State News

Staff Reporter ITANAGAR, OCT 12: The Public Rights Action Committee (PRAC) has reaffirmed its decision to stage a peaceful rally on October 13, demanding a lasting solution to the prolonged delay in construction of the Papu Nallah–Nirjuli stretch of NH-415 and the deteriorating condition of the Bage Tinali–Doimukh road. In a press conference held at the Arunachal Press Club (APC) here on Monday, the committee questioned the Public Works Department (PWD) over the repeated delays in road construction, despite citing adverse weather conditions, difficult geographical terrain and public activities, including earth cutting, as reasons for the slow progress. PRAC expressed concern that the work remains incomplete despite nearly two years having elapsed and questioned the credibility of the department’s assurance that the pending work could be completed within the next two to three weeks. The committee also objected to what it termed attempts to hold the public responsible for the delay, stating that commuters continue to suffer due to the poor condition of the roads despite regularly paying taxes. Reiterating its stand, PRAC said the proposed agitation would continue until the authorities provided a concrete and permanent solution to the grievances instead of making temporary assurances. The committee also recalled Chief Minister Pema Khandu’s commitment in 2021 regarding the road project and demanded accountability for the unfulfilled promise. It further called for the Chief Minister’s resignation if the commitment could not be honoured. The peaceful rally will commence at 9 am from Kangkar Nallah towards Nirjuli on October 13, the committee stated while appealing public to join the rally to pressure the state government for better road condition PRAC said the protest aims to secure a lasting resolution to the road-related problems faced by commuters and ensure accountability for the prolonged delay in completing the infrastructure project.  

ITANAGAR, OCT 12: Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) chairperson Yalem Taga Burang on Monday urged students to stay away from drugs and substance abuse, develop practical skills and maintain a positive attitude, saying education alone may not be enough to ensure success in life. Addressing a legal awareness programme on cybercrime, stalking and mental health issues at Dera Natung Government College here, Burang said substance abuse could harm not only an individual’s health and future but also the well-being of society, a statement said here. The day-long programme was organised by the APSCW in collaboration with the National Commission for Women (NCW) to sensitise students to cyber safety, legal rights and mental health concerns. Burang encouraged students to focus on their personal development, stressing that academic qualifications, practical skills and a positive outlook together were important for building a successful future. During the inaugural session, Dr Prasanta Nanda, associate professor and head of the Department of Zoology at the college, advised students to use social media responsibly and remain alert to cyber threats. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining good health, pointing out that anaemia had been detected among several girl students during a health screening camp held at the institution. The programme featured expert sessions on three key subjects. Sub-Inspector Bulo Hassang of the Cyber Crime Police Station here spoke about emerging cyber threats and fraudulent practices, including vishing, quishing, cyber slavery and juice jacking. He also highlighted the need for digital awareness, online safety and responsible internet use. Advocate Jaya Doji of the Arunachal Pradesh State Legal Services Authority discussed online and physical stalking, the relevant legal provisions and the importance of seeking legal assistance when required. Dr Leeyir Ete, psychologist and counsellor at the APSCW, spoke about mental health challenges among students, with particular focus on cyberbullying, emotional well-being and the need to seek timely support when facing psychological or personal difficulties.  

MEDO, OCT 12: The Lohit district administration has planned to constitute three-tier task force committees at the district, sub-divisional/circle and village levels to coordinate efforts to curb illicit poppy cultivation and combat drug abuse. The initiative was discussed at a coordination meeting held on September 21, ahead of the opium cultivation season. As part of the district-wide campaign, awareness programmes are being conducted to sensitise communities about the harmful effects of narcotic substances and discourage illicit cultivation. Addressing an awareness programme at the Tamlaudu Festival Ground in Medo on Monday, Lohit Deputy Commissioner Kesang Ngurup Damo called for sustained collective action involving the administration, police, community organisations and residents. He urged students to stay away from drugs, focus on their studies and respect their parents, elders and teachers. He also appreciated the role of the media in spreading awareness. The Officer-in-Charge of Wakro Police Station explained the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, and cautioned that knowingly allowing vehicles or property to be used for drug-related activities could invite legal action. Dr. Nani Kuru of Medo Primary Health Centre highlighted the harmful effects of opium and other narcotic substances on the brain, nervous system and vital organs, including the risks of addiction and long-term health damage. Er. Lupalum Kri stressed that awareness efforts must be backed by firm action within the framework of the law. The programme also featured inputs from CALSOM chairman Sokhep Kri and representatives of the Lohit and Wakro units of the Women’s Welfare Committee. Deputy Director of Integrated Child Development Services Solel Longling delivered the welcome address. The DC urged residents to report suspected drug-related activities to the nearest police station or the district administration. He also directed the Officer-in-Charge to register first information reports (FIRs) in appropriate cases in accordance with the law. Damo further asked self-help groups to submit proposals on minimum support prices (MSP) for locally produced agricultural commodities for consideration. The awareness campaign will continue at Government Secondary School, Yealiang, on October 13 and at the community halls in Loiliang and Tafragam on October 14. The proposed task forces are expected to strengthen coordination across administrative levels and community participation in efforts to prevent illicit poppy cultivation and curb drug abuse in Lohit district. (DIPR)  

