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Namsai RFO suspended amid protest over Fatal Tengapani accident

NAMSAI : Range Forest Officer (RFO) Ram Ering has been suspended amid an ongoing bandh in Namsai district over demands for accountability following a road accident in the Tengapani Reserve Forest area on August 9 that left one person dead and two others critically injured, officials said on Thursday. The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) placed Ering under suspension under Rule 10(1) of the Central Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1965. The action came days after four forest personnel were suspended in connection with the accident. The latest suspension followed protests by local student and youth organisations, which have alleged departmental lapses and illegal timber-related activities in the area. The allegations have not been independently verified. The bandh has been called by the All Namsai District Students’ Union, All Namsai Area Youth Association, All Tai Kamti Singpho Students’ Union and other organisations, which alleged that assurances given by authorities after the accident had not been fulfilled. Vehicular movement was disrupted during the agitation, with protesters blocking NH-15 at 2nd Mile and burning tyres at several locations. The organisations said they had earlier submitted a nine-point memorandum and claimed that the RFO and forest authorities had assured them in writing that their demands would be addressed within seven days of the accident. They said the deadline passed without a satisfactory response. While Ering’s suspension has met one of their key demands, the organisations said their demand for compensation remains unresolved. They have sought Rs 1 crore for the family of the deceased and Rs 50 lakh each for the two injured persons. The protesters alleged that the accident occurred after a vehicle carrying illegally felled timber was left on NH-15 in the Tengapani Reserve Forest area. They said the agitation was aimed not only at seeking accountability for the death but also at preventing similar incidents allegedly linked to illegal timber transportation and sawmill operations. The organisations said the bandh would continue until their remaining demands were addressed and a satisfactory response received from the authorities. A response from the authorities on the pending demands is awaited. (Source: NewsFY)  

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Welcome positive, reassuring remarks of Assam CM on border clash: Khandu

ITANAGAR : Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday appealed to people of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam to maintain harmony and mutual respect, following a firing incident along the inter-state border, and welcomed the “positive and reassuring” statement of his Assam counterpart Himanta Biswa Sarma. In a post on social media, Khandu said Assam and Arunachal Pradesh share a “deep bond of history, friendship and brotherhood” and stressed that differences between the two neighbouring states should always be addressed through dialogue, mutual understanding and peaceful means. “I heartily welcome the positive and reassuring statement by Hon’ble Assam Chief Minister Shri @himantabiswa Ji,” Khandu said in a post on X. “Assam and Arunachal Pradesh share a deep bond of history, friendship and brotherhood. Our differences must always be addressed through dialogue, mutual understanding and peaceful means,” he said. The chief minister also appealed to people on both sides of the border not to allow the recent developments to affect the long-standing ties between the two states. “I appeal to the people of both Assam and Arunachal Pradesh to maintain peace, harmony and mutual respect. Let us not allow differences to overshadow the strong bonds that unite our people,” he said. “Let us not allow differences to overshadow the strong bonds that unite our people,” Khandu added. The statement came amid efforts by the two state governments to defuse tension following a firing incident along the Assam-Arunachal border in which several people from Assam were injured. The incident took place in the Bodoti area of Mingmang along the inter-state boundary, with reports putting the number of injured at 11. Both state administrations subsequently stepped in to prevent the situation from escalating. The incident was followed by an indefinite economic blockade against Arunachal Pradesh launched by the Takam Mising Porin Kebang (TMPK), an apex student organisation of Assam’s Mising community, on Wednesday. The organisation demanded action against those allegedly involved in the firing and sought their arrest. The blockade affected road links and movement of goods between the two states. The situation witnessed a further escalation on Thursday when fresh tension was reported in Likabali area of Lower Siang district, with protesters from the two sides coming face-to-face. Police fired warning shots in the air to disperse the crowd, according to reports. The developments followed an appeal by Sarma for the matter to be investigated and resolved through due process. On Wednesday, he had sought a probe into the firing incident and urged that the issue be handled in a manner that would prevent further escalation. Khandu had also assured that the Arunachal Pradesh government would ensure an impartial inquiry and take appropriate action based on the findings. The two states share an 804-km-long boundary and have had a decades-old boundary dispute, but their governments have in recent years pursued dialogue and institutional mechanisms to resolve outstanding differences. The Namsai Declaration signed by the two chief ministers was aimed at reducing the number of disputed villages and providing a framework for resolving the long-pending boundary issues. (Source: PTI)    

