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(Online version of the Arunachal Age newspaper)

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Over 100 join bike rally

CHANGLANG : More than 100 government officials, security personnel, youth, students and local residents participated in a bike rally organised in Changlang on Sunday under the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign, marking 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’ and promoting the ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan – Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan’. The rally was flagged off from PK Point by Changlang South MLA Hamjong Tangha. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Secretary Manish Kumar Gupta, CEO-cum-Commissioner (Health & Family Welfare) Pawan Kumar Sain and Changlang Deputy Commissioner RD Thungon were among those present. Changlang Superintendent of Police Kirli Padu, ADC Changlang Marpe Riba, Assistant Commissioners, heads of departments, Assam Rifles personnel, youth, students and other community members also participated. The rally was organised by Changlang District Art & Culture Officer Dusu Genda under the Department of Art & Culture in collaboration with the district administration, Yuva Morcha and Bazar Committee. Carrying the Tricolour, the participants rode through Changlang town and the main market area before culminating at the helipad. The rally promoted active public participation in the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign and highlighted the enduring message of patriotism and unity associated with ‘Vande Mataram’. The event also carried a strong anti-drug message, with participants urging youth to stay away from substance abuse, adopt healthy lifestyles and contribute towards building a healthier and stronger nation. Despite challenging weather conditions, participants displayed enthusiasm and patriotic spirit throughout the rally. The organisers highlighted the importance of collective participation in promoting national pride, social responsibility and the vision of a drug-free India. The rally reflected coordinated efforts by the district administration, Department of Art & Culture, security forces, government departments, youth organisations and local communities in taking national campaigns and social awareness initiatives to the grassroots. (DIPR)

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Mass social service held

ITANAGAR : A mass social service was organised at RWD Colony under Ward No. 7 of the Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) on Saturday to promote cleanliness, civic responsibility and community participation. The cleanliness drive began at the DPS Junior School gate and continued up to Hotel PYBSS, with local residents and community members participating actively. The programme was organised by RWD Colony Ward Member Gokia Gandhi under the leadership of Ward No. 7 Corporator Kabak Sumpa. The organisers urged residents to maintain cleanliness in their surroundings and actively participate in community-based civic activities. The initiative also sought to encourage collective efforts towards building a cleaner, greener and healthier neighbourhood. The participation of local residents reflected the spirit of community cooperation and collective responsibility ahead of the Independence Day celebrations.

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Former CM Kalikho Pul remembered on 10th death anniversary

ITANAGAR : Women and Child Development Minister Dasanglu Pul on Sunday paid a heartfelt tribute to her late husband and former Chief Minister Kalikho Pul on his 10th death anniversary, remembering him as a resilient and compassionate leader who rose from humble beginnings to the State’s highest office and remained committed to the aspirations of ordinary people. In an emotional message, Pul said the passage of a decade had done little to ease the profound sense of loss caused by his death. She recalled Kalikho Pul as a devoted husband, loving father, mentor and source of strength to the family, and as a leader who carried the struggles, hopes and aspirations of ordinary people with him. She described his life as an extraordinary journey of resilience, compassion and public service, recalling his efforts to reach people in remote areas, listen to unheard voices and bring hope and opportunities to those in need. “Behind the public figure was a deeply compassionate man,” she said, recalling his humility, generosity and unwavering concern for the welfare of the people. Pul said his legacy continued to live on in the people whose lives he touched and in the aspirations for a stronger, more compassionate and united Arunachal Pradesh. She said she remained committed to carrying forward his legacy with the same sincerity, courage and dedication that defined his public life. “Ten years without him have been long, but his memories remain timeless. He may be gone from our sight, but never from our hearts,” she said, praying for his eternal peace and expressing hope that his life and ideals would continue to inspire generations of Arunachalees.    

