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ITANAGAR : In a significant boost to Arunachal Pradesh’s horticulture sector, the Department of Horticulture signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, on Thursday to promote scientific collaboration, technology transfer and sustainable horticultural development. The MoU was signed and exchanged between Director of Horticulture Tobom Bam and CSIR-IHBT Director Dr Sudesh Kumar Yadav in the presence of Horticulture Minister Gabriel D Wangsu, Horticulture Secretary Koj Rinya and senior officials from both sides. The programme began with a presentation by CSIR-IHBT Principal Scientist Dr Bhavya Bhargava, who highlighted the institute’s achievements and ongoing work in Himalayan horticulture, floriculture, medicinal and aromatic plants, bio-resource management and climate-resilient agricultural practices. Addressing the gathering, Dr Yadav underscored the vast scope for collaboration between CSIR-IHBT and Arunachal Pradesh and reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to providing scientific and technical support for the state’s horticultural development. Speaking on the occasion, Wangsu stressed that the agreement must translate into tangible outcomes rather than remain a mere formality. “This is not just an MoU. Hopefully, it will do wonders in the future. Along with an action plan, clear timelines must also be fixed,” he said. The minister observed that many initiatives falter during implementation and urged both sides to ensure professional execution and timely completion of all activities under the partnership. “Every step and every action taken under this partnership should be beneficial to our state. The entire process must be carried out professionally,” he said. Highlighting the similarities in the agro-climatic conditions of Himachal Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh, Wangsu said the institute’s expertise would be highly relevant to the state’s developmental goals. He also called for expanding cooperation beyond floriculture to include high-value fruits and vegetables, medicinal and aromatic plants and other bio-resource sectors. “The bio-resource sector holds immense potential, and together we can contribute significantly not only to the development of Arunachal Pradesh but also to the nation. We have a long way to go with this collaboration,” he added. Assuring full government support, Wangsu directed departmental officers to extend all necessary cooperation for the successful implementation of the partnership and expressed confidence that the collaboration would benefit both the state and the country. Horticulture Secretary Koj Rinya described the MoU as a step towards science-driven growth in the sector and expressed optimism about its long-term impact. She noted that the partnership builds on the success of an advanced floriculture training programme conducted in January this year with technical support from CSIR-IHBT scientists. According to Rinya, the agreement seeks to institutionalise cooperation in areas such as technology transfer, capacity building, research collaboration, value addition, sustainable resource management and market-oriented horticultural development. The ceremony concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to building a robust, innovative and sustainable horticulture ecosystem in Arunachal Pradesh.        

