State News

ITANAGAR : Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Saturday inaugurated the five-day 13th Dorjee Khandu Memorial State Badminton Championship-2026 at the Khelo India Indoor Stadium here, announcing that the annual financial support for the championship would be doubled from Rs 25 lakh to Rs 50 lakh from this year. Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Khandu said the enhanced support was aimed at strengthening the State’s badminton ecosystem and providing young players with greater opportunities to compete and excel. He assured that the Rs 50-lakh allocation would continue for subsequent editions of the championship. Organised by the Arunachal State Badminton Association (ASBA) in memory of former Chief Minister Late Dorjee Khandu, the championship has completed 13 editions and emerged as an important platform for young players to progress from State-level competitions to zonal, regional, national and international events. Khandu thanked the ASBA and its veteran players for their sustained efforts in popularising badminton across the State. Recalling Late Dorjee Khandu’s passion for the sport, he said Itanagar had only one badminton court during his father’s tenure, located below the Raj Bhavan, now Lok Bhavan. Highlighting the expansion of sports infrastructure, Khandu said a 20,700-square-metre plot near the Sange Lhaden Sports Academy had been earmarked for the proposed Dorjee Khandu Badminton Academy. Construction of the facility, which will have 20 badminton courts, is underway. “Once the academy is completed, we will be able to host international-level badminton competitions here,” Khandu said, describing the project as a major boost for badminton players and enthusiasts in the State. He noted that the ongoing championship was being hosted at the Khelo India Indoor Stadium, a modern facility developed under the Khelo India Scheme, which has around five badminton courts. He said improved infrastructure and growing technical expertise were enabling Arunachal’s sporting talent to realise its potential. Khandu said Arunachal Pradesh had made significant progress in sports over the past decade and secured second position among the North Eastern States in the latest National Games ranking. He expressed confidence that the State would retain and improve its position when Meghalaya hosts the next National Games. Crediting the national push for sports under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, particularly through the Khelo India initiative, Khandu said improved infrastructure had helped bridge the gap that previously prevented talented athletes from showcasing their abilities. He also highlighted the Chief Minister’s Sports Scholarship Scheme (CMSSS), launched last year, which currently supports around 30 athletes across nine disciplines. In its first year, athletes covered under the scheme collectively secured around 75 medals, including in 13 international competitions, he said. Khandu congratulated para-badminton player Biri Takar for representing India internationally and winning a gold medal at the Brazil Para Badminton International 2026. He described the achievement in the first year of the CMSSS as a matter of pride for the State. Highlighting Arunachal’s growing pool of badminton talent, Khandu mentioned Taku Manku, Samuel Tamang, Divya Tagu, Kiyom Tamin and La Takum among players making their mark at national and regional levels. In the women’s category, he named Pinky Karki, Taring Yana and La Yajum, noting that Taring Yana is a five-time North East champion in women’s doubles. Calling grassroots development crucial to building a sustainable sporting ecosystem, Khandu urged senior coaches and district-level badminton associations to identify and nurture talent from an early stage. “Talent is not lacking in Arunachal Pradesh. What we need is to identify that talent early, provide the right training and give our young players sustained opportunities,” he said. The Chief Minister said the government would continue to work with the Sports Department, Arunachal Pradesh Olympic Association and various sports associations to strengthen the State’s sporting ecosystem. Encouraging the participating players, Khandu said winning and losing were part of sport, while representing the State itself was a matter of pride. He urged the players to give their best and return stronger and more determined in subsequent editions, irrespective of the outcome. The five-day championship has brought together 402 players, including 95 girls, from different districts of Arunachal Pradesh. A total of 543 matches will be played across 28 events during the championship, which also seeks to identify and promote emerging badminton talent while commemorating Late Dorjee Khandu’s contribution to the sport in the State.      

