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ITANAGAR : The Arunachal Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ACCI) has urged Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to expedite railway expansion projects in Arunachal Pradesh, citing the state’s strategic importance, economic potential and the need to strengthen connectivity under the Centre’s Act East Policy. In a letter to the Union Minister, ACCI president Dr Tarh Nachung and chief advisor Pradeep Kumar appreciated the rapid expansion of the Indian Railways under the present leadership, including multi-tracking projects, near-complete electrification of the broad-gauge network and the recent approval of new railway corridors. They, however, stressed that Arunachal Pradesh, which shares a 1,129-km border with China, deserves special attention because of its strategic location and developmental requirements. The chamber welcomed the successful trial run of an electric train on the Harmuti-Naharlagun section in March this year, describing it as a milestone that would pave the way for faster, more efficient and environment-friendly rail services. It said electrification would also facilitate the operation of Vande Bharat Express services, strengthening the state’s connectivity with the rest of the country. Recalling the history of railway development in the region, the ACCI noted that the British had constructed the Rangiya-Bhalukpong line, while successive governments initiated surveys and sanctioned projects that eventually led to the commissioning of rail connectivity to the state capital in 2015. The chamber observed that although the Centre has attached high priority to the development of the Northeast, significant gaps remain in railway infrastructure, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh. Highlighting the state’s economic potential, the ACCI pointed to the auction of graphite and vanadium mining blocks in Keyi Panyor and Pakke Kessang districts, saying improved rail and road connectivity is essential for transporting minerals and unlocking industrial growth. The chamber also stressed the need for freight train services to Naharlagun, noting that large volumes of goods destined for Arunachal currently have to be transported by road from Harmuti. It urged the Railway Ministry to implement the proposed railway projects announced in 2019, including the Bhalukpong-Tenga-Tawang (378 km), North Lakhimpur-Bame-Aalo-Silapathar (247.85 km) and Pasighat-Tezu-Parsuram Kund-Rupai (227 km) lines, stating that these projects would significantly improve connectivity to the state’s northern and eastern frontiers while promoting tourism and economic development. The ACCI also endorsed Rajya Sabha MP Tai Tagak’s proposals to rename the Naharlagun-New Delhi AC Superfast Express as the Arunachal Express, introduce a Naharlagun-Chennai train service and provide a southbound superfast rail link from New Jalpaiguri connecting with the Naharlagun-New Delhi AC Superfast Express. Copies of the memorandum have also been forwarded to Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, Lok Sabha MP Tapir Gao and Rajya Sabha MP Tai Tagak for necessary action.      

SHERGAON : Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd) on Saturday said the true measure of governance lies in the extent to which people benefit from government programmes and welfare schemes, while urging officials to ensure that the benefits of Central and State initiatives reach every eligible citizen, particularly those living in remote and rural areas. Interacting with Heads of Departments (HoDs) and Gaon Burahs (GBs) at Shergaon, the Governor stressed that the welfare of citizens must remain at the centre of every reform and development initiative. He said administrative reforms should translate into tangible improvements in people’s lives, adding that people-centric governance is essential to realise the national vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. Parnaik noted that governance systems are evolving rapidly and called for continuous adaptation and innovation. He advocated a comprehensive assessment of emerging departmental requirements to improve planning, resource utilisation and service delivery. Emphasising a whole-of-district approach, the Governor called for greater coordination and convergence among departments to achieve common developmental goals. He also said the vision of Viksit Bharat must evolve into a people’s movement driven by public participation and shared responsibility. Highlighting the role of young people, the Governor said the youth of Arunachal Pradesh are the architects of the nation’s future and must be empowered with opportunities, guidance and a sense of purpose. With committed leadership, responsive governance and active community participation, he said, every district can become a catalyst for inclusive and transformative development. During his interaction with Gaon Burahs, the Governor acknowledged their vital role as a bridge between the administration and the community. Expressing concern over the growing menace of drug abuse among youth, he called for coordinated efforts by government agencies, community leaders, educational institutions and civil society organisations to address the problem. The Governor also interacted with community elders, Panchayati Raj Institution members, Self-Help Groups and district officials on issues relating to tourism, cooperatives, waste management, education and drug abuse. Local MLA Tseten Chombey, West Kameng Deputy Commissioner Dr Dilip Kumar Chetia, leaders of the Sherdukpen community, women from Self-Help Groups and Gaon Burahs also shared their views and suggestions on the development and welfare of the region during the interaction. (DIPR)    