DOIMUKH : Agriculture and Allied Departments Minister Gabriel D Wangsu on Thursday launched the statewide ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ at Tana Hari Fish Farm in Emchi village near Doimukh, calling on farmers, government agencies and the public to join a collective movement to protect the state’s soil health and promote sustainable agriculture. Organised by the District Agriculture Office, Yupia, the programme was attended by farmers, panchayat leaders, members of Kisan Morcha and agriculture officials from across Papum Pare district. Addressing the gathering, Wangsu said the campaign seeks to address growing concerns over soil degradation, loss of agricultural land during monsoon seasons, declining soil fertility and environmental imbalances caused by excessive use of chemical fertilisers. “This abhiyan resonates deeply with our people. Over the years, we have neglected our indigenous food systems and overexploited our land. The excessive use of chemical fertilisers has damaged both our soil and water resources,” he said. Emphasising the need for sustainable farming practices, the minister urged farmers to reduce dependence on chemical inputs and adopt eco-friendly alternatives such as natural farming and vermicomposting. He described soil conservation as a tribute to the traditional wisdom of ancestors who nurtured the land through sustainable agricultural practices. “Saving our soil is not a political movement. It is our collective responsibility towards our land, our farmers and our future. Though the results may not be immediate, we must persevere,” Wangsu said. He also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare for launching the nationwide initiative. As Guest of Honour, MLA Nabam Vivek said the gradual shift away from natural farming practices had made such awareness campaigns necessary. “We have gradually moved away from natural farming, which has made such an awareness movement necessary. The campaign is ultimately about the health of our citizens and ensuring access to safe and healthy food,” he said. Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner Lobsang Tsering also lauded the initiative, describing it as a visionary effort aimed at safeguarding the state’s agricultural future. The programme included technical sessions on balanced fertiliser use, soil health management and natural farming practices for farmers and stakeholders. Among those present were Agriculture Director Nokliam Sumnyang, Joint Director (Plant Protection) and other departmental officials. Khet Bachao Abhiyan is a month-long nationwide awareness campaign of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare running from June 1 to 30. The initiative focuses on soil health management, balanced use of fertilisers, promotion of natural farming, reduction in edible oil consumption and preparedness against drought conditions through training programmes and field-level demonstrations across the country. At Tawang, the district-level Kheti Bachao Abhiyaan was launched during a programme held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall,  led by Tawang In-charge Deputy Commissioner Rinchin Leta and attended by officials of agriculture and allied departments, representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions, community-based organisations, Community Resource Persons (CRPs) and farmers. Addressing the gathering, Leta emphasised the need to safeguard cultivable land from unplanned construction and encourage organic and natural farming practices. He said excessive use of chemical inputs harms the environment and destroys beneficial microorganisms and earthworms essential for maintaining soil fertility and crop productivity. Leta urged officials and community leaders to continue educating farmers through demonstrations and awareness programmes even after the campaign period. He also highlighted the importance of crop rotation in maintaining soil health and ensuring sustainable agricultural production.    

SHILLONG : Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd) has called for further strengthening the network of Advance Landing Grounds (ALGs) across Arunachal Pradesh, underscoring their critical role in national security, disaster response, connectivity and border area development. The Governor made the remarks during a visit to the Headquarters Eastern Air Command in Shillong on Thursday, where he held detailed discussions with Eastern Air Command Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia. Highlighting the strategic importance of Arunachal Pradesh, Parnaik said well-maintained ALGs are essential for ensuring rapid response capabilities, improving access to remote regions and supporting the overall development of border areas. The Governor, who is in Shillong for the Plenary Session of the North Eastern Council (NEC), also appreciated the significant contribution of the Eastern Air Command in serving the people of Arunachal Pradesh, particularly those living in remote and inaccessible areas. He commended the Indian Air Force (IAF) for its vital role in ration-dropping operations, transportation of essential supplies, medical evacuations and emergency assistance during natural disasters and other emergencies. He noted that such services have often proved to be a lifeline for communities facing connectivity challenges due to the state’s difficult terrain. Parnaik also lauded the Inter-Advance Landing Ground Football Tournament, describing it as an effective platform for strengthening ties between Air Warriors and local communities. He expressed satisfaction over the enthusiastic participation of local youth and suggested that similar sporting events in other disciplines be organised regularly to nurture talent and promote community engagement. During the meeting, the Governor and the Air Marshal also discussed issues relating to air connectivity, border infrastructure, disaster management and the welfare of the people of Arunachal Pradesh. Air Marshal Walia assured the Governor of the IAF’s continued support to the people of Arunachal Pradesh and reaffirmed the Eastern Air Command’s commitment to humanitarian assistance, emergency response, connectivity and national security.        

