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(Online version of the Arunachal Age newspaper)

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Yak vaccination drive begins

TAWANG : The Department of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development on Monday launched a three-day Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccination drive for yaks at Dopokhar in Yangtse, situated at an altitude of 15,400 feet, to protect the livestock of the high-altitude Brokpa pastoral community. The campaign, being conducted in collaboration with the Indian Army, aims to vaccinate nearly 300 yaks against the highly contagious disease, which poses a serious threat to the livelihoods of yak-herding communities The programme is being led by Jang Senior Veterinary Officer Dr Thupten Tashi and Lemberdung Veterinary Officer Dr Sang Khandu, assisted by a six-member veterinary team. Besides administering vaccines, the team distributed essential veterinary medicines to yak herders and provided treatment to several ailing animals during the field visit. The Indian Army extended logistical and operational support to the campaign, assisting the veterinary team in carrying out the programme under challenging high-altitude conditions, reflecting continued civil-military cooperation in the welfare of remote border communities. The vaccination drive will directly benefit eight yak-herding families, including five from Damteng and three from Thingbu, by helping ensure healthier livestock, improved productivity and greater livelihood security. The department reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening animal healthcare services in remote and border areas through preventive healthcare, timely disease surveillance and collaborative initiatives aimed at safeguarding the district’s valuable livestock resources. (DIPR)

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Two arrested, contraband seized

NAMSAI : Two persons were arrested and suspected narcotic substances weighing 44 grams (gross) and 12 grams (net) were seized during an anti-drug operation conducted by Namsai Police at Nongtaw Khamti village on July 30 last. Acting on credible information about the illegal possession and sale of narcotic drugs, the police launched a search operation after complying with the provisions of Section 42 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. The operation was led by Namsai Sub-Divisional Police Officer Kengo Dirchi and included Namsai Police Station Officer-in-Charge Inspector T Gadi, Sub-Inspector R Kahik, Lady Sub-Inspector S Thoumoung and Sub-Inspector S Kumar, with support from the All Namsai Area Youth Association (ANAYA). During the search, Chow Manlai and Chow Jayanta Manchey were found in possession of a Horlicks plastic bottle and a tobacco container containing suspected contraband substances. After being informed of their rights under Section 50 of the NDPS Act, the contraband was seized following the prescribed legal procedure. During preliminary interrogation, the accused allegedly admitted that the contraband was intended for both personal consumption and sale. They have been arrested, and further investigation is underway. Namsai Police said that since June this year, it has been jointly conducting intensified anti-drug drives with ANAYA. As part of the campaign, 30 drug users have been identified and voluntarily referred to de-addiction and rehabilitation centres, while stringent legal action continues against drug peddlers. Namsai Superintendent of Police Sangey Thinley appreciated ANAYA for its continued support in the anti-drug campaign and reaffirmed the police’s commitment to making the district drug-free.

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YMCR steps up household waste awareness campaign

ITANAGAR : The Youth Mission for Clean River (YMCR), in collaboration with the Abralow Memorial Multipurpose Society (AMMS) and with support from the Itanagar Smart City Development Corporation Ltd. (ISCDCL), conducted a door-to-door Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign across several localities of the capital on Monday to promote responsible waste management. The awareness drive covered Industrial Colony, Chandranagar, IG Park Colony and Niti Vihar Tin Ali, with volunteers reaching nearly 200 households to sensitise residents on waste segregation, the dangers of river pollution and scientific methods of waste disposal. Volunteers distributed awareness materials and demonstrated simple techniques for segregating biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste at source. The campaign also highlighted the harmful impact of indiscriminate dumping of waste into rivers and drains, which continues to threaten the water quality of the Itanagar river system and the surrounding ecosystem. Speaking on the occasion, YMCR Vice Chairman Keyom Doni said clean rivers begin with responsible practices at the household level. “Clean rivers begin with clean habits at home. This campaign is not just about collecting waste responsibly; it is about instilling a sense of ownership among citizens towards their environment. We urge every household to treat waste segregation as a daily discipline rather than an occasional exercise, so that our rivers and public spaces remain free from pollution for generations to come,” he said. Doni observed that grassroots awareness initiatives are essential for a rapidly urbanising city like Itanagar, where unsegregated waste and indiscriminate dumping have placed increasing pressure on municipal waste management systems and contributed to the degradation of local water bodies.    

