State News

GUWAHATI : Fisheries Minister Gabriel D Wangsu showcased the state’s vast fisheries and aquaculture potential at Aquaex Northeast 2026, one of the region’s largest fisheries and aquaculture expos, which commenced at the Maniram Dewan Trade Centre in Guwahati on Friday. The two-day event was inaugurated by Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Prof SP Singh Baghel and attended by Assam Fisheries Minister Nirmala Devi, policymakers, scientists, industry leaders, investors, entrepreneurs and fish farmers from across the country. Addressing the inaugural session, Prof. Baghel highlighted the remarkable growth of India’s fisheries sector over the past decade, stating that fish production has nearly doubled from about 95 lakh tonnes to 198 lakh tonnes, making India the world’s second-largest fish producer and a global leader in aquaculture. He described fisheries as a key pillar of the country’s Blue Economy, supporting the livelihoods of nearly three crore people and contributing significantly to economic growth and nutrition security. The Union Minister noted that despite global trade challenges, India’s fisheries exports have continued to grow, recording a nearly 16 per cent increase in volume and an 18 per cent rise in value. He also underscored the strategic importance of the Northeast, citing its abundant water resources and favourable ecological conditions. He informed that fisheries projects worth ₹1,776 crore have been sanctioned for Assam under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), alongside investments in infrastructure, cold-chain development and Integrated Aqua Parks. Speaking as Guest of Honour, Wangsu projected Arunachal Pradesh as one of the country’s most promising frontiers for fisheries development and investment. He credited flagship schemes such as PMMSY and the Atma Nirbhar Matsya Palan Yojana for driving growth in the sector and noted that the state’s hatchery infrastructure has expanded from nine to 16 units, significantly strengthening fish seed production capacity. Highlighting Arunachal Pradesh’s strengths, Wangsu said the state has emerged as a leading destination for cold-water fisheries, particularly trout farming, which is creating sustainable livelihood opportunities in remote and border areas. He stressed the need for improved cold-chain infrastructure, branding support, organised marketing systems and export linkages to help fish farmers secure better returns. The Minister also outlined the state’s vision of developing an integrated fisheries value chain encompassing hatcheries, fish seed production, feed manufacturing, processing facilities, cold storage, transportation, value addition and export-oriented enterprises. He further highlighted opportunities in reservoir fisheries, ornamental fisheries, recreational angling, eco-tourism and Integrated Aqua Parks. Inviting investors and entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in Arunachal Pradesh, Wangsu said the state’s strategic location, improving connectivity and supportive policy environment make it an attractive destination for fisheries and aquaculture investments. The Department of Fisheries, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, also participated in the expo through an exhibition stall showcasing the state’s fisheries achievements, trout farming success stories and investment opportunities. The conclave featured technical sessions on aquaculture technologies, fish health management, seed production, value addition, processing, marketing, export opportunities and sustainable fisheries practices, with experts sharing insights on emerging trends shaping the sector. Later, Wangsu visited the ICAR-Central Plantation Crops Research Institute Research Centre and the Horticultural Research Station of Assam Agricultural University at Kahikuchi to assess the prospects of cocoa and black pepper cultivation in Arunachal Pradesh. The visit focused on studying the crops’ commercial viability, value-addition potential, market opportunities and profitability for farmers. Among those present at the inaugural session were Assam Fisheries Department Secretary Manvendra Pratap Singh, former Fisheries Secretary Tarun Shridhar, Assam Fisheries Director Gauri Shankar Das, National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj–North Eastern Regional Centre Director Dr. Murugesan Ramasamy, ICAR Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region Director Dr. Kadirvel Govindasamy, National Fisheries Development Board representative Dr. Deepa Suman, Aquaex Chairman Venu Dantuluri and Convener Rajnish Kumar.      

