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SEPPA, In a remarkable story of perseverance and determination, Devi Tabri has become the first person from her village to clear the Junior Engineer (JE) examination, turning a long-cherished dream into a milestone achievement for her family and community. Born to Tayu Tabri and Bani Tabri, her success is being celebrated as a collective moment of pride for her village, inspiring many young aspirants in the region. Devi completed her schooling from Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Pampoli in Seppa and GHSS Kankarnallah in Naharlagun before pursuing higher education at Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Recalling her journey, Devi said, “It feels unreal and emotional at the same time. Coming from a small village where a government job once felt like a distant dream, becoming the first JE is not just my achievement but a victory for my family and village.” Her path to success was marked by challenges, including financial constraints, academic pressure and repeated setbacks in earlier Assistant Engineer and Junior Engineer examinations. “The preparation process was very challenging. There were moments of self-doubt when I could not clear the previous examinations. Managing pressure and long hours of study was mentally exhausting,” she said. Despite difficulties, Devi remained focused, often balancing her preparation with part-time teaching at coaching centres to support herself financially. “Yes, I faced financial, academic and social challenges, but my family and friends stood by me throughout, emotionally and financially whenever possible,” she added. After three determined attempts, she finally cleared the JE examination, bringing joy and pride to her family and entire village. “My family was extremely emotional and proud after the result. The villagers were equally happy because I became the first engineer from our village,” she said. Devi’s achievement has now become a source of inspiration for many young students in her village, encouraging them to pursue higher education and competitive examinations. “My message to the youth is that no dream is too big, no matter where you come from. I also hope parents continue to support their children’s education and aspirations,” she said. Looking ahead, she views this success as the beginning of a larger journey. “Clearing the JE exam is not the final destination. It is the beginning of greater responsibility and growth. I may also prepare for higher-level competitive examinations in the future,” she added. Devi Tabri’s journey stands as a powerful example of resilience, hard work and determination, proving that perseverance can overcome even the most challenging circumstances.  

YINGKIONG, In continuation of outreach activities for the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), pro-Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) members from Zido, Ngaming and Palling villages extended their support to the ongoing PFR process in Upper Siang district. At a programme held at the Community Hall in Zido, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by 46 members from Zido village and 67 members from Ngaming village expressing consent to support PFR-related activities. In a separate programme at the Community Hall in Palling, 26 members from Palling village also signed the MoU in support of the initiative. The MoU signing ceremonies were attended by Tuting-Yingkiong MLA and Advisor to the Chief Minister Alo Libang, Chief Engineer of the Hydropower Department K Perme, State Nodal Officer for SUMP Er Atek Miyu, along with government officials, Gaon Burahs, public leaders and pro-PFR members. The MoU was signed on behalf of the Government of Arunachal Pradesh by Upper Siang Deputy Commissioner Talo Jerang, while representatives of Project Affected Families (PAFs) included Eshi Siboh of Zido, Odang Gamno of Ngaming and Genom Tekseng of Palling. Addressing the gathering, Tuting-Yingkiong MLA Alo Libang highlighted the significance of the proposed project and its strategic importance for the region. “The government is committed to ensuring informed participation and cooperation from all stakeholders in the proposed PFR activities,” Libang said. Upper Siang DC Talo Jerang said the objectives, potential benefits and concerns related to the PFR were being communicated to all stakeholders in a transparent manner. “We are committed to ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the process,” Jerang said. He further stated, “Participation in the MoU process is entirely voluntary. No coercion or force is being applied and every individual’s decision and viewpoint are respected. The administration is making dedicated efforts to reach out to people at the village level to ensure an open and transparent process.” Pro-PFR members also shared their views during the programme and expressed support for the proposed project.

