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BOLENG :  The Siang district administration on Friday held a preliminary coordination meeting to review preparations for the Asian Rafting Championships 2026, scheduled to be held in the district from October 5 to 9. The meeting, held at the Conference Hall of the Circuit House in Boleng, was chaired by Siang Deputy Commissioner Tayi Taggu. It was attended by a visiting delegation comprising Asian Rafting Council President Shaukat Sikand, Sports Director Gumnya Karbak, Arunachal Pradesh Whitewater Sports Association (APWSA) President Nino Dai, APWSA Vice President Nyumli Yigam, APWSA General Secretary Atu Kartek, representatives of the DSWS Youth Wing—the local organising body—and officers of the district administration. Welcoming the delegation, DC Taggu assured full administrative support for the successful conduct of the international event. He said the championship would provide an excellent opportunity to showcase Siang district’s adventure tourism potential and the hospitality of its people before an international audience. The visiting delegation briefed the participants on the objectives of the preliminary visit and outlined the technical requirements, international standards and overall framework for the championship. The meeting discussed competition venues, site inspections, infrastructure requirements, logistics, accommodation, transportation, safety and emergency preparedness, participant management, media and publicity, tourism promotion, and the responsibilities of the various stakeholders. Representatives of the DSWS Youth Wing presented their plans for local coordination and community participation, highlighting the role of volunteers and local organisations in ensuring the smooth conduct of the event. The meeting concluded with the identification of key action points and timelines for coordinated preparations. It was resolved that all stakeholders would work in close coordination to organise the Asian Rafting Championships 2026 in accordance with international standards while promoting Siang district as a premier destination for adventure tourism. (DIPR)    

  ITANAGAR : Union Minister JP Nadda on Thursday assured the Centre’s full support for relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction in flood-hit Arunachal Pradesh after visiting the worst-affected areas of Keyi Panyor district and reviewing the damage caused by recent flash floods and landslides. The Union Health and Family Welfare Minister, who toured Possa village and the adjoining NEEPCO colony, said the Centre, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stands firmly with the people of the state during the crisis, officials said. He said the Centre is closely monitoring the flood situation across the Northeast and is working in coordination with the state government to ensure timely delivery of relief materials, medical assistance and financial support to all affected families. The minister also said reconstruction of damaged infrastructure and rehabilitation of affected people would be taken up on priority after a detailed assessment of the losses. Nadda was accompanied by state Urban Affairs Minister Balo Raja, Yachuli MLA Toko Tatung, district officials of Keyi Panyor and panchayat representatives during the visit. The delegation inspected flood-ravaged residential areas, damaged public infrastructure and civic utilities before interacting with affected families and local officials to assess their immediate needs, including healthcare and emergency assistance. Nadda also reviewed the ongoing relief operations, functioning of relief camps and the state’s plans for restoration of essential infrastructure and rebuilding of damaged houses and public assets. The visit comes after widespread destruction caused by heavy monsoon rain and localised cloudbursts over the Possa River in Keyi Panyor district, which triggered flash floods and landslides. The disaster severely affected the Possa area, where floodwaters breached a retaining wall and swept away around 15 to 18 residential quarters in the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO) colony near Yazali. The ongoing spell of floods and landslides has so far claimed eight lives in the northeastern state, spreading across 28 districts and affecting an estimated 1,55,858 people. According to a report from the state disaster management department, as many as 235 roads, 40 bridges, 75 culverts, 373 water supply systems, 161 power lines, 823 electric poles, 66 irrigation projects, 122 government buildings, 41 schools, 12 hydropower projects, 26 retaining walls and 16 flood protection walls, among other public assets, have been damaged by floods and landslides in the state. The agriculture and horticulture sectors have also suffered significant losses, with crops over 1,528.626 hectares affected, including 780.716 hectares under horticulture and 747.91 hectares under agriculture, the report added.

