ONLINE AGE

(Online version of the Arunachal Age newspaper)

State News

Latest News, Popular News, State News

Guv calls for digital tools to strengthen food distribution

ITANAGAR : State Food Commission Chairman Tarh Tarak called on Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt General KT Parnaik (Retd) at Lok Bhavan here on Tuesday and discussed measures to strengthen food security mechanisms, improve service delivery and ensure welfare benefits reach all eligible citizens, particularly those in remote and border areas. The Governor emphasised the importance of transparency and accountability in implementing food security programmes and advised the Commission to promote regular social audits of the Public Distribution System (PDS), Mid-Day Meal Scheme and Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS). He said social audits would help identify gaps, prevent leakages, improve public trust and ensure that welfare benefits reach the intended beneficiaries. Highlighting the role of technology in governance, Parnaik recommended greater use of digital tools for efficient food distribution. He suggested end-to-end digitisation of the supply chain through GPS-enabled transportation, electronic Point of Sale (e-PoS) devices, Aadhaar-enabled authentication and real-time monitoring systems. Such measures, he said, would improve transparency, reduce pilferage and ensure timely delivery of food grains across the state. The Governor also stressed the need to move beyond food availability towards nutrition security. He advocated inclusion of locally available nutritious foods such as millets, fruits, vegetables, eggs and pulses in government nutrition programmes. He called for special attention to children, pregnant women, lactating mothers and other vulnerable groups to address malnutrition and build a healthier Arunachal Pradesh. The Chairman was accompanied by State Food Commission members Maji Chokar and Ngasah Tanjang.  

Latest News, Popular News, State News

AITF condemns Assam-Arunachal border firing, appeals for restraint

ITANAGAR : The Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF), a conglomeration of apex community-based organisations representing the indigenous tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, has condemned the firing incident along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh inter-state boundary that reportedly left at least 18 villagers injured on Monday. In a statement, the AITF expressed anguish over the reported firing and injuries, irrespective of the circumstances leading to the incident. It welcomed the intervention of the Directors General of Police (DGPs) of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, who remained in contact following the incident, and the deployment of reinforcements to the affected area to prevent further escalation and restore normalcy. According to local sources and ground reports cited by the AITF, a group of people from Assam had allegedly entered the Hime village area of Arunachal Pradesh in connection with land-boundary demarcation without mutual consent. Local residents reportedly objected to the activity, following which tensions escalated. The AITF noted that the Hime-Mingmang area has remained sensitive due to the longstanding Assam-Arunachal boundary dispute. It pointed out that the two states have agreed on mechanisms to resolve several disputed areas through dialogue, including realignment and settlement of villages in accordance with the Namsai Declaration. The forum also expressed concern over reports of a proposed road and economic blockade against Arunachal Pradesh following the incident, describing such measures as “uncalled for”. It said innocent people, particularly those requiring medical care and those travelling for time-bound official and private work, could suffer as a result. The AITF appealed to residents on both sides of the inter-state boundary to exercise utmost restraint and work towards restoring peace and communal harmony. It also urged people not to circulate unverified information or take the law into their own hands. The forum stressed that violence would only cause suffering and called upon the people of both neighbouring states to uphold their longstanding spirit of bonhomie, brotherhood and peaceful coexistence.  

Latest News, Popular News, State News

IPA gets building regulation powers in areas outside municipal limits

ITANAGAR : The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has delegated building regulation and control powers to the Itanagar Planning Authority (IPA) in urban areas falling outside municipal jurisdiction but within the jurisdiction of the Local Planning Authority. The order was issued in pursuance of a memorandum dated July 6, 2026, issued by the Commissioner, Urban Affairs, and under the relevant provisions of the Constitution of India, Arunachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Act, 1997, Arunachal Pradesh Urban and Country Planning Act, 2007 and Arunachal Pradesh Building Bye-Laws, 2019. Accordingly, the IPA will function as the competent authority for regulating and controlling building construction activities in areas outside municipal jurisdiction but within the Local Planning Authority. The powers delegated to the IPA include granting planning permissions and building approvals, regulating land use and development, enforcing development control regulations, inspecting and monitoring construction activities, taking action against unauthorised construction, maintaining planning and building records, and levying and collecting prescribed fees and charges. The IPA will ensure that development and construction activities conform to the Itanagar Master Plan-2031, applicable development plans, zoning regulations, planning standards and the Arunachal Pradesh Building Bye-Laws, 2019. The areas covered under the delegated powers include Banderdewa, Dobom, Karsingsa, Gumto, Doumkh, Yupia, Tikgdo, Norch, Borum, Tarajuli, Lekhi, Sood, Model Village, Papu-I, Papu-II, Jullang, Chimpu, Ganga, Bath, Poma and Jote. Residents, landowners, developers and other stakeholders undertaking construction or development activities in these areas have been directed to obtain the necessary planning permission or building approval from the IPA before commencing construction, wherever applicable under the prevailing laws and regulations. The delegation is aimed at ensuring planned, regulated and sustainable development in urban areas covered by the Itanagar Master Plan-2031 and strengthening enforcement of statutory planning and building regulations in areas outside municipal jurisdiction.    

