State News

Mingkeng Osik PASIGHAT : Miss Universe Arunachal Pradesh 2026 first runner-up and Miss Multimedia titleholder Anchali Peyang was accorded a warm reception on her arrival in Pasighat, where family members, friends, well-wishers and supporters gathered to celebrate her achievement. Anchali, who is also the reigning Miss Lune 2025, brought laurels to East Siang district after securing the first runner-up title and the Miss Multimedia subtitle at the Miss Universe Arunachal Pradesh 2026 pageant. Speaking on the occasion, BBYK spokesperson Dangki Ering congratulated Anchali on her success and said the organisation, along with the people of East Siang, was proud of her achievement. He commended her dedication, perseverance and hard work in representing the district on a prestigious platform. Her maternal uncle, Orin Ratan, described her accomplishment as a source of inspiration for young people and wished her greater success in the future. Expressing gratitude for the warm reception, Anchali thanked the people of Pasighat for their love and encouragement. She credited her mother as the greatest source of inspiration throughout her journey. Speaking about her future aspirations, she said her next goal is to win the Miss Arunachal Pradesh crown while continuing to pursue her academic studies. She encouraged young women to remain focused on their education and work diligently to realise their dreams. The felicitation programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from supporters, who congratulated the young achiever and wished her success in her future endeavours. Many described her accomplishment as a proud moment for East Siang and expressed confidence that she would continue to excel in the field of pageantry while inspiring aspiring youth across the state. Anchali is currently pursuing her studies at Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU). She also works as a part-time reporter with the Eastern Post news channel based in Arunachal Pradesh.    

JOLLANG : In a collective show of commitment against substance abuse, Stepping Stone De-addiction & Rehabilitation Centre, in collaboration with the Brahma Kumaris RajYoga Meditation & De-addiction Centre, observed the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with an awareness programme at Geko Sports Club, Jollang on Friday. Held under the theme “Transforming Craving into Character, Dependency into Dignity through RajYoga,” the programme brought together recovering youths, youth leaders, social workers, police officials, spiritual educators and community members to promote a drug-free and value-based society. The programme began with a welcome song presented by inmates of the rehabilitation centre, whose performance reflected hope, resilience and the possibility of recovery through determination and support. Welcoming the gathering, Stepping Stone De-addiction & Rehabilitation Centre Managing Director Kago Nyime described addiction as a multidimensional social challenge requiring compassionate rehabilitation, family support, community participation and sustained psychological and spiritual empowerment. He reaffirmed the centre’s commitment to restoring dignity and confidence among individuals recovering from substance dependence through holistic rehabilitation and counselling. Niti Vihar Police Station Officer-in-Charge Takhe Tasso explained the legal provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and urged young people to remain vigilant against drug peddlers while extending full cooperation to law enforcement agencies. He also highlighted the far-reaching social, economic and legal consequences of drug abuse and trafficking, calling upon the youth to embrace discipline, responsible citizenship and positive life choices. Delivering the keynote address, Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) Professor and Brahma Kumaris Senior Faculty Trainer Prof Jayadeba Sahoo spoke on the transformative role of RajYoga meditation in overcoming addiction. He said substance dependence often stems from emotional insecurity, loss of self-worth and negative thought patterns, and emphasised that RajYoga helps strengthen self-control, emotional resilience, positive thinking and spiritual awareness, thereby supporting long-term recovery and preventing relapse. Prof Sahoo stressed that successful rehabilitation extends beyond physical detoxification and requires inner transformation through value-based living. He called for the integration of value education, meditation and spiritual well-being into de-addiction and preventive healthcare programmes. One of the highlights of the programme was the sharing of personal recovery stories by former addicts, who narrated their journey from addiction to rehabilitation. Their testimonies underscored the importance of professional treatment, family support, determination and spiritual guidance in rebuilding their lives. Addressing the gathering, Brahma Kumaris member BK Jyoti highlighted the physical, psychological, social and economic consequences of substance abuse and urged young people to cultivate positive values, self-discipline and healthy company. Brahma Kumaris Manager BK Junu encouraged participants to adopt the RajYoga lifestyle based on self-awareness, meditation and positive thinking. She later conducted a guided RajYoga meditation session and administered an anti-drug pledge, with participants resolving to stay away from intoxicants, support individuals in recovery and work towards building a compassionate, drug-free society. Speaking on the occasion, Obin Cozy appreciated the joint initiative of Stepping Stone De-addiction & Rehabilitation Centre and the Brahma Kumaris, observing that lasting success against drug abuse requires coordinated efforts by families, educational institutions, law enforcement agencies, healthcare professionals, spiritual organisations and the youth. The programme concluded with a renewed pledge by participants to combat substance abuse through awareness, rehabilitation, spiritual empowerment and collective social responsibility, reaffirming that lasting freedom from addiction begins with inner transformation.      

