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State Food Commission begins four-district foodgrain inspection

PASIGHAT, AUG 24: The State Food Commission (SFC) has launched a four-district inspection drive to assess the preparedness of the foodgrain distribution system and ensure that beneficiaries receive adequate quantities of quality rice on time. As part of the exercise, SFC Chairman Tarh Tarak, members Ngasah Tajang and Maji Choker, along with officials of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and the Food and Civil Supplies Department, reviewed the rice storage and distribution arrangements at Pasighat. The team subsequently inspected the FCI godown at Pasighat in the presence of FCI Divisional Manager Pomsuk Nyamgel, DFCSO Dana Yirang and other officials. The inspection covered the quantity of rice available, its quality and the physical condition of the storage facility. A major focus of the exercise is to determine whether the existing stock is adequate to meet the requirements of beneficiaries for the coming six months. Officials were also asked to maintain proper storage conditions and remain vigilant against any possibility of deterioration or adulteration of foodgrains. The inspection follows directions given by the Governor to the SFC to undertake visits to FCI godowns across the state. The Commission has been tasked with ensuring that quality foodgrains reach every household covered under the public distribution system without delay. The ongoing inspection programme, scheduled from August 24 to 28 across four districts, is expected to provide the Commission with a ground-level assessment of stock availability, storage practices and delivery mechanisms. The exercise will also help identify shortcomings requiring immediate attention to ensure a smooth and reliable supply of rations.    

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JNV Tawang students showcase smart waste segregation system

TAWANG, AUG 24: PM SHRI School Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) Tawang organised a series of project demonstrations under its School Innovation Council (SIC) to mark National Space Day on August 23. The initiative provided students an opportunity to showcase their creativity, scientific temperament, problem-solving skills and innovative ideas through student-developed models demonstrated during the morning assembly. A key attraction was the Smart Waste Segregation System, developed and demonstrated by the students. The model showcased how science and technology can be applied to promote waste segregation, recycling and responsible disposal. During the demonstration, the students explained the working of the system and highlighted the importance of segregation at source in promoting cleanliness, environmental protection and sustainable waste management. JNV Tawang Principal ML Meena appreciated the participating students and the School Innovation Council for their efforts. He encouraged students to identify challenges in their surroundings and develop practical solutions through science, technology and innovation. He emphasised that innovation begins with recognising real-life problems and finding simple, effective and sustainable solutions. He also encouraged students to actively participate in SIC activities and transform their ideas into useful prototypes that can benefit society. The project demonstrations provided students with hands-on exposure to innovation, design thinking, scientific exploration, teamwork and problem-solving while reinforcing the importance of environmental responsibility and sustainable living.    

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Vegetable cultivation inputs distributed to Tawang farmers

TAWANG, AUG 24: Horticultural inputs for hybrid vegetable cultivation under the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP), implemented as part of the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), were distributed among farmers at the District Horticulture Office here on Monday to promote organic farming, sustainable agriculture and improved farm productivity. Beneficiaries received summer and winter vegetable seed kits, organic manure, organic plant protection chemicals, power knapsack sprayers and various agricultural tools and implements to support vegetable cultivation and enhance productivity. Addressing the farmers, Tawang District Horticulture Officer Koncho Gyatso highlighted the long-term benefits of organic farming and encouraged them to adopt sustainable cultivation practices to maintain soil health and produce safer and healthier food. He also briefed them on the VVP and other government initiatives aimed at improving agricultural productivity and strengthening rural livelihoods. Tawang Additional Deputy Commissioner Rinchin Leta urged farmers to gradually reduce their dependence on chemical fertilisers and adopt organic farming practices. He said organic cultivation would help protect the health of farmers and consumers while preserving soil fertility and the environment. Leta also highlighted the role of the VVP in empowering communities, creating livelihood opportunities and promoting sustainable development in border villages. He urged beneficiaries to make optimum use of the inputs provided and convert government support into higher production and improved livelihoods. Farmers from Seru, Muchut, Yusum and nearby villages benefited from the distribution programme. The initiative reaffirmed the District Administration and Horticulture Department’s efforts to promote sustainable farming, strengthen rural livelihoods and make Tawang greener and more self-reliant. (DIPR)    

