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Upper Siang moves to curb unauthorised parking of heavy vehicles on NH-513

YINGKIONG : The first meeting of the District Highway Safety Task Force (DHSTF), Upper Siang, was held at the DC Office Conference Hall here on Monday to discuss implementation of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for periodic inspection and patrolling to prevent unauthorised parking of heavy commercial vehicles on National Highways. The meeting was convened in compliance with the directions of the Supreme Court of India in Suo Motu Writ Petition (Civil) No. 9 of 2025, In Re: Phalodi Accident Case. Chairing the meeting, Upper Siang Deputy Commissioner Talo Jerang outlined the key provisions of the SOP and discussed measures for its effective implementation in the district. The DC directed the Highway Division to conduct a survey and identify suitable locations along the Yingkiong-Pasighat stretch of National Highway-513 (NH-513) for developing designated lay-bys and wayside amenities. He also called for identification of vulnerable and accident-prone stretches and locations where unauthorised parking of heavy and commercial vehicles is frequently reported. Jerang stressed strict compliance with the SOP and called for close coordination among all concerned departments and agencies to ensure effective enforcement and improve road safety. Zilla Parishad Chairperson Api Kombo, Upper Siang Superintendent of Police Token Saring and officers of the Highway Division, Pasighat, shared suggestions on road safety measures and maintenance of the Yingkiong-Pasighat section of NH-513. The task force also discussed provisions relating to periodic inspection and patrolling, identification of vulnerable locations, prevention of unauthorised parking of heavy commercial vehicles and coordinated enforcement measures. The SOP assumes significance following the November 2, 2025 Phalodi accident in Rajasthan, in which a bus carrying pilgrims reportedly collided with a stationary trailer truck on the Bharatmala Highway, resulting in 15 deaths and injuries to several others. Members of the DHSTF and representatives of concerned departments attended the meeting.    

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Lower Subansiri holds first Lakhpati Didi steering committee meet

ZIRO : The Lower Subansiri district administration held its first District Level Steering Committee (DLSC) meeting on the Lakhpati Didi initiative at the Golden Jubilee Conference Hall of the District Secretariat here on Monday, focusing on strategies to strengthen rural livelihoods and women’s economic empowerment. The meeting, chaired by Lower Subansiri Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme, brought together senior officials, heads of departments, grassroots representatives and other stakeholders to chalk out a coordinated action plan for enabling rural Self-Help Group (SHG) households to achieve a sustainable annual income of at least Rs 1 lakh. The DC called for stronger convergence among the Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry & Veterinary and Rural Development departments with the Arunachal State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ArSRLM). He stressed that pooling departmental resources, expertise and schemes would provide comprehensive support to women-led households, including livelihood training, technical assistance and financial guidance. Zilla Parishad Chairperson Hibu Dui, officials from the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA), Block Mission Management Units and community representatives from Hong, Hari and adjoining areas attended the meeting. The committee reviewed block-wise progress under the initiative, discussed implementation challenges and identified potential Lakhpati Didis who could be provided focused support to strengthen and expand their livelihood activities. At the conclusion, departments were directed to submit updated status reports and maintain close coordination with the District Mission Management Unit (DMMU), Ziro, for effective implementation and regular monitoring of the initiative. The meeting marked a significant step towards coordinated efforts to enhance rural incomes and create sustainable economic opportunities for women in Lower Subansiri. (DIPR)  

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Tawang meeting reviews ST certificate re-verification, ILP enforcement