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Tiranga rallies, patriotic programs continue across districts

ITANAGAR : Tiranga rallies, yatras, bike and cycle rallies and other patriotic programmes continued across Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday as part of the nationwide Har Ghar Tiranga campaign and celebrations marking 150 years of “Vande Mataram” ahead of Independence Day. Tawang: A Tiranga Bike and Cycle Yatra was organised from Chhamleng near Tawang Monastery to the historic Tawang War Memorial, with participants carrying the National Flag and raising patriotic slogans including “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram”. The yatra was jointly flagged off by Tawang Additional Deputy Commissioner Rinchin Leta, Superintendent of Police Tasi Darang, ZPM Kyidphel Tenzin Monpa and ZPM Tawang Sonam Nordzin. Members of the Tawang Cycling Association, political parties, police personnel and the public participated in the event. At the Tawang War Memorial, the participants were received by the Deputy Commander and senior officers of the Tawang Brigade. The culmination at the memorial, a symbol of the valour and sacrifice of soldiers who laid down their lives in defence of the nation, added significance to the programme. Meanwhile, a Swachhata Abhiyaan was carried out across Tawang township from Tawang Monastery to Changbu, covering the three major markets and adjoining colonies. Residents joined the cleanliness drive to beautify public spaces ahead of Independence Day. Markets, homes and establishments were also decorated with Tiranga-themed lights and National Flags. Yachuli: A Tiranga Padyatra was organised from Hotel 3D to General Ground, Yachuli, as part of Har Ghar Tiranga 2026 and the celebrations marking 150 years of “Vande Mataram”. The padyatra was led by Keyi Panyor Deputy Commissioner Ankita Mishra, Zilla Parishad Chairperson Nabam Piju and DACO In-charge Hage Okang. Administrative officers, heads of departments, ZPMs, PRI leaders, government officials, teachers, students and members of the Yachuli Market Welfare Committee participated. Addressing the gathering, Nabam Piju highlighted the importance of the National Flag and recalled the sacrifices of freedom fighters. She urged students to remain disciplined and sincere in their studies and grow into responsible and peace-loving citizens. Ankita Mishra explained the significance of the three colours of the National Flag, with saffron representing courage and sacrifice, white peace and green prosperity and hope. She urged people to uphold these values in their daily lives. She also reviewed the rehearsal of parade contingents at the General Ground and took stock of preparations for the Independence Day celebrations. The programme concluded with the collective singing of “Vande Mataram” and distribution of sweets. Tezu: A Tiranga Yatra and “Vande Mataram” programme was also organised at Tezu with enthusiastic participation from officials, students, security personnel and the public. ZPM Tezu Baplalum Chiba attended the programme as chief guest, while ZPM Sunpura Gulapso Bellai was the guest of honour. Lohit Deputy Commissioner Kesang Ngurup Damo and Superintendent of Police Thutan Jamba were also present. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the significance of “Vande Mataram” in India’s freedom movement and the role of the Tiranga Yatra in promoting patriotism, unity and respect for the National Flag. Baplalum Chiba paid tribute to the freedom fighters and urged the younger generation to draw inspiration from their courage, dedication and spirit of selfless service. He called upon citizens to uphold unity, peace, discipline and patriotism. DACO Bitchey Rijiju, while welcoming the participants, said the celebration provided an opportunity to recall the ideals of the freedom movement and strengthen national integration and patriotism. The programme was attended by BJP district president Gamso Bellai, heads of departments, ITBP personnel, representatives of political parties, Gaon Burahs, students, members of the public and other stakeholders. Basar: The Leparada district administration organised a mass Tiranga Yatra at Basar. The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, government employees, members of the public, police personnel and personnel of the 49th Battalion ITBP. Leparada DC Himani Meena and Basar MLA Nyabi Jini Dirchi led the yatra, which began at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office complex and passed through the main township, market areas and the Government Higher Secondary School before culminating at Todak Basar Memorial Stadium. Participants carried the Tricolour and raised slogans of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram” as the rally moved through the township. Addressing the gathering at the stadium, Meena urged participants to remember the sacrifices of freedom fighters and paid tribute to the soldiers guarding the country’s borders. She said their dedication and sacrifice enable citizens to live in freedom and hold the National Flag with pride. Dirchi also paid tribute to the freedom fighters and highlighted the Tiranga as a symbol of peace, unity and national pride. She urged citizens, particularly the younger generation, to uphold the dignity of the National Flag and the values it represents.   Likabali: An exhibition on the Indian National Flag was organised at the Circuit House, Likabali, as part of the ongoing Har Ghar Tiranga campaign. The exhibition was organised by the Department of Art and Culture, Lower Siang, in collaboration with the Information and Public Relations (IPR) Department. Likabali DC Mokar Riba inaugurated the exhibition in the presence of heads of departments and other officials. Students from various schools in Likabali, along with NCC cadets of Government Higher Secondary School, Likabali, participated in the programme. Addressing the gathering, Riba highlighted the significance of the Tricolour and stressed the importance of respecting and upholding the values it represents. He urged teachers to educate students about the history, significance and symbolism of the National Flag to foster patriotism and national pride among the younger generation. He appreciated the efforts of the Departments of Art and Culture and IPR in organising the exhibition, stating that such initiatives provide citizens, particularly students, an opportunity to learn about the evolution of the National Flag and the sacrifices associated with India’s freedom struggle. The exhibition showcased the historical evolution of the Tricolour, its significance and its role as a symbol of unity, sovereignty and national identity. (DIPR)      