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BBBP orientation for PRI leaders

ROING, AUG 24: A one-day orientation and sensitisation programme on Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) for Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members was organised at the DC’s Conference Hall of the Mini Secretariat here on Monday to strengthen grassroots participation in promoting the rights, safety, education and empowerment of the girl child. Around 50 PRI members and representatives from various government departments attended the programme. The sessions covered the BBBP initiative and the role of PRI members in promoting gender equality, preventing child marriage, strengthening child protection and encouraging girls’ education and re-enrolment of school dropouts. Participants were also sensitised to the services provided through the One Stop Centre and other child-protection mechanisms. The programme highlighted the role of PRI representatives in creating awareness at the community level, promoting girls’ education, preventing child marriage and facilitating coordination between communities and government departments. The orientation aimed to strengthen the commitment of PRI members towards creating a safer, inclusive and supportive environment for girls.

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NSCN (IM) cadre apprehended

PANIDURIA, AUG 24: Assam Rifles, in a joint operation with Arunachal Pradesh Police, apprehended an active cadre of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) [NSCN (IM)] from the general area of New Paniduria in Tirap district on August 23 based on specific intelligence inputs. The apprehended cadre was identified as Wangchan Wangsu, a self-styled Private of NSCN (IM), aged 31. Security forces recovered one pistol, one magazine and five live rounds of .32 mm ammunition from his possession. The operation also led to the recovery of Rs 5,450 in cash, three Aadhaar cards belonging to different individuals, one Voter ID card, a phone number list and one torch light with charger. Wangsu along with the recovered items was handed over to the concerned authorities for further investigation and necessary legal action. The operation highlights the coordinated efforts of Assam Rifles and Arunachal Pradesh Police in countering insurgent activities and maintaining peace and security in Tirap district.

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Tawang reviews measures to protect drinking water sources

TAWANG, AUG 24: Tawang Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo on Monday convened a review-cum-coordination meeting with members of the Fact-Finding Committee constituted to survey and inspect drinking water sources supplying Tawang Township. The meeting reviewed the committee’s report and the action taken by concerned agencies to clean and protect areas where human and construction activities could potentially contaminate drinking water sources. The meeting was attended by Tawang Additional Deputy Commissioner Rinchin Leta, representatives of the Tawang Brigade and Border Roads Organisation (BRO), DDSE Tawang, Executive Engineer PHED, Monpa Mimang Tsogpa (MMT) Secretary Sangey Phuntso Nguimo, MMT Social Service Secretary Tsering Dhondup, Taxi Union president Tashi Dhondup, Homestay Owners Association president Lham Ngurup and other stakeholders. Reviewing the committee’s findings, the Deputy Commissioner sought inputs from MMT Social Service Secretary Tsering Dhondup based on his visits to the drinking water source areas. The meeting also discussed proper disposal of mud and other construction waste during road widening and other works. Angmo directed the Tawang Brigade to pursue establishment of a separate Material Recovery Facility (MRF) for the Army and stressed immediate construction of septic tanks and soak pits wherever required to prevent contamination of water sources. Emphasising responsible tourism and waste management, she directed the Taxi Union to ensure that vehicles carrying tourists bring back all waste generated during visits and prevent littering at tourist destinations. Taxi operators were also asked to compulsorily carry waste bins and oxygen cylinders. The District Administration, she said, would facilitate necessary training for taxi operators to strengthen safety and responsible tourism practices. MMT Secretary Sangey Phuntso Nguimo suggested installation of awareness and warning signboards against littering at appropriate locations, particularly near environmentally sensitive areas and drinking water sources. MMT Social Service Secretary Tsering Dhondup raised concerns over stray animals in market and township areas, citing their potential to cause traffic accidents. Army representatives suggested introducing monthly recognition for the cleanest colony to encourage community participation and improve cleanliness across Tawang Township. As part of the follow-up measures, a mass social service from Nagula to Chuje will be conducted on August 29. The cleanliness drive will be organised by MMT in collaboration with the District Administration, Tawang Brigade, BRO and Market Welfare Committees. The meeting underscored the need for coordinated efforts by government agencies, security forces, community organisations, transport operators and citizens to safeguard Tawang’s drinking water sources and promote effective waste management and responsible tourism. (DIPR)  