TAWANG : A coordination meeting was held at the office of the Additional Deputy Commissioner (HQ), Tawang, on Monday to discuss re-verification of Scheduled Tribe (ST) certificates, concerns relating to illegal immigrants and strengthening enforcement of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in the district. The meeting was chaired by Tawang Additional Deputy Commissioner (HQ) Rinchin Leta and attended by ZPM Kyidphel Tenzin Monpa, ZPM Tawang Sonam Nordzin, ADC Lungla Tashi Dhondup, Tawang DySP Togum Gonggo, Monpa Mimang Tsogpa Vice President Pema Chowang, High Power Committee representative Tsering, Gaon Burahs, students’ union representatives and youth leaders. Welcoming the participants, Leta stressed the importance of collective deliberation and invited suggestions from all stakeholders on the issues under discussion. High Power Committee representative Tsering emphasised the need for effective re-verification of ST certificates and stricter implementation of ILP provisions, coupled with greater awareness and vigilance at the grassroots level. He also sought the cooperation of the Sub-Divisional Administrations of Lungla and Jang in organising similar coordination meetings involving Gaon Burahs, PRI members, youth leaders and other stakeholders. Participants, including DySP Togum Gonggo, ZPM Kyidphel Tenzin Monpa, Pema Chowang, Gaon Burahs Dorjee Tsering and Phuntso Tsering and youth representatives, shared their views on safeguarding the interests of the indigenous community and strengthening measures for its long-term welfare. The meeting stressed the need for closer coordination among the administration, police, traditional village institutions, PRI representatives, community organisations and youth in implementing the certificate re-verification process and strengthening ILP enforcement. Suggestions were also made on verification mechanisms, grassroots awareness, monitoring and enforcement. The deliberations reflected a shared commitment to protecting the rights and interests of indigenous people, preserving the identity of the Monpa community and ensuring effective implementation of statutory safeguards in the district. The meeting concluded with a call for continued coordination and collective action to address the issues in a systematic, transparent and effective manner. (DIPR)  

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Rallies held across districts under Har Ghar Tiranga

NAMSAI/BOMDILA : A mass Tiranga bike rally was organised from Namsai 2nd Mile to Chongkham Trijunction and back to the Multipurpose Cultural Hall, Namsai, on Monday as part of the Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign 2026. Deputy Commissioner Lobsang Tsering flagged off the rally in the presence of Zilla Parishad Members and senior officials. More than 500 participants, including Central Armed Police Forces personnel, police personnel, NCC cadets and students, took part in the rally carrying the National Flag. At the Multipurpose Cultural Hall, students of Arunachal University of Studies, Namsai, presented Vande Mataram. District Art and Culture Officer Milingta Namchoom highlighted the significance of the campaign, while Lobsang Tsering said the Tiranga symbolises nationhood, brotherhood and unity and urged citizens, particularly youth, to uphold these values and contribute towards Viksit Bharat@2047. At Bomdila, the West Kameng district administration, in collaboration with the Department of Art and Culture, organised a Tiranga Bike Rally at Bomdila to commemorate 150 years of Vande Mataram and as part of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign. West Kameng DC Dr Dilip Kumar flagged off the rally from Kameng Club. The rally passed through the bypass road via Hawa More, covered the Bomdila market area and returned through the Bomdila Welcome Gate. West Kameng Superintendent of Police Dorjee Wangdi Thongon, officials, students, members of the public and representatives of the BJP West Kameng unit participated in the rally, carrying the National Flag and raising patriotic slogans. At Nafra, a Tiranga bike rally was organised at Nafra in Bichom district under the Har Ghar Tiranga and Vande Mataram campaigns. Additional Deputy Commissioner (HQ) Bichom Maryom Karlo flagged off the rally from the Petrol Pump at Khellong Colony. The rally passed through Bichom Tinali at Longtin village and culminated at the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Nafra. PRI members, youth groups, NGOs, community organisations, officials and local residents participated in the rally, turning it into a display of patriotism, unity and community participation. The East Siang district administration organised a Bike and Cycle Tiranga Rally at Pasighat as part of the Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign. Pasighat East MLA Tapi Darang flagged off the rally from the DC Office Complex. The rally proceeded through Gandhi Chowk and the main market area, with participants carrying the National Flag amid patriotic songs. PMC Chief Councillor Tagom Padung, Deputy Chief Councillor Kamin Lego, heads of departments, officials and members of the public participated in the rally.    

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HPDCAPL staff join Har Ghar Tiranga campaign