ITANAGAR : Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Saturday expressed his solidarity with the people of flood-hit Assam, offering thoughts and prayers to every family impacted by the devastating deluge in the neighbouring state. In a social media post, Khandu praised the multi-agency rescue and relief efforts being carried out across the inundated regions. “My thoughts and prayers are with every family affected by the devastating floods in Assam. Salute to the NDRF, SDRF, Armed Forces, police personnel, volunteers, and everyone working tirelessly in rescue and relief operations,” the chief minister said. Extending his support to the victims, Khandu added, “May those affected find strength, safety, and hope. Praying for the waters to recede soon and for Assam to recover stronger.” The flood situation in Assam remained grim on Saturday even as the water level has started to recede in some parts, while 61 people have died of the deluge and over 7.05 lakh people are affected in nine districts. According to the Assam State Disaster Management Authority’s daily flood report, more than 7,05,100 people have been affected in Charaideo, Dhemaji, Dibrugarh, Golaghat, Hojai, Jorhat, Karbi Anglong, Nagaon and Sivasagar districts. (Source: PTI)    

PASIGHAT :  The Spearhead Division of the Indian Army commemorated Kargil Vijay Diwas at the Veterans Suvidha Kendra (VSK) in Pasighat under the SeVA (Spear Corps Empowering Veterans and Aspirants) initiative, paying tribute to the courage, sacrifice and indomitable spirit of the soldiers who secured India’s victory during Operation Vijay in 1999. The programme was attended by Kargil War veterans, serving soldiers, civil dignitaries, ex-servicemen, students, teachers and members of the local community, reflecting the enduring bond between the Armed Forces and the people of Arunachal Pradesh. The event began with a welcome address, followed by a documentary on Operation Vijay. A major highlight was the first-hand accounts shared by Kargil War veterans, who recounted their experiences from the battlefield and offered the audience, particularly students, valuable insights into military service and the values of courage, discipline and selfless service. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commander of the Spearhead Gunners said the legacy of the Kargil War continues to inspire every soldier serving on India’s frontiers, adding that patriotism, professionalism and sacrifice remain the cornerstones of the Indian Army. As a mark of respect, the Army felicitated the Kargil War veterans during the programme. Winners of an inter-school drawing competition organised to mark the occasion were also honoured, while their paintings were displayed throughout the event. The programme concluded with an interaction between veterans and students, inspiring the younger generation through firsthand accounts of courage, duty and service to the nation. The Indian Army said such initiatives under the SeVA programme continue to strengthen the bond between serving soldiers, veterans and society while fostering patriotism and national pride among the youth.

ITANAGAR : Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd.) has extended greetings to the people of Arunachal Pradesh on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas and paid tribute to the brave soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces whose courage, patriotism and supreme sacrifice safeguarded the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. In his message, the Governor said Kargil Vijay Diwas, observed every year on July 26, commemorates India’s historic victory in the 1999 Kargil War, fought over 83 arduous days on some of the world’s highest and most challenging battlefields. Despite extreme weather, rugged terrain and hostile conditions, Indian soldiers displayed unmatched bravery, determination and professionalism, he said, adding that the victory was not merely a military achievement but a testament to the resilience, unity and indomitable spirit of the nation. “The courage displayed by the Kargil heroes continues to inspire generations of Indians to place the nation above all else,” the Governor said. Paying homage to the martyrs and veterans of the Kargil War, Parnaik expressed hope that their legacy would continue to inspire the people to uphold the values of patriotism, national unity, duty and sacrifice, while strengthening the collective resolve to build a strong, secure and prosperous India.

ZIRO : The Department of Art and Culture, Ziro, organised a district-level inter-school essay writing competition at Dani Kunia Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Ziro, on Saturday as part of the nationwide two-year commemoration of the 125th birth anniversary of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee. Students from various schools across Lower Subansiri district participated in the competition, reflecting on Dr Mookerjee’s contributions to nation-building, education and industrial development. Speaking on the occasion, District Art and Culture Officer Tapi Rimu said Dr Mookerjee’s life continues to inspire young people through his integrity, intellectual leadership and commitment to national service. She said the inter-school competition was aimed at promoting healthy academic competition among students while encouraging them to reflect on Dr Mookerjee’s legacy of unity, service and patriotism. The entries are being evaluated by a panel of senior educators on the basis of originality, depth of thought and clarity of expression. The winners will be announced and felicitated with trophies and certificates during the district-level Independence Day celebrations on August 15. The administration of Dani Kunia GHSS and representatives of participating schools appreciated the Department of Art and Culture for organising the event. The department reaffirmed its commitment to organising youth-centric programmes and commemorating significant historical milestones across Lower Subansiri district.

