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ITANAGAR :  Researchers have discovered a butterfly species previously unknown to science in Arunachal Pradesh, adding a new member to the world’s butterfly fauna and underscoring the rich but largely unexplored biodiversity of the Eastern Himalaya. The new species, named Chonala albistricta or Narrow-banded Wall, was discovered at Mayodia Pass in Lower Dibang Valley district and formally described in the international journal Zootaxa on June 10. The discovery was made by a three-member research team led by Dr Krushnamegh Kunte of the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), Bengaluru. The team also included researchers Fahim Khan and Ujwala Pawar. According to Khan, Chonala albistricta is the tenth known species in the genus Chonala globally and only the second species of the genus to be recorded from India. The butterfly derives its name from the distinctly narrow and unevenly bent white band on its forewing, a key identifying feature. Researchers said the discovery process began in August last year, with Pawar playing a crucial role in specimen curation and dissection, which helped establish the butterfly’s distinct identity. The newly described species belongs to the genus Chonala, a small group of mountain butterflies found in high-altitude regions of the Himalayas and adjoining parts of Asia. Although it closely resembles Chonala masoni, commonly known as the Chumbi Wall, detailed scientific examination revealed consistent differences in wing patterns, morphology and male genital structures, confirming it as a separate species, the researchers said. Scientists noted that butterflies of this group are rare and highly localised, often occurring in isolated mountain ranges where populations evolve independently over long periods. “This high-altitude butterfly species is notoriously difficult to study as they occur in small populations, fly for only a brief period each year from June to August, and inhabit remote mountain passes that are often challenging to access,” Khan said. He added that the species breeds only once annually. The researchers said isolated mountain habitats act like natural islands, enabling butterfly populations to diverge over time and evolve into distinct species. They noted that the discovery highlights the exceptional biological richness of the Eastern Himalaya and suggests that more undiscovered butterfly species may still exist in remote Himalayan landscapes across Northeast India and neighbouring regions of Asia. (Eastern Mirror)    

TAWANG :  A live mortar shell believed to be from the 1962 war era was successfully defused by the India Army after it was discovered in Lebrang area of Tawang township, officials said on Saturday. According to police, information about the unexploded mortar shell was received on June 11 at around 4 pm. Following the alert, Tawang superintendent of police Tasi Darang immediately contacted the Army authorities, including the 190 Mountain Brigade stationed in Tawang. A police team promptly cordoned off the area to ensure public safety. However, due to darkness, the disposal operation could not be carried out on the same day. The following morning, a joint operation was launched in the presence of Brigadier Bhupal Singh, Commander of the 190 Mountain Brigade, Colonel N Vasantharaj, SP Darang and Major Mhd Akhlas. The Army’s Bomb Disposal Team carefully transported the live shell to Methang area and carried out a controlled disposal operation. The mortar shell was successfully defused without any loss of life, injury, damage to property or harm to livestock. Expressing gratitude to the Army, SP Darang thanked the 190 Mountain Brigade for its swift response and professional handling of the situation. Officials said unexploded mortar shells and other war remnants dating back to the 1962 India-China conflict are occasionally found in border areas of Arunachal Pradesh and remain highly dangerous due to their explosive nature. The SP advised residents to immediately inform the district police or security agencies if they come across any suspected unexploded ordnance, warning that such objects can cause catastrophic damage if disturbed or detonated accidentally.    

KHONSA : The United Kothin Students’ Union (UKSU) on Saturday organised a career counselling programme for students from Kothin villages in Tirap district, aimed at guiding young learners on higher education, career opportunities and personal development. The programme, held at NBF Hall in Khonsa, brought together students, community leaders and government officials for an interactive session focused on career planning and future prospects. Tirap additional deputy commissioner Namneet Singh, DIPRO Ponung Tasing and Medical Officer (RBSK) Dr Runcha Thinra attended the event as resource persons. Sharing their experiences, the speakers highlighted opportunities in higher education and various professional fields, while encouraging students to pursue their goals with determination, discipline and confidence. Drawing from their own journeys and experiences in competitive examinations, including the UPSC Civil Services Examination, Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Combined Competitive Examination (APPSCCE) and the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), the resource persons motivated students to remain focused on their academic and career aspirations. The speakers also stressed the importance of entrepreneurship as a viable career option for the youth of Tirap, underscoring the role of innovation, self-employment and local enterprise development in generating livelihoods. An awareness session on sex education and adolescent health was conducted by Dr Thinra, who discussed issues related to personal well-being, responsible behaviour and informed decision-making among young people. As part of the programme, students who successfully cleared the Class X and Class XII board examinations were felicitated by the union in recognition of their academic achievements. Organisers said the programme was aimed at equipping students with the knowledge and confidence required to make informed career choices and realise their potential. The event concluded with an appeal to students to remain committed to their studies and actively explore opportunities for higher education, skill development and entrepreneurship.

