State News

NIRJULI : The North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST), Nirjuli, on Friday inaugurated a week-long Short Term Training Programme (STTP) on “Drone-enabled Healthcare, Food Engineering, Agriculture and Research Technologies”, bringing together researchers, academicians, scholars and industry experts to explore the latest developments and applications of drone technology. The hybrid programme, being conducted from July 17 to 21, has been jointly organised by the Departments of Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) and Food Engineering and Technology (FET), NERIST. The inaugural session was attended by NERIST Director Prof Narendranath S as the chief guest, Dean (Academics) Prof S Gao, Dean (Research and Development) Prof M B Sharma, Head of the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering at Madan Mohan Malaviya University of Technology, Gorakhpur, Prof Sanjay Kumar Soni, and Power Grid Itanagar Executive Director Pradeep Kumar. The programme began with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp, followed by addresses from the dignitaries highlighting the growing role of drone technology across multiple sectors. The STTP will feature expert lectures, hands-on demonstrations, case studies and interactive sessions on the application of drones in healthcare, food engineering and agriculture. Participants will also receive practical exposure to drone assembly, flight operations, data acquisition and real-time applications, along with an overview of the regulatory framework governing drone technology. According to the organisers, the programme aims to equip participants with technical knowledge and practical skills while encouraging research and innovation in multidisciplinary drone-based applications for technological advancement and societal development. Researchers, faculty members and students from institutions across India are participating in the programme, which is expected to serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, academic collaboration and discussions on emerging technological innovations. The organising committee, comprising Programme Chair Prof Joyatri Bora Hazarika and Organising Chairs Dr Ram Gopal, Dr Arun Kumar Chaudhary, Dr Rajib Sharma, Dr Dheeraj Yadav and Dr Nilesh Sakre, expressed gratitude to the guests, participants, faculty members, volunteers, sponsors and media representatives for contributing to the successful inauguration of the training programme.    

ITANAGAR : The Committee on Government Assurances (GAC) of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Thursday reviewed the implementation status of the assurances made by the state government on the floor of the House during previous terms and called for their timely compliance by the departments concerned. The fifth sitting of the GAC of the eighth Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly was held at the assembly secretariat conference hall here under the chairmanship of MLA Laisam Simai, according to an official release. The committee examined the ‘Action Taken Replies’ submitted by the public works department, the sports department and the social justice, empowerment and tribal affairs department. The assurances under review pertained to the fourth, fifth and seventh legislative assemblies. Reviewing the progress of the pending assurances, the committee stressed the need for expeditious and effective compliance by the departments concerned to uphold the sanctity of the House. Taking a tough stance on administrative delays, the panel resolved to seek fresh status reports on various incomplete projects from the respective departments for a threadbare examination during its upcoming sittings. The meeting was attended by committee members and legislators Talem Taboh, Rotom Tebin, and Tsering Lhamu, alongside senior assembly secretariat officials, including Secretary Tadar Meena. (Source: PTI)      