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Dibang Valley panel reviews solid waste management measures

ANINI, AUG 24: Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner Yashwant Meena chaired a meeting of the District Solid Waste Management Committee at the DC’s Conference Hall on Monday to review measures for strengthening solid waste management practices across the district. The meeting was attended by ZPC Sadhu Mihu, former ZPC Theko Tayu, BTMS, UD Executive Engineer Olom Apang, DFO Taluk Rime, District Medical Officer Dr Derin Likar, District Transport Officer Lamwang Aran, OC T Thingnok, JEs Ken Ngupok and Tasso Tailyang, and Anini Bazar Secretary Jeepa Mito. The committee discussed source segregation, door-to-door waste collection, wet-waste composting, transportation and scientific disposal, with particular focus on townships, markets, hotels, resorts, homestays and other commercial establishments. Emphasising the need for collective responsibility and coordinated action, Meena called upon departments, local bodies, business establishments and communities to work together to establish a robust and sustainable waste management system in the district. The meeting also deliberated on time-bound action plans, awareness initiatives, mapping of waste-generating establishments and better coordination among line departments and stakeholders for effective implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules. The meeting reaffirmed the district administration’s commitment to promoting responsible waste management and building a cleaner, greener and more sustainable Dibang Valley. (DIPR)    

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SIR progress reviewed in Papum Pare

YUPIA, AUG 24: Secretary Health and Family Welfare Government of Arunachal Pradesh and Electoral Roll Observer for Special Intensive Revision (SIR) 2026 in Papum Pare Vivek HP reviewed the ongoing revision exercise during a meeting held at Yupia on Monday. The meeting was attended by Rajya Sabha MP Tai Tagak, Doimukh MLA Nabam Vivek, Deputy Commissioner Papum Pare Mamu Hage, Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), representatives of political parties, elected Zilla Parishad Members (ZPMs) and officers of the Election Department. Emphasising transparency and public confidence in the electoral process, Vivek H.P. said credibility of elections depends on accurate electoral rolls as well as transparent conduct of polling. He said SIR differs from the routine Special Summary Revision, involving extensive door-to-door verification by Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and Booth Level Agents (BLAs) to ensure that eligible voters are included and the rolls remain accurate. He also stressed the importance of identifying and removing ineligible entries in accordance with electoral laws. Appreciating the efforts of BLOs, he urged BLOs and BLAs to actively participate in the claims and objections process for timely resolution of discrepancies. Rajya Sabha MP Tai Tagak said the SIR exercise should remain non-political and free from interference, with the focus on preparing an authentic and credible electoral roll. He stressed proper verification of electoral entries in accordance with law, saying the integrity of the electoral roll is essential to safeguarding the democratic process. Doimukh MLA Nabam Vivek appreciated the Election Department officials and BLOs for undertaking the extensive revision exercise and said their efforts should result in a comprehensive, accurate and error-free electoral roll. Earlier, Deputy Commissioner Mamu Hage gave a detailed presentation on the progress and operational aspects of SIR 2026 in the district. She informed that 11 new polling stations had been added to improve electoral accessibility and infrastructure. She said disposal of claims and objections would continue until September 18 and urged the public to approach the concerned Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) with claims, objections or grievances within the stipulated period. The final electoral roll is scheduled to be published on September 22. ERO 13-Itanagar Assembly Constituency Dani Rikang briefed the meeting on activities undertaken under SIR 2026, including training programmes, pre-inauguration activities, public outreach, tabletop simulation exercises, establishment of special booths and the grievance redressal mechanism. (DIPR)    

