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Dukam calls for ethical journalism at AEDMA conclave

ITANAGAR : Information and Public Relations (IPR) Minister Nyato Dukam on Wednesday called upon electronic and digital media professionals to uphold ethical journalism with sincerity, discipline and responsibility while embracing technological advancements. Addressing the 14th Foundation Day celebration of the Arunachal Electronic and Digital Media Association (AEDMA) and the fourth AEDMA Conclave on the theme, “Empowering Change through Information,” at the State Banquet Hall here, Dukam stressed the importance of fact-checking and responsible reporting to preserve public trust and strengthen democratic values. He said the media plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability by highlighting shortcomings in governance and drawing attention to instances where government schemes fail to reach their intended beneficiaries. Emphasising constructive engagement between the government and the media, the minister urged journalists to provide meaningful feedback and point out deficiencies to improve governance and the implementation of public welfare programmes. Expressing concern over the rise of unregulated mobile-based journalism, Dukam said professional journalism was increasingly being undermined by individuals lacking journalistic training and ethics. He urged the Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ), the Arunachal Press Club (APC) and AEDMA to work together to streamline the profession and identify genuine journalists and media organisations. Speaking on the occasion, Arunachal Press Club (APC) President Amar Sangno urged journalists to prioritise quality reporting and uphold professional standards by avoiding sensationalism and exaggerated reporting. “Every journalist must adhere to media ethics and should not resort to distorted information,” Sangno said. Deputy Inspector General of Police Tumme Amo emphasised the need for verifying facts before placing information in the public domain and advised media professionals not to be influenced or misled by vested interests. Appreciating the role of journalists in society, he said every report should be authentic, accurate and free from bias. Arunachal Frontier Tribal Front (ATFT) Chairman Patey Tayum also underscored the responsibility of journalists, saying information disseminated to readers and viewers must remain factual, impartial and credible. Earlier, AEDMA President JT Tagam appealed for the establishment of a dedicated mass media institute, particularly for training video journalists. Responding to the proposal, Dukam assured that a meeting would be convened to discuss the matter in detail. The programme also witnessed the release of the AEDMA Journal and featured three panel discussions on “Empowering Arunachal Through Information: Bridging Knowledge, Opportunity and Development,” “Digital Media and Citizen Empowerment: Who Shapes the Narrative in the Information Age?” and “Media Freedom and Responsibility: Reporting Without Fear or Favour.”      

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Strengthening rural infra is Arunachal govt’s priority: Sona

ITANAGAR : Arunachal Pradesh minister Pasang D Sona said that strengthening rural infrastructure remains a key priority for the state government to support socio-economic development and boost tourism. After inspecting bridge construction projects over the Yargyap Chu River in Shi-Yomi district, which shares a border with China, on Tuesday, the state tourism minister emphasised the government’s commitment to building resilient connectivity to enhance the overall quality of life. During his visit, the minister reviewed the progress of the motorable bridge at Thargelling Village, the arch bridge connecting Mechukha and Dorjelling, and the 150-metre steel composite bridge at Tsenang (Farge) under the Chief Minister’s Comprehensive State Road Development Plan-I. Highlighting their strategic importance, Sona said these projects will significantly improve regional connectivity and facilitate the smooth movement of people and essential services. He instructed officials concerned to maintain strict quality standards and ensure timely completion of the projects. Sona, who also holds the education portfolio, later inspected a convention hall under construction, Mechuka Government Higher Secondary School, and the primary school at Lhallung to review developmental needs and existing facilities. Reaffirming the government’s focus on education and public services, he said that strengthening local institutions is vital to creating better opportunities and meeting the aspirations of growing communities in Mechukha. (Source: PTI)      

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Mein strengthens power grid with commissioning of 132 kV Miao-Namsai line

