hazarika stressed the importance of forging long-term partnerships with digital creators to promote startups, local enterprises, food processing units and the state’s growing MSME ecosystem. He particularly highlighted the potential of Arunachal Pradesh’s organic food products, gastronomy and culinary traditions. Providing an overview of the programme, RGU Department of Mass Communication Assistant Professor and TRACTION 2026 Course Director Moji Riba said social media has evolved into a powerful parallel economy that influences travel choices, consumer behaviour and cultural awareness. He said the initiative aims to channel the influence of content creators towards responsible storytelling that authentically represents the identity, aspirations and development potential of Arunachal Pradesh. TRACTION 2026 is a 15-day residency and film challenge scheduled to be held from August 7 to 21 at Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills. The programme will bring together 25 selected content creators and social media influencers from the eight Northeastern states. Participants will undergo skill-development workshops, location-based filmmaking, editing sessions, mentorship and film evaluation while undertaking field visits to selected tourism destinations across the state. Each participant will be required to produce a five-minute film along with regular digital content documenting their residency experience. The top two films will receive cash awards of ₹1 lakh each, along with trophies and citations. Outstanding works will also be showcased through official government social media platforms to amplify stories highlighting Arunachal Pradesh’s tourism potential, cultural richness, ecological diversity and entrepreneurial achievements.      

KIMIN : Dr Sanjeeb Kalita, Scientist at the Department of Biotechnology-Arunachal Pradesh State Council for Science and Technology (DBT-APSCS&T) Centre of Excellence for Bioresources and Sustainable Development (CoE-BRSD), Kimin, has been recognised among the world’s top five per cent scientists in the 2025 SciRank Global Scientist Registry, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. The recognition is based on an independent bibliometric assessment of global research contributions and is being viewed as a significant achievement for Arunachal Pradesh’s growing scientific and research ecosystem. Dr Kalita has been actively engaged in translational biotechnology research focusing on medicinal, aromatic and other economically important plant resources of Arunachal Pradesh. His work is aimed at developing affordable and sustainable solutions in healthcare, nutraceutical, cosmeceutical and bioresource-based sectors. His research emphasises scientific validation and value addition of indigenous biological resources through multidisciplinary approaches that integrate biotechnology, natural products research, traditional knowledge systems and material science. The achievement highlights the increasing international visibility of scientific research emerging from Arunachal Pradesh and underscores the state’s potential for bioeconomy-driven growth through innovation, sustainable utilisation of biological resources and knowledge-based enterprises. The Centre of Excellence for Bioresources and Sustainable Development has been playing a key role in promoting biotechnology research, innovation, capacity building and sustainable management of the state’s rich biological resources. Through various initiatives, the centre seeks to translate biodiversity-based knowledge into technologies, products, enterprises and livelihood opportunities that contribute to socio-economic development. CoE-BRSD Project Director Dr Debajit Mahanta said the recognition reflects not only the accomplishments of an individual scientist but also the collective efforts being made to build a vibrant scientific ecosystem in Arunachal Pradesh. He said the achievement demonstrates that high-quality research conducted in the state can gain global recognition while addressing local development priorities. The Arunachal Pradesh State Council for Science and Technology (APSCS&T) congratulated Dr Kalita on the achievement and expressed confidence that the recognition would further strengthen efforts towards bioresource-based innovation, scientific excellence and socio-economic transformation through biotechnology-driven interventions.      

ITANAGAR : State BJP Mahila Morcha (BJPMM) president Nabam Yahi Tad on Monday called upon party leaders and workers to dedicate themselves to the cause of development and public welfare and ensure that the benefits of government schemes reach the deserving sections of society. She was addressing an interaction programme organised for newly appointed executive members, during which appointment letters were distributed to several office-bearers. Emphasising the responsibility of party workers, Tad said the people of the state have placed immense faith and expectations in the ruling party and its representatives. She urged cadres to play a proactive role in shaping society and strengthening the delivery of welfare measures at the grassroots level. She said party workers should ensure that both Central and state government welfare schemes reach the intended beneficiaries. Stressing the importance of grassroots outreach, she called upon karyakartas to reach the remotest villages and households to create awareness about developmental initiatives and welfare programmes being implemented by the government. Highlighting the importance of women’s participation in nation-building, Tad also stressed the need to promote women empowerment and encourage greater involvement of women in social, economic and developmental activities. She said collective efforts by women and community leaders would contribute significantly to the overall development of Itanagar Mandal, Papum Pare district, the state and the nation. Among those present were State BJP vice president Tayeng Shakuntala, Itanagar Municipal Corporation Ward No. 6 councillor Gichik Tachu, Ganga-Batt Zilla Parishad Member Techi Petal, BJPMM state secretary Tadar Yari, treasurer Biri Mema and Chimpu Gram Panchayat Member H. Ana Tadar, besides other party leaders and members.      