ITANAGAR : Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday felicitated and presented Orders of Appointment to 111 successful candidates of the Post Graduate Teachers (PGT) Examination-2025 conducted by the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC). Congratulating them on joining one of the most important professions, Khandu urged them to become agents of educational transformation in the state. Addressing the newly appointed teachers at an official ceremony organised by the General Administration Department here, the Chief Minister also congratulated the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission for conducting the recruitment process in a transparent, efficient and time-bound manner. “Following the advice of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to focus on reforms across every sector, we undertook comprehensive reforms in our recruitment agencies. The Arunachal Pradesh Staff Selection Board was established, while the APPSC was completely restructured by plugging loopholes and strengthening institutional systems. Today, both institutions have become symbols of transparency and merit-based recruitment,” he said. Observing that women continue to dominate merit-based competitive examinations in the State, the Chief Minister expressed happiness over the outstanding performance of female candidates. “It is heartening to see that our daughters are consistently excelling in competitive examinations. Whether at home, in society or in public service, women in Arunachal Pradesh are leading from the front. The future of Arunachal is undoubtedly in safe hands,” he remarked. Highlighting the immense potential of Arunachal Pradesh’s youth, Khandu said the State possesses exceptional talent not only in academics but also in sports, performing arts, music and several other fields. Referring to the remarkable progress in sports, the Chief Minister pointed out that Arunachal Pradesh, once among the lowest-performing states in the country, has now emerged as the second-best performing State in the North East in the National Games. The Chief Minister emphasized that the achievements of the State have been possible through collective efforts involving elected representatives, civil servants, technocrats, Panchayati Raj Institutions, community-based organisations and citizens. “I firmly believe in teamwork. Development cannot happen in silos. Every stakeholder has contributed to Arunachal’s progress, and together we must continue this journey,” he said. Welcoming the newly appointed teachers into government service, Khandu said education remains the strongest foundation of a progressive society and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to improving the quality of education across the State. He observed that while the number of schools increased significantly after Statehood and implementation of the Right to Education Act, inadequate planning over the years had adversely affected the quality of education. “Expansion without proper planning diluted quality. Our focus today is not merely on increasing the number of schools but on ensuring quality education through better infrastructure, adequate manpower and improved learning outcomes,” he stated. The Chief Minister highlighted the Government’s flagship Mission Shikshit Arunachal-2029, describing it as the roadmap for comprehensive educational reforms in the State. He informed that more than 600 schools have already been rationalised under the mission, while district-wise consultations with all stakeholders have been completed to identify additional schools for merger and consolidation. “The roadmap is now very clear. We are moving towards a system of well-equipped model schools with quality infrastructure, adequate teachers, hostel facilities wherever required and an environment that promotes healthy academic competition,” he said. Khandu explained that consolidation of schools would enable the Government to provide better infrastructure, improved teaching resources and adequate support staff, thereby enhancing the overall learning environment. Calling upon the newly appointed teachers to become mentors and motivators, the Chief Minister urged them to inspire students to dream big and prepare themselves for a rapidly changing, technology-driven world. “You are not merely teachers; you are guides and role models. Along with imparting knowledge, your responsibility is to motivate students to realise their potential and prepare them for future challenges,” he said. The Chief Minister also highlighted the State Government’s scholarship programme for students securing admission to the world’s top 150 universities under the QS World University Rankings. He informed that the Government bears up to nearly 70 to 75 per cent of educational expenses for eligible students in technical disciplines under different scholarship categories. “Today, many students from Arunachal Pradesh are pursuing higher education in some of the world’s finest universities. They will return with global knowledge, skills and exposure that will greatly benefit our State,” he observed. Describing Arunachal Pradesh as one of the most resource-rich States in the country, Khandu said the State has immense opportunities in hydropower, agriculture, tourism, mining and allied sectors. “We are fortunate to have been born in such a blessed State. The opportunities before us are limitless. If each one of us performs our assigned responsibilities with sincerity and dedication, no one can stop Arunachal Pradesh from becoming one of India’s leading States,” he said. A total of 5,774 candidates applied online for the examination. Out of these, 5,726 candidates appeared for the Preliminary Examination. Subsequently, 1,356 candidates qualified for the Main Examination, 337 reached the interview stage, and finally, 131 candidates emerged successful. APPSC had advertised the same on 10th August 2025 and the Preliminary Examination was held on 2nd November 2025.The Main Examination was conducted on 11th and 12th February 2026, followed by the viva-voce held between 18th and 28th May 2026.      

ITANAGAR : In a move aimed at strengthening the implementation of agriculture development programmes and improving support for farmers, the Arunachal Pradesh Agriculture Marketing Board (APAMB) on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NABARD Consultancy Services Private Limited (NABCONS) in Itanagar. Under the agreement, NABCONS will function as the Project Monitoring Unit (PMU) for APAMB, overseeing the implementation and monitoring of various Central Sector Schemes (CSS), state-sponsored schemes and other agriculture-related projects across Arunachal Pradesh. The MoU was signed by NABARD General Manager S.V. Ranga Rao and APAMB Chief Executive Officer Okit Palling in the presence of Arunachal Pradesh Agriculture and Horticulture Minister Gabriel D. Wangsu, Agriculture Secretary Samuel Changkija, Agriculture Director Toggul Perme Pertin and Horticulture Director Tobom Bam. Addressing the gathering, Wangsu emphasised the need for a collaborative approach to accelerate the growth of the agriculture and horticulture sectors. He said Arunachal Pradesh possesses immense potential in both sectors, but sustainable growth depends on a clear understanding of the state’s unique geography and local conditions. The Minister noted that although the state produces high-quality agricultural and horticultural commodities, many farmers continue to face challenges in accessing suitable markets and securing remunerative prices for their produce. He added that the state government is also working to strengthen digital agriculture systems to improve planning, market access and service delivery. Highlighting the state’s strengths, Wangsu said improving road connectivity, a large farming community and diverse agro-climatic zones ranging from tropical to temperate regions offer significant opportunities for agricultural diversification. Describing NABCONS as a trusted and experienced institution, the Minister expressed confidence that its technical expertise and professional support would enhance project implementation. He also expressed hope that the partnership would pave the way for more collaborative initiatives in the future. Wangsu further said the Agriculture and Horticulture departments have made considerable progress in recent years and are implementing several developmental projects across the state. He reiterated that the Government of Arunachal Pradesh continues to accord high priority to both sectors through a number of ambitious initiatives. Agriculture Secretary Samuel Changkija said NABCONS’ technical expertise would add significant value to the state’s development efforts and called for close coordination between the two organisations to address challenges and ensure the successful implementation of projects.    