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Preserving local cultures essential to protect age-old knowledge systems, values: Mein

ITANAGAR : Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Sunday emphasised the importance of protecting indigenous heritage, saying that preserving local cultures is essential to protecting age-old knowledge systems and values. In a message on the occasion of International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, Mein highlighted the state’s vibrant tribal identity. He said indigenous cultures are an integral part of the state’s ethos. “On International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, we celebrate the diverse indigenous communities whose traditions, languages, knowledge systems and relationship with nature enrich our shared heritage,” Mein said. Calling for collective efforts to safeguard local practices, the deputy chief minister stressed that indigenous traditions carry wisdom passed down through generations. “In Arunachal Pradesh, our indigenous cultures are an integral part of who we are. Preserving them means protecting not only our traditions, but also the knowledge and values passed down through generations,” he said. Mein urged citizens to take pride in their roots and foster mutual respect among communities. “Let us honour our roots, respect our diversity and ensure that our heritage continues to thrive,” he added. Arunachal Pradesh is home to over 26 major tribes and more than 100 sub-tribes, each with distinct languages, customs, and traditional governance systems. The state government has undertaken several initiatives to document oral traditions, indigenous languages and digitise historical manuscripts to protect the unique heritage against the pressures of rapid modernisation. (Source: PTI)      

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Chief Secretary reviews SIR, development projects in Changlang

CHANGLANG : Arunachal Pradesh Chief Secretary Manish Kumar Gupta reviewed the progress of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and various developmental projects during a review meeting at Changlang headquarters on Sunday. The meeting was attended by the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Arunachal Pradesh-cum-Commissioner (Health & Family Welfare); Director of Health Services; Changlang Deputy Commissioner; Changlang Superintendent of Police; and senior officers and representatives of various line departments. The programme began with a mass singing of ‘Vande Mataram’, followed by a welcome address by the Assistant Commissioner-cum-District Public Relations Officer, Changlang. Certificates of appreciation and mobile tablets were also presented to five girl toppers of the Class XII CBSE Examination 2026 in recognition of their outstanding academic performance. During the review of SIR, the CEO apprised the meeting of the progress and status of the exercise in the district. Chief Secretary Gupta stressed accuracy, timely completion and effective coordination among all stakeholders for successful implementation of the revision. The Changlang DC presented an overview of developmental projects being implemented across the district. Projects under key sectors including Public Works Department, Public Health Engineering, Urban Development, Education, Health and Power were reviewed. The Chief Secretary directed the concerned departments to ensure timely completion of ongoing projects while maintaining quality standards and resolving bottlenecks through close inter-departmental coordination. He emphasised result-oriented implementation to ensure that the benefits of government schemes reach people, particularly those living in remote areas. Health officials also briefed the meeting on various health initiatives, including HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness under the AIDS Suraksha programme. The meeting stressed the need to strengthen awareness, outreach and healthcare services in remote and vulnerable areas. The Education sector was reviewed with emphasis on improving learning outcomes and achieving a Gross Enrolment Ratio of around 90–95 per cent. Gupta also called for concerted efforts to reduce the use of single-use plastics and plastic water bottles, promote environmental conservation and strengthen water conservation and sustainable water management practices. He called upon all departments to work in a coordinated manner towards sustainable development and effective delivery of public services. Appreciating the efforts of the district administration, police and line departments, he stressed regular monitoring, continued coordination and timely action on identified issues to accelerate development and improve public service delivery in Changlang district. (DIPR)  

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Bosiram calls upon youth to strengthen democracy, constitutional values

ITANAGAR : Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Bosiram Siram extended greetings and best wishes to the office-bearers, leaders, workers and supporters of the Indian Youth Congress (IYC) on its 65th Foundation Day, with special greetings to the youth of Arunachal Pradesh. In his statement, Siram said that over the past 65 years, the Indian Youth Congress has remained a voice of young India and championed the ideals of democracy, secularism, social justice, equality and constitutional values. He said the organisation has produced generations of leaders who have dedicated themselves to national service and public welfare. He said that with India facing multiple challenges, the role of youth in safeguarding democracy, protecting the Constitution, defending the rights of marginalised sections and building an inclusive and progressive nation had become more important than ever. Siram called upon the youth of Arunachal Pradesh and the country to come forward with renewed energy, courage and commitment to strengthen democratic institutions, promote peace and harmony and contribute towards building a brighter future. He expressed hope that the Indian Youth Congress would continue to grow and remain a platform for youth empowerment and progressive change.      

