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TUTING : The Indian Army organised ‘Shaurya Sambandh’, a veterans’ outreach programme, at Tuting in Upper Siang district on July 23 to strengthen support for ex-servicemen, Veer Naris, Veer Matas and their families living in one of the country’s remotest border regions. The initiative aimed to connect with veterans residing in geographically challenging areas where access to welfare services is often limited, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to their welfare and well-being. During the programme, participants were informed about various Central government and Indian Army welfare schemes, including pension benefits, healthcare facilities, financial assistance, resettlement opportunities and other entitlements available to ex-servicemen and Veer Naris. They were also guided on the procedures for availing these benefits. A grievance redressal session formed a key part of the programme, providing veterans and their family members an opportunity to raise concerns directly with Army representatives. Individual cases were heard and steps initiated to facilitate their resolution through the appropriate authorities. The outreach programme also recognised the contributions and sacrifices of the veteran community while reinforcing the values of gratitude, dignity and national pride. The Indian Army said the initiative reflects its continued commitment to ensuring that ex-servicemen and Veer Naris in remote border areas remain connected to welfare services and receive timely support, regardless of their location.

ITANAGAR : Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday called on Governor Lt Gen K T Parnaik (Retd) at Raj Bhavan, where they discussed the state’s developmental priorities, implementation of key projects and measures to address challenges arising from natural disasters and climate-related events. The Governor congratulated the Chief Minister and “Team Arunachal Pradesh” on completing ten years of public service and leadership, stating that the past decade had witnessed significant progress across infrastructure, education, healthcare, connectivity, tourism and rural development. He observed that the government’s people-centric approach has brought governance closer to citizens, particularly those living in remote and border areas. Appreciating flagship initiatives such as Seva Aapke Dwar (SAD), the Governor said the programme has transformed public service delivery by taking government services to the doorsteps of the people, thereby strengthening public trust and promoting inclusive development. The Governor also commended the state government’s efforts to expand e-governance and digital service delivery. Stressing the importance of technology-driven administration, he advocated greater use of geospatial applications, satellite imagery and data analytics for planning, monitoring and evaluating developmental projects. He said the adoption of such technologies would enhance decision-making, improve disaster preparedness, optimise resource utilisation and ensure the timely implementation of welfare and infrastructure programmes for the benefit of the people of Arunachal Pradesh.      

ITANAGAR : Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development Minister Gabriel D Wangsu on Thursday inaugurated the State Veterinary Polyclinic at Abotani Colony here, marking a significant step towards strengthening veterinary healthcare infrastructure in the state. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Chief Secretary Manish Kumar Gupta, Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development Secretary Y V V J Rajasekhar, Deputy Inspector General of Police Tumme Amo, Itanagar Mayor Likha Nari, Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development Director Dr D Longri and other senior officials. The programme began with the unveiling of the inauguration plaque and a ribbon-cutting ceremony jointly performed by the minister and the chief secretary. The dignitaries later inspected the newly established facility and interacted with veterinarians, officers and technical staff to review its services and infrastructure. Envisioned as a modern referral centre, the State Veterinary Polyclinic has been equipped with advanced clinical and diagnostic facilities to strengthen disease diagnosis and management, improve animal healthcare, provide specialised services for pet owners and enhance livestock productivity across Arunachal Pradesh. During the inspection, Wangsu appreciated the dedication of the veterinarians and technical staff and urged them to continue delivering quality veterinary care and efficient services to livestock farmers and pet owners. Speaking on the occasion, the minister said the facility would significantly improve access to specialised veterinary care and contribute to the development of the state’s livestock sector. “I am confident this institution will play a pivotal role in strengthening our state’s livestock sector and supporting the livelihoods of our farmers,” Wangsu said. He also underscored the importance of modern veterinary infrastructure in ensuring animal health, preventing diseases and improving rural livelihoods dependent on livestock. According to officials, the State Veterinary Polyclinic will serve as the state’s premier veterinary referral centre, providing specialised diagnostic, treatment and advisory services while complementing the existing network of veterinary hospitals and dispensaries across Arunachal Pradesh.      