Latest News, Popular News, State News

Foundation stone laid for modern cattle shed at Nirjuli

NIRJULI : Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development Minister Gabriel D Wangsu on Tuesday laid the foundation stone for a modern cattle shed at the Central Cattle Breeding Farm (CCBF), CLF, Nirjuli, marking a step towards strengthening livestock infrastructure and promoting scientific cattle management in the state. The programme was organised by the Department of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development (AHV&DD). The proposed facility is being constructed by the Water Resources Department, Itanagar Division, in collaboration with the AHV&DD. The new cattle shed will accommodate 40 high-genetic-merit cows and will be equipped with modern waste-disposal and ventilation systems along with an automated milking machine. Addressing the gathering, Wangsu stressed the importance of modern livestock infrastructure in improving animal health, cattle management and productivity. He said strengthening breeding and dairy infrastructure would contribute to the growth of the dairy sector and create better livelihood opportunities for livestock farmers. Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development Secretary YVVJ Rajasekhar said the department was working towards modernising livestock infrastructure and strengthening the dairy and animal husbandry sectors. He said the new facility would provide a cleaner, more hygienic and animal-friendly environment for cattle at the farm. Wangsu also inspected the proposed site and reviewed the existing facilities, besides discussing measures to further improve cattle breeding and dairy-related activities at the farm. The Central Cattle Breeding Farm, Nirjuli, plays an important role in cattle development and improving livestock productivity in the state. The modernisation of its infrastructure is expected to strengthen scientific cattle management and contribute to the development of a productive, sustainable and self-reliant dairy sector. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development Director Dr D Longri.    

Latest News, Popular News, State News

YMCR promotes environmental awareness through art, poetry

ITANAGAR : The Youth Mission for Clean River (YMCR) and Abralow Memorial Multipurpose Society, in collaboration with the Science Centre, IG Park, Itanagar, and with support from the Itanagar Smart City Development Corporation Limited (ISCDCL), organised poem writing and drawing competitions for college students as part of the annual Yagamso River Arts and Expression Competition (YAREC). The competitions aimed to encourage young people to explore environmental concerns through creative expression, literature and art, with particular focus on river conservation and environmental responsibility. In the poem writing competition, Dera Natung Government College students Tania Metu and Langda Sanam secured the first and second positions respectively. In the drawing competition, Ngechi Yampi and Obuk Nyitan, also from the college, secured the first and second positions respectively. The winners recited their poems and explained the messages behind their compositions, while the drawing competition winners presented their artworks and elaborated on the environmental themes and ideas reflected in them. Speaking on the occasion, YMCR member Keyom Doni said the initiative sought to instil environmental responsibility among youth through creative expression. He said such platforms enable students to reflect on issues concerning river conservation and communicate their concerns to a wider audience. Doni said YMCR would continue to organise similar initiatives to encourage greater youth participation in environmental causes.  

Latest News, Popular News, State News

Tiranga Yatra held

ZIRO : Lower Subansiri district joined the nationwide patriotic celebrations with the Tiranga Yatra Ziro 2026 on Tuesday, with citizens, local administration and community representatives coming together to celebrate national unity and pride. The programme began at Padi Yubbe Stadium, where participants assembled before the yatra. The patriotic spirit was further heightened with a rendition of Vande Mataram ahead of the march. Ziro MLA Hage Appa, Lower Subansiri Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme and Superintendent of Police Keni Bagra attended the programme. Addressing the gathering, Appa and Perme highlighted the significance of national unity, the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes and the collective responsibility of citizens towards the development of the district and the country. The MLA and Deputy Commissioner jointly flagged off the Tiranga Yatra, which passed through the main areas of Ziro before concluding at the Padi Yubbe Outdoor Stadium. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from residents and officials, reflecting a strong spirit of community harmony and patriotism. The programme concluded with refreshments and interaction among participants. The yatra was spearheaded by DACO Tapi Rimu, who expressed gratitude to the participants, officials and volunteers for their contribution towards the successful conduct of the event. (DIPR)