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KWS conducts cleanliness and plantation drive at Pangin

PANGIN : The Kepang Welfare Society (KWS), Pangin Block, organised a Social Service-cum-Cleanliness and Plantation Programme at Pangin on Sunday, with active participation from its members. Siang Deputy Commissioner Tayi Taggu, who is also a member of KWS, and Pangin Circle Officer Duyu Ongku participated in the programme, representing the district administration and Pangin General Administration respectively. As part of the programme, the PHED SE Circle Office Complex at Pangin was cleaned and a mass plantation drive was carried out within its premises. The initiative aimed to promote cleanliness and environmental conservation in and around Pangin town. The KWS members also undertook social service at the General Ground, where sand and gravel were dumped and levelled in the market shed area. The site had remained swampy and waterlogged, particularly during the rainy season, causing inconvenience to the public. The levelling work is expected to improve access to the market shed and provide a cleaner and safer environment. Similarly, the area near Pangin Gangging and the Community Hall was filled, levelled and cleaned to facilitate its use as a parking area. KWS Pangin-Boleng Zonal President Tagam Panggam appreciated the members for undertaking the initiative for the welfare of the community and encouraged them to continue such activities. Siang Deputy Commissioner Tayi Taggu appreciated the efforts of the KWS members and urged them to continue community-oriented initiatives. He also stressed the need for proper care and maintenance of the newly planted saplings and highlighted the importance of cleanliness for a healthy environment and public health. Pangin Circle Officer Duyu Ongku also appreciated the initiative and called for sustained efforts to keep public spaces clean. She encouraged the KWS to organise more such social service and community welfare programmes in the future. The programme reflected the society’s commitment to community welfare, environmental conservation and maintaining a cleaner Pangin town.    

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Cong to oppose FCRA Bill, Kharge says Opposition will discuss the issue on Monday

RUDRAPUR : Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has said that the Congress will oppose the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill and the issue will also be discussed at the meeting of floor leaders of opposition parties on Monday. Interacting with ANI here, Kharge also said that his visit to Uttarakhand is aimed at energizing party workers ahead of next year’s assembly polls. The FCRA Amendment Bill is expected to come in the Lok Sabha in the last week of the monsoon session of Parliament. Kharge, who is the Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha, addressed a public meeting in Haldwani on Saturday. During his visit, he will also interact with newly-appointed state and district presidents in Rudrapur today. “We will oppose the FCRA-related move. We will take a decision (about strategy) tomorrow after a meeting of floor leaders,” he said. Kharge said that Congress workers were making efforts to oust the BJP government from power in the next assembly polls in Uttarakhand. “I am the AICC President. I cannot come here every day, but our army is present here… Does PM Modi come here every day? Does Amit Shah come here? Does Nadda, even though he hails from this very region, come here? Does the new BJP President come here? We visit when and where it is necessary to energise our party workers. That does not mean we simply arrive and leave like tourists,” he said. Several opposition parties have expressed their opposition to FCRA Amendment Bill. Congress leader KC Venugopal on Friday said that the party will vehemently oppose the Bill and the “government cannot bulldoze this type of bill”. The Bill seeks to amend the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010, with the stated objective of enhancing transparency and accountability in the regulation of foreign contributions. Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday to present recommendations and register regional concerns regarding the FCTA. Lalduhoma later said that he had raised six issues with Shah. “The only thing that is very clearly mentioned to us is that it’s not going to be retrospective. That assurance was given to us, and the rest of the points will be given a paragraph-wise comment by him, and he (Amit Shah) is going to start the discussion on the 12th of this month in Parliament…”. Shah also held a meeting in Parliament with members and representatives of the Christian community, who have expressed their opposition to provisions of the bill. DMK president MK Stalin on Saturday urged the Union Government to withdraw the FCRA Amendment Bill and repeal Section 15 of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010. In a post on X, Stalin said a delegation of the Joint Action Forum on Minorities, led by DMK Rajya Sabha MP P. Wilson and comprising religious leaders from various denominations, met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on August 6 and pressed for withdrawal of the Bill. NCP(SP) has also opposed the Bill.In his speech in Haldwani on Saturday, Kharge expressed confidence that Congress would form the government in Uttarakhand in the upcoming Assembly elections. Kharge launched slammed BJP government “over the police crackdown on protesting students in Delhi”, flagged irregularities involving temple donations, unemployment, recruitment examinations and paper leaks in Uttarakhand. (Source: ANI)      

