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Nyadar Poyom wins State Junior Inter-School FIDE Rating Chess C’ship

ITANAGAR : The 3rd State Level Junior-cum-Inter-School FIDE Rating Chess Championship-2026 concluded at Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya (VKV), Chimpu on Wednesday with enthusiastic participation from young chess players across Arunachal Pradesh. Organised by the All Arunachal Pradesh Chess Association (AAPCA), the championship witnessed participation from around 160 students representing 28 schools from different parts of the state, including nine International Chess Federation (FIDE)-rated players. Officials informed that nine participants from the tournament are expected to receive their FIDE ratings soon. Intaya Public School Roing student Nyadar Poyom emerged champion after scoring 8 points from nine rounds. VKV Chimpu student Jito Dirchi and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Megdong student Oonshu Haging secured second and third positions respectively with 7.5 points each. The top three finishers will represent Arunachal Pradesh at the National Under-19 Chess Championship-2026, with the AAPCA sponsoring their participation. Jumsi Lollen, who scored 5.5 points, was adjudged the Best Performing Girl of the tournament. A total of 20 players, along with winners across eight age-group categories, were felicitated with trophies and incentives during the valedictory function. Kamle former Zilla Parishad Chairperson Biri Shanti attended the closing ceremony as chief guest, while AAPCA honorary secretary Tamchi Kache attended as guest of honour. The age-group category winners included Koj Hempyo (Under-9 Boys), Jumman Lollen (Under-9 Girls), Nyelam Beomen (Under-11 Boys), Posmi Ronya (Under-11 Girls), Begia Josh (Under-13 Boys), Lukna Lomdak (Under-13 Girls), Chuku Niting (Under-15 Boys) and Binia Lomdak (Under-15 Girls). The organisers expressed gratitude to all participants, schools, officials and guests for contributing to the successful conduct of the championship.      

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Pradhan reviews NEET-UG re-exam security, orders crackdown on fake Telegram channels

NEW DELHI :  Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan chaired a high-level meeting with central security and intelligence agencies on Wednesday to review preparations for the upcoming NEET-UG re-examination, officials said. He directed strict action against fake Telegram channels spreading misinformation related to the medical-entrance exam. The minister stressed the need for heightened vigilance and foolproof security arrangements to ensure the safe, secure and fair conduct of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate), according to officials. Senior officials from the Ministry of Education and the director general of the National Testing Agency (NTA) were also present at the meeting, where preparations were reviewed in detail to identify vulnerabilities in advance and ensure timely preventive and corrective measures. At a parallel meeting with representatives of major social media platforms — Meta, Google and Telegram — serious concerns were raised over the growing spread of misinformation related to competitive examinations, particularly through Telegram channels and anonymous online groups, the officials said. They said several such channels become highly active in the run-up to major examinations, circulating fake paper-leak claims, clickbait content and unverified information that create panic and confusion among students and parents. “It was highlighted that many such links redirect users to automated bots and fake groups designed to amplify misinformation,” an official said. According to inputs shared by intelligence agencies, multiple suspicious channels are being operated through a limited set of phone numbers, indicating coordinated and organised activity. Taking strong note of the issue, Pradhan directed a focussed crackdown on such networks, including proactive identification, blocking and takedown of channels spreading fake information and propaganda before examinations. The minister said social-media platforms must work in close coordination with the Ministry of Education, the NTA and law-enforcement agencies to curb misinformation swiftly and protect the integrity of the examination system. He reiterated that safeguarding students from misleading narratives and maintaining public confidence in the examination process is a top priority for the government. The NEET (UG) 2026 for admissions in undergraduate medical courses held on May 3 was cancelled by the NTA recently amid allegations of paper leak. The matter is being probed by the CBI, while the re-test is scheduled to be held on June 21. (Source: PTI)      

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NCVET team inspects ITI Pangin for affiliation

PANGIN : Industrial Training Institute (ITI) Pangin underwent inspection on Wednesday for affiliation with the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET). The inspection team comprised Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Director Sibo Passing, Regional Directorate of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Guwahati Training Officer Benzing Kumbang, Deputy Director of School Education M Tato and Assistant Director of Industries J Mize. The team assessed the institute’s infrastructure, training facilities and overall preparedness for NCVET affiliation. During the visit, the members also reviewed the functioning of the institute and interacted with staff on operational and academic matters. At present, the institute offers vocational courses in Solar Technician, Digital Photography, and Catering and Hospitality. (DIPR)        