DOIMUKH, A state-of-the-art Honey Testing Laboratory was inaugurated at the Department of Food Technology, Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), marking a major step towards strengthening the apiculture sector in Arunachal Pradesh. The initiative is part of a project funded by the National Bee Board (NBB) under the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission and implemented by the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR) in collaboration with RGU. The programme began with the ribbon-cutting ceremony and plaque unveiling, followed by a demonstration of advanced honey testing procedures. A Bhumi Pujan was also conducted for the upcoming Honey Processing Unit aimed at strengthening honey processing and value-addition infrastructure in the region. Addressing the gathering, Doimukh MLA Nabam Vivek highlighted the importance of scientific beekeeping and value-added honey production for rural economic growth. “We must empower local farmers and youth through technology-driven initiatives and strengthen market linkages and entrepreneurial opportunities in Arunachal Pradesh,” he said. RGU Vice Chancellor Prof S K Nayak and Tezpur University Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof Amarendra Kumar Das stressed the role of academic institutions in promoting research-driven agricultural innovation and sustainable apiculture practices. They also underlined the importance of quality testing and certification in improving market competitiveness and creating opportunities for student research and skill development. NECTAR Director General Dr Arun Kumar Sarma said, “The initiative represents a replicable model for livelihood generation and rural development through scientific beekeeping. Integrated infrastructure for testing, processing, storage and marketing will significantly strengthen the apiculture ecosystem in the Northeast.” He also highlighted the role of digital monitoring systems and geo-tagging applications in ensuring transparency and efficient support for beekeepers. The project coordination and implementation at RGU are being carried out under the leadership of Dr Sandeep Janghu along with coordinators Dr N R N V Gowripathi Rao, Dr Saxena R P N and Dr Ashok Kumar Yadav. The laboratory and upcoming processing infrastructure are expected to benefit local beekeepers through access to quality testing facilities, improved market value for certified honey, enhanced processing and storage systems, technical training and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Officials said the initiative would help strengthen the honey value chain in Arunachal Pradesh, create employment opportunities for rural youth and women, and promote entrepreneurship in the region. NECTAR, functioning under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, has played a key role in implementing the project in collaboration with Rajiv Gandhi University. Officials said the initiative is expected to position Arunachal Pradesh as an important contributor to India’s beekeeping sector.

TEZU, The Lohit Brigade under the aegis of Dao Division on Friday organised Ex SAMANVAY 1.0, a Civil–Military Liaison Conference at Lohitpur, aimed at strengthening inter-agency coordination and promoting collaborative governance in Eastern Arunachal Pradesh. Held at the Headquarters of Lohit Brigade, the conference brought together senior officials from the Indian Army, civil administration, police, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and other departments to deliberate on strategic and developmental issues concerning the frontier region. Key discussions focused on border infrastructure development, operational preparedness, land acquisition matters, disaster management coordination, tourism promotion, and the prevailing security and socio-political scenario. Participants also deliberated on concerns related to anti-social elements, anti-national activities and the growing drug menace. Lohit Brigade Commander Brigadier Kaustubh Kekre, Sena Medal, highlighted the importance of integrated civil–military coordination in ensuring peace, stability and inclusive development in border areas. The conference was conceptualised and coordinated by 9 RAJPUT Commanding Officer Colonel Roopak Kumar Thakur and served as a platform for constructive dialogue and coordinated action among various stakeholders. Among the civil officials present were Wakro Additional Deputy Commissioner AJ Lungphi, Lohit Superintendent of Police Thutan Jamba, Namsai Deputy Superintendent of Police Matin Ratan, District Information and Public Relations Officer Nyatum Doke, and District Disaster Management Officer (DDMO) Ayang Yirang, along with senior officers from Lohit, Namsai and Anjaw districts. Lohit SP Thutan Jamba presented an overview of the security situation and socio-political developments in the region, highlighting law and order concerns, drug-related issues and the need for enhanced coordination among enforcement agencies. DDMO Ayang Yirang delivered a presentation on disaster preparedness and response mechanisms, stressing the importance of joint planning and capacity-building measures in disaster-prone areas. The conference also underscored the need for effective image building, perception management and public awareness initiatives. Participants stressed the importance of proper publicity and visibility of developmental activities undertaken by various agencies to build public trust and counter misinformation in sensitive border areas. Ex SAMANVAY 1.0 reaffirmed the shared commitment of participating agencies towards strengthening coordinated governance, enhancing rapid response capabilities and advancing nation-building efforts in Eastern Arunachal Pradesh. Officials expressed confidence that such collaborative platforms would continue to improve coordination, service delivery and long-term peace and stability in the region. (DIPR)