ITANAGAR : Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Thursday chaired a marathon review meeting to assess the physical and financial progress of projects being implemented under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS), Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DeVINE), Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP) Phases I and II. Held at the Planning Conference Hall of the Civil Secretariat, the meeting was attended by heads of executing agencies, deputy commissioners through virtual mode and senior officials from various departments. Discussions centred on project implementation, fund utilisation, inter-departmental coordination and measures to ensure timely completion of development works across the state. Addressing the meeting, Mein said infrastructure development remains central to the government’s vision of inclusive and sustainable growth. He directed all executing agencies and district administrations to strengthen monitoring mechanisms, adhere to project timelines and maintain high standards of quality, transparency and accountability. Highlighting the significance of the Vibrant Villages Programme, the Deputy Chief Minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has redefined border villages as the country’s “first villages” instead of the “last villages”, with the objective of ensuring equitable development and improved opportunities for frontier communities. He instructed all deputy commissioners to accord top priority to the implementation of schemes in border villages under the VVP and ensure their timely and effective execution. He also emphasised the involvement of elected local representatives while preparing development proposals so that projects reflect local needs and aspirations. Mein further directed districts to expedite projects that are yet to commence, noting that timely utilisation of released funds is essential for securing subsequent instalments from the Ministry of Home Affairs. He reiterated that close coordination among departments and district administrations is crucial to ensure projects are completed within stipulated timelines and their benefits reach the public without delay. The Planning Department also issued a series of directives to improve project execution and monitoring. Deputy commissioners were instructed to regularly monitor the VVP portal, promptly respond to observations on returned proposals and upload utilisation certificates and geo-tagged photographs on time to facilitate project monitoring and the release of subsequent instalments. The department further directed that all project proposals strictly adhere to the operational guidelines, funding norms and permissible components of the respective Central schemes. Proposals should be prepared in consultation with the concerned line departments and undergo technical vetting and, wherever required, administrative approval before being uploaded to the VVP portal. Taking note of operational issues such as frequent portal updates, data duplication, geo-tagging limitations and poor internet connectivity in remote areas, the meeting advised officials to maintain close coordination with the Ministry of Home Affairs’ technical team for timely resolution of issues. The Deputy Chief Minister also reviewed the implementation of key Budget Announcements 2026-27, following a similar review meeting held on Wednesday. He directed departments to accord the highest priority to the timely execution of budget announcements and expedite flagship initiatives, including the Chief Minister’s Rural Development Programme and the Chief Minister’s Comprehensive Power Development Programme, while maintaining focus on education, healthcare, drinking water supply, connectivity and skill development. He further instructed departments to submit revised guidelines wherever necessary, communicate fund requirements at the earliest and maintain close coordination with the Planning Department for the prompt resolution of implementation issues. The meeting was attended by Planning Commissioner Sonam Chombay, Advisor to the Deputy Chief Minister Anupam Tangu, Adviser to the Planning and Investment Department R.K. Sharma and other senior officials.        

ITANAGAR : Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday stressed that disaster management policies for the state must be tailored to its unique terrain, climate and socio-geographical realities rather than follow a “one-size-fits-all” approach. In a social media post following a meeting with a high-level delegation from NITI Aayog and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Khandu said disaster management in Arunachal Pradesh must be shaped by the realities of its landscape and the needs of its people. The Chief Minister said he was pleased to receive the delegation led by NITI Aayog Member Dr Joram Aniya, accompanied by NDMA Member Rita Missal and senior officials from NITI Aayog, NDMA and the Central Water Commission. According to Khandu, the meeting involved wide-ranging discussions on strengthening disaster resilience and advancing the state’s development priorities. He thanked the delegation for visiting Arunachal Pradesh to gain first-hand insights into the challenges faced by the people, particularly in the aftermath of the recent floods. “Such on-ground assessments are vital for shaping policies and support mechanisms that truly address the state’s unique needs,” Khandu said in the post.  

GAYA : The Arunachal State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ArSRLM) and the Bihar Rural Livelihoods Promotion Society (BRLPS) on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen Food, Nutrition, Health and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (FNHW) interventions in Arunachal Pradesh under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). The MoU was signed by ArSRLM State Mission Director Sangeeta Yirang and Bihar Rural Livelihoods Promotion Society State Mission Director Himanshu Sharma in the presence of Ministry of Rural Development Joint Secretary Swati Sharma and officials of both organisations. The agreement establishes a three-year framework for technical collaboration aimed at strengthening the implementation of FNHW interventions across Arunachal Pradesh. As the designated National Resource Organisation (NRO) for the FNHW programme, BRLPS will provide technical support to ArSRLM through capacity building, knowledge sharing, exposure visits, mentoring and continuous handholding. The collaboration seeks to strengthen community institutions, including Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Panchayat Level Federations (PLFs) and Micro Cluster Level Federations (MCLFs) promoted under DAY-NRLM. It also aims to enhance the capacities of community cadres and promote improved food security, nutrition, health and WASH practices among rural households through community-led approaches and convergence with line departments. The MoU reflects ArSRLM’s commitment to strengthening community-based Food, Nutrition, Health and WASH interventions and improving the well-being of rural families across Arunachal Pradesh. The partnership is expected to enhance institutional capacities, encourage sustainable behavioural change and contribute to building healthier, better-nourished and more resilient rural communities across the state.