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DDR-cum-DLMC meeting reviews development schemes in East Siang

  PASIGHAT : A District Development Review (DDR)-cum-District Level Monitoring Committee (DLMC) meeting was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s conference hall in Pasighat on Wednesday to review departmental performance, implementation of government schemes and key issues requiring intervention at the state level. The meeting was chaired by East Siang Deputy Commissioner-cum-DLMC chairman and attended by Pasighat West MLA Ninong Ering, Pasighat East MLA Tapi Darang, Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng and East Siang Zilla Parishad Chairperson Ruth Tabing Boko, along with heads of departments and district officials. Detailed discussions were held on district administration, departmental achievements, human resource status, infrastructure development and implementation of major Central and state-sponsored schemes. Departments also highlighted challenges and requirements needing immediate policy support from the state government. A major concern raised during the meeting was the shortage of manpower in several departments, particularly in Group-C posts such as Lower Division Clerks (LDCs) and Upper Division Clerks (UDCs). The meeting also reviewed the performance and saturation status of welfare schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G), Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), Chief Minister Arogya Arunachal Yojana (CMAAY), Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY), Intensified Family Immunisation (IFI) Scheme and Dulari Kanya Scheme. Issues related to food safety, social welfare schemes, electrification of major projects, shortage of teachers, legal assistance for court-related matters and administrative infrastructure were also discussed extensively. The meeting further emphasised the need for better inter-departmental coordination and stronger administrative support systems to ensure effective public service delivery and timely implementation of developmental programmes. Chairing the meeting, the DC urged all departments to maintain close coordination, ensure timely submission of reports and work towards effective implementation of government schemes for the overall development of the district.    

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NBBK Society lifts Siang Futsal Tournament title in Tuting

TUTING : The Indian Army’s Spearhead Division under Spear Corps successfully concluded the second edition of the Siang Futsal Tournament at Tuting Sports Complex in Arunachal Pradesh’s picturesque Siang Valley. The tournament, which began on May 8, culminated in an electrifying final between Gelling Norbulling Youth and Nyigong Boying Banggo Kebang (NBBK) Society. Displaying exceptional teamwork and sportsmanship, NBBK Society emerged champions of the tournament. The grand finale drew an enthusiastic crowd, turning the sports complex into a vibrant celebration of youth talent, unity and community spirit. Spectators passionately cheered for their teams, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the event. A total of 12 men’s teams and three women’s teams from nearby villages and educational institutions participated in the tournament. Players showcased remarkable discipline, determination and sporting talent, highlighting the growing popularity of futsal among the youth of Arunachal Pradesh. The participation of women’s teams also reflected increasing inclusivity and empowerment through sports initiatives in the border region. The closing ceremony was attended by senior Army officials, representatives of the Tuting civil administration, village elders, youth clubs, schoolchildren and residents from nearby border villages. Their presence underscored the strong bond of trust and cooperation between the Indian Army and local communities. The winning and runner-up teams were felicitated with trophies, medals and cash prizes, while all participants were appreciated for maintaining the spirit of fair play and exemplary conduct during the tournament. Organised to promote physical fitness, healthy competition and constructive youth engagement, the tournament also served as a platform to strengthen social harmony and community relations in the frontier region. Addressing the gathering, Army officials appreciated the support extended by local residents and reaffirmed the Indian Army’s commitment towards the welfare, empowerment and holistic development of border communities through outreach initiatives. The successful conduct of the tournament once again highlighted the Indian Army’s continued efforts to foster unity, national integration and enduring peace in the country’s frontier areas. (Source: DIPR)              

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Why has Arunachal CM not been removed even after SC ordered CBI probe against him: Cong