HAWAI : Women and Child Development, Science and Technology and Art and Culture Minister Dasanglu Pul on Wednesday launched the official tourism website of Anjaw district, developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC), with the objective of promoting the district’s tourism potential and cultural heritage. The portal, anjawtourism.nic.in, was formally unveiled during a programme attended by Anjaw Deputy Commissioner Millo Kojin, Anjaw Superintendent of Police Anurag Dwivedi, Zilla Parishad Members, Heads of Departments and other district officials. Addressing the gathering, Pul said the website would serve as a valuable platform for showcasing Anjaw’s rich natural beauty, unique cultural heritage and tourism attractions to a wider audience. She expressed confidence that the initiative would boost tourism, create livelihood opportunities for local communities and contribute to the district’s overall development. During the programme, Anjaw District Informatics Officer presented the website and highlighted its key features. The portal offers comprehensive information on tourist destinations, festivals, cultural attractions, trekking routes, accommodation facilities, government guest houses, homestays and other visitor services available in the district. Developed by the National Informatics Centre District Centre, Anjaw, the website aims to enhance the visibility of Anjaw’s tourism assets and provide a user-friendly digital platform for visitors seeking information about the district. The tourism portal is now accessible at anjawtourism.nic.in. (DIPR)

  ITANAGAR : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has nominated senior party leader Tai Tagak as its candidate for the forthcoming Rajya Sabha election from Arunachal Pradesh. Congratulating Tagak on his nomination, Chief Minister Pema Khandu described the decision as recognition of the veteran leader’s decades-long commitment to the party and its ideology. In a message, Khandu recalled that Tagak remained steadfast during the BJP’s formative years in Arunachal Pradesh when the party had a limited presence in the state. “He stood firm during difficult times and worked tirelessly at the grassroots to strengthen the party across Arunachal Pradesh. This honour reflects his loyalty, perseverance and dedication to the cause,” the Chief Minister said. Expressing confidence in his capabilities, Khandu said Tagak would effectively represent the aspirations and interests of the people of Arunachal Pradesh in the Upper House of Parliament and wished him success in his new responsibility. Tagak is regarded as one of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s senior-most leaders in the state and has played a significant role in expanding the party’s organisational network over the years. Associated with the BJP since its early days in Arunachal Pradesh, he is widely credited with strengthening its grassroots presence across several districts. A long-time member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Tagak served as president of the BJP Arunachal Pradesh unit from 2013 to 2015 and has also held the position of Advisor to the Chief Minister. He is currently the patron of Arunachal Shiksha Vikas Samiti, the state unit of Vidya Bharati. The Rajya Sabha seat from Arunachal Pradesh is scheduled to fall vacant upon completion of the incumbent member’s tenure. With the BJP enjoying a comfortable majority in the 60-member Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Tagak’s election to the Upper House is widely expected to be a formality.

  TAKSING : The Spearhead Division of the Spear Corps successfully organised the Vibrant Volleyball Tournament at Taksing, bringing together local youth, villagers and Indian Army personnel in a celebration of sportsmanship, community participation and cultural harmony. Conducted under Operation Sadbhavna, the event aimed to promote youth engagement, strengthen civil-military relations and support grassroots development in the remote border region. Ahead of the tournament, the Indian Army repaired and upgraded the local volleyball court, providing improved sporting infrastructure and encouraging greater participation in sports among local youth. The tournament witnessed enthusiastic participation, with six men’s teams and four women’s teams competing in a series of closely contested matches. Players displayed commendable teamwork, determination and sporting spirit throughout the competition. The event drew strong community support, with large numbers of residents turning out to cheer for their teams. Despite rain interrupting the final matches, both players and spectators remained undeterred, reflecting the resilience and unity of the local community. Adding a cultural dimension to the programme, Indian Army personnel and local artists presented performances based on the theme “West Meets East”, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage while promoting mutual understanding and stronger ties between the Army and local residents. The tournament concluded with a prize distribution ceremony honouring the winning teams and outstanding performers. According to the organisers, the initiative served as a platform for promoting sports, youth empowerment, social cohesion and constructive community engagement. The event also reinforced the objectives of the Vibrant Villages Programme by encouraging participation, fostering mutual trust and strengthening the partnership between the Indian Army and border communities. The successful conduct of the tournament reaffirmed the Indian Army’s commitment to nation-building, community development and the welfare of people living in remote frontier areas.