ITANAGAR : A one-day training programme on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), carbon credits and sustainable hydropower development was organised by the Hydro Power Development Corporation of Arunachal Pradesh Limited (HPDCAPL) in collaboration with Joy7 Foundation at the corporation’s corporate office here on Monday. The programme aimed to enhance awareness among officers and officials on sustainable development practices, ESG frameworks, carbon credit mechanisms and environmentally responsible hydropower development. Welcoming the participants, HPDCAPL Deputy General Manager (Technical) Er Teli Pinji highlighted the growing importance of integrating environmental and social considerations into organisational planning and project implementation. He also expressed appreciation to Joy7 Foundation and the resource persons for supporting the initiative. In his inaugural address, HPDCAPL Chairman and Managing Director Dr Toko Onuj underscored the significance of ESG principles, carbon credits and sustainable hydropower development in the current global context. He said the hydropower sector has a vital role in achieving clean energy goals while ensuring environmental protection and social responsibility. Dr Onuj noted that a better understanding of ESG parameters and carbon market opportunities could enhance the sustainability and long-term viability of hydropower projects. He encouraged participants to actively engage in the programme and apply the knowledge gained in their professional responsibilities. The technical sessions were conducted by resource persons Sandeep Kumar and Jyoti Sharma, who delivered presentations on ESG practices, carbon credit mechanisms and sustainable hydropower development. Kumar discussed the evolving ESG landscape, regulatory frameworks, risk management strategies and the importance of responsible governance in infrastructure and energy projects. He explained that ESG compliance contributes to improved organisational performance, investor confidence and sustainable growth, while noting that ESG audits have become increasingly important for attracting investors. Sharma elaborated on carbon markets, carbon accounting, emission reduction strategies and the opportunities available for hydropower projects to generate carbon credits. She also highlighted the contribution of renewable energy projects towards achieving national and global climate commitments. The resource persons stressed the need to balance economic growth with environmental conservation and social welfare, while sharing best practices and emerging trends in sustainable hydropower development. They also briefed participants on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) obligations under Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013, and the provisions of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act, including the constitution of Internal Committees in organisations. The programme witnessed active participation from HPDCAPL officers and officials and concluded with a vote of thanks to the resource persons, Joy7 Foundation, management and participants for contributing to the success of the event.            

HOLLONGI :  The Airports Authority of India (AAI), Donyi Polo Airport, on Monday observed Yatri Suvidha Diwas 2026 on Monday with a series of passenger-centric activities aimed at enhancing travel experience and reaffirming its commitment to providing world-class airport services. As part of the nationwide observance, the airport organised a traditional welcome for arriving passengers with a tika ceremony, distribution of saplings under the campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, a photo booth and passenger feedback initiatives. Speaking to reporters, Donyi Polo Airport director Narender said the observance was intended to highlight AAI’s efforts towards ensuring a seamless, safe and passenger-friendly travel environment. He informed that several facilities have been upgraded following the operationalisation of the new terminal building. Among the major improvements, the airport’s parking capacity has been expanded from around 100 vehicles to nearly 300 vehicles, while additional passenger amenities are also being enhanced. The airport director said the event showcased the progress made in the civil aviation sector and underscored the importance of passenger comfort, safety and satisfaction as key priorities in airport operations. He added that AAI continues to focus on making the airport more inclusive, sustainable and user-friendly while strengthening community engagement and awareness about the aviation sector. Responding to queries regarding flight schedules, Narender said services between Itanagar and Kolkata have been reduced in view of the ongoing West Asia crisis. Under the revised schedule, flights on the Itanagar-Kolkata-Itanagar route will remain suspended on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from June 16, with services operating on the remaining four days of the week. He further informed that Alliance Air has increased connectivity between Itanagar and Guwahati, with flights now operating twice daily on the route.