ITANAGAR : The Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) on Friday conducted a social service and cleanliness drive at IG Park, removing and disposing of several truckloads of accumulated waste from different parts of the park. Participating in the programme, Urban Affairs Minister Balo Raja appealed to citizens to actively contribute towards maintaining a clean and hygienic environment. He said the IMC regularly undertakes cleanliness drives not only to improve sanitation but also to create public awareness about the importance of cleanliness and environmental responsibility. “Living in a clean and green environment promotes good health and helps prevent various diseases. We must also encourage our children to adopt cleanliness as a way of life,” the minister said. Raja lauded the efforts of the IMC team led by Mayor Tamme Phassang and Deputy Mayor Biri Basang for their commitment towards improving sanitation and maintaining cleanliness in the capital region. Highlighting ongoing environmental initiatives, the minister referred to the river rejuvenation programme being implemented across the state and noted that it has witnessed encouraging public participation in places including Itanagar and Ziro. He stressed that community involvement remains essential for the success of such initiatives. Raja further informed that proposals have been submitted to the Finance Commission for development of public amenities, including construction of public toilets and related facilities. He said the government has proposed establishment of such facilities along the Banderdewa-Hollongi corridor covering Nirjuli, Naharlagun and Itanagar, and assured that the matter would be pursued with Chief Minister Pema Khandu for early implementation. The minister also stated that the cleanliness drive formed part of programmes being organised to mark 11 years of the state government’s governance under the leadership of Chief Minister Pema Khandu and 12 years of the Central Government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He called upon citizens to work collectively for public welfare and the continued development of the state. Itanagar Deputy Commissioner Toko Babu, IMC Commissioner Kego Jilen, corporators, ward members, social workers, community leaders, IMC staff and residents participated in the cleanliness drive.      

DAPORIJO :  In a significant step towards developing a sustainable waste management system for Daporijo township, the Upper Subansiri district administration organised a stakeholders’ consultation meeting at the TCS Heritage Building Conference Hall on Friday. The meeting brought together elected representatives, government officials, heads of departments, educational institutions, community-based organisations, market associations, security forces, social organisations and other stakeholders to deliberate on the formulation of a long-term Solid Waste Management Policy for the township. Resource persons from Further & Beyond Foundation conducted technical sessions on sustainable waste management practices, waste segregation, recycling systems, circular economy concepts and successful community-driven models implemented in other regions. A key highlight of the programme was a presentation by Dulle Pai, who shared his experiences in transforming waste management practices in Ziro through community participation and institutional collaboration. He outlined how sustained awareness campaigns, grassroots initiatives and stakeholder engagement helped transform Ziro into a recognised model for cleanliness and sustainable waste management. Pai emphasised that community ownership, active citizen participation and coordinated support from government agencies were critical to the success of the initiative. He expressed confidence that Daporijo could achieve similar success through collective commitment and consistent implementation. The consultation also focused on identifying local challenges, defining stakeholder responsibilities and developing a practical roadmap for effective waste management in the township. Addressing the gathering, Daporijo MLA Taniya Soki lauded the initiative and assured full support for its implementation. He stressed that environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility and called upon all sections of society to actively participate in keeping Daporijo clean and environmentally sustainable. Highlighting the importance of waste segregation, the MLA advocated the principle of “Segregation at Source”, stating that effective waste management begins at households, institutions, markets and commercial establishments. He urged citizens to separate biodegradable, recyclable and non-recyclable waste at the point of generation to ensure efficient waste processing and disposal. He further noted that the success of the proposed policy would depend on sustained public awareness, active community participation and collective ownership of the initiative. The consultation concluded with a collective pledge by stakeholders to work together towards transforming Daporijo into a model township for sustainable waste management and environmental stewardship.      

YINGKIONG : A newly constructed Input Storage Godown was inaugurated at Katan in Upper Siang district on Friday by former Agriculture Director Balung Mengu in the presence of farmers, panchayat representatives and government officials. Addressing the gathering, Mengu encouraged farmers to continue contributing to agricultural development and urged the public to safeguard government assets for the benefit of the community. Speaking on the occasion, Yingkiong District Agriculture Officer (DAO) Dana Moyong highlighted the poor condition of the previous storage facility, which necessitated the construction of a new godown. He also appealed to the public to extend cooperation to government officials for effective implementation of agricultural programmes. The inaugural programme was attended by Katan Zilla Parishad Member (ZPM) Pilot Panggeng, former ZPM Kait Ejing, Water Resources Department Junior Engineer Tong Panyang and other stakeholders. Geku Agriculture Development Officer (ADO) Lency Tangu delivered the welcome address, while Senior Agriculture Field Assistant Totom Ejing proposed the vote of thanks. The new facility is expected to strengthen agricultural support services in the district by enabling advance storage of essential farm inputs such as seeds, fertilisers, agricultural equipment and machinery. The godown will facilitate timely distribution of inputs to farmers during the cultivation season, particularly in view of weather-related road connectivity challenges in the region.            