ITANAGAR : Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Wednesday said the government has taken another step towards strengthening the state’s power infrastructure with the successful commissioning of the 132 kV Miao-Namsai transmission line, a key project expected to improve electricity reliability in Changlang district and adjoining areas. Sharing the development in a social media post, Mein said the commissioning of the nearly 41-km transmission line marks another important milestone in the state’s journey towards a “stronger, more reliable, and future-ready power infrastructure”. The commissioning of the transmission line has been implemented under the Comprehensive Scheme for Strengthening of Transmission and Distribution System (CSST&DS). “The nearly 41-km transmission line connecting Namsai, Diyun and Miao will significantly enhance power reliability in Changlang district and adjoining areas, strengthen grid connectivity, reduce dependence on long radial networks, and support the region’s growing energy needs,” Mein, who holds the power and hydropower portfolios, said in a post on X. Highlighting the progress made under the ambitious power infrastructure programme, the deputy chief minister said the state has already commissioned 91 out of 239 project components, reflecting steady advancement towards creating a modern and resilient electricity network. Mein congratulated Powergrid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL), the state power department, district administrations, executing agencies and all other stakeholders for achieving the milestone. The CSST&DS is one of the Centre’s largest power infrastructure initiatives for the northeastern region and was approved to strengthen the transmission and distribution network in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim. The scheme seeks to improve grid connectivity, ensure reliable electricity supply, reduce transmission losses and support socio-economic development in remote and border areas of the two Himalayan states. The project, being implemented by PGCIL in coordination with the state government, includes the construction of transmission lines, substations and associated distribution infrastructure to modernise the state’s power network. According to officials, the scheme is targeted for completion by 2027 and is expected to significantly improve power availability, operational reliability and integration of the state’s expanding electricity system with the national grid. (Source: PTI)    

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ILP checking drive in Pasighat

PASIGHAT : Pasighat Police, in coordination with the district administration, conducted an intensive Inner Line Permit (ILP) checking drive on July 27 and 28 to strengthen enforcement of entry regulations in Arunachal Pradesh. The drive also witnessed the active participation of student volunteers, highlighting the importance of community involvement in ensuring compliance with ILP norms. During the exercise, police verified the validity of Inner Line Permits, created awareness among commuters about ILP regulations and encouraged responsible adherence to the laws governing entry into the state. East Siang Police expressed appreciation to the district administration and the student volunteers for their support in the successful conduct of the drive. The police reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the interests of the state through lawful, responsible and community-oriented policing.

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DGP interacts with IPS probationers

ITANAGAR : Twenty-four Indian Police Service (IPS) probationers of the 2025 batch interacted with the Director General of Police, Arunachal Pradesh, during a programme held at the Police Headquarters (PHQ) Conference Hall here on Wednesday. Addressing the probationers, the DGP shared insights on professional ethics, leadership, contemporary policing challenges and the importance of dedicated public service. He also presented mementos to the probationers. The interaction provided the probationers with an opportunity to engage with the state’s senior police leadership and gain valuable guidance as they prepare to embark on their careers in the Indian Police Service.

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Drug peddler arrested, heroin seized

NAHARLAGUN : In a major anti-narcotics operation, the Naharlagun Police arrested an alleged drug peddler and seized 13.69 grams of suspected heroin during a late-evening raid at Harekmaal Basti in Model village, Naharlagun, police said on Wednesday. Acting on credible intelligence, a police team led by Officer-in-Charge of Naharlagun Police Station, Inspector Krishnendu Dev, conducted a search at the residence of the accused on Tuesday. During the search, police recovered 13.69 grams of suspected heroin, including the weight of the containers, from the possession of Md Atikul Islam (35). Following the seizure, the Naharlagun Police registered a case vide NLG/PS Case No. 92/2026 under Sections 21(b), 27 and 29 of the NDPS Act. The accused was arrested and further legal proceedings have been initiated. Naharlagun Superintendent of Police Dr Nyelam Nega reiterated the capital police’s firm commitment to eradicating the drug menace and affirmed that sustained action against drug trafficking and peddling would continue. (UNI)

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ADC directs crackdown on illegal liquor, drugs in East Siang

PASIGHAT : The 23rd meeting of the District Level Narcotics Coordination (NCORD) Committee reviewed anti-drug enforcement and rehabilitation measures in East Siang district on Wednesday, with authorities directing stricter action against non-compliant rehabilitation centres and illegal sale of intoxicants. The meeting, held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall, was chaired by East Siang In-charge Deputy Commissioner Pebika Lego, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Headquarters), and attended by members of the District NCORD Committee and representatives of stakeholder departments. Reviewing the Action Taken Report (ATR) of the previous meeting, the committee was informed that a monitoring team led by Sub-Divisional Officer (Judicial) Makbul Siram had inspected all seven de-addiction and rehabilitation centres in the district. The team recommended the temporary closure of three private rehabilitation centres for failing to comply with the prescribed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The committee was also informed that the Assistant Commissioner, Sadar-cum-Town Magistrate, had directed nine educational institutions to strictly implement the Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI) guidelines and comply with the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). The Police Department reported that joint enforcement drives with the district administration and the Department of Tax and Excise led to raids and inspections across the district, resulting in the seizure of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), beer and breezer products from various locations. The Department of Industries informed the meeting that recovering addicts were being provided vocational and skill development training in computer applications, mushroom cultivation and electrician trades to support their rehabilitation. During the month, one recovering addict was successfully reintegrated into society, while 16 inmates completed their rehabilitation programme. Chairing the meeting, Lego directed the immediate closure of rehabilitation centres found violating prescribed SOPs. She also instructed the Departments of Tax and Excise and Police to conduct regular joint inspections and initiate stringent action against repeat offenders involved in the illegal sale of liquor, tobacco and narcotic substances. She further directed strict action against bars and late-night DJ establishments found violating prescribed norms. Emphasising sustainable rehabilitation, Lego urged the Department of Industries to coordinate with other departments and stakeholders to create employment opportunities and facilitate the social reintegration of recovering addicts. She also sought the support of Women Against Social Evils (WASE) in coordination with line departments to eliminate illegal social activities in the district. (DIPR)        