ITANAGAR : The Hydro Power Development Corporation of Arunachal Pradesh Limited (HPDCAPL) observed the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign at its Corporate Office here on Monday, with officials and staff joining the nationwide initiative and reaffirming their respect for the National Flag. The programme was held under the leadership of HPDCAPL Chairman-cum-Managing Director Dr Toko Onuj. Addressing the gathering, Onuj spoke about the significance of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, launched in 2022 under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav to mark 75 years of India’s Independence. He said the campaign should not be viewed merely as an exercise in displaying the National Flag, but as an opportunity to develop a deeper connection with the Tiranga and reflect on the country’s journey since Independence. Onuj said the National Flag represents the collective aspirations, unity and identity of the country and urged employees to uphold its dignity and honour. He also called upon them to remember the sacrifices of freedom fighters and martyrs and carry the values of national pride, unity, discipline and public service into their professional and personal lives. He said institutions such as HPDCAPL, while contributing to the development of Arunachal Pradesh, also have an important role in the larger development of the nation. Following the address, Onuj distributed National Flags among the officials and staff and encouraged them to participate actively in the campaign. The programme concluded with employees reaffirming their commitment to the values of unity, integrity, national pride and responsible citizenship.    

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Ziro Royal Enfielders donate clothes, groceries to Deepak Nabam Living Home

ITANAGAR : Ziro Royal Enfielders (ZRE), a motorcycle club from Ziro, extended a helping hand to Deepak Nabam Living Home, a half-way home for persons with mental disabilities at Senki Park here, by donating clothes and essential grocery items. The visit went beyond the distribution of relief materials, with ZRE members spending time with the residents, joining them in music and dance and interacting with them. The engagement created a lively and memorable experience for both the residents and the visiting riders. ZRE Club Chief Nending Ommo said the initiative was a continuation of the club’s recent relief effort for flood-affected people in Sivasagar, Assam. The club had conducted collection drives in Ziro and Itanagar on July 29 and 30 and transported relief materials to Sivasagar in four vehicles. He said some donated materials had remained behind due to limited vehicle space and that transporting the surplus materials separately to Assam was not feasible due to the additional transportation cost. The club therefore decided to put the remaining materials to meaningful use by donating them to the Living Home, along with essential groceries. ZRE Vice Chief Hage Duyu said the visit also enabled club members to understand the work being undertaken by Deepak Nabam and his team in caring for the residents. “After visiting the place, we truly understood the magnitude of the responsibility he carries,” Duyu said, adding that the experience had left a deep impression on the members. He said the club would return with more items based on the actual needs of the residents. Deepak Nabam, chairman of the Living Home, thanked the ZRE members for their gesture and said their presence and interaction with the residents meant as much as the material assistance. “Many of our residents and patients may not have people to care for them, but God sends angels like you to extend love and care to these less privileged people,” he said. He also invited the riders to visit the home again, noting that interaction with visitors brought happiness and a sense of belonging to many residents. The ZRE team was led by Nending Ommo and Hage Duyu and accompanied by members Tasso Yassung Nending and Millo Yapa. The initiative reflected the club’s efforts to extend its activities beyond motorcycling and adventure to humanitarian and community service, with members emphasising the importance of spending time and sharing companionship with those in need.    

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DGP inaugurates welfare facilities at 1st AAPBn in Chimpu

CHIMPU : Arunachal Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Dr S D Singh Jamwal inaugurated an upgraded APPS Canteen and a new Conference Hall and flagged off a Vegetable Food Truck at the Battalion Headquarters of the 1st Arunachal Armed Police Battalion (1st AAPBn) at Chimpu on Monday. The initiatives are aimed at improving welfare, infrastructure and access to essential commodities for police personnel and their families. The event was attended by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Tusar Taba, IGP Apur Bitin, various Deputy Inspectors General of Police and Superintendents of Police, besides officers and personnel of the battalion. 1st AAPBn Commandant Aashish Kumar welcomed the dignitaries and outlined the rationale behind the initiatives, stressing that improved facilities and convenience for personnel would contribute to better morale, efficiency and dedication to duty. In his address, Dr Jamwal emphasised the importance of welfare activities for police personnel, describing them as an important morale booster for the force. Commending Commandant Aashish Kumar for the quality of execution, the DGP expressed hope that other police units across the State would draw inspiration and undertake similar welfare initiatives. The APPS Canteen, developed through the renovation of the erstwhile KPKB Canteen, was inaugurated by the DGP after which he inspected the facility and the range of essential commodities available. The upgraded facility is intended to provide personnel and their families convenient access to quality groceries and household items at affordable rates within the battalion premises. The newly constructed Conference Hall at the Battalion Headquarters was also inaugurated. The facility will provide a dedicated venue for official briefings, meetings, training programmes, workshops and administrative activities, besides facilitating coordination among officers and units. The DGP, along with senior police officers and the Commandant, also flagged off the Vegetable Food Truck. The mobile facility will supply fresh vegetables to residential areas within the battalion premises, improving access to essential food items for personnel and their families while saving time spent travelling to markets. The initiatives are expected to strengthen personnel welfare and improve the living and working environment at the 1st AAPBn, reaffirming the police leadership’s focus on supporting its workforce and their families.  

