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(Online version of the Arunachal Age newspaper)

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Arunachal Police bags six medals at All India Police Badminton C’ship

ITANAGAR : The Arunachal Pradesh Police badminton team delivered its best-ever performance at the 2nd All India Police Badminton Cluster Championship 2025-26 held in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, from May 9 to 13. Competing against more than 45 police teams from across the country, the 15-member Arunachal Pradesh Police contingent secured an impressive overall 12th position and won a record six medals, surpassing all previous performances. Longding Superintendent of Police Dekio Gumja emerged as the top performer for the team, winning one gold and two bronze medals. Miao Sub-Divisional Police Officer Paul Jerang secured one bronze medal, while Lance Constable Apali Mega won a silver medal. Assistant Sub-Inspector (Telecommunication) Menya Riba, Lance Constable Nang Propha Namchoom and Lance Constable Phetan Wangsuam also won one bronze medal each. Following the achievement, a felicitation programme was held at the Police Headquarters (PHQ) in Itanagar in the presence of Arunachal Pradesh Director General of Police Shiv Darshan Singh Jamwal. Congratulating the team, the DGP praised the players for bringing pride and honour to the State Police through their outstanding performance at the national-level championship. Senior police officers, including Inspector General of Police Chuku Apa, Inspector General of Police (Admin) Tusar Taba, Inspector General of Police (Ops) Apur Bitin, Inspector General of Police (West) Take Ringu, Deputy Inspector General of Police Joy Nathaniel Tirkey and Deputy Inspector General of Police Suman Nalwa, attended the programme and lauded the team for its historic achievement. The Arunachal Pradesh Police Sports Control Board and Police Headquarters also extended congratulations to the medal winners, coaches, managers and officials for their contribution towards promoting sportsmanship within the force.      

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Tasing reviews preparations for APSTS golden jubilee celebration

KHONSA : A review meeting on preparations for the Golden Jubilee celebration of Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Services (APSTS) was held in Khonsa on Monday under the chairmanship of Transport, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Ojing Tasing. Reviewing the progress of preparations, Tasing briefed the gathering on the programmes and activities planned for the three-day celebration scheduled from May 29 to 31. Discussions focused on coordination among stakeholders, security arrangements and logistical support to ensure smooth conduct of the event. Describing the occasion as a significant milestone, the Minister said the Golden Jubilee celebration was not only an important event for the Transport Department but also a matter of pride for Tirap district. He called upon officers, officials and citizens to work collectively to make the celebration memorable and befitting of the legacy of APSTS. Tasing informed that several attractions have been planned for the event, including deployment of a restaurant bus equipped with an inbuilt kitchen and an awareness bus to promote road safety. The celebrations will feature a marathon race on May 29, a health camp on May 30 and food stalls to be managed by Self Help Groups (SHGs). The programme will also witness the flagging off of 20 modern buses. Cultural performances highlighting the traditions and heritage of the Tirap, Changlang and Longding (TCL) region through folk music and dance will be among the major attractions. During the meeting, State Transport Services General Manager Mito Dirchi briefed members on arrangements related to security, accommodation and logistical support for invited guests and participants. The organisers also presented the detailed programme schedule and sought cooperation from the district administration and line departments for the successful conduct of the Golden Jubilee celebration. The meeting was attended by Environment and Forest and Department of Tirap, Changlang and Longding Affairs Minister Wangki Lowang, MLA-cum-Advisor to the Transport Minister Chakat Aboh, Khonsa East MLA Wanglam Sawin, Tirap Deputy Commissioner Techu Aran, Khonsa Additional Deputy Commissioner Namneet Singh, Tirap Superintendent of Police Aditya, Tirap Zilla Parishad Chairperson John KK Matey, administrative officers and Heads of Departments. (DIPR)    

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Adventure and leadership training prog begins at Wanghoo

BOMDILA : A five-day “PEAK POTENTIAL – Adventure & Leadership Training Program” was inaugurated at Wanghoo village near Bomdila on Monday with the objective of fostering leadership qualities, discipline, self-confidence and an adventurous spirit among students. The initiative, organised by mountaineer Dr Anshu Jamsenpa, focuses on transformational life training aimed at helping young participants discover their potential and develop the courage and determination to face future challenges confidently. Attending the inaugural programme, MLA Tseten Chombay lauded the efforts of Dr Jamsenpa and her team for launching a meaningful initiative for the younger generation. He said such programmes play an important role in empowering youth, promoting resilience and motivating them towards growth and excellence. The MLA also conveyed his best wishes for the success of the programme and encouraged participants to make full use of the learning opportunities provided during the training. Among those present at the inaugural function were Brigadier (Retd) Surendra Prasad, Sashastra Seema Bal Deputy Inspector General Kamal Kanth, Bomdila Superintendent of Police Dorjee Wangdi Thongon, Bomdila Additional Deputy Commissioner Ashok Tajo, Lieutenant Colonel Rudra Thapa and Government College Bomdila Principal Dr Tashi Phuntso. (DIPR)        