PASIGHAT :  The Mushroom Development Centre (MDC), Pasighat, under the Department of Horticulture, East Siang district, conducted a series of training programmes from July 27 to August 6 under the Arunachal Pradesh Mushroom Development Mission (APMDM), Budget Estimate (BE) 2025-26, to promote mushroom cultivation and strengthen rural livelihoods. A total of five training programmes were organised across different circles and subdivisions of the district, benefiting 200 participants. The training focused on oyster mushroom cultivation, highlighting its low production cost, ease of cultivation, strong market demand and potential as a sustainable source of income. The programmes were attended by Bogong-I Zilla Parishad Member Olom Moyong, Bogong-II Zilla Parishad Member Ainam Saroh, Monggu Banggo-I Zilla Parishad Member Bapiyang Tayeng, Bosing-I Zilla Parishad Member Toni Siram and Bilat-I Gram Panchayat Chairperson Aseng Nonang as chief guests in their respective constituencies. East Siang District Horticulture Officer Oyin Tayeng, Horticulture Development Officer Oyi Modi, Horticulture Marketing Officer Bini Tagom and Mushroom Development Centre In-charge Horticulture Development Officer Nuka Dai were also present. Associate Professor Dr N Surmina Devi of the Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Pasighat, served as the resource person and conducted technical sessions on scientific mushroom cultivation. The training included hands-on practical sessions, demonstration-based learning and the distribution of mushroom grow kits to enable participants to begin cultivation at the household level. Participation certificates were also presented to all trainees. According to the department, the programme enhanced the technical knowledge and practical skills of the beneficiaries while creating awareness about the economic potential of oyster mushroom cultivation. The distribution of grow kits is expected to encourage self-employment and sustainable livelihood generation among rural households. The department said the initiative has further strengthened mushroom cultivation as a viable livelihood option under APMDM, BE 2025-26, in line with the state government’s efforts to promote low-investment and sustainable agricultural practices in East Siang district. (DIPR)

NAMSAI : In a major breakthrough in its ongoing drive against drug trafficking, Namsai district police arrested an alleged drug peddler and seized 82 grams of suspected heroin with an estimated illicit market value of about ₹16.40 lakh. The accused, identified as Osina Chautang of Solungtoo village, was arrested following a search operation conducted on the basis of specific intelligence inputs. According to police, the information was reduced into writing and communicated to the Superintendent of Police in compliance with Section 42 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, before the search operation was launched. The operation was led by Namsai Sub-Divisional Police Officer Kengo Dirchi and carried out by a team comprising Namsai Police Station Officer-in-Charge Inspector T. Gadi, Sub-Inspector Sanjay Kumar, LSI S. Thoumoung and other police personnel. Police said the search was conducted in accordance with the mandatory provisions of the NDPS Act in the presence of two independent local witnesses, including executive members of the All Namsai Area Youth Association (ANAYA). The entire search and seizure process was videographed using the e-Sakshya application to ensure transparency. During the search of the accused’s residence, the police recovered 82 grams of suspected heroin along with other incriminating articles, all of which were seized as per legal procedures. A case has been registered at Namsai Police Station under the relevant provisions of the NDPS Act, and the accused was arrested. During preliminary interrogation, the accused allegedly disclosed that the suspected heroin had been procured from outside the district for further distribution. Police said the disclosure is being verified as part of the investigation. Further investigation is underway to trace the source of the contraband, identify both forward and backward linkages and dismantle the wider drug trafficking network operating in the region. The operation was carried out under the overall supervision of Namsai Superintendent of Police Sangey Thinley. The district police also appreciated the cooperation extended by the executive members of ANAYA, who served as independent witnesses during the operation, and reiterated its zero-tolerance policy against narcotic drugs. Police appealed to the public to continue sharing credible information on drug trafficking and other criminal activities, assuring that the identity of informants would be kept strictly confidential.

ITANAGAR : Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd) on Thursday called for making Geographic Information System (GIS) technology a cornerstone of governance in Arunachal Pradesh, saying data-driven decision-making is essential for efficient service delivery and sustainable development. Addressing the ‘Geo Vision Itanagar’ seminar organised by Esri India, the Governor said the state’s rugged terrain, dense forests, scattered habitations and extensive international borders require innovative, technology-driven governance, where geospatial intelligence serves as an indispensable tool. Emphasising the need for all government departments to adopt GIS-based systems, he proposed the creation of a State Geospatial Governance Platform integrating data from key departments, including Revenue, Planning, Rural Development, Public Works, Forest, Agriculture, Disaster Management and Power. According to the Governor, a unified geospatial ecosystem would improve inter-departmental coordination, facilitate seamless data sharing, eliminate duplication of work and promote evidence-based policymaking. Highlighting land management as a priority area, Parnaik stressed the need to accelerate GIS-based cadastral surveys, digitisation of land records and implementation of the Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN) system. He said transparent and reliable land records would help resolve disputes, expedite infrastructure projects, enhance public confidence and create a more investment-friendly environment. The Governor also underscored the importance of geospatial technology in infrastructure development and border area management. He advocated extensive use of drone-based mapping and geospatial monitoring for roads, bridges, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, power networks and other strategic infrastructure, noting that real-time monitoring would improve project execution and accountability while supporting initiatives such as the Vibrant Village Programme. On disaster management, he called for closer collaboration among the Arunachal Pradesh State Application Centre (APSAC), disaster management agencies and district administrations to develop advanced hazard mapping and early warning systems for floods, landslides, earthquakes and glacial lake outburst floods. Referring to emerging technologies, the Governor highlighted the growing importance of GeoAI, Digital Twins, drone analytics and mobile GIS in enabling predictive analysis and real-time decision-making, making governance more proactive, efficient and citizen-centric. He said geospatial technology could significantly strengthen agriculture, horticulture, forestry, biodiversity conservation, healthcare and urban planning. GIS-based suitability analysis, he noted, could help identify ideal locations for high-value crops such as kiwi, apple, orange, walnut and large cardamom, thereby improving agricultural productivity and farmers’ livelihoods. The Governor also highlighted the role of geospatial intelligence in supporting social initiatives, including the ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat’ campaign, by identifying vulnerable areas for targeted interventions. He added that GIS-enabled dashboards could provide real-time monitoring of developmental projects, ensuring greater transparency and efficient utilisation of public resources. Appreciating Esri India for organising the seminar, the Governor expressed confidence that the deliberations would contribute to building a technologically advanced, environmentally responsible and future-ready Arunachal Pradesh. He urged all stakeholders to embrace data-driven governance in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. The seminar was attended by senior state government officials, district police officers, planners, technologists, administrators and industry experts. Experts from Esri India showcased the concept of “Arunachal One”, a unified geospatial platform designed to support integrated planning and decision-making across departments. The discussions also focused on the application of GIS, GeoAI and drone technologies in land records management, agriculture, forestry, disaster management, border security, smart policing and utility management, while highlighting the need for capacity building to promote transparent, efficient and citizen-centric governance.    