RONO HILLS : Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) on Saturday organised a Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) session for NCC cadets and NSS volunteers as part of the nationwide countdown programme leading to the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026. The event was held at the university’s main playground under the guidance of vice-chancellor Prof S K Nayak and with the support of the university administration to promote physical fitness, mental well-being and awareness of yoga among youth volunteers. A large number of NCC cadets and NSS volunteers participated in the early morning session and performed various yogic practices, including asanas, pranayama and meditation techniques prescribed under the Common Yoga Protocol. The session was conducted by Yoga teaching assistant Rikpu Kamcham, who guided participants through different yoga practices and highlighted the benefits of regular yoga in maintaining physical and mental health. Physical Education assistant director and Nodal Officer for IDY 2026, Dr A Yuvaraj, supervised the programme and appreciated the enthusiastic participation of the volunteers. He emphasised the importance of yoga in fostering a healthy body, calm mind and balanced lifestyle. The university also acknowledged the efforts of NCC and NSS coordinators for mobilising volunteers and ensuring the smooth conduct of the programme. The CYP session is among the signature activities being organised by RGU ahead of the International Day of Yoga celebrations. The countdown programme will culminate with the “Yoga Sangam” event on June 21 under this year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” a university statement said.

NAHARLAGUN : Election officials on Saturday conducted a comprehensive hands-on training programme for booth level officers (BLOs) and election personnel of the 13-Itanagar (ST) Assembly Constituency in preparation for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) 2026 of electoral rolls. The training programme was held at the mini secretariat here and attended by Papum Pare district election officer Lobsang Tsering, electoral registration officer (ERO) Dani Riknag, assistant electoral registration officers Khoda Bath, Tamo Dadda and Taba Milka, along with master trainer Dr Sandip Banerjee and election officer Nabam Tadap. Addressing the participants, Tsering highlighted the significance of the Special Intensive Revision exercise in strengthening the electoral process and ensuring that all eligible citizens are enrolled in the electoral rolls. He urged the BLOs to carry out their responsibilities diligently and assured them of full administrative support during field-level operations. During the technical session, Dr Banerjee familiarised the participants with the procedures, workflows and responsibilities associated with the revision exercise. He also explained various aspects of electoral roll management and field verification processes. The BLOs actively participated in the interactive session, raising queries related to field-level challenges and procedural issues, which were addressed by the resource persons. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the ERO. Enumeration forms and other necessary materials required for the revision exercise were also distributed among the BLOs, officials said.  

Staff Reporter ITANAGAR : Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday highlighted the achievements of the Central Government over the past 12 years under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing the period as one of unprecedented infrastructure expansion and national development. Addressing a press conference at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters here, Rijiju said India has witnessed remarkable progress in road, railway and aviation infrastructure, resulting in improved connectivity and economic growth across the country. Referring to the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), launched by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2000, Rijiju said the scheme has transformed rural connectivity nationwide. He informed that more than eight lakh kilometres of rural roads have been constructed under the programme, with nearly four lakh kilometres built during the tenure of the Modi Government. Highlighting developments in Arunachal Pradesh, Rijiju said the pace of road construction in the country has reached an average of 34 kilometres per day. He noted that strategic projects such as the Sela Tunnel, Nechiphu Tunnel and the proposed Frontier Highway are significantly improving connectivity while strengthening border infrastructure and security in the state. The Union Minister also underscored achievements in the railway sector, stating that nearly 99.6 per cent of India’s broad-gauge railway network has been electrified. He said the introduction of 164 Vande Bharat trains has modernised rail travel by offering faster, safer and more passenger-friendly services. On the aviation front, Rijiju said India has emerged as the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market. He noted that the number of operational airports has increased from 74 before 2014 to around 164 today, substantially enhancing regional connectivity across the country. Speaking on the occasion, State BJP president Kaling Moyong highlighted the achievements of the State Government under the leadership of Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu. He said flagship initiatives such as Sarkar Aapke Dwar and Seva Aapke Dwar have benefited over 15 lakh people by delivering government services directly to citizens, particularly in remote areas. Moyong also highlighted the Cabinet Aapke Dwar initiative, under which State Cabinet meetings are held in far-flung districts to promote inclusive development and responsive governance. The BJP leaders reiterated that both the central and state governments remain committed to accelerating development, enhancing connectivity and ensuring inclusive growth across Arunachal Pradesh and the country.