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‘Run for Fitness, Say No to Drugs’ marathon held

AALO : The ‘Run for Fitness, Say No to Drugs’ marathon was held from Gumin Kiin to Biru village in West Siang district on Monday to promote fitness, healthy living and awareness against drug abuse. The event was flagged off by Sports Minister Kento Jini in the presence of West Siang Deputy Commissioner Mindo Loyi and District Sports Officer Eken Bam. The marathon was organised by the West Siang District Athletic Association, led by Er Rimmo Karcho, and sponsored by Aai Agam Foundation under chairman Kenge Jini, in association with the West Siang District Olympic Association and Miles Running Club Aalo, founded by Yisum Bagra and Minee Ete. Participants competed in three categories. Nabam Tayum won the Open Boys category, Nedi Ngi emerged winner in the Open Girls category, while Ngachak Rumdo secured first position in the Veterans category. Er Rimmo Karcho said the goal of building a drug-free society required sustained community efforts, with sports and fitness playing an important role in positively engaging the youth. The organisers congratulated the participants and winners and reiterated their commitment to promoting fitness, healthy living and a drug-free West Siang. (DIPR)    

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AAPSU invites legal experts, movement leaders for HPC meet on 80:20 ratio

ITANAGAR : The All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) has invited legal experts and representatives of organisations spearheading the movement against the 80:20 recruitment ratio to join its delegation for the High Powered Committee (HPC) meeting scheduled in Itanagar on Monday. AAPSU president Meje Taku, in a letter issued on Sunday, invited advocates Nabam Jollow, Marto Kato and Techi Rana, along with Arunachal Frontier Tribal Front (AFTF) chairman Tadak Nalo and former All Nyishi Students’ Union president Nabam Dodum, to be part of the delegation. The HPC, headed by Industries and IPR Minister Nyato Dukam, was constituted by the state government to examine the feasibility and methodology for abolishing the existing 80:20 reservation ratio in state government recruitment and making Permanent Resident Certificate (PRC) and Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribe (APST) certificates mandatory for competitive recruitment processes. AAPSU said it intends to field a “strong and well-prepared delegation” in view of the significance of the issue and sought the invitees’ legal expertise, experience and suggestions during the deliberations. The meeting is scheduled for 2 pm in the office chamber of the minister at the Civil Secretariat, Itanagar. AAPSU has been invited to attend the meeting as a special invitee. The meeting assumes significance amid mounting pressure on the state government over the recruitment policy. The AFTF, following a mass rally in Itanagar on Saturday, has set August 15 as the deadline for the government to scrap the 80:20 ratio and make ST and PRC documents mandatory for APPSC and APSSB recruitment examinations. The HPC was constituted on July 6 and has been given two months to submit its report. Monday’s meeting will be its first sitting.

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‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign launched across Arunachal