ITANAGAR : The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was observed across Arunachal Pradesh on Friday with rallies, awareness campaigns, seminars, pledge-taking ceremonies, signature drives, motivational talks, film screenings, sports events and community outreach programmes under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. The programmes, held in line with this year’s theme, “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan – Viksit Bharat Ki Pehchaan,” highlighted the importance of collective action involving government agencies, educational institutions, law enforcement authorities, civil society organisations and the community in combating substance abuse and promoting a healthy, drug-free society. In Itanagar, the Department of Social Justice, Empowerment and Tribal Affairs observed the day at the State Banquet Hall under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan in compliance with the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. The programme was attended by over 250 participants, including around 160 students from schools across the Itanagar Capital Region, teachers, government officials, representatives of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and recovering addicts. Addressing the gathering, Social Justice, Empowerment and Tribal Affairs Secretary Dani Salu called upon the youth to become torchbearers of a developed India by staying away from drugs and actively contributing to society. He also stressed the role of parents in providing proper care, guidance and emotional support to children during their formative years. He administered a mass anti-drug pledge and urged students to maintain good health, sound values and a disciplined lifestyle. The programme featured motivational films on drug abuse, while recovering persons from Sudhar Ghar, Kripa Foundation and Deepak Nabam Living Home shared their rehabilitation journeys. Social Justice, Empowerment and Tribal Affairs Director Yumlam Kaha, Kripa Foundation Senior Counsellor Kenjom Doji and Deepak Nabam Living Home Chairman Deepak Nabam also addressed the gathering. Prominent social workers Deepak Nabam, Ramesh Jeke, Rupa Bayor and Sonam Zomba were felicitated for their contributions to society. A signature campaign under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan was also organised. In Leparada district, the Reincarnates Fellowship Group, in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh Recovery Community and with the support of the district administration and Leparada Police, organised a series of awareness programmes. The observance began with a drug awareness rally from Old Market to Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Basar, followed by an awareness programme highlighting the physical, psychological and social consequences of substance abuse. Leparada IAS (Probationer) Ritika Chitlangia and Leparada Superintendent of Police Dr Thuptan Jambey urged students to stay focused on their studies, resist negative influences and become ambassadors of awareness within their communities. A friendly cricket match between Yubo Youth Cricket Club and recovering addicts was also organised under the theme “Yes to Sports, No to Drugs,” promoting sports as a healthy alternative to substance abuse. The day was also observed at the Community Health Centre (CHC), Deomali, under the chairmanship of Tirap District Medical Officer Dr Bimal Ratan. The programme featured a presentation by CHC Medical Officer-in-Charge Dr K. Matey on this year’s theme, various addictive substances, their harmful effects and preventive measures. Students of WRG College, Tirap, and Indira Gandhi Government College, Tezu, also delivered awareness speeches. Addressing the gathering, Dr Bimal Ratan highlighted the social and health consequences of drug abuse and stressed the need for timely guidance and community awareness to prevent addiction among the younger generation. Tawang Police Station and Women Police Station jointly organised an awareness programme at Government Secondary School, Bomba, under the theme “To Save the Younger Generation from Illicit Drug Abuse.” The programme, led by Tawang Police Station Officer-in-Charge Inspector Nii Angu, focused on drug abuse as well as other issues affecting children and adolescents. Inspector Nii Angu delivered a talk on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, while Assistant Sub-Inspector T. Tashi spoke on the harmful effects of ragging. Assistant Sub-Inspector (SG) S. Tsering conducted a self-defence demonstration, Lady Constable P. Tsomu explained the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and the impact of drug abuse, and Lady Constable D. Jangmu highlighted the adverse effects of child marriage. The programme concluded with participants taking a collective pledge to work towards a drug-free society. The West Siang district administration observed the day at Nehru Memorial Government Higher Secondary School (NMGHSS), Aalo, under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan with the theme “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan – Viksit Bharat Ki Pehchaan.” The programme began with the screening of awareness films highlighting the harmful effects of substance abuse and the importance of prevention through informed choices and community participation. Founder of Love & Care Rehabilitation Centre, Hissam, Gammi Riba, delivered a technical session on psychoactive substances, explaining their behavioural effects, withdrawal symptoms and long-term impact on individuals, families and society. He emphasised the importance of early intervention, counselling, rehabilitation and community support in overcoming addiction. Aalo Police Station Sub-Inspector Lekhi Mena spoke on the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, explaining the legal consequences of possession, consumption and trafficking of narcotic drugs. He urged students to remain vigilant and support law enforcement agencies in building a drug-free society. Addressing the gathering, NMGHSS Vice Principal Yomkar Sora encouraged students to lead disciplined and healthy lives and become ambassadors of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan by spreading awareness in their communities. The programme concluded with participants taking the Nasha Mukt Bharat pledge, signing a signature campaign and submitting the online NMBA pledge. Similar mass pledge drives were also conducted in schools across West Siang district with the support of the Education Department. The Department of Health and Family Welfare, Lohit district, in collaboration with the Dhargyeling Tibetan Settlement Office, observed the day at the Community Hall, TPHC, Lama Camp, Tezu, with the participation of over 200 officers, students and members of the public.   Welcoming the gathering, Tibetan Settlement Officer Kunga Jigmey stressed the importance of collective action and awareness in addressing drug abuse and promoting healthy lifestyles among the younger generation. District Reproductive and Child Health Officer-cum-Nodal Officer of Sudhaar Ghar Dr S. Towang highlighted the health and social consequences of substance