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Lower Siang reviews ZPDP 2026 planning

LIKABALI : A meeting on the preparation of the Zilla Panchayat Development Plan (ZPDP) 2026 was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall in Likabali on Monday, with a focus on strengthening coordination among Panchayati Raj Institutions and line departments for effective development planning. The meeting was chaired by Koyu Zilla Parishad Member Nyachi Koyu in the presence of Lower Siang District Panchayat Development Officer (DPDO) Mokar Riba. It was attended by Zilla Parishad Members, Heads of Departments, panchayat functionaries and officials of various line departments. Addressing the meeting, Lower Siang District Panchayat Development Officer Mokar Riba urged the ZPMs to maintain close coordination and regular interaction with line departments to ensure effective planning and implementation of developmental programmes. He said better coordination between Panchayati Raj Institutions and government departments was essential for addressing local needs and accelerating the district’s overall development. A PowerPoint presentation by the Panchayat Technical Assistant provided an overview of the ZPDP 2026 planning process, while representatives of various line departments presented their sector-wise development plans and proposed activities for the district. The ZPMs actively participated in the deliberations, sharing suggestions and highlighting development priorities from their respective constituencies to ensure that grassroots needs are adequately reflected in the district development plan. The meeting concluded with a renewed emphasis on convergence, coordination and participatory planning among Panchayati Raj Institutions and line departments for the effective implementation of development programmes and the sustainable development of Lower Siang district. (DIPR)    

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Dr Tayek Talom appointed VC of Apex Professional University

Maksam Tayeng PASIGHAT : In a landmark development for higher education in Arunachal Pradesh, noted educationist Dr Tayek Talom has been appointed Vice Chancellor of Apex Professional University (APU), Pasighat, becoming the first person from the state to hold the post since the university’s establishment 13 years ago. Dr Talom officially assumed office on August 1 after taking the oath of allegiance administered by APU Chancellor Acharya Dhanwant Singh during a formal ceremony. A distinguished academic administrator, Dr Talom previously served as Director of Higher and Technical Education in the Arunachal Pradesh Government. With decades of experience in higher education administration, institutional governance, policy implementation and academic leadership, he is widely regarded as an accomplished educationist. Addressing the university community after assuming office, Dr Talom outlined his vision of developing APU into a student-centric institution committed to academic excellence, innovation, research, creativity, discipline, ethical leadership and enhanced employability. He said the university would focus on strengthening research and innovation, promoting interdisciplinary learning, integrating emerging technologies into teaching, expanding collaborations with industry and academic institutions, enhancing student support services, and ensuring that higher education remains inclusive, accessible and responsive to the aspirations of students. The university expressed confidence that Dr Talom’s leadership would further strengthen its reputation for quality professional education, research and innovation while producing globally competitive graduates. The university fraternity also extended its congratulations, expressing optimism that APU would achieve new milestones under his leadership. Established under the Apex Professional University Act, 2013, APU is a University Grants Commission (UGC)-recognised state private university and a member of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). It offers undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral and research programmes in disciplines including law, forensic sciences, education, liberal arts, management, technology, pharmacy, nursing, paramedical sciences, naturopathy, yogic science, architecture and planning. Its programmes are approved by statutory regulatory bodies, including the Bar Council of India (BCI), Council of Architecture (CoA), National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) and the Arunachal Pradesh Nursing Council (APNC), wherever applicable.    

