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KHONSA, AUG 17: The nine-day Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyaan 2026 concluded in Tirap district on Sunday with enthusiastic participation from students, officials and the public. Launched on August 9, the campaign featured a Tiranga Bullet Rally, quiz competitions, group and solo singing competitions based on the national song Vande Mataram, social service activities, observance of Partition Horrors Remembrance Day and celebrations marking the 80th Independence Day. The campaign was organised by the Tirap district administration in collaboration with the Departments of Art & Culture and Information and Public Relations. The concluding programme was attended by Tirap Deputy Commissioner Badonlum Tawsik, District Agriculture and Horticulture Officer (DACO) in-charge Bomyir Dirchi, District Information and Public Relations Officer (DIPRO), District Planning Officer (DPO), District Agriculture Officer (DAO), District Veterinary Officer (DVO) and others. The final day featured singing competitions among school students. In the group category, R.K. Sarada Mission Girls’ School, Khonsa, secured the first prize, followed by Kendriya Vidyalaya, Khonsa, and Government Pinewood Secondary School, Khonsa. In the solo category, Master Swaraj Deka of Class IX, Assam Rifles Public School, Khonsa, won the first prize. Master Longa Pansa of Class VIII, Government Pinewood Secondary School, secured the second prize, while Master Wangjet Khusia of Class XII, Kendriya Vidyalaya, Khonsa, bagged the third prize. The competitions were judged by Assistant Commissioner N.L. Naam, Tax and Excise Superintendent Monica Lowang and District Disaster Management Officer Emily Tingkhatra. Addressing the gathering, Tawsik highlighted the significance of the Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyaan and Vande Mataram as symbols of national pride and unity. He urged students to become responsible and conscientious citizens and encouraged them to understand and imbibe the spirit of Vande Mataram while singing the national song with genuine devotion to the nation. The successful conclusion of the campaign reflected the spirit of patriotism, unity and public participation across Tirap district. (DIPR)          

Mingkeng Osik ITANAGAR, AUG 16: A joint delegation of the Adi Ba Kebang Youth Wing (ABKYW), Adi Students’ Union (AdiSU), Takam Mising Porin Kebang (TMPK), Galo Youth Organisation (GYO) and All Lower Siang District Students’ Union (ALSDSU) met Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Sunday and submitted a resolution adopted at a joint peace and harmony meeting in Likabali on August 13. The delegation was led by ABKYW president Oki Dai, who chaired the meeting held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall in Likabali to deliberate on the prevailing tension following the recent incident at Hime village, the subsequent economic blockade and other concerns relating to the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh inter-State boundary. The resolution called for a free, fair and time-bound investigation into the incident and strict action against anyone found responsible for violence, destruction of property, intimidation or other unlawful activities, irrespective of community or organisational affiliation. Reaffirming their commitment to peace, non-violence and communal harmony, the organisations urged all communities and organisations to refrain from statements or actions that could aggravate tensions among the Mising, Adi and Galo communities. The delegation also stressed the need for a permanent and time-bound resolution of the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh boundary issue. It urged both state governments to intensify efforts to resolve boundary disputes, particularly in areas inhabited by the three communities. The organisations proposed the formation of a Joint Coordination Committee comprising the presidents of TMPK, ABKYW, AdiSU and GYO as a permanent consultative and coordination mechanism for addressing inter-State boundary concerns and other emerging disputes affecting border communities. The resolution further stipulated that no individual organisation should undertake unilateral action over boundary-related matters, including economic or road blockades, closure of establishments, mass mobilisation or other coercive measures, without first placing the issue before the proposed committee. The organisations also appealed to all concerned to refrain from carrying, displaying or using firearms, daos or other lethal or dangerous weapons during disputes or confrontations in inter-State boundary areas. They called for strict action under applicable customary and legal provisions against those found using or threatening to use weapons. The delegation sought appropriate compensation, medical assistance and relief for victims of violence and their families from the respective governments in accordance with applicable rules and provisions. The resolution also recorded TMPK’s decision to lift or withdraw the ongoing economic blockade in the larger public interest and to create a conducive atmosphere for dialogue, reconciliation and restoration of normalcy. The Likabali meeting followed the August 10 firing incident in the Dhemaji area, in which several people were injured, and the subsequent economic blockade in parts of Assam that heightened tensions along the Assam-Arunachal border. The developments prompted calls from the leadership of both states for restraint and dialogue. The joint delegation’s meeting with the Chief Minister was aimed at placing the concerns of affected communities before the state government while advocating dialogue, constitutional mechanisms and a peaceful resolution of the long-standing boundary issue. The organisations urged the government to initiate appropriate high-level dialogue with Assam towards a durable and mutually acceptable settlement.      