LIKABALI : Lower Siang Police busted an alleged sex racket operating from Bokchum Resort in Likabali and rescued seven women during a surprise raid conducted on Wednesday. The operation was carried out jointly by police personnel, including women officers, and the Executive Magistrate following credible intelligence inputs from multiple sources, including the Arunachal Pradesh Women’s Welfare Society (APWWS), Lower Siang District Unit, regarding suspected prostitution and pimping activities at the resort. During the raid, seven women, reportedly from Nagaland and Assam, were rescued from the premises. Police ensured that all rescue procedures were conducted with due regard to their dignity and safety. Following medical examinations, the women were placed under the care of the One Stop Centre for counselling, support and further legal assistance. The resort owner, manager and several customers found at the premises were detained for questioning as part of the investigation. Based on the findings of the raid, Likabali Police Station registered a case vide FIR No. 25/2026 under Sections 3(1)(2) and 4(1)(2)(c) of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956. Police said investigations are underway to ascertain the full extent of the alleged trafficking network and identify all persons involved.    

ITANAGAR : Governor Lt Gen K T Parnaik (Retd) on Thursday urged all eligible citizens of the state to actively participate in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral roll, saying public participation is vital to ensuring free, fair and transparent elections and strengthening democracy. Parnaik made the appeal after he and his wife, Anagha Parnaik, filled up their enumeration forms at Lok Bhavan here, as part of the ongoing revision exercise. He said electoral rolls are not merely administrative records but the foundation of the democratic process, an official statement said. Every eligible citizen, he added, has a responsibility to ensure that electoral records remain accurate and up to date. The enumeration process was conducted by Papum Pare deputy commissioner-cum-district election officer (DEO) Lobsang Tsering and Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) of Itanagar Assembly Constituency Dani Rikang, under the directions of the Election Commission of India. Appealing to the people of the state, Parnaik said the Special Intensive Revision, which began across the state on June 15, will continue till July 14. He expressed confidence that the people of the state would extend their full cooperation to make the exercise successful and further strengthen participatory democracy. The governor also urged residents to cooperate with Booth Level Officers (BLOs) during their house-to-house visits by providing the required information and documents. He made a special appeal to young and first-time voters to verify their details and ensure their names are correctly included in the electoral roll. Meanwhile, the deputy commissioner said that the draft electoral roll will be published on July 21, after which claims and objections, if any, can be submitted as per the prescribed procedure.    