ITANAGAR : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Arunachal Pradesh, on Thursday accused the Congress of politicising the alleged National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) paper leak instead of participating in a constructive parliamentary debate on the issue. Addressing a press conference at the BJP state headquarters here, Agriculture and Allied Sectors Minister Gabriel D Wangsu said the controversy concerns the future of millions of students and called on the Opposition to engage in meaningful discussions on examination reforms. BJP Arunachal Pradesh General Secretaries Tadar Niglat and Jyunty Singphoo were also present. Wangsu alleged that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was avoiding a parliamentary discussion on the issue and instead attempting to derive political mileage from the controversy. He said the BJP-led government remains committed to protecting students’ interests and ensuring strict action against those involved in examination malpractices. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed the establishment of fast-track courts for the speedy disposal of paper leak cases to ensure timely punishment for those found guilty. Stressing that the issue should not be reduced to political rhetoric, Wangsu said the Centre is open to suggestions from the Opposition to strengthen the examination system and favours a transparent debate in Parliament. Highlighting the government’s response, he said several arrests have been made in connection with paper leak cases and that multiple examinations have been conducted successfully in recent months with enhanced security measures. The minister also highlighted the Centre’s investment in education, stating that the education budget has increased from about ₹8,225 crore during the UPA government’s tenure to ₹1.39 lakh crore under the present government. He added that the expansion of premier institutions, including AIIMS and IITs, along with an increase in higher education seats, reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening the education sector. Reiterating the BJP’s stand, Wangsu said the government is committed to introducing long-term reforms to prevent examination malpractices and safeguard the aspirations of students across the country.      

ITANAGAR : Governor Lt Gen K T Parnaik (Retd) on Thursday handed over a cheque of Rs 2 lakh to Abotani Vidya Niketan, Pachin Colony, Naharlagun, to support the strengthening and expansion of the school’s library. The cheque was presented at Raj Bhavan to Abotani Vidya Niketan Vice Principal Yanya Karlo and Arunachal Shiksha Vikas Samiti (ASVS) State Coordinator Sukumaran K. The financial assistance fulfils the Governor’s commitment made during his visit to the school on June 28 to support the procurement of books and enrich the library. Speaking on the occasion, the Governor, an avid reader himself, highlighted the transformative role of books in shaping young minds. “Reading is one of the most effective ways to nurture curiosity, critical thinking, creativity and lifelong learning among children,” he said, adding that a well-equipped library serves as a gateway to knowledge, broadens horizons and inspires students to realise their aspirations. The Governor observed that fostering a reading culture has become increasingly important in an era of digital distractions. He encouraged students to cultivate the habit of regular reading, describing books as trusted companions that enrich character, strengthen values and open doors to new ideas and opportunities. Appreciating the efforts of the Arunachal Shiksha Vikas Samiti in promoting quality education through Abotani Vidya Niketan, the Governor commended the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and character building. He also lauded the students for their discipline, enthusiasm and impressive participation during his earlier visit, expressing confidence that they would grow into responsible citizens and contribute meaningfully to the development of the state and the nation.    

TAWANG : The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Tawang, in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (ICAR-IIVR), Varanasi, has conducted a series of Frontline Demonstrations (FLDs) on high-yielding vegetable varieties and distributed agricultural inputs to farmers across seven villages of the district. The programmes were organised at Khimney, Changprong, Kyidphel, Themghar, Woongla, Sazo and Shakti between July 13 and 22, drawing enthusiastic participation from local farmers. During the technical sessions, KVK Tawang Subject Matter Specialist (Agronomy) C K Singh highlighted the importance of soil health management, natural farming, inclusion of leguminous crops in cropping systems and scientific vermicomposting to improve long-term soil fertility and productivity. Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Protection) Lakshmipriya Borah conducted practical demonstrations on Integrated Pest Management (IPM), focusing on environmentally sustainable methods of pest and disease control. She also demonstrated seed treatment using the biofungicide Trichoderma viride to protect crops from seed-borne diseases and improve productivity. The programme was coordinated by KVK Tawang Subject Matter Specialist (Horticulture) and Nodal Officer Dr Abhimanyu Chaturvedi, who guided farmers on the scientific cultivation of garden pea, carrot, long bean, faba bean, cole crops and other vegetables. He encouraged the adoption of improved high-yielding varieties to enhance productivity, increase farm income and strengthen household food and nutritional security. To facilitate the adoption of the demonstrated technologies, farmers were provided with improved seeds of garden pea, long bean, faba bean, carrot, cauliflower, water spinach and rajma, along with agricultural inputs such as vermi beds, spades and biopesticides under the support of ICAR-IIVR, Varanasi. The initiative reflects KVK Tawang’s ongoing efforts to promote scientific, sustainable and climate-resilient farming practices while transferring improved agricultural technologies to farmers at the grassroots level. (DIPR)