NEW DELHI : The Congress on Tuesday questioned why Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has not been removed even after the Supreme Court directed the CBI to begin a probe into charges of corruption against him. In a post on X, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said this amounts to “gross travesty” of the Supreme Court order itself. Ramesh said it was on April 6, 2026, that a three-judge bench of the Supreme Court directed the CBI to commence a preliminary inquiry into allegations that the Arunachal Pradesh chief minister’s family was awarded contracts worth Rs 1,270 crore over 10 years from January 2015 to December 2025 in a direct conflict of interest. “This is not an order of a lower court or a High Court. It is of the Supreme Court. Yet the CM continues in office. He is also the PWD Minister and controls the files that the CBI will need to conduct its inquiry. “Why is the man who once said ‘na khaoonga, na khaane doonga’ quiet and why has the Arunachal Pradesh CM not been asked to step down? This is a gross travesty of the Supreme Court’s verdict itself,” he said in his post. “There are other BJP CMs as well who fall in the category of the Arunachal Pradesh CM,” Ramesh added. The Supreme Court on April 6 directed the CBI to register within two weeks a preliminary inquiry into allegations of preferential allotment of contracts for public work in Arunachal Pradesh to firms allegedly owned or related to the family members of Chief Minister Khandu. Observing that the State and its instrumentalities cannot confer benefits according to the “whims of any political or administrative functionary”, the apex court said it was a fit case where an “independent investigation” was necessary. The bench headed by Justice Vikram Nath said where a case concerns the integrity of public procurement and involves allegations of conflict of interest at the highest levels, an investigation must not only be fair but also must appear fair. (Source: PTI)

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Guv stresses need for greater augmentation of MSMEs in Arunachal

NEW DELHI : Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K T Parnaik (Retd) on Tuesday stressed the need for greater augmentation of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), saying the sector can emerge as a strong pillar of the state’s socio-economic development. During an interaction with Santanu Srivastava, Managing Director and CEO of Ishan International in New Delhi, the governor highlighted the immense potential of Arunachal Pradesh for entrepreneurship and local enterprise development owing to its rich natural resources, tribal crafts, organic farming potential, forest produce, tourism opportunities and unique cultural heritage. Parnaik said MSMEs can create sustainable livelihood opportunities for youths, women, artisans, farmers and self-help groups across the state, an official statement said here. He observed that sectors such as food processing, bamboo and cane products, handloom and handicrafts, eco-tourism, horticulture, herbal products, organic agriculture and small-scale manufacturing hold tremendous promise for Arunachal Pradesh. Parnaik added that MSMEs can strengthen self-reliance, reduce unemployment and discourage migration of youths to cities in search of jobs. He said that the sector also helps local entrepreneurs gain confidence and financial independence while preserving traditional skills and indigenous knowledge. Emphasising the importance of institutional support, the governor said better infrastructure, financial assistance, skill development, market connectivity and digital access are essential for MSMEs to drive inclusive growth, strengthen the rural economy and contribute towards the vision of Atmanirbhar Arunachal and Viksit Bharat. (Source: PTI)

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Sona stresses quality infrastructure in higher education institutions

ITANAGAR : Education Minister P D Sona on Tuesday stressed the need for creating quality infrastructure in higher education institutions while reviewing ongoing and completed projects under the Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) and Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA). Chairing the 9th council meeting of the Arunachal Pradesh State Higher Education Council (APSHEC), Sona emphasised optimum utilisation of central funds for strengthening the higher education sector in the state. Expressing gratitude to the Ministry of Education for financing key infrastructure projects under RUSA and PM-USHA, the minister said Arunachal Pradesh, being a resource-constrained state, must ensure economic use of funds without compromising on quality and quantity of works. He also called for constant monitoring and timely completion of projects being implemented across the state. The meeting was informed that, as per government directives, all new projects would be executed through the Public Works Department (PWD) as the single implementing agency to maintain uniformity in infrastructure development. Earlier, Department of Higher and Technical Education-cum-State Project Director (RUSA/PM-USHA) Dr Milorai Modi highlighted the role of APSHEC in implementation of the schemes and sought suggestions from council members for the holistic development of higher education in the state. State Nodal Officer RUSA/PM-USHA Minto Ete presented a detailed report on action taken on decisions of previous meetings and the status of projects under the two schemes. Education Commissioner Amjad Tak advised stakeholders to remain proactive in implementation of key projects and stressed the need for early acquisition of land allotment and land possession certificates for higher education institutions.    

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APTUC seeks implementation of labour laws, social security measures