Latest News, Popular News, State News

KRS conducts cleanliness drive at Gobuk

YINGKIONG : The Kuhing Rumne Society (KRS), a Gobuk-based community organisation, conducted a cleanliness drive at Gobuk village and along the adjoining highway on Tuesday to promote environmental awareness and community participation in maintaining a clean and green environment. Located around 25 km from Yingkiong along the Yingkiong-Pasighat Road, Gobuk is known for its picturesque surroundings and community-led efforts towards biodiversity conservation and nature-based sustainable tourism. The drive, led by KRS president Ahong Sibo and secretary Akiam Siboh, saw active participation from society members and local residents. The volunteers cleaned the village, roadside stretches and public spaces along the highway, while also spreading awareness about responsible waste management and environmental protection. The KRS has been involved in various social welfare and environmental initiatives in and around Gobuk, including biodiversity conservation, prevention of hunting and protection of the local environment. Society members stressed that maintaining cleanliness is not the responsibility of the government alone and called for greater community participation. They also emphasised the need to protect the area’s rich biodiversity and promote responsible, nature-based tourism without compromising its ecological integrity. Jerseys were distributed among the participants as a gesture of encouragement and appreciation. The jerseys were sponsored by the KRS chairman. The KRS reiterated its commitment to continuing community-led initiatives aimed at keeping Gobuk clean, protecting biodiversity, discouraging hunting, promoting environmental awareness and encouraging sustainable tourism. The initiative highlighted the role of local communities in advancing environmental conservation, social responsibility and sustainable development. (DIPR)

Latest News, Popular News, State News

Wild cannabis cultivation destroyed

TAWANG : The 38th Battalion of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), Tawang, conducted a drive against illegal cultivation and growth of wild cannabis at Bomja village on Tuesday. The operation was carried out from around 8.35 am to 12.15 pm under the command of 38th Battalion SSB Tawang Commandant Amit Kumar Singh. It was led by SI/GD Balam Singh Negi along with seven other SSB personnel. During the operation, the team identified wild-grown cannabis spread across approximately one acre of land. The plants were subsequently destroyed as part of the enforcement drive. The operation was aimed at curbing the growth of illicit narcotic plants and strengthening public safety and security in the border areas of Tawang.

Latest News, Popular News, State News

MRMA 2.0 consultation meet promotes scientific sericulture

PASIGHAT : A consultation meeting under Mera Resham Mera Abhimaan (MRMA) 2.0, a sericulture technology-transfer initiative of the Central Silk Board under the Ministry of Textiles, was held at the Research Extension Centre, Sille, on Tuesday to promote scientific sericulture practices and strengthen silk production in East Siang. More than 50 sericulture farmers, officials and scientists participated in the programme, which provided a platform for interaction on field-level challenges, technology adoption and opportunities in the sector. Central Silk Board Scientist-D Dr Vijay N sensitised farmers on the implementation and opportunities under MRMA 2.0, improved sericulture practices, disease prevention and technical aspects of silkworm rearing. He emphasised that adoption of scientific practices and appropriate technologies could improve productivity, cocoon quality and economic returns. East Siang Deputy Commissioner Sonalika Jiwani interacted with the farmers and heard their concerns regarding field-level challenges, quality inputs, availability of silkworm seed and economic returns. She assured that efforts would be made to facilitate government support and subsidies for dedicated farmers and expand training opportunities in sericulture. Jiwani urged farmers to participate actively in forthcoming training programmes and adopt scientific practices to enhance production and livelihood opportunities. The meeting underscored the need for close coordination among scientists, technical experts, the Sericulture Department and farmers for effective transfer of research-based technologies to the field. It concluded with an assurance of continued technical guidance and support to strengthen sericulture and the silk sector in the district. (DIPR)  

Latest News, Popular News, State News

YMCR felicitates 25 interns as summer programme concludes

ITANAGAR : The Youth Mission for Clean River (YMCR) distributed certificates to 25 students on the successful completion of its 21-Day Summer Internship Programme 2026 at a graduation and certificate distribution ceremony held at the Science Centre, IG Park, here on Tuesday. The interns included 24 students from Dera Natung Government College and one from Binny Yanga Government College. During the internship, they participated in environmental awareness and conservation activities, community outreach programmes, river clean-up drives and social service initiatives, gaining practical exposure to environmental stewardship and community engagement. Sharing their experiences at the concluding ceremony, the interns expressed gratitude for the opportunity and pledged to share their learning with others. They also expressed their willingness to remain associated with YMCR and participate in its future environmental and community initiatives. Addressing the students, YMCR Vice Chairman Keyom Doni congratulated them on completing the programme and appreciated their dedication and active participation. He encouraged them to carry forward the values of environmental conservation and community service in their academic, professional and personal lives. Dera Natung Government College Assistant Professor Dr Pema Thungon thanked YMCR for providing the students with the internship opportunity and encouraged them to continue associating with the organisation and participating in its activities. The programme concluded with the interns receiving certificates and reaffirming their commitment to environmental conservation, community service and sustainable living.