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FDP begins at JNC Pasighat

PASIGHAT : A week-long Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on “Presentation and Communication Skills” commenced at Jawaharlal Nehru College (JNC), Pasighat, on Monday. The programme is being organised by the DBT STAR College–Jawaharlal Nehru College in collaboration with ICT Academy, with support from the DBT STAR College Scheme and the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), JNC. Inaugurating the programme, JNC Principal Dr Gindu Borang underscored the importance of continuous skill development for both teachers and students. He urged participants to make the best use of the training and apply the knowledge gained to effectively mentor and inspire students. He observed that in the rapidly evolving academic environment, embracing technology and continuously upgrading professional skills had become essential. Speaking as the guest of honour, Vice Principal Dr Leki Sitang highlighted the significance of the collaboration between JNC and ICT Academy, expressing confidence that it would strengthen faculty development initiatives while creating better industry-oriented learning and placement opportunities for students. ICT Academy resource person Sunil Borah said the academy was committed to enhancing faculty competencies as well as equipping students with the 21st-century skills needed to succeed in a competitive world. He also expressed optimism about a long-term partnership with the college. Earlier, Programme Coordinator Dr Manish Kumar Shukla of the Department of Physics welcomed the participants and said the primary objective of the FDP was to enhance the information technology, presentation and communication skills of faculty members, thereby enriching classroom teaching and improving students’ learning outcomes. The inaugural session was attended by IQAC Coordinator Dr D P Panda, DBT STAR College Scheme Coordinator Dr Temin Payum, ICT Academy Senior Relationship Manager Samarendra Barua, Heads of Departments and faculty members. The five-day programme, which concludes on August 7, aims to strengthen faculty competencies in presentation, communication and digital skills to enhance teaching-learning practices and improve student outcomes. (DIPR)    

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Arunachal joins nationwide ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva’ campaign