ITANAGAR : Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd), along with Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, launched the statewide ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign at the Golden Jubilee State Banquet Hall here on Sunday. The launch coincided with August Kranti Diwas, commemorating the launch of the Quit India Movement by Mahatma Gandhi on August 9, 1942. As part of the programme, the Governor and Chief Minister handed over National Flags to youth and joined participants in singing the national song ‘Vande Mataram’. Artists from the Department of Art & Culture also presented patriotic performances. Addressing the gathering, the Governor called upon citizens to proudly hoist the National Flag and actively participate in the campaign, describing it as a people’s movement that rekindles patriotism and strengthens emotional integration. Parnaik said that as India progresses towards the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat@2047’, patriotism must be reflected not only in words but also through responsible actions, including respect for the Constitution, protection of public property, environmental stewardship and dedicated service to society and the nation. Reciting his poem on the patriotism of the people of Arunachal Pradesh, the Governor described the Tiranga as a symbol of India’s unity, sacrifice, aspirations and democratic values. He said saffron represents courage and selfless service, white peace, harmony and truth, green prosperity and harmony with nature, while the Ashoka Chakra symbolises continuous progress guided by justice and righteousness. Recalling the significance of August 9, 1942, the Governor said Mahatma Gandhi’s ‘Do or Die’ call during the Quit India Movement inspired millions to unite against colonial rule. The National Flag, he added, emerged as a powerful symbol of freedom, resilience and collective national purpose during the freedom struggle. Highlighting Arunachal Pradesh’s role as the sentinel of India’s eastern frontier, Parnaik said the people of the State have consistently demonstrated exemplary patriotism and commitment to national unity and integrity. He urged schools, colleges, youth organisations, self-help groups and community institutions to organise activities promoting patriotism, national awareness and civic responsibility. The Governor also called upon the youth to use ‘Jai Hind’ as a salutation symbolising national pride, mutual respect and commitment to the nation. He stressed the importance of dialogue and communication in strengthening emotional integration and advocated greater use of Hindi as a connecting language while preserving and promoting Arunachal Pradesh’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage. Chief Minister Pema Khandu said the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign was much more than a flag-hoisting initiative, describing it as a nationwide endeavour to deepen patriotism, strengthen national unity and reinforce commitment to the values that define India. He said the Tricolour symbolises courage, sacrifice and dedication and serves as a reminder of every citizen’s duty to uphold democracy, unity and progress. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein paid tribute to the unsung heroes of Arunachal Pradesh who contributed to India’s freedom struggle. He said patriotism was deeply rooted among the people of the State and that the spirit of ‘Jai Hind’ resonated in every Arunachali heart. Art & Culture, Women & Child Development, Science & Technology Minister Dasanglu Pul, Chief Secretary-in-Charge Saugat Biswas and Art & Culture Secretary Mamata Riba Naksang also addressed the gathering and highlighted the role of the campaign in fostering patriotism, national unity and civic participation. As part of the programme, the Governor and Chief Minister felicitated ex-servicemen and Gaon Burahs in recognition of their service to the nation and contributions to society. The event also featured patriotic performances by senior artist Mibi Nyodu Taring and Nachat Munham of the Department of Art & Culture, while Pil Jamja, accompanied by Jaahunghaam Aanok Wangsa, presented a violin rendition. The programme was attended by Speaker of the State Legislative Assembly Tesam Pongte, Ministers Mama Natung and Balo Raja, Deputy Speaker Kardo Nyicyor, legislators, senior civil and police officers, ex-servicemen, Gaon Burahs, youth representatives and students. The fifth edition of the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign is being organised by the Department of Art & Culture, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and will culminate on August 17. Meanwhile, in Namsai, the fifth edition of the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign was launched at the District Secretariat, with Namsai Deputy Commissioner Lobsang Tsering urging government employees, students, youth, community organisations and the public to participate actively in the campaign. District Art and Culture Officer Milingta Namchoom highlighted the significance of the campaign and called for wider public participation. The Deputy Commissioner also stressed the importance of respecting the dignity of the National Flag and clarified that its display on private vehicles is not permitted, except as provided under applicable rules, including on authorised government vehicles. Citizens were encouraged to hoist the Tiranga at their homes and participate in Tiranga Yatras, rallies, patriotic programmes and the ‘Selfie with Tiranga’ initiative. The campaign will continue in the district till August 17. In West Kameng, the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign and commemoration of 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’ were launched in Bomdila with a Tiranga Pad Yatra led by West Kameng Deputy Commissioner Dr Dilip Kumar. The yatra began at Bomdila Market and culminated at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, with participation from administrative officers, heads of departments, government officials, SSB personnel, members of the business community, students and the public. Addressing the gathering, Dr Kumar urged citizens to hoist the National Flag at their homes, shops and offices from August 9 to 17 and participate in the campaign’s activities. He said a bike rally, mass singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ and an essay competition would also be organised as part of the celebrations. In West Siang, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) organised a ‘Tiranga Rally’ from the 20th Battalion ITBP headquarters in Aalo to Nehru Chowk as part of the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign. Around 200 ITBP personnel participated in the rally, marching with the National Flag to promote patriotism, national unity and respect for the Tricolour. The rally was conducted under the direction of 20th Battalion ITBP Commandant Vijay Bhatti and led by Assistant