ITANAGAR, AUG 16: Along with the rest of the nation, Arunachal Pradesh celebrated the 80th Independence Day (I-Day) on Saturday with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm, with flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, cultural programmes, felicitation functions and community events held across the State. In the State capital and various districts, government institutions, educational establishments, political organisations and community groups observed I-Day by honouring the freedom fighters, celebrating national unity and reaffirming their commitment to the development of the country. At Dera Natung Government College (DNGC), Itanagar, the 80th I-Day was celebrated with the ceremonial hoisting of the National Flag by Principal Kumar Tok, followed by the National Anthem. NCC and NSS cadets, along with teaching and non-teaching staff, participated in the programme. The celebration recalled the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and emphasised the values of patriotism, unity, discipline and responsible citizenship. At the BJP State Headquarters in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh BJP president Kaling Moyong hoisted the National Flag in the presence of senior party leaders, office-bearers and party workers. Moyong extended I-Day greetings to the people of the State and called upon them to reaffirm their commitment to building a Viksit Bharat. He said the Tricolour continues to inspire citizens to uphold unity, integrity and patriotism and dedicate themselves to the service of the nation.   ANINI: In Dibang Valley, the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign received a special touch with a Tiranga Trek from Anini to Pomo Post. The expedition was led by Dibang Valley DC Bekir Nyorak and involved members of Mountain Mavericks, officers and jawans of the 10th Mahar Regiment of the Indian Army and personnel of the 62 Battalion of the ITBP. In a first, the National Flag was hoisted at Pomo Post at an elevation of around 3,005 metres. The team then trekked further to Pomo Lake, located at approximately 3,850 metres, where the Tricolour was again hoisted for the first time. The Mountain Mavericks team comprised former ZPM Theko Tayu, PWD EE Binam Messar, CO Anmol Singh, DDMO Kabang Lego, ADO Duyu Udi, DACO Tobang Lego and DTO Lamwang Aran. The expedition brought together the district administration, security forces and adventure enthusiasts, symbolising unity between the frontier guardians and the people while also highlighting Dibang Valley’s potential for adventure and responsible tourism.   PASIGHAT: Arunachal Pradesh University (APU) celebrated I-Day on its campus with Dean of Academic Affairs Prof P.C. Jena calling upon students and employees to pursue self-improvement, discipline, dedication and a sense of responsibility to contribute to the building of a Viksit Bharat. Teaching and non-teaching staff and students participated in the celebration, which also paid tribute to the sacrifices of the freedom fighters. The programme included prize distribution for a futsal competition among teaching staff, non-teaching staff and members of the Arunachal Pradesh University Students’ Union. The Non-Teaching Staff (Men), Non-Teaching Staff (Women) and APUSU teams emerged winners in their respective categories.   BOLENG: At Boleng in Siang district, the 80th I-Day was celebrated at the General Ground with Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Transport and Cooperation Minister Ojing Tasing as Chief Guest. The programme began with Vande Mataram, followed by the hoisting of the National Flag, National Anthem, parade inspection and March Past. In his ceremonial address, Tasing greeted the people and stressed the importance of collective participation, inclusive development, community involvement and effective implementation of government schemes in strengthening grassroots governance. Exhibition stalls were inaugurated and individuals were felicitated for their contributions and achievements in various fields. The programme also featured an immunisation awareness skit by the District Medical Office, Siang, cultural performances and prize distribution. A “Say No to Drugs” football match between DC XI and Minister XI was also organised as part of the I-Day observance to promote a healthy, responsible and drug-free society.   