ITANAGAR : Arunachal Pradesh on Sunday joined the nationwide launch of the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan, with Chief Minister Pema Khandu, district administrations, educational institutions and youth organisations participating in the 100-week campaign against substance abuse. Chief Minister Pema Khandu joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s virtual launch of the campaign from Tawang and urged the youth of the state to become ambassadors of the movement against drug abuse. The campaign, spearheaded by Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, commenced with more than one crore young people across over 10,000 locations taking a pledge to stay away from drugs and contribute towards nation-building. Launching the initiative, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said a developed India requires mentally and physically healthy youth free from substance abuse. Describing the campaign as a movement involving not only young people but also families, communities and the nation, he urged the youth to reject drugs, warning that while substance abuse may provide temporary pleasure, it ultimately destroys careers and lives. The Prime Minister called upon young Indians to participate in the 100-week Jan Bhagidari campaign, under which awareness programmes, sports events, walkathons, meditation sessions, cultural activities, street plays, discussions and community outreach programmes will be organised every Sunday across the country. In a social media post, Khandu said India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, had transformed the fight against substance abuse into a true people’s movement. “I urge every youth in Arunachal to become an ambassador of this movement and encourage their families, friends and communities to choose a healthy, disciplined and drug-free life,” he said. Meanwhile, district administrations across Arunachal Pradesh also participated in the virtual launch of the nationwide campaign. In East Siang district, Women Against Social Evils (WASE) joined the virtual programme and reaffirmed its commitment to spreading awareness against substance abuse and mobilising community participation in support of the campaign. At North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST), Nirjuli, MY Bharat, Itanagar, organised a special programme under the campaign in which more than 520 youths participated. Itanagar Capital Region Deputy Commissioner Toko Babu administered the Nasha Mukti Pledge, urging participants to become ambassadors of a healthy, responsible and drug-free society. Addressing the gathering, he appreciated the efforts of MY Bharat volunteers and called upon them to continue their campaign against drug abuse. He also stressed the need for stronger coordination with de-addiction and rehabilitation centres to support affected youth. The programme featured the Prime Minister’s virtual address, cultural performances and youth engagement activities promoting awareness, social responsibility and collective action against substance abuse. The event was organised by MY Bharat Itanagar under District Youth Officer Vineeta Chaudhary, under the supervision of State Director Dr Salam D Singh, in coordination with NERIST. It reflected the growing commitment of Arunachal Pradesh’s youth to the vision of a Nasha Mukt Bharat and Viksit Bharat@2047. In Lower Siang district, the District Administration, in collaboration with the Police and Health departments, organised an awareness-cum-youth interaction programme at the Government Higher Secondary School auditorium in Likabali. Addressing the gathering, Lower Siang DC Gobi Nyicyor said the country’s progress towards a Viksit Bharat depends on a healthy, responsible and empowered youth. He urged young people to become ambassadors of a drug-free society and called for collective efforts by all stakeholders to prevent substance abuse and safeguard the future of the younger generation. Lower Siang SP Bomken Basar, heads of departments, teachers, students and other stakeholders attended the programme, during which participants took the Nasha Mukt Bharat Pledge. Officer-in-Charge of Likabali Police Station Abraham Tayeng and Dr Gobuk Doke, who served as resource persons, highlighted the physical, mental and social consequences of substance abuse. They stressed the importance of awareness, early intervention and community participation, while urging students to stay away from drugs and spread awareness among their peers and families. The programme concluded with the live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address, reinforcing the national resolve to combat substance abuse through collective action. (DIPRO) Meanwhile, MY Bharat West Siang, under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, organised the district-level programme at Ramakrishna Mission School, Aalo, in association with Ramakrishna Mission. North East Frontier Technical University Vice-Chancellor Tejum Padu attended the programme as chief guest, while Ramakrishna Mission School Principal Swami Swayamprabhananda presided over the event. Both speakers highlighted the vital role of youth in nation-building and emphasised the importance of adopting a healthy, disciplined and drug-free lifestyle. Students, faculty members, National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers and youth participants joined the Prime Minister’s virtual address and took the Nasha Mukti Pledge, committing themselves to remain free from substance abuse and spread awareness in their educational institutions and communities. The programme concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthen the fight against substance abuse through sustained awareness campaigns, education, sports, cultural activities and community participation. (DIPR) In West Kameng district, an awareness-cum-youth interaction programme was organised at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall in Bomdila under the nationwide campaign. Addressing MY Bharat volunteers, National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets and students, West Kameng DC Dr Dilip Kumar said the country’s progress towards a Viksit Bharat depends on the strength and well-being of its youth. He urged young people to become ambassadors of a drug-free society and called for collective efforts to eliminate substance abuse. Participants took the Nasha Mukt Bharat Pledge before joining the live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address. The programme was attended by the Deputy Director of School Education, District Medical Officer, Sub-Divisional Police Officer, Kalaktang, Town Magistrate and other district officials. Meanwhile, Upper Siang district observed the campaign at Government Higher Secondary School, Yingkiong, where DC Talo Jerang, SP Token Saring, heads of departments, teachers and students participated in the live launch. Addressing the gathering, Jerang said the fight against substance abuse requires community participation and individual responsibility. Stressing the role of educational institutions, he urged schools to regularly sensitise students about the harmful effects of drugs and advocated preventive measures in

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Guv calls for ‘detect-counsel-prevent-skill’ approach to fight drugs

ITANAGAR : Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd.) on Sunday participated in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s virtual interaction with youth during the launch of the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan from Lok Bhavan here and called for a sustained, community-driven campaign against substance abuse. The Prime Minister launched the 100-week nationwide Jan Bhagidari campaign, addressing more than one crore young people from over 10,000 locations across the country, including educational institutions and youth centres in Arunachal Pradesh. The initiative highlighted the role of youth in building a drug-free, healthy and developed India under the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. Following the virtual interaction, the Governor held discussions with officials and proposed organising ‘Nasha Mukt Street Shows’ every Sunday across the state for the next 100 days to generate public awareness and mobilise communities, particularly the youth, against drug abuse. Advocating a grassroots-driven strategy, he called for adopting a ‘Detect-Counsel-Prevent-Skill’ approach to tackle substance abuse. He urged Gaon Burahs, community elders and Panchayat leaders to identify vulnerable youth, counsel affected families and help prevent drug abuse at the village level. The Governor also suggested involving Self-Help Groups in rehabilitation and recovery initiatives at the circle level and proposed appointing recovered youth as Anti-Drugs Ambassadors (ADA) to motivate and guide others towards a drug-free life. Highlighting the need for a multi-pronged strategy, he stressed skill development, productive youth engagement and greater participation in games and sports as effective preventive measures. Referring to the recently launched Rupa Football League–Independence Cup Football Tournament, themed ‘Say No to Drugs, Yes to Football’, he said sports can play a significant role in steering young people away from substance abuse. The Governor also emphasised the use of technology and intelligence-based surveillance to identify drug trafficking routes, networks and distributors. Calling for strict enforcement of the law, he said those involved in drug-related offences must be dealt with firmly under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and other relevant laws to safeguard the future of the nation’s youth.      