Staff Reporter ITANAGAR : The Arunachal Pradesh Trade Union Council (APTUC) has urged the state government to take immediate measures for the welfare, protection and social security of workers across the state. Addressing reporters at the Arunachal Press Club on Tuesday, APTUC president Jalley Sonam said the union had submitted a memorandum to the Labour Commissioner on May 4 highlighting several long-pending demands concerning organised and unorganised workers in Arunachal Pradesh. Among the key demands, the union sought establishment of the Dattopant Thengdi National Board for Workers Education and Development in the state to promote workers’ education, awareness and skill development in rural and urban areas. Sonam said the initiative would help workers better understand their rights and improve livelihoods under the provisions of the Code on Social Security, 2020. The union also demanded immediate implementation of the Shop and Establishment Act and Rules, which were reportedly tabled in the state Assembly in 2016. According to Sonam, implementation of the Act would ensure benefits such as provident fund, Employees’ State Insurance (ESI), gratuity, bonus, compensation and minimum wages for workers employed in shops and commercial establishments. Alleging that delay in implementation had adversely affected workers, he said many employees continue to face long working hours, denial of weekly offs, non-payment of minimum wages and lack of social security benefits. The APTUC further sought constitution of a Minimum Wages Advisory Board under the Code on Wages, 2019, for revision and regulation of minimum wages in both organised and unorganised sectors. The union also demanded formation of the Arunachal Pradesh Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Advisory Board under the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020, to monitor workplace safety standards and workers’ welfare. Expressing concern over the condition of unorganised workers, Sonam said the council had proposed creation of the Arunachal Pradesh Unorganised Workers’ Social Security Board under the Code on Social Security, 2020, to extend social security coverage, maintain workers’ databases and promote skill development and employment opportunities. The memorandum also sought mandatory labour licences for private agencies, contractors and interstate migrant workers operating in the state. Sonam said the union had proposed strict verification procedures and mandatory Inner Line Permit (ILP) checks before issuing work permits to migrant labourers. Highlighting wage-related issues, he appealed for revision of minimum wages for graduate and postgraduate employees engaged as casual or contingency workers, stating that remuneration should be linked to educational qualifications and skill levels. The union also demanded mandatory implementation of Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) provisions in all private, public and government establishments, including for contractual, casual and contingency employees. Raising concern over the non-functioning of the State Advisory Committee under the Arunachal Pradesh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board (APB&OCWWB), Sonam called for immediate reconstitution of the committee to ensure effective implementation of welfare schemes. The council further pressed for formation of the Arunachal Pradesh Motor Transport Workers Welfare Board under the Code on Social Security, 2020, to provide insurance, pension, medical assistance and emergency support to transport workers. Appealing for prompt government action, Sonam said the demands were raised in the larger interest of workers’ welfare and social security in Arunachal Pradesh.      

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Arunachal CEO urges political parties to expedite appointment of BLAs for SIR exercise

ITANAGAR : Arunachal Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Pawan Kumar Sain on Tuesday urged political parties to expedite the appointment of Booth Level Agents (BLAs) for the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state. Chairing a state-level coordination meeting with representatives of political parties at Nirvachan Bhawan, the Chief Electoral Officer reviewed preparedness for the SIR exercise, which is being undertaken as part of Phase-III activities in continuation of earlier deliberations held on September 16, 2025. The meeting was attended by Joint Chief Electoral Officer Liken Koyu and Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Shania Kayem Mize. Sain informed that the Election Commission of India (ECI), vide notification dated May 14, 2026, has launched the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Arunachal Pradesh, necessitated after a gap of nearly two decades due to large-scale demographic changes, urbanisation, migration, and concerns over electoral roll accuracy, including removal of duplicate, deceased and foreign electors. He stressed that political parties have a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy and purification of electoral rolls and urged them to appoint BLAs for each polling station without delay. Arunachal Pradesh has 2,288 polling stations. The updated status of BLA appointments shared during the meeting showed Bharatiya Janata Party with 2,286, Indian National Congress 422, National People’s Party 100, People’s Party of Arunachal 239, Nationalist Congress Party 43, and Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar) 41, taking the total to 3,131 BLAs appointed so far. Joint CEO Liken Koyu made a detailed PowerPoint presentation on the SIR process, covering training of election officials, enumeration, rationalisation of polling stations, publication of draft electoral rolls, claims and objections, verification procedures, and final publication of rolls. The CEO also instructed political parties to ensure active participation of their district-level representatives in meetings convened by District Election Officers and Electoral Registration Officers during the revision process. Clarifying queries on Aadhaar, it was reiterated that Aadhaar is a proof of identity and not proof of citizenship, domicile or date of birth, as per provisions of the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016, and updated guidelines issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) in August 2023. The meeting also underscored key legal provisions governing electoral roll revision, including Article 326 of the Constitution of India, Rule 25(1) of the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, and provisions of the Citizenship Act, 1955 relating to voter eligibility. The Chief Electoral Officer also cautioned that furnishing false declarations in connection with electoral rolls is punishable under the Representation of the People Act, 1950, with imprisonment up to one year, or fine, or both.