CHHATRAPATI SAMBHAJINAGAR : Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke on Thursday described unemployment as a major problem in the country, and said it would be taken up as a nationwide issue. He was addressing a press conference after the conclusion of the CJP’s core team meeting in his hometown Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar in Maharashtra. The core team had been holding talks at Dipke’s residence since Wednesday. CJP chief spokesperson Saurav Das, spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka and other representatives were also present at the press conference. The protests, led by CJP at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi last month over the Neet paper leak and other exam irregularities, led to Dharmendra Pradhan resigning as the Union education minister. Dipke said, “Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation is the biggest achievement of the students’ agitation.” There were not only students but also jobless youngsters who participated in the Jantar Mantar protest, he said. “Unemployment is a major problem, we will make it a nationwide issue. We will work on education reforms. Education has remained unaffordable since schooling. Education is used for making profits. But we want to change it,” he said. Sixty per cent of people in the country are below the age of 35 and protesters at Jantar Mantar also comprised such people, Dipke noted. The CJP founder also said there was a need to bring back the credibility of the media. (Source: PTI)    

PASSA VALLEY :  Pakke Kessang district police, in coordination with the Department of Tax, Excise and Narcotics, on Thursday conducted a joint surprise inspection and enforcement drive against the illegal liquor trade in Rilloh and Ngoleko villages under Passa Valley Circle. The operation covered shops, restaurants, hotels and roadside kiosks, during which officials seized 52.515 litres of liquor allegedly stored and sold without a valid excise licence. The seized liquor was handed over to the Department of Tax, Excise and Narcotics for safe custody and further legal action under the relevant provisions of the Excise Act. According to the police, the joint operation reflects the commitment of the district police and the Excise Department to curb illegal liquor trade, enforce the law and safeguard public health and safety. Police noted that liquor sold illegally and stored without proper safeguards may be contaminated or unfit for consumption, posing serious health risks in addition to violating the law. They added that similar enforcement drives will continue across the district to deter violations and promote lawful business practices. The district police appealed to shopkeepers, hotel owners, restaurant operators and members of the public to comply strictly with the provisions of the Excise Act and refrain from the illegal storage, sale or distribution of liquor. They also sought public cooperation in maintaining peace, public safety and the rule of law across the district.    

PASIGHAT : The Arunachal Pradesh University Teachers’ Association (APUTA) on Thursday renewed its demand for enhancement of the retirement age of university teachers from 60 to 65 years, in line with the University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines. A delegation of the association, led by President Dr Eli Doye and General Secretary Dr Lige Sora, met Arunachal Pradesh University (APU) Vice Chancellor Dr Milorari Modi at his chamber and reiterated its long-pending demand. The association informed the Vice Chancellor that it had submitted a memorandum to the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, in his capacity as Chancellor of the University, on October 30, 2025, seeking revision of the superannuation age. However, it said no significant progress had been made on the issue over the past ten months. APUTA maintained that the existing retirement age at APU is not in conformity with the UGC guidelines and is also inconsistent with the practice followed by most Central and State universities across the country. The delegation said increasing the retirement age would enable the university to retain experienced faculty members, strengthen academic leadership, ensure continuity in teaching, research and administration, and facilitate the mentoring of younger faculty and research scholars. Responding to the representation, Vice Chancellor Dr Milorari Modi assured the delegation that the matter would be taken up positively and pursued with the appropriate authorities at the earliest.      