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Hangpan Dada Memorial Trophy witnesses thrilling Day 3 encounters

AALO : The League Stage of the 9th State Level Hangpan Dada Memorial Trophy 2026 produced a series of exciting football and volleyball contests across multiple venues on Day 3 on Monday. In girls’ football, Shi Yomi registered the most emphatic result of the day with a crushing 10-0 victory over Pakke Kessang. Siang defeated Keyi Panyor 4-1, while Lower Siang and East Kameng secured identical 3-0 wins against Leparada and Anjaw respectively. Upper Subansiri also posted a convincing 3-0 victory over Dibang Valley. Upper Siang overcame Kamle 2-0, while West Siang edged past East Siang 1-0 in a tightly contested encounter. Kra Daadi and Lower Subansiri settled for a 1-1 draw. In boys’ football, Pakke Kessang dominated Tawang 6-0, while Changlang defeated Namsai 4-1. Kurung Kumey blanked Dibang Valley 3-0 and West Kameng also recorded a 3-0 win against Anjaw. Upper Subansiri defeated Leparada 3-1, while Longding secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Lohit. East Kameng edged Lower Subansiri 1-0, and Lower Siang played out a 1-1 draw with Bichom. In boys’ volleyball matches played at Army Ground, Keyi Panyor defeated Lower Dibang Valley 25-14, 25-14, while Longding handed Upper Siang a one-sided 25-0, 25-0 defeat. East Siang overcame Lower Subansiri 25-15, 25-8 and Anjaw beat Tawang 25-11, 25-11. Shi-Yomi registered a straight-set win over Capital Complex 25-23, 25-19, while Bichom defeated East Kameng in a closely fought three-set contest 26-28, 25-22, 15-8. In girls’ volleyball, Tawang defeated Upper Siang 25-0, 25-0, while Upper Subansiri recorded an identical scoreline against Dibang Valley. Keyi Panyor beat West Kameng 25-22, 25-14 and Leparada defeated Tirap 27-25, 25-14. East Kameng rallied from behind to beat Pakke Kessang 21-25, 25-21, 15-8, while Namsai overcame Anjaw 25-12, 25-12. The tournament continues to witness enthusiastic participation and spirited performances from athletes representing districts across Arunachal Pradesh.          

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Training on SIR for DEOs, EROs held

  ITANAGAR : A virtual training session on Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls was conducted by the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Arunachal Pradesh, for all District Election Officers (DEOs) and Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) on Monday. Chief Electoral Officer Pawan Kumar Sain welcomed the participants and stated that the primary objective of the Special Intensive Revision is to ensure that electoral rolls are accurate, inclusive and error-free, so that no eligible citizen is left out and no ineligible name is included. He urged District Election Officers to hold coordination meetings with representatives of political parties to sensitise them about the SIR exercise. Sain also directed them to organise similar coordination and training sessions with their respective district teams, including EROs, Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs) and other election functionaries, and to closely supervise Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and BLO supervisors. Joint Chief Electoral Officer Liken Koyu delivered a detailed PowerPoint presentation on the Special Intensive Revision process and clarified key aspects related to the exercise. Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Shania Kayem Mize also attended the training session.

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Agniveer CEE from June 1

    ITANAGAR : The Common Entrance Examination (CEE) for recruitment of Agniveers in the Indian Army for Recruiting Year 2027 will be conducted from June 1 to 12 at designated examination centres across the region. In a notification issued on Monday, candidates from all districts of Arunachal Pradesh who have successfully registered for the recruitment process were advised to download their admit cards from the official website, www.joinindianarmy.nic.in, within the stipulated period and carefully verify all details mentioned in them. Candidates have been instructed to report at their respective examination centres well before the reporting time mentioned on the admit card. Entry to the examination venue will be allowed only on production of a valid admit card along with an original photo identity proof. The notification further stated that candidates must strictly follow examination guidelines and maintain discipline during the conduct of the examination. Possession of unfair means material, electronic gadgets, or involvement in any malpractice will invite disqualification and disciplinary action as per existing rules. Authorities informed that necessary arrangements have been made at all examination centres to ensure smooth and fair conduct of the examination. For further information and clarification, candidates may contact the Army Recruiting Office, Jorhat, at 0376-2333136 or +91 6901963193, or email at ap.upper@nic.in. Queries may also be raised through the official recruitment website.