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Lower Subansiri reports zero malaria, Siiro facility bags NQAS Award

ZIRO, AUG 24: Lower Subansiri has maintained zero malaria cases since 2020, while Siiro health facility has secured the National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) award, highlighting the district’s progress in public healthcare. The milestones were highlighted during the first-quarter District Health Society (DHS) Review Meeting-cum-District Task Force for Immunisation (DTFI) held at the Golden Jubilee Conference Hall of the District Secretariat here on Monday. The meeting brought together district administration, police, health and social welfare officials to review health programmes and identify key priorities. The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme APCS, Superintendent of Police Keni Bagra, District Medical Officer Dr Millo Kunya and Deputy Director (ICDS) Kago Maya. District Reproductive and Child Health Officer (DRCHO) Dr S Rigia moderated the proceedings. District Programme Officer (NVBDCP) Dr Kuru Tama highlighted the district’s malaria-free status and appreciated the Health and Wellness Officers and medical personnel for their sustained efforts in preventing transmission. The meeting also reviewed progress under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), non-communicable disease control, National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP), blood services and Ayush initiatives. Officials discussed measures to address rising HIV cases reportedly linked to unsafe sex and sharing of syringes. With free anti-retroviral treatment now operational at the Ziro ART Centre, patients can access treatment locally. Other issues reviewed included climate-related health risks and an HPV awareness campaign targeting girls aged 14-15, with support from partner organisations including the Voluntary Health Association of India (VHAI). Dr Millo Kunya highlighted critical infrastructure and manpower requirements, including renovation of a defunct school compound to accommodate the Old Ziro Hospital administrative block, establishment of a dedicated Data Centre, provision of night-shift security at hospitals and installation of ambulance parking barricades. He also stressed the need for specialist doctors and adequate funding under the National Health Mission (NHM). Concluding the meeting, Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme directed strict monitoring of dog-bite cases and uninterrupted availability of Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV). Deputy Director (ICDS) Kago Maya called for stronger inter-departmental coordination and regular sharing of monthly health and nutrition data on women and children.      

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Guv urges scientific safeguards for state’s botanical wealth

ITANAGAR, AUG 23: Arunachal Pradesh’s extraordinary botanical wealth must be safeguarded through targeted scientific research, sustainable livelihoods, community participation, and long-term ecological security,” said Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd) during an interaction with Botanical Survey of India (BSI) Director Dr Kanad Das here. A Lok Bhavan communique said the discussion on Saturday focused on the region’s rich plant diversity and future strategies for strengthening conservation. Highlighting that the state hosts over 5,000 flowering plant species, approximately 600 orchid varieties, 75 rhododendron species, and numerous medicinal plants, the governor advocated for a dedicated rare, endangered, and threatened (RET) species recovery programme incorporating GIS mapping, population monitoring, seed banking, and habitat restoration. Emphasising the need for comprehensive botanical surveys across remote and previously inaccessible frontier areas, the governor called for deploying additional scientific personnel for systematic documentation. Referring to the state as India’s ‘Orchid Paradise’, which accounts for nearly 40 per cent of the nation’s orchid species, he recommended establishing a dedicated botanical garden, community orchid conservation zones, and expanded ex-situ conservation programmes. Parnaik further advised the BSI to institute a digital flora and climate-change monitoring network to ensure real-time ecological tracking and enhanced public outreach. BSI Arunachal Pradesh Regional Centre Scientist in-charge Dr Krishna Chowlu was also present at the meeting. (Source: PTI)