ANINI, OCT 12: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Anini, Dibang Valley, on Monday conducted an on-farm testing programme to evaluate pumpkin ice cream under the Home Science discipline, led by subject matter specialist Dani Oyang. A total of 35 farmers participated in the programme, which assessed the suitability and acceptability of pumpkin as an ingredient in ice cream preparation. The evaluation involved different treatments using pumpkin puree, watermelon and farmers’ existing practices. The initiative aimed to explore innovative ways of diversifying food products and enhancing the nutritional and economic value of locally available agricultural produce. Pumpkin-based food processing can create opportunities for value addition, reduce post-harvest losses and encourage small-scale food enterprises. During the programme, farmers observed product samples and participated in the evaluation process, providing insights into their acceptability and potential for adoption at the household and community levels. The initiative highlighted the role of Home Science in linking agricultural production with food processing, nutrition, entrepreneurship and livelihood improvement. KVK Anini aims to promote scientific practices suited to local conditions and encourage farming households to explore additional income-generating opportunities. The programme concluded with an emphasis on promoting locally sourced food products, strengthening entrepreneurial skills and supporting sustainable rural development in the remote region of Dibang Valley. (DIPR)  

ANINI, OCT 12: The Biodiversity and Tourism Management Society (BTMS), Anini, organised a workshop for the grooming and capacity building of local nature guides at Ashi Hotel in Anini on Sunday, focusing on biodiversity conservation, Idu Mishmi cultural heritage and professional standards in tourism. In his welcome address, BTMS chairman Theko Tayu outlined the objectives of the workshop and emphasised the need to equip local nature guides with adequate knowledge and professional skills to promote responsible and sustainable tourism in Dibang Valley. Resource person Chacha Miwu spoke on the traditions, customs, beliefs and cultural heritage of the Idu Mishmi community, stressing the importance of respecting indigenous practices while interacting with tourists and presenting the community’s cultural identity. BTMS secretary Aito Miwu highlighted the rich wildlife diversity and ecological significance of Dibang Valley, underscoring the role of nature guides in raising awareness among visitors about local fauna and the conservation of the natural environment. Dibang Valley Tourism Officer Lamwang Aran advised the guides to strictly follow prescribed standard operating procedures (SOPs) while performing their duties. He stressed professional conduct, discipline, effective communication and continued skill development to ensure safe and informative experiences for tourists. The workshop also provided a platform for participants to share field experiences, discuss challenges and exchange practical insights to improve nature-guiding services in the district. The initiative aims to strengthen the capacity of local guides as ambassadors of Dibang Valley’s natural and cultural heritage, while promoting biodiversity conservation, preservation of indigenous traditions and sustainable tourism in the region.  

ZIRO, OCT 12: The Padi Yubbe Outdoor Stadium at Hapoli hosted a district-level traditional sports competition under the Seva Sankalp Utsav on Sunday, bringing together athletes, elders and spectators to celebrate indigenous sporting traditions. Jointly organised by the Department of Youth Affairs, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, and the Lower Subansiri district administration, the event was attended by Zilla Parishad Chairperson Hibu Dumi and Sub-Divisional Officer Hage Tarung. Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries appreciated the participants for preserving ancestral sporting traditions and highlighted the importance of indigenous games in passing on cultural identity, discipline and unity to younger generations. The competition featured six traditional disciplines: tug of war, gulli-danda, archery, Dali Hakka Hinam, bamboo pole climbing and bamboo stick race. The events tested participants’ strength, agility and precision, drawing enthusiastic support from spectators. Beyond the competition, the event provided a platform for community interaction, cultural exchange and grassroots sportsmanship, underscoring the importance of preserving Lower Subansiri’s traditional sporting heritage. (DIPR)   4th PM Youth camp begins ANINI, OCT 11: The five-day 4th Prime Minister Youth Camp commenced at the Government Secondary School auditorium in Anini on Sunday, bringing together 243 participants, including students and escorts, from 27 districts of Arunachal Pradesh. Organised by the Directorate of Secondary Education, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, the inaugural ceremony was attended by Mutchu Mithi, MLA and Advisor to the Education and Home Affairs Minister, as chief guest, and Col Aditya Kulkarni as guest of honour. Addressing the gathering, Mithi highlighted the camp’s role in promoting cultural understanding, unity and camaraderie among young people. He said the initiative provides students with an opportunity to experience the State’s frontier regions and appreciate its cultural diversity. He encouraged participants to use the camp to learn from one another, build lasting friendships and strengthen national integration. Col Kulkarni encouraged students to consider careers in the Indian Army, describing service in the Armed Forces as a commitment to discipline, dedication, courage and selfless service to the nation. Earlier, Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner Yashwant Meena welcomed the participants and urged them to exchange cultural experiences, learn from one another and forge lasting bonds of friendship. The programme also featured a keynote address by Youth Welfare Officer L. Sokun Singh, while Anini Deputy Director of Secondary Education Tenzing Wangda proposed the vote of thanks. Zilla Parishad Chairperson Sadhu Mihu, Zilla Parishad Member Eta Mihu, Superintendent of Police James K. Lego, Director of Youth Affairs Ramesh Linggi, the ITBP commandant, the Joint Director of Secondary Education, senior officials, heads of departments, panchayati raj institution members, Gaon Burahs and teachers attended the inaugural ceremony.