YUPIA :  Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner Hage Mamu on Thursday conducted an extensive tour of the Sagalee Administrative Circle to review key infrastructure projects, inspect developmental works and interact with officials, farmers and students. The DC began her visit by inspecting the ongoing road restoration work at Waterfall Point along the NH-713A Hoj-Potin road. Interacting with engineers at the site, she directed them to expedite the restoration work on a war footing to restore road connectivity at the earliest. Accompanied by Sagalee Additional Deputy Commissioner Kipa Raja and Officer on Special Duty to Sagalee MLA Debia Lalum, she later visited the proposed site for the Field Ammunition Depot (FAD) at Mepsoro and reviewed the proposal after inspecting the earmarked land. The team also visited Toru Engineering College, where the DC reviewed the progress of infrastructure development and ongoing construction works. During her tour, Mamu visited a dragon fruit orchard at Kheel and interacted with progressive farmers. Appreciating their efforts to promote horticulture and diversified farming, she encouraged them to adopt innovative agricultural practices to improve productivity and enhance income. As part of her administrative review, the DC visited the Circle Offices at Toru and Leporiang, where she interacted with officers and staff, heard their grievances and assured them that genuine concerns would be addressed in a phased manner. She also visited the Tana Nana War Memorial at Deb village and paid homage to those associated with the historic site while acknowledging its significance. In the final leg of her tour, Mamu visited Government Secondary School, Leporiang, and Government Residential School, Pape Sango, Leporiang. Interacting with students, she encouraged them to uphold discipline, dedication and sincerity, describing discipline as the foundation of success. She also urged them to remain focused on their studies, uphold moral values and strive to become responsible and productive citizens. The visit formed part of the district administration’s ongoing efforts to monitor developmental activities, strengthen public service delivery and maintain close engagement with local communities across the district. (DIPR)    

PASIGHAT : The East Siang district administration (DA) on Thursday held a meeting with representatives of the Bogong Banggo Kebang (BBK), Bogong Banggo Yameng Kebang (BBYK), Bogong Banggo Land Action Committee (BBLAC) and All Bogong Students’ Union (ABSU) to deliberate on land-related issues and other matters concerning Pasighat township. The meeting, chaired by East Siang Deputy Commissioner Sonalika Jiwani at the DC’s Conference Hall, focused on resolving issues through dialogue and ensuring adherence to legal procedures. Welcoming the participants, the DC stressed the importance of respecting all symbols of the State and urged stakeholders to conduct discussions peacefully to achieve constructive outcomes. She informed the meeting that the district administration has been taking stringent action against encroachments on government land under the provisions of the Arunachal Pradesh Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 2003. Over the past year, 780 notices have been issued to alleged illegal encroachers and 72 eviction drives have been conducted across Pasighat township. The meeting deliberated on five demands submitted by the organisations, including cross-verification of land allotment proposals for 2024-25, eviction of illegal encroachers, inclusion of BBK and BBLAC in the District Land Allotment Committee (DLAC), removal of encroachments from educational institutions, and retention of the three MAUP Smart City buildings under local control. After detailed discussions, it was decided that all land allotment proposals for 2024-25 returned by the Directorate of Land Management would be cross-verified by the respective Administrative Officers-cum-Estate Officers. Representatives nominated by BBK and BBLAC will be permitted to submit information or complaints to the concerned Estate Officers. On the issue of encroachments, the administration reiterated that eviction drives would continue strictly in accordance with the law to ensure due process and withstand future litigation. It also assured that fresh encroachments would be removed immediately and urged BBLAC members to promptly report any new cases. Regarding the demand for inclusion of BBK and BBLAC in the DLAC, the meeting was informed that the District Land Revenue and Settlement Officer had already written to the Director of Land Management in February 2024 seeking inclusion of non-official members, including panchayat representatives and leaders of community-based organisations. Approval from the state government is still awaited. The meeting also resolved to accord top priority to the eviction of illegal encroachers from educational institutions. The Deputy Director of School Education and the concerned Block Education Officers were directed to issue eviction notices to all encroachers within seven days of issuance of the meeting minutes. On the three MAUP Smart City buildings at Pasighat Market, the district administration clarified that overall control of the buildings would remain with the administration. It also dispelled concerns over allotment by private parties, stating that shops would be allotted with special consideration for enterprising local youth of East Siang district, including members of the Bogong Banggo community. Guidelines and standard operating procedures for allotment will be framed in due course. East Siang Superintendent of Police Pankaj Lamba appealed to all stakeholders to resolve differences through dialogue and refrain from violence. He assured that the police would work in close coordination with the district administration to deal strictly with habitual encroachers and offenders in accordance with the law. The meeting concluded with all stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to maintaining peace, harmony and orderly development in Pasighat township. (DIPR)