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Suspected drug peddler apprehended

KHONSA : Assam Rifles, in a joint operation with Arunachal Pradesh Police, apprehended an alleged drug peddler in Tirap district during an anti-narcotics operation on Tuesday. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, the joint team launched an operation at Horu Chingchan on July 28, leading to the arrest of the suspect. The accused was identified as Yangli Jangnyo (29), a resident of Upper Chinghan village in Tirap district. Following the operation, the accused, along with the recovered items, was handed over to Arunachal Pradesh Police for further investigation and legal action under the relevant provisions of law. The operation reflects the continued coordination between Assam Rifles and Arunachal Pradesh Police in combating drug trafficking in the region. Security agencies reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying anti-narcotics operations to curb illegal trafficking and maintain peace, security and law and order across the state.      

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YMCR marks International Tiger Day with plantation drive at GUPS Lobi

ITANAGAR : The Youth Mission for Clean River (YMCR), in collaboration with the Abralow Memorial Multipurpose Society and with support from the Itanagar Smart City Development Corporation Limited (ISCDCL), organised a plantation drive at Government Upper Primary School (GUPS), Lobi on Wednesday to mark International Tiger Day. The programme aimed to promote environmental conservation and instil a sense of ecological responsibility among students, encouraging them to contribute towards a sustainable future. Addressing the gathering, YMCR Vice Chairman Keyom Doni said environmental awareness must be nurtured from an early age. He said children who understand the importance of trees and clean rivers grow into responsible custodians of the environment, adding that International Tiger Day serves as a reminder that conservation extends beyond protecting a single species to preserving the entire ecosystem. He urged students to spread the message of environmental conservation within their families and communities. As part of the programme, a quiz competition on environmental conservation, Arunachal Pradesh’s heritage, geography, culture and current affairs was also organised. Twenty-one students, divided into eight teams, participated in the event. Rou Yangfo, Hakan Payeng and Asha Nilling jointly secured the first position, while Tatung Omang and Nitu Karjee jointly finished second. The in-charge of GUPS Lobi appreciated the organisers and volunteers for creating an engaging learning experience and exposing students to knowledge beyond the classroom.      

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Tawang intensifies campaign for scientific waste management

TAWANG : The Tawang district administration on Wednesday organised an awareness programme on the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Guidelines 2026 at Old Market to promote scientific waste management and encourage public participation in building a cleaner and more sustainable township. The programme was attended by Assistant Commissioner-cum-Town Magistrate Nawang Thutan, members of the Women’s Welfare Association (WWA), office-bearers of the Old Market and Nehru Market welfare committees, the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) operator, officials of the Department of Urban Affairs, and local shopkeepers and residents. The awareness campaign focused on the implementation of four-way segregation of waste at source and explained the responsibilities of bulk waste generators under the SWM Guidelines 2026. Participants were sensitised on the segregation of biodegradable, recyclable, domestic hazardous and sanitary waste, along with scientific waste management practices aimed at reducing pollution and improving public sanitation. Addressing the gathering, Assistant Commissioner-cum-Town Magistrate Nawang Thutan said effective solid waste management begins with individual responsibility. He urged shopkeepers, business establishments and residents to adopt source segregation and extend full cooperation to the district administration in making Tawang a model town for cleanliness and sustainable waste management. Old Market Welfare Committee Secretary Dawa Tashi appealed to traders to actively support the implementation of the guidelines by ensuring proper waste segregation and reducing the use of single-use plastics. Representatives of the Women’s Welfare Association, the Material Recovery Facility operator and the Department of Urban Affairs also stressed the importance of community participation, responsible waste disposal and efficient recycling in protecting the environment. As part of the programme, cloth shopping bags were distributed to participants to encourage the use of eco-friendly alternatives and support the campaign against single-use plastics. The district administration appealed to citizens, market associations and business establishments to actively participate in the initiative and adopt sustainable waste management practices for a cleaner and healthier Tawang. (DIPR)