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One dead, six injured as vehicle falls into river in Anjaw

ITANAGAR : One person died and six others were injured when their vehicle fell into Lohit River in Anjaw district on Thursday, officials said. The incident occurred around 9:30 am near government residential school, Sarti, when the driver lost control of the vehicle, Anjaw deputy commissioner Millo Kojin said. He said the driver fled the scene immediately after the accident. The DC said the district administration requisitioned the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel stationed in Tezu in neighbouring Lohit district. He said police and locals are conducting search and rescue operations and managed to pull seven passengers out of the river, confirming one fatality on site, while four individuals sustained severe injuries. Active search operations are underway to ascertain if any individuals were swept away by the river currents. Expressing deep grief over the tragedy, Women and Child Development Minister Dasanglu Pul said she has issued strict directives to local authorities to deploy all available resources. “I have strictly directed the local administration, district police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to deploy full resources and extend every possible support on the ground. We are closely monitoring the situation,” Pul said in a statement, extending condolences to the bereaved family and praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. Police have registered a case and initiated a search operation to track down the absconding driver, while search and rescue personnel continue monitoring the river stretch. (Source: PTI)    

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Bomdila Hospital gets new endoscopy unit

BOMDILA : Bomdila MLA Dongru Siongju inaugurated the newly established Endoscopy Unit at Zonal General Hospital, Bomdila, on Thursday in the presence of West Kameng Deputy Commissioner Dr Dilip Kumar, District Medical Officer Dr RD Thongchi, Medical Superintendent Dr Sapmo Yomcha, doctors, medical staff and other dignitaries. Speaking on the occasion, iongju appreciated the hospital team for establishing the facility and said it would benefit patients from Bomdila and the wider Kameng region. He stressed the need for proper and timely treatment of patients dependent on government healthcare facilities and urged medical personnel to serve with dedication. The MLA also advised government hospitals to avoid unnecessary referrals to neighbouring states when treatment could be provided within district hospitals, thereby reducing inconvenience and financial burden on patients. DC Dr Kumar appreciated the doctors and staff for their dedicated service despite various challenges and assured all possible support from the District Administration to strengthen healthcare services in the district. During the programme, Dr Habung Mobing explained the functions and importance of endoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. He highlighted its applications in screening for cancers of the oesophagus, stomach and colon, diagnosing gastrointestinal bleeding, peptic ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, malabsorption syndromes and anaemia, besides enabling biopsy collection and other diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Earlier, Medical Superintendent Dr Sapmo Yomcha said the inauguration marked the beginning of the facility and stressed the need for its smooth and effective functioning to ensure better healthcare services. He sought the cooperation of all hospital staff in running the unit efficiently. The hospital authorities also apprised the MLA of shortages of General Duty Medical Officers (GDMOs), the requirement for an additional anaesthetist and inadequate staff quarters at Bomdila. (DIPR)      