  ITANAGAR : Fisheries Minister Gabriel D Wangsu on Thursday urged District Fisheries Development Officers (DFDOs) to prioritise meeting the state’s domestic fish demand before exploring wider market linkages, stressing that the fisheries sector has immense potential to generate employment and strengthen the rural economy. Addressing the DFDOs’ Conference-cum-Chintan Baithak organised by the Department of Fisheries at Pare Hall of the DK Convention Centre, Wangsu called upon officers to work with renewed commitment and adopt a long-term, data-driven approach to sectoral development. The meeting was attended by Advisor to Fisheries Minister and Yachuli MLA Talem Taboh, Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development Department Secretary YVVJ Rajshekhar, deputy directors and DFDOs from across the state. Highlighting the untapped potential of the sector, Wangsu said many people remain unaware of the opportunities available in fisheries and urged officers to work in a coordinated manner to revive momentum within the department. “This department can work like a magic wand if we work in the right direction,” he said, while stressing timely data collection, improved communication and effective planning. The Minister underscored the role of Fish Farmer Producer Companies (FFPCs) in strengthening the sector and directed officers to encourage the formation and nurturing of more cooperative societies. He also called for greater youth participation through programmes such as Catch Them Young and emphasised the need to identify genuine beneficiaries under government schemes. Stating that hatcheries are critical infrastructure for fisheries development, Wangsu said the government would actively explore the establishment of more hatcheries across the state. He also assured officers that issues related to vehicles and other logistical requirements would be addressed. Earlier, Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development Department Secretary YVVJ Rajshekhar outlined key intervention areas in the fisheries sector. District-wise presentations by DFDOs reviewed performance, fund utilisation, manpower availability, infrastructure status, revenue generation and implementation of various state and central schemes. During the discussions, officers shared field-level experiences and highlighted operational challenges, leading to deliberations on measures to improve service delivery and strengthen the fisheries ecosystem. Addressing the gathering, Taboh described fisheries as a high-potential sector that often receives inadequate attention. He urged officers to ensure that benefits reach genuine farmers without political considerations and encouraged them to inspire local communities through active engagement. The seminar also identified key thrust areas for future development, including hatcheries, cooperative-based fisheries, youth entrepreneurship and enhanced fish production to reduce dependence on imports. Earlier in the programme, Wangsu released the Pictorial Fish Directory – Arunachal Pradesh (Indigenous and Cultivable Fish), a publication of the Fisheries Department intended to serve as a valuable reference resource for farmers, students and researchers.      

RAKAP : Information and Broadcasting Ministry Secretary Chanchal Kumar on Thursday reviewed the progress of infrastructure development and ongoing construction works at the Film and Television Institute (FTII) campus at Rakap. He was accompanied by Information and Broadcasting Ministry Joint Secretary (Films) Dr Ajay Nagabhushan MN, Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner Lobsang Tsering and Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) Kolkata Vice Chancellor Prof Samiran Dutta. During the visit, Kumar inspected various construction activities, assessed the status of campus infrastructure and reviewed the functioning of the institute’s Water Treatment Plant. He also held separate meetings with officials of the Public Health Engineering and Water Supply Department Itanagar Division and the Power Department Yupia Division to review progress on utility-related works and ensure timely completion of pending infrastructure projects. Representatives of the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) and the executing contractor were present during the discussions. Interacting with institute officials, the Secretary directed authorities to ensure full preparedness for accommodating the new batch of students expected to join in August. He later met students and encouraged them to make optimum use of the institute’s facilities and academic opportunities. Emphasising stronger community engagement, Kumar advised the institute administration to organise programmes involving local residents to foster a positive relationship between the campus and neighbouring communities. He also stressed the need to keep the campus vibrant through regular film festivals, screenings, cultural exchanges and other creative activities, while advocating capacity-building programmes for officials and staff through training at reputed institutions. To further strengthen the institute’s development, Kumar suggested convening a videoconference involving the Vice Chancellors of FTII Pune, SRFTI Kolkata and FTII Itanagar to enhance coordination and institutional collaboration.