ZIRO: In Lower Subansiri, I-Day celebrations were held at the Padi Yubbe Outdoor Stadium with Ziro-Hapoli MLA Hage Appa as Chief Guest. DC Oli Perme and SP Keni Bagra coordinated the district-level programme attended by public representatives, officials, students and citizens. The formal ceremony began with Vande Mataram, followed by the unfurling of the National Flag by the Chief Guest and the National Anthem. The parade was inspected and contingents took part in the March Past. Addressing the gathering, Appa highlighted the importance of unity, civic responsibility and continued development of the region. The celebrations featured the unveiling of Miji Migung Yarko, followed by yoga and school band performances by students of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya (VKV), Ziro. The administration also conferred the MLA Academic Excellence Award 2026, Ziro Gaurav Puraskar Award 2026 and Commendation Certificates on achievers and individuals for their contributions. Traditional cultural performances, prize distribution and the evening retreat ceremony marked the conclusion of the district celebrations.   AALO: The 80th Independence Day was celebrated with patriotic fervour at Aalo Outdoor Stadium, where Sports and Youth Affairs, Law and Legislative Justice and SJETA Minister Kento Jini hoisted the National Flag as Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, Jini paid tribute to the freedom fighters and national heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence. He said Arunachal Pradesh was progressing in various sectors under the leadership of Chief Minister Pema Khandu and lauded the Centre’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas”. Highlighting developments in the sports sector, Jini said young sportspersons from the State had demonstrated their potential in various disciplines and informed the gathering about opportunities available under the sports quota in government recruitment. “Youths are our greatest strength,” he said. Jini said several development projects had been taken up in Aalo township and adjoining areas since 2019 and were progressing towards completion. He also appealed to people to protect forests and avoid the use of plastic. I-Day was also observed at Kamba, Yomcha and other circle headquarters of West Siang with cultural programmes, exhibition stalls, March Past and a demonstration of weapons by the Indian Army. The Aalo programme was attended by West Siang DC Mindo Loyi, SP Kardak Riba, ZPM Nyali Bagra, Army officers, PRI members, senior citizens,

ITANAGAR, AUG 16: Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd) on Saturday inaugurated the newly established Chief Minister’s Office and Chief Minister’s Residence at Niti Vihar here, coinciding with the 80th Independence Day celebrations. Chief Minister Pema Khandu, First Lady Anagha Parnaik, members of the State Cabinet, legislators, senior government officials and members of the public attended the inaugural ceremony. The Governor expressed confidence that the new Chief Minister’s Office would serve as a nerve centre of governance and development in Arunachal Pradesh. He said the office should ensure that citizens’ concerns receive due attention and provide space for innovative ideas and policy decisions based on transparency, efficiency and accountability. Reposing faith in Khandu and his Council of Ministers, the Governor said the government would continue to address emerging challenges with determination and vision. He expressed confidence that Arunachal Pradesh would further strengthen its role as a strategically important frontier state while contributing to the national goal of Viksit Bharat@2047. Parnaik conveyed his best wishes to the Chief Minister and his team and expressed hope that the new office and residence would inspire greater dedication, collaborative governance and accelerated development for the welfare and prosperity of the people.    