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RGU hosts TOLIC meet, reviews Hindi usage in central offices

RONO HILLS : Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) hosted the meeting of the Town Official Language Implementation Committee (TOLIC), Papum Pare district, for the first time on Thursday, bringing together representatives of 100 Central Government offices enrolled under the committee to review implementation of the Official Language Policy of the Government of India. RGU Registrar Dr NT Rikam attended the meeting along with senior officials and representatives of participating Central Government offices. Hindi Officer-cum-Member Secretary (TOLIC) Dr Gumpi Nguso made a detailed PowerPoint presentation on the programmes, policies and provisions relating to the Official Language applicable to Central Government institutions. She also presented an overview of the performance of member offices in different parts of Arunachal Pradesh in implementing and progressively using Hindi in official work. Addressing the gathering, RGU Vice-Chancellor emphasised the need for collective efforts by Central Government offices for effective implementation of the Official Language Policy. He said offices should strive for the progressive use of Hindi in official communication and administrative functioning in accordance with the Official Language Rules. Dr Rajiv Kumar Nayak, Deputy Director, Department of Official Language, Ministry of Home Affairs, who represented the ministry at the meeting, explained the provisions and practical aspects of the Official Language Rules. He also reviewed the quarterly progress reports submitted by participating institutions and highlighted areas requiring further attention. The meeting provided a platform for representatives to exchange experiences, discuss practical challenges and share best practices in the use of Hindi in official work. The deliberations also focused on improving compliance with the Official Language Rules and strengthening the quality and regularity of Hindi usage in official communication.        

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Legal awareness prog held

PANGIN/KAYING : The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Siang district, Pangin, under the aegis of the Arunachal Pradesh State Legal Services Authority (APSLSA), organised a legal awareness programme at St Joseph School, Kaying, on the occasion of International Youth Day 2026. Held under the NALSA JAGRITI Scheme, 2025, on the theme “Empowered Youth, Stronger India”, the programme focused on sensitising students and school staff about legal rights, responsibilities and available legal services. Advocates Gei Noshi and Keni Loyi served as resource persons, while DLSA staff Anthony Komut and Ojing Pari were also present. The team briefed the participants on the functions and services of the DLSA, including free legal aid for eligible persons and various legal services schemes and initiatives of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). Advocate Keni Loyi spoke on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, highlighting safeguards available to children, their rights under the law and the importance of timely reporting and seeking appropriate assistance. Advocate Gei Noshi sensitised the students on the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, explaining the legal framework and mechanisms for the care, protection and rehabilitation of children. The programme also covered the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, with emphasis on the harmful effects of substance abuse and the need for young people to make informed and responsible choices. Pamphlets and other legal awareness materials were distributed among the participants. Students actively participated in the interaction and raised queries on various legal issues, which were addressed by the resource persons. The programme concluded with a call for greater legal awareness, responsible citizenship and empowerment of young people through knowledge of their rights and responsibilities. (DIPR)

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Pencil pine plantation drive held

ZIRO : A mass social service-cum-Pencil Pine Cypress plantation drive was organised at Biiri Model Village under Diibo North-02 on Thursday, with active participation from villagers and local leaders. The programme was led by ZPM Leegang Tatang and Biiri Welfare Committee chairman Liagi Tacho. It was initiated by Biiri Welfare Committee secretary Ligang Tamang with the support of Social Service Secretary Tage B. Laling and the active cooperation of villagers. The initiative focused on village cleanliness, environmental conservation, plantation and strengthening community responsibility. As part of the drive, villagers undertook cleanliness activities and planted Pencil Pine Cypress trees at various locations in and around the village. The organisers said development should extend beyond infrastructure to include a clean, green, healthy and sustainable environment. The plantation drive is expected to enhance the natural surroundings of the village and contribute to a greener environment for future generations. The strong participation of villagers reflected community unity, social responsibility and a shared commitment towards the sustainable development and overall progress of Biiri Model Village. The programme concluded with the villagers reaffirming their commitment to continue collective efforts for cleanliness, environmental protection and sustainable development.

