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ITANAGAR, OCT 12: The Arunachal Pradesh Literary Society (APLS) held its 156th monthly sitting at its office hall on Sunday under the chairmanship of society president Yeshe Dorjee Thongchi, with participation from senior and new members. The meeting featured discussions on various literary forms, including epistemological novels, graphic novels and the stream-of-consciousness technique. Members exchanged views on these approaches and their influence on young writers in Arunachal Pradesh, particularly those exploring fiction writing. The session also featured readings of a short story by Likha Caral and poems by Takhe Yasha, Somkhang Pansa and Tarh Susana. Inumoni Das Thongchi assessed the literary merit of the submissions and offered suggestions for improvement. The meeting provided a platform for members to exchange ideas, discuss contemporary literary trends and encourage emerging writers in the State.

PANGIN, OCT 12: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Siang district, commenced a 20-hour mediation training programme for Gaon Burahs/Gaon Buris (GBs) on Monday, with a large turnout of participants from villages across the district. Organised under the guidance of DLSA Siang secretary Bido Sora, the programme aims to strengthen the capacity of traditional village authorities to resolve disputes amicably and promote peace and harmony in their communities. The training sessions were conducted by advocate Dugmo Tali, with support from advocates Kani Tamut, Tapang Tabing, Keni Loyi, Nyari Bagra and Gei Noshi, along with para-legal volunteers (PLVs) and DLSA and court staff. The first day’s sessions covered the fundamentals of mediation, the nature of conflicts and practical approaches to resolving disputes at the community level. Participants also shared their experiences and traditional dispute-resolution practices. The opening day concluded with active discussions and enthusiastic participation, reflecting the interest of village authorities in strengthening their mediation skills and promoting peaceful dispute settlement at the grassroots level. (DIPR)  

Staff Reporter ITANAGAR, OCT 12: The Public Rights Action Committee (PRAC) has reaffirmed its decision to stage a peaceful rally on October 13, demanding a lasting solution to the prolonged delay in construction of the Papu Nallah–Nirjuli stretch of NH-415 and the deteriorating condition of the Bage Tinali–Doimukh road. In a press conference held at the Arunachal Press Club (APC) here on Monday, the committee questioned the Public Works Department (PWD) over the repeated delays in road construction, despite citing adverse weather conditions, difficult geographical terrain and public activities, including earth cutting, as reasons for the slow progress. PRAC expressed concern that the work remains incomplete despite nearly two years having elapsed and questioned the credibility of the department’s assurance that the pending work could be completed within the next two to three weeks. The committee also objected to what it termed attempts to hold the public responsible for the delay, stating that commuters continue to suffer due to the poor condition of the roads despite regularly paying taxes. Reiterating its stand, PRAC said the proposed agitation would continue until the authorities provided a concrete and permanent solution to the grievances instead of making temporary assurances. The committee also recalled Chief Minister Pema Khandu’s commitment in 2021 regarding the road project and demanded accountability for the unfulfilled promise. It further called for the Chief Minister’s resignation if the commitment could not be honoured. The peaceful rally will commence at 9 am from Kangkar Nallah towards Nirjuli on October 13, the committee stated while appealing public to join the rally to pressure the state government for better road condition PRAC said the protest aims to secure a lasting resolution to the road-related problems faced by commuters and ensure accountability for the prolonged delay in completing the infrastructure project.  

ITANAGAR, OCT 12: Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) chairperson Yalem Taga Burang on Monday urged students to stay away from drugs and substance abuse, develop practical skills and maintain a positive attitude, saying education alone may not be enough to ensure success in life. Addressing a legal awareness programme on cybercrime, stalking and mental health issues at Dera Natung Government College here, Burang said substance abuse could harm not only an individual’s health and future but also the well-being of society, a statement said here. The day-long programme was organised by the APSCW in collaboration with the National Commission for Women (NCW) to sensitise students to cyber safety, legal rights and mental health concerns. Burang encouraged students to focus on their personal development, stressing that academic qualifications, practical skills and a positive outlook together were important for building a successful future. During the inaugural session, Dr Prasanta Nanda, associate professor and head of the Department of Zoology at the college, advised students to use social media responsibly and remain alert to cyber threats. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining good health, pointing out that anaemia had been detected among several girl students during a health screening camp held at the institution. The programme featured expert sessions on three key subjects. Sub-Inspector Bulo Hassang of the Cyber Crime Police Station here spoke about emerging cyber threats and fraudulent practices, including vishing, quishing, cyber slavery and juice jacking. He also highlighted the need for digital awareness, online safety and responsible internet use. Advocate Jaya Doji of the Arunachal Pradesh State Legal Services Authority discussed online and physical stalking, the relevant legal provisions and the importance of seeking legal assistance when required. Dr Leeyir Ete, psychologist and counsellor at the APSCW, spoke about mental health challenges among students, with particular focus on cyberbullying, emotional well-being and the need to seek timely support when facing psychological or personal difficulties.  

MEDO, OCT 12: The Lohit district administration has planned to constitute three-tier task force committees at the district, sub-divisional/circle and village levels to coordinate efforts to curb illicit poppy cultivation and combat drug abuse. The initiative was discussed at a coordination meeting held on September 21, ahead of the opium cultivation season. As part of the district-wide campaign, awareness programmes are being conducted to sensitise communities about the harmful effects of narcotic substances and discourage illicit cultivation. Addressing an awareness programme at the Tamlaudu Festival Ground in Medo on Monday, Lohit Deputy Commissioner Kesang Ngurup Damo called for sustained collective action involving the administration, police, community organisations and residents. He urged students to stay away from drugs, focus on their studies and respect their parents, elders and teachers. He also appreciated the role of the media in spreading awareness. The Officer-in-Charge of Wakro Police Station explained the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, and cautioned that knowingly allowing vehicles or property to be used for drug-related activities could invite legal action. Dr. Nani Kuru of Medo Primary Health Centre highlighted the harmful effects of opium and other narcotic substances on the brain, nervous system and vital organs, including the risks of addiction and long-term health damage. Er. Lupalum Kri stressed that awareness efforts must be backed by firm action within the framework of the law. The programme also featured inputs from CALSOM chairman Sokhep Kri and representatives of the Lohit and Wakro units of the Women’s Welfare Committee. Deputy Director of Integrated Child Development Services Solel Longling delivered the welcome address. The DC urged residents to report suspected drug-related activities to the nearest police station or the district administration. He also directed the Officer-in-Charge to register first information reports (FIRs) in appropriate cases in accordance with the law. Damo further asked self-help groups to submit proposals on minimum support prices (MSP) for locally produced agricultural commodities for consideration. The awareness campaign will continue at Government Secondary School, Yealiang, on October 13 and at the community halls in Loiliang and Tafragam on October 14. The proposed task forces are expected to strengthen coordination across administrative levels and community participation in efforts to prevent illicit poppy cultivation and curb drug abuse in Lohit district. (DIPR)