ITANAGAR, AUG 16: Joint teams of the Centre and the state are trying to contain the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) affecting livestock in Dibang valley, officials said on Sunday. The joint containment operations involve the State Animal Husbandry and Veterinary department, Rapid Response Teams (RRTs), the district administration, and a visiting central team, focusing on intensive treatment, surveillance, and disease control, an official report said. According to District Veterinary Officer (DVO) Dr D Riba, an RRT from Itanagar arrived in Anini on August 8 equipped with necessary medicines, following which three dedicated RRTs were constituted and deployed on the ground. Subsequently, the District Informatics Officer from Tezu in Lohit district arrived on August 11 to spearhead field visits, epidemiological assessments, and sample collection. A high-level Central team led by Joint Commissioner Dr V K Teotia, arrived in the district on August 13. The central team undertook extensive field assessments on August 14 and 15, covering Acheso, Angrim Valley, Aropo up to Chegu Camp, Mipi Circle, Maro, 9 Kilo, and Matu Camp. During the visits, the team interacted with Mithun owners, Gaon Buras (village headman), and Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) leaders. Officials treated infected animals, distributed medicines, collected diagnostic samples from Mithuns, pigs, and goats, and conducted post-mortem examinations. The central team also visited the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) camp at Acheso, collecting blood samples from goats while briefing personnel on disease epidemiology, biosecurity protocols, and public health safeguards. Inspections were also carried out at the District Veterinary Office, the Veterinary Dispensary, and the Cattle Breeding Farm (CBF) in Anini. Local representatives extended strong backing to the operations. Anini MLA Mopi Mihu provided vital medicines and logistical support, assuring full administrative assistance to protect the livelihoods of farmers and Mithun owners. Dibang Valley Zilla Parishad Chairperson Sadhu Mihu and Acheso’ Angrim Valley Zilla Parishad Member Eta Mihu accompanied the visiting experts during field surveys to facilitate community engagement. The central team departed Anini on Sunday carrying collected samples and specimens for advanced laboratory examination. Dr Riba confirmed that the RRTs will remain stationed in the district until the outbreak subsides completely, with provisions to deploy fresh relays if necessary. Reiterating that FMD vaccination is administered biannually, the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department stressed that immunisation remains the primary line of defence. Livestock and Mithun owners have been strongly urged to cooperate with upcoming vaccination drives, report suspected infections promptly, and adhere strictly to recommended biosecurity and animal-waste disposal guidelines. (PTI/DIPR)    

YINGKIONG, AUG 16: District Hospital (DH) Yingkiong and Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) Sub-Centres at Simong and Ramsing have achieved National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) certification, marking a significant milestone in quality healthcare delivery in Upper Siang district. NQAS, an initiative of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, aims to improve the quality of services at public health facilities. The standards cover patient rights and satisfaction, clinical care, infection prevention and control, cleanliness and safety, availability of medicines and equipment, record management and continuous quality improvement. The achievement followed sustained efforts by health officers, medical personnel and supporting staff throughout the NQAS and LaQshya certification process. The teams associated with the achievement were felicitated during the 80th Independence Day celebration at General Ground, Yingkiong, on August 15. The supporting team comprising District RCH Officer Dr Andeng Sitek, WHO PRT Dr Arindam Sarbadhikari, District Community Mobiliser Gebi Mitkong, District Programme Manager Roleng Burang and supporting drivers were honoured. District Hospital Yingkiong Medical Superintendent Dr Karo Teng and his entire team were also felicitated. Health and Wellness Officer Titok Patuk and her team from AAM Sub-Centre Ramsing, and HWO Rebeka Panyang and her team from AAM Sub-Centre Simong, were similarly recognised for their efforts. Advisor to the Chief Minister and local MLA Alo Libang congratulated the health teams and appreciated their dedication towards improving healthcare services in the district. Deputy Commissioner Talo Jerang termed the achievement a breakthrough for the district’s health sector and urged the health fraternity to continue rendering dedicated and selfless service to the community. District Medical Officer Dr Gepeng Litin said District Hospital Yingkiong had created history by becoming the first district hospital in Arunachal Pradesh to achieve NQAS certification. She attributed the achievement to teamwork, perseverance and the dedication of healthcare workers. Dr Litin also appreciated the district administration for recognising the contribution of the health teams during the Independence Day celebration. She said such recognition would motivate healthcare workers to further improve the quality of services at other health facilities across the district. (DIPR)    

NAMSAI, AUG 16: Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Sunday inaugurated six new facilities at Mahabodhi Lord Buddha College in Namsai in the presence of Namsai MLA Chau Zingnu Namchoom, marking a significant step towards strengthening higher education infrastructure and creating better learning opportunities for local youth. The newly inaugurated facilities include the College Building Extension, Exhibition Hall, Conference Hall, College Library, Seminar Hall and Maitri Girls’ Home. The facilities are expected to provide students with improved spaces for academic learning, research, cultural activities and overall development. Addressing the gathering, Chowna Mein said Mahabodhi Lord Buddha College holds special significance as an institution seeking to combine quality education with the timeless values of knowledge, compassion, discipline and peace inspired by the teachings of Lord Buddha. He appreciated the management, faculty, students and others associated with the institution for their dedicated efforts and expressed confidence that the college would continue to develop as a centre of quality education. (DIPR)