Mingkeng Osik PASIGHAT : The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), East Siang Zilla, organised a Prabuddha Nagarik Sanghoshti (Intellectuals’ Meet) at the College of Agriculture auditorium in Pasighat on Saturday, bringing together more than 50 intellectuals from across the district. The participants included professors, doctors, engineers, teachers, government officials and young entrepreneurs. The programme served as a platform for discussions on issues of social and national importance. RSS Prant Pracharak Kamlesh Kumar and Prant Sampark Pramukh Dr Kaling Jerang addressed the gathering, outlining the history, philosophy and organisational journey of the RSS. The speakers highlighted the organisation’s contributions to nation-building, social service, character development, disaster relief, education and cultural preservation. They also elaborated on Panch Parivartan, the RSS’s five-point roadmap for social transformation during its centenary period, which focuses on social harmony, strengthening family values, environmental consciousness, civic responsibility, and fostering national pride and cultural rootedness. Participants were urged to contribute towards these objectives through individual and collective efforts. The interactive session witnessed discussions on a range of contemporary issues, including the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI), sustainable farming practices, preservation of indigenous languages and customs, promotion of indigenous faith, education, youth development and the role of intellectuals in nation-building. Participants appreciated the constructive exchange of ideas and stressed the need for continued dialogue on issues concerning society and national development. The programme was coordinated by RSS East Siang Zilla Sampark Pramukh Enuk Libang, who thanked the participants for their contributions to the event.    

ITANAGAR : The Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA), Shillong, under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, organised an awareness webinar on the Corporate Mitra Scheme on Friday for students, youth, professionals, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and entrepreneurs in Arunachal Pradesh. The webinar was held as part of the Corporate Mitra Scheme Awareness Campaign for the Northeast in collaboration with Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU). The Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI) served as the lead co-host, while The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) and The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) participated as supporting co-hosts. The scheme aims to strengthen MSMEs, particularly in Tier-II cities, by creating a pool of trained and accredited Corporate Mitras to provide affordable and accessible professional support in areas such as regulatory compliance, taxation, accounting, governance and financial management. The initiative also seeks to equip young graduates with industry-relevant skills, thereby enhancing their employability. Officials said the scheme is expected to strengthen the MSME ecosystem while generating employment opportunities, particularly in the Northeastern region, by enabling enterprises to focus on innovation and business expansion while meeting statutory requirements. The programme has an initial pan-India target of 2,000 participants, including 200 from the Northeast, with candidates from the region eligible for a 50 per cent concession in course fees. For the Northeast, IICA Shillong has been designated as the nodal agency to coordinate with state governments, universities, industry bodies and other stakeholders for promotion and implementation of the scheme. Registrations for the Corporate Mitra course opened on July 15 and will remain open until July 31. Delivering the welcome address, IICA Shillong Officer on Special Duty and Nodal Officer for the Corporate Mitra Scheme in the Northeast Debarun Kalita acknowledged the guidance of IICA Director General Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh in conceptualising and developing the programme. Kalita said the initiative was designed to address challenges faced by MSMEs, particularly in the Northeast, including regulatory compliance burdens, limited access to affordable business advisory services and the need to improve the ease of doing business. ICMAI President Chittaranjan Chattopadhyay, in his keynote address, highlighted the importance of building a skilled professional workforce to support MSMEs and contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047. ICMAI Vice-President Manoj Kumar Anand emphasised the need for a supportive ecosystem for both young professionals and MSMEs, while Rajiv Gandhi University Department of Commerce Head Prof Rama Chandra Parida encouraged students to take advantage of the opportunities offered under the scheme. The technical session was led by ICMAI Registered Valuers Organisation Managing Director CMA (Dr) S K Gupta, who explained the objectives, implementation framework and key components of the scheme. The presentation was followed by an interactive session addressing participants’ queries. More than 150 students, faculty members and aspiring professionals from various institutions across Arunachal Pradesh participated in the webinar. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, IICA, partner institutions and organisers for the successful conduct of the event. (DIPR)