ITANAGAR :  In a major step towards strengthening Arunachal Pradesh’s export ecosystem and enhancing global market access for local products, the Department of Trade and Commerce signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), Kolkata, on Wednesday for the establishment of an Export Facilitation Cell (EFC) in Itanagar. The MoU was signed at the Civil Secretariat in the presence of Trade and Commerce Secretary Bullo Mamu, Trade and Commerce Director Sonyung Modi, IIFT Kolkata Head Dr K. Rangarajan, Consultant and EFC Coordinator with States, X-Cell, IIFT Kolkata, Sumana Das, and officials of the department. The Export Facilitation Cell will function as a dedicated support mechanism for exporters, entrepreneurs, farmers, producer groups, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and startups across the state. It will provide assistance in export procedures, market intelligence, product development, quality standards, trade documentation, capacity building and market linkage opportunities. Welcoming the IIFT delegation, Trade and Commerce Secretary Bullo Mamu said the establishment of the EFC marks a significant step towards unlocking the state’s vast export potential. She noted that the facility would help connect Arunachal Pradesh’s unique products with international markets through export-readiness support, market intelligence, capacity building and trade facilitation services. Under the partnership, IIFT will provide technical expertise, research support, policy inputs and capacity-building programmes to stakeholders, further strengthening the state’s efforts in export promotion, entrepreneurship development and economic growth. The initiative is expected to boost ease of doing business in the state and advance the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat by enhancing export competitiveness and market integration.

ITANAGAR :  Senior BJP leader Tai Tagak was on Thursday declared elected unopposed to the lone Rajya Sabha seat from Arunachal Pradesh after the withdrawal period for nominations ended with no other candidate in the fray. Returning officer-cum-secretary of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Tadar Meena, formally declared Tagak elected following the close of the candidature withdrawal period at 3 pm. Since only one nomination had been filed and no withdrawal was made before the stipulated deadline, the declaration was issued under the provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, a communique from the Assembly secretariat said. The official certificate of election was handed over to the newly elected MP at a function held at Nokmey Namati Hall of the Assembly. The ceremony was attended by state chief electoral officer-cum-observer Pawan Kumar Sain, Joint CEO Liken Koyu, assistant returning officer Longman Ronrang, and senior BJP leaders. Later, Tagak called on Speaker Tesam Pongte, who congratulated him on his unopposed election to the council of states and wished him success in his new responsibilities. The election was necessitated as the term of the incumbent Rajya Sabha member, Nabam Rebia, is scheduled to end on June 23 A veteran BJP functionary, 54-year-old Tagak joined the party on September 9, 1995, after serving as a unit organiser of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Arunachal Pradesh from 1989. He subsequently held several key organisational positions, including state general secretary and spokesperson, before becoming the state BJP president in February 2013. During his tenure as state BJP president from 2013 to 2015, the party registered significant electoral gains, winning 11 Assembly seats and the Arunachal West Lok Sabha constituency while securing around 31 per cent of the vote share. He is also credited with playing a key role in the political developments that led to the BJP forming the government in Arunachal Pradesh for the first time in 2016. Hailing from Peel village under Sangram circle in Kurung Kumey district, Tagak was known as a social worker and cultural activist before entering active politics. He has also served two terms as adviser to the chief minister. Speaking after his election, Tagak said the BJP had honoured a simple grassroots worker and that his selection conveyed a strong message that hard work, sacrifice, dedication and teamwork are recognised in the party. Recalling his humble beginnings, he said he had worked as a child labourer fetching drinking water for labourers for Rs 2 a day in 1981-82 and later as a daily wage worker during school vacations for Rs 5 a day. He said his nomination reflected the party’s faith in dedicated workers and was in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of promoting people from non-political backgrounds to contribute to the building of a “Viksit Bharat”. (Source: PTI)    

ROING :  The District Agriculture Office in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Balek organised an awareness programme on Khet Bachao Abhiyan at Rayang-1 village on Thursday. The programme witnessed participation from 36 farmers and farm women. Agriculture Development Officer Gracy Linggi inaugurated the programme and briefed participants on the objectives of the campaign. KVK Balek Senior Scientist and Head Dr Deepanjali Deori highlighted the importance of balanced fertiliser application and encouraged farmers to adopt natural farming practices. She also informed participants about the benefits of registering on the Kisan Sarathi Portal and urged them to enrol for better access to agricultural services and information. Speaking on sustainable farming methods, Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Protection) Toktel Boko explained the preparation and use of natural inputs such as Beejamrit and Jeevamrit for improving soil health, crop productivity and human well-being. She advised farmers to seek guidance from technical experts before applying fertilisers and stressed the need for their judicious use. Subject Matter Specialist (Agronomy) spoke on the preservation of indigenous seed varieties, traditional ethnic cultivation practices and the importance of vermicomposting in sustainable agriculture. She also sensitised farmers about the significance of the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act and its role in safeguarding farmers’ interests.