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Arunachal teams dominate RFC India 2026 with double podium finish

ITANAGAR/GOA : Arunachal Pradesh’s off-road motorsport enthusiasts delivered an impressive performance at the Rainforest Challenge (RFC) India 2026, securing two podium finishes in the country’s toughest 4×4 competition held in Goa. Team Moca emerged champions in the 4×4 Extreme category, while Team Xtreme Arunachal finished runners-up in the highly competitive 4×4 Stock category, underlining the state’s growing prominence in Indian off-road motorsports. Representing Team Moca, driver Ujjal Namshum and co-driver Chetthan Chengappa claimed the championship title after displaying exceptional driving skills, tactical precision and teamwork throughout the week-long competition. Team Xtreme Arunachal, represented by driver Naku Hage Chada and co-driver Loda Punyo, secured second place in the premier 4×4 Stock category, which featured challenging hill climbs, deep mud pits, water crossings, technical recovery sections and endurance-based obstacle courses. The double podium finish marks a significant achievement for Arunachal Pradesh and reflects the Northeast’s growing presence in one of the country’s most demanding motorsport disciplines. Speaking to The Arunachal Age, Team Xtreme Arunachal group leader Jaong Mirip Singpho described the achievement as a proud moment for the state. “Representing Arunachal Pradesh at a prestigious national event like the Rainforest Challenge is itself a matter of immense pride. Winning a podium finish has made the experience even more memorable,” he said. Singpho said the team travelled from Itanagar to Goa with the sole aim of giving its best performance. “Our driver Naku Hage Chada and co-driver Loda Punyo gave their absolute best to secure the top position. Although we narrowly missed the championship, we are satisfied with our performance and determined to return stronger in the next edition,” he added. Describing RFC India as the toughest motorsport event the team has participated in, Singpho said every stage tested both the vehicles and competitors to their limits. “The experience has been incredibly valuable, giving us greater confidence and preparedness for future competitions,” he said. Organised by Cougar Motorsport, the 12th edition of RFC India was held in Goa from July 26 to August 1. Recognised as India’s toughest off-road motorsport competition and among the world’s top off-road challenges, the event featured multiple categories, including 4×4 Extreme, 4×4 Modified and 4×4 Stock, with competitors tested on precision driving, vehicle recovery, navigation, endurance and teamwork under extreme terrain conditions.      

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Guv hails January Tali, Hachu Lombo for historic Mt Kun ascent

ITANAGAR : Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd.) has congratulated January Tali and Hachu Lombo on successfully summiting Mt Kun (7,077 metres) in the Zanskar region of Ladakh. Describing the achievement as a moment of immense pride for the state, the Governor said the two mountaineers have created history by becoming the first women from Arunachal Pradesh to scale the challenging peak. He noted that Mt Kun, one of India’s most demanding high-altitude climbing destinations, tests climbers with its steep snow-covered slopes, treacherous glaciers, thin air and unpredictable weather conditions. Their successful ascent, he said, reflected exceptional courage, determination, endurance and mental resilience. The Governor said the duo had brought laurels to Arunachal Pradesh and expressed confidence that their achievement would inspire young people, particularly women, to dream big and strive for excellence. He also hoped their accomplishment would encourage the state’s youth to embrace physical fitness, adventure sports and the spirit of perseverance.