LIKABALI, Union Minister of State (MoS) for Corporate Affairs and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways Harsh Malhotra is on a two-day visit to Lower Siang district, reviewing key development projects and ongoing infrastructure works. The Minister was accorded a warm welcome at the Circuit House in Likabali, where he was accompanied by Lower Siang Additional Deputy Commissioner Kardo Nyigyor, Mokar Riba, officers and Panchayat members. During the first phase of his visit, the Minister inspected the newly constructed Kardu Taipodia District Hospital at Likabali, built under Government of India funding. He reviewed hospital infrastructure and interacted with the District Medical Officer, Medical Superintendent, doctors and staff to assess manpower availability and medical equipment facilities. Malhotra assured the hospital authorities that issues related to shortage of manpower and medical equipment would be taken up with the Prime Minister’s Office and concerned ministries for necessary action. He later inspected the Jal Jeevan Mission drinking water project at Likabali and interacted with engineers and beneficiaries regarding its implementation and progress. In the afternoon, the Minister visited PM Shri Upper Primary School at Silli village, where he interacted with school authorities, Gaon Burahs, School Management Committee members and villagers. Expressing concern over low student enrolment despite adequate infrastructure and population in the area, Malhotra stressed the need to strengthen the education system. “The importance of education must be prioritised, and communities should actively support initiatives such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao,” he said. He also urged stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the 33 per cent women’s reservation policy to improve women’s participation and social development. “The cultural heritage and traditions of society must be preserved through education so that the younger generation can sustain its identity,” he added. The Minister also visited Oil Palm nursery projects at Dipa, Seren, Pam and Old Deka villages, where he interacted with experts and progressive farmers on the scope of oil palm cultivation in the district. During his road inspection, Malhotra travelled along Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) routes and reviewed the quality and progress of road and bridge works executed by the State Rural Works Department. He expressed dissatisfaction over delays in the construction of the bridge over the Pale River at Pale village. Responding to a memorandum submitted by the Mongu Banggo Society regarding the deteriorating condition of the bridge over the Silli River, the Minister assured that the matter would be taken up with the concerned ministry for urgent and appropriate action.

PASIGHAT, In a major conservation milestone, the first-ever camera trap photograph of a tiger (Panthera tigris) has been recorded in D’Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary, confirming the species’ presence in the protected area after nearly two decades. Over the past year, forest officials and frontline staff of the sanctuary documented several indirect signs indicating possible tiger movement in the landscape. Multiple rounds of systematic monitoring and camera trapping were subsequently carried out to scientifically verify the observations. During the latest survey phase, conducted with technical support from the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE), camera traps installed at strategic locations successfully captured images of the tiger, conclusively establishing its presence in the sanctuary. The surveys also recorded the critically endangered Chinese Pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) and the endangered Hispid Hare (Caprolagus hispidus), underlining the ecological significance of the sanctuary’s riverine and grassland ecosystems. D’Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary Divisional Forest Officer Kempi Ete said, “This is an immensely proud and emotional moment for everyone associated with D’Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary. The return of the tiger after nearly two decades reflects the resilience of the ecosystem and the cumulative impact of sustained conservation efforts on the ground.” “The achievement belongs equally to our forest officials, frontline staff, Eco-Development Committee members and local community-based organisations that have continuously supported conservation initiatives in the landscape. We remain fully committed to strengthening protection measures and securing a safe habitat for this magnificent species,” Ete added. ATREE biodiversity and bioresource conservation initiative lead in Arunachal Pradesh Rajkamal Goswami said, “This historic photographic evidence of tiger, along with other highly threatened mammals, is a testament to the long-standing conservation efforts of the staff of D’Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary since its inception.” “It also reflects the importance of recent efforts to build collaborative conservation initiatives involving research institutions and local communities. We hope this rediscovery brings greater conservation attention and support for scientific monitoring, stronger protection measures and sustained conservation action in the only protected area of Arunachal Pradesh where riparian grasslands form the primary habitat,” Goswami added. The confirmed presence of the tiger is being viewed as a significant indicator of ecosystem health and habitat integrity in the region. The Forest Department has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening habitat protection, scientific monitoring and community-led conservation initiatives to ensure the long-term survival of wildlife in the landscape.