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ASTBA announces online campaign on ILP regulations

  Staff Reporter ITANAGAR : The Arunachal ST Bachao Andolan (ASTBA) on Sunday announced that it will launch an online petition seeking public opinions and suggestions for the proper framing and implementation of rules related to the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system for non-APST individuals entering Arunachal Pradesh. The online petition will be conducted through the organisation’s official social media platforms, particularly Facebook, from 5 PM on May 17 till May 20. Addressing a press conference at the Arunachal Press Club, ASTBA General Secretary Millo Ambo said that after completion of the public petition, a combined memorandum containing the public responses and the organisation’s demands would be submitted to the Chief Minister’s Office on May 21. He said that after submission of the memorandum, the association would serve a four-day ultimatum to the state government, seeking a meeting with Chief Minister Pema Khandu to discuss the ILP issue and the demands raised by the organisation, while also demanding that the meeting be telecast live. Ambo informed that the organisation has rejected the invitation extended by Home Minister Mama Natung for a round-table meeting scheduled on May 18. He stated that the association specifically wants to hold discussions with the Chief Minister regarding the ILP issue and other related demands. Among its key demands, the association has called for reverification or reapplication of Scheduled Tribe (ST) certificates for all people settled in Arunachal Pradesh to identify Tibetan refugees and alleged illegal immigrants residing in the state. The organisation has also sought corrections in the recently issued “Arunachal Pradesh Inner Line Permit (ILP) Guidelines, 2026,” alleging that certain provisions are in violation of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act, 1873, and may adversely affect the interests of indigenous communities in the state.      

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Self defence training camp for students

  MENCHUKA : The Spearhead Division under the aegis of Spear Corps organised a week-long self-defence training camp for students of Class VI and above at Menchuka Valley School in Arunachal Pradesh, reaffirming the Indian Army’s commitment to youth empowerment and community engagement. Conducted by qualified Army instructors, the camp focused on physical fitness, discipline and self-defence awareness among students. Participants received training in basic self-defence techniques, situational awareness and confidence-building exercises aimed at enhancing resilience and essential life skills. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and faculty members and was widely appreciated by the local community. Besides imparting practical skills, the initiative also sought to inspire leadership qualities, responsibility and a spirit of nation-building among the youth. The outreach programme further strengthened the bond between the Indian Army and the people of Arunachal Pradesh, fostering mutual trust, cooperation and a shared commitment towards an empowered and secure future.

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CBSE defends OSM, slashes revaluation fees

NEW DELHI : The Ministry of Education on Sunday dismissed concerns about On-Screen Marking (OSM) affecting students’ scores in CBSE class 12 exams and announced that the revaluation and answer sheet verification charges have been reduced to Rs 100 each. According to officials, the decision has been taken to ease the anxiety of students. They, however, maintained that the OSM is foolproof and a norm followed internationally to conduct transparent evaluation. At a press conference, School Education Secretary, Ministry of Education, Sanjay Kumar said, “98 lakh sheets scanned were for class 12, three levels of security were followed during the process. It was found that despite repeated scanning, there were still some legibility issues because the ink used in some answer sheets was of a very light colour. Even after scanning, those scripts could not be made fully legible.” “In such cases, the examiners were instructed to evaluate the scripts manually and award marks accordingly. More than 13,000 such answer sheets were separately identified and manually checked. After manual evaluation, the marks obtained were entered into the system. “Special attention was given to the security levels and related issues so that the marking carried out through on-screen evaluation remained accurate, completely transparent and fair,” he added. Kumar’s comments came amid concerns being raised by students and parents that the drop in pass percentage in class 12 and scores is due to the OSM, which was conducted for the first time for CBSE board exams. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has reduced the revaluation and answer sheet verification charges to help ease students’ anxiety. “The CBSE has decided this time that if students wish to view their answer sheets, they can do so by paying a fee of Rs 100 instead of Rs 700. If they want verification or validation of the answer sheet, that too will cost Rs 100 instead of Rs 500. If they want any particular answer rechecked, the fee will be Rs 25 per question,” Kumar said. “We have decided that if during re-evaluation, a student’s marks increase, then the amount paid for re-evaluation will be refunded to the student,” he said. (Source: PTI)

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APPEIRC bids farewell to Dr Joram Aniya after NITI Aayog appointment

ITANAGAR :  The Arunachal Pradesh Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Commission (APPEIRC) on Sunday organised a farewell programme at its office here in honour of former APPEIRC member Dr Joram Aniya following her appointment as a full-time member of NITI Aayog in New Delhi. The programme was attended by APPEIRC Chairperson Tsering Naksang along with officers and staff members of the commission. Speaking on the occasion, Naksang lauded Dr Aniya’s dedicated service and valuable contributions towards strengthening the functioning of the regulatory body and promoting quality education in Arunachal Pradesh.   Officers and staff members of the commission expressed gratitude for her guidance, professionalism and humble nature, stating that she earned immense respect and admiration from colleagues and stakeholders during her tenure. On behalf of the commission, Naksang extended best wishes to Dr Aniya for her new assignment and expressed confidence that her experience and expertise would contribute significantly to national development and policy planning. In her address, Dr Aniya thanked the chairperson, officers and staff members for their cooperation and support during her tenure at the commission. She also stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Education Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona, the corresponding rules under the APPEIRC Act, 2017 and the parent Act would soon be notified for the effective functioning of higher educational institutions and strengthening quality education in the state. Dr Aniya further expressed gratitude for the farewell accorded to her and conveyed her best wishes for the continued success of the commission.