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IEC campaign on HIV/AIDS launched

LIKABALI : The Intensified Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Campaign 3.0 was launched at Likabali in Lower Siang district on Thursday to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and drug abuse, particularly among the youth. Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Deputy Speaker Kardo Nyigyor and 36-Nari Koyu MLA Tojir Kadu jointly launched the campaign in the presence of Lower Siang Deputy Commissioner, Additional Deputy Commissioner, heads of departments, public leaders and hundreds of students. A mass awareness rally comprising students, community-based organisations (CBOs) and Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) leaders was flagged off by the dignitaries. More than 100 students from Government Higher Secondary School, Likabali, and Independent Golden Jubilee Government Higher Secondary School participated in the rally, which commenced near the Likabali Police Station and culminated at the GHSS auditorium. Organised by the Arunachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society (APSACS) in collaboration with the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), the campaign seeks to promote informed and responsible behaviour and strengthen efforts to prevent HIV/AIDS and drug abuse. APSACS Joint Director (IEC) Tashor Pali explained the four major modes of HIV transmission—infected blood-to-blood contact, mother-to-child transmission, sharing of infected needles and syringes, and unprotected sexual contact. He stressed the importance of awareness, early prevention and responsible behaviour in containing the spread of HIV. Tojir Kadu urged students to resist negative peer pressure, stay away from alcohol and tobacco and maintain discipline in their daily lives. He also called upon the youth to remain informed about HIV/AIDS and its modes of transmission. Kardo Nyigyor highlighted the role of young people in bringing about positive social change. He explained the impact of HIV on the immune system and stressed that the infection can be prevented by avoiding the major routes of transmission. He urged students and community members to act as ambassadors of awareness within their families and communities. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Senpe Taipodia, In-charge, Integrated Counselling and Testing Centre (ICTC), Likabali. The Intensified IEC Campaign 3.0 is expected to strengthen awareness initiatives across the district and encourage collective action against HIV/AIDS and drug abuse, particularly among young people. (DIPR)

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300-metre tricolour carried across Chuna-Mago frontier villages

MAGO : Patriotism soared high in the frontier villages of Tawang as residents of the Chuna and Mago Vibrant Villages, located at an altitude of around 13,000 feet, participated in a Tiranga Yatra to mark 150 years of “Vande Mataram” and the nationwide Har Ghar Tiranga campaign. The programme was organised by the Jang Sub-Divisional Administration in collaboration with BJP Mandal 3-Mukto, the Indian Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and villagers of Mago and Chuna. The yatra was flagged off by Zilla Parishad Chairperson Leki Gombu in the presence of ZPM Mogto Pema Tsering, Jang Additional Deputy Commissioner Hakraso Kri, Assistant Commissioner Thingbu Thutan Wangchu, senior Army and ITBP officers deployed in the Mago sector, Panchayat leaders of the 3-Mukto ST Assembly Constituency, heads of offices and local residents. A major highlight was the carrying of a 300-metre-long National Flag from Chuna to Mago. Against the backdrop of the high Himalayan mountains, villagers, security personnel and officials carried the Tricolour through the remote frontier landscape, highlighting national unity and patriotism. Addressing the gathering, Gombu highlighted the significance of the Har Ghar Tiranga and Tiranga Yatra campaigns in promoting nationalism and respect for the National Flag. He also appreciated the close bond between residents of the remote border villages and the armed forces, and urged the Army and security agencies to continue extending support to people living in the strategically important frontier areas. Jang ADC Hakraso Kri thanked the participants for their enthusiastic participation despite the remote location, difficult terrain and high-altitude conditions. He said the strong turnout of villagers, security personnel, Panchayat representatives and officials reflected their respect and affection for the National Flag. The yatra highlighted the spirit of patriotism among frontier communities and the cooperation between local residents, civil administration and the armed forces in the border areas. (DIPR)