KHONSA, A 15-day Micro Enterprise Development Programme (MEDP) on bead décor and accessories making for Self Help Group (SHG) members of Khonsa block concluded on Friday at the Arunachal State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ArSRLM) training hall in Khonsa village. The programme was funded by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and implemented by ArSRLM through the Block Mission Management Unit (BMMU), Khonsa. The training programme was inaugurated on April 21 by State Bank of India (SBI), Khonsa Branch Manager S Manpong in the presence of Tirap Deputy Development Commissioner R Wangsu, NABARD officials and ArSRLM Block Mission Manager C Lowang. During the inaugural session, SBI Khonsa Branch Manager S Manpong sensitised SHG members on credit linkage schemes and interest rates for SHGs while assuring support to rural women entrepreneurs. The programme aimed at enhancing livelihood opportunities and income generation capacities of rural women through skill development and entrepreneurship promotion. Participants received hands-on training in bead décor and accessories making, including earrings, necklaces, bracelets, key chains, fridge magnets and other decorative items. Organisers said bead craft is one of the traditional cultural identities of Tirap and Longding districts, and the programme sought to preserve and promote the indigenous art form while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for women. Apart from technical training, sessions were also conducted on business development planning, basic accountancy, enterprise management, credit linkage, packaging, branding and marketing to equip participants with entrepreneurial skills required for managing micro enterprises. As part of the learning programme, trainees were taken on an exposure visit to the District Emporium and traditional outlet stores to gain practical understanding of product display and marketing techniques. Officials said the initiative is expected to encourage SHG members to establish bead craft-based enterprises, contributing to women empowerment, preservation of traditional craftsmanship and strengthening of the rural economy in the region. (DIPR)

TATO, In a significant administrative development, Manjunath R, IAS, officially assumed charge as the first IAS officer to serve as Deputy Commissioner of Shi Yomi district. On his first day in office, the DC convened a comprehensive review meeting with all heads of offices at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall in Tato to assess ongoing departmental activities and development initiatives. The meeting reviewed the status of key schemes, infrastructure projects, public service delivery and implementation challenges across departments. Officials also highlighted achievements so far and proposed new initiatives for the overall development of the district. Emphasis was laid on strengthening inter-departmental coordination, improving grassroots-level implementation and ensuring timely execution of government programmes to address public needs effectively. Manjunath R encouraged all heads of offices to work with dedication, transparency and a result-oriented approach. “Officers must adopt innovative ideas suited to the unique geographical and socio-economic conditions of Shi Yomi district,” he said. He further stressed the importance of collective efforts in accelerating development and improving public service delivery across the district. The meeting marked the beginning of a renewed administrative focus on inclusive growth, better governance and sustainable development in Shi Yomi district. (DIPR)

NAHARLAGUN, A delegation of the All Arunachal Pradesh Gymnastics Association (AAPGA), led by its president Nani Kojin, called on Arunachal Olympic Association (AOA) president and former Education Minister Taba Tedir at his residence in Itanagar on Thursday. The meeting focused on the development and promotion of gymnastics in Arunachal Pradesh, with discussions centring on infrastructure challenges, training facilities and strategies to popularise the sport across the State. The AAPGA delegation included vice-president Tadar Kayu and former state gymnast Dr Byabang Rana. During the interaction, Tedir shared suggestions on strengthening gymnastics at the grassroots level and encouraging greater youth participation in the sport from all parts of the State. He assured full support to the AAPGA in its efforts to promote gymnastics and nurture sporting talent in Arunachal Pradesh. AAPGA is affiliated to the Gymnastics Federation of India.