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If Rahul truly favours women’s quota, why is he not supporting its implementation: BJP

NEW DELHI : The BJP launched a fresh attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday, asking why is he not supporting the implementation of 33-per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies if he “truly favours” it. BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh alleged “double standards” on the part of the Congress on the issue of women’s quota, and also slammed its allies, accusing them of obstructing its implementation. “The central government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, enacted the law to provide 33-per cent reservation to women in Parliament and state assemblies. Now, when steps are being taken to operationalise and implement it swiftly, the Congress is looking for excuses,” Chugh told PTI Videos. “If Rahul Gandhi is truly in favour of women’s reservation, why is he not supporting its implementation?” the Rajya Sabha MP asked. “Women need rights and representation, not mere slogans. The Congress must now abandon its double standards and stop obstructing the path of women’s empowerment. It should stand in support of the prime minister’s efforts regarding the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam,” he added. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress sparred on Saturday over the women’s quota and delimitation bills after Gandhi said no country can be successful if its women do not express themselves, prompting Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju to call it a “visible change of heart” and express the hope that the opposition party will support the proposed legislation. Responding to Rijiju’s comments on X, Gandhi hit back, saying, “Mr Rijiju, who would know better than you, as the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, that the Women’s Reservation Bill 2023 has already been passed unanimously, with the full support of the Congress.” “The question is why has it still not been implemented even after three years, and why do you now want to unnecessarily link it to delimitation?” Gandhi asked in a post on X. “Implement the 2023 law. Without any conditions,” he added. Reacting to Gandhi’s retort, Rijju said the Congress leader knows “very well” that the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, 2023, has provisions for reserving seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. “The exercise for publishing the census figures after the year 2026 is currently underway. However, this may take substantial time due to the caste-based census to be finally published. In view of this, it may result in considerable delay in the implementation of women reservation, at least not before the 2034 General Elections,” the senior BJP leader said. Therefore, to implement the women’s reservation in the next general election in 2029, the delimitation exercise needs to be undertaken at the earliest, based on the latest available census figures, as published, he added. Rijiju said the implementation methodology has been proposed under the Delimitation Bill, 2026, introduced in the Lok Sabha along with amendments to the Constitution. However, the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026, which was introduced for this purpose, has been defeated, the minister said. On Thursday, Rijiju had a telephonic conversation with Gandhi to seek support for the passage of the women’s reservation and delimitation bills, but the leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha insisted on convening an all-party meeting on the proposed laws, sources aware of the matter had said. This was the second time in a couple of days that the parliamentary affairs minister spoke with Gandhi on the phone. The minister has also met the Congress leader twice in 10 days for smooth functioning of the House. (Source: PTI)      

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Assam flood toll reaches 100 with two more deaths; nearly 1.4 lakh people affected

GUWAHATI : The flood situation in Assam remained critical on Sunday, with two more persons losing their lives, taking the death toll in this year’s deluge to 100, according to an official bulletin. One person each drowned in floodwaters in Golaghat and Karbi Anglong districts during the last 24 hours, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) said. More than 1,37,500 people are currently affected in Charaideo, Darrang, Golaghat, Jorhat, Karbi Anglong, Nagaon and Sivasagar districts, it said. Golaghat is the worst-hit district, with nearly 70,000 people affected, followed by Sivasagar with around 40,000 and Jorhat with more than 16,000. The situation has improved slightly since Saturday, when nearly 1.5 lakh people were affected across eight districts. The administration is operating 125 relief camps and relief distribution centres in six districts, where 49,061 affected people are currently taking shelter, the ASDMA said. During the last 24 hours, authorities distributed 710.44 quintals of rice, 127.85 quintals of dal, 38.34 quintals of salt and 3,773.7 litres of mustard oil among flood-affected people. As many as 456 villages remain inundated, while 11,933.46 hectares of cropland have been damaged, the ASDMA said. Floodwaters have also damaged embankments, roads, bridges and other infrastructure in several districts. Dhansiri at Golaghat and Numaligarh, and Kushiyara at Sribhumi, are currently flowing above the danger level, according to the ASDMA. The floods have also affected 43,331 domestic animals and poultry across the state.