Manoj Singh KIMIN : Severe erosion has damaged the approach embankment of the Ranga-I Bridge over the Panyor River along the Kimin-Potin Road in Papum Pare district, disrupting heavy vehicle movement and raising concerns over the supply of essential commodities to several interior districts. The damaged stretch at Km 7.50 of the Kimin-Potin Road is particularly significant as the route serves as a critical link to Keyi Panyor, Lower Subansiri, Kurung Kumey, Kra Daadi, Upper Subansiri, Kamle and adjoining areas. Papum Pare Zilla Parishad Chairperson (ZPC) Bamang Yayu said the disruption has affected the transportation of petrol, diesel, ration items, LPG and other essential supplies. She said uninterrupted connectivity along the route was vital as it serves as a key junction connecting seven districts. While light motor vehicles are being allowed to cross with caution, heavy vehicles have been barred following safety concerns arising from the damaged embankment. Papum Pare Additional Deputy Commissioner Ocean Gao said heavy vehicle movement over the bridge was suspended on August 3 after the approach embankment collapsed following continuous heavy rainfall. A gate has been installed at the site to prevent heavy vehicles from using the vulnerable stretch. Technical teams and bridge experts inspected the structure and found that the bridge itself remained intact, with no visible cracks. However, the collapse of the lower embankment has made the bridge unsafe for heavy traffic, necessitating urgent restoration measures. An emergency meeting chaired by Gao on August 5, attended by villagers, Gaon Burahs, panchayat leaders and public representatives, resolved to restore an abandoned 4-km road connecting the 8-km point of the Border Roads Task Force (BRTF) road to Upper Jumi village as an alternative route. The proposed bypass, which has remained unused for years, requires extensive earthwork, drainage improvement, retaining structures and culvert repairs. A preliminary Detailed Project Report (DPR) prepared by the Rural Works Department has estimated the restoration cost at Rs 10.9 crore. Yayu said residents have urged the government to closely monitor restoration of the alternative route, stressing that temporary repair would not provide a lasting solution for such a strategically important inter-district road. Villagers and local representatives unanimously assured full cooperation for the restoration work. M/s Peno Enterprises of Kimin has also agreed to undertake the work immediately under the technical supervision of the Rural Works Department, pending financial sanction from the government. Gao said temporary measures, including drilling and anchoring at the damaged embankment, could facilitate diversion of traffic through the alternative route within about 10 days. Meanwhile, the district administration is allowing small tankers and light vehicles carrying reduced loads to cross the bridge under strict regulation to prevent shortages of essential commodities. Public Distribution System (PDS) supplies are being transported in smaller vehicles and reloaded where necessary. Gao said the Kimin-Potin Road has assumed greater importance following the closure of the Hoj-Potin Road and is currently the only functional route connecting several interior districts and strategically important border areas. He thanked GREF and Rural Works Department officials for their prompt response and said the DPR had been submitted to the Deputy Commissioner and the local MLA for necessary financial support. He emphasised that restoring uninterrupted connectivity remains a priority in the interests of public safety, essential services and national security. (DIPR)    

KHONSA : Arunachal Pradesh Chief Secretary Manish Kumar Gupta on Saturday undertook a comprehensive review of key developmental initiatives in Tirap district, focusing on the implementation of flagship government schemes, infrastructure projects and delivery of welfare programmes. The Chief Secretary was accompanied by Chief Electoral Officer Pawan Kumar Sain, and Director, Health & Family Welfare Marbom Basar. Deputy Commissioner, Tirap, Badonlum Tawsik, APCS (AG), Zilla Parishad Chairperson Advocate John KK Matey, Superintendent of Police Aditya, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Khonsa, Namneet Singh, ADC Deomali Tana Bapu, administrative officers and Heads of Departments attended the review meeting. Reviewing ongoing developmental works, Gupta stressed timely execution, quality assurance, effective monitoring and close inter-departmental coordination. He directed all departments to work in coordination to ensure effective implementation of government schemes and timely completion of infrastructure projects. The Chief Secretary advised the District Horticulture Officer, Khonsa, to intensify awareness among farmers on scientific horticulture practices as a sustainable alternative to shifting cultivation under relevant flagship programmes. He stressed that such initiatives should promote sustainable livelihoods, enhance agricultural productivity and increase farmers’ incomes. He also called for greater public awareness on cleanliness, proper waste disposal and prevention of littering in Khonsa and Deomali towns. He stressed the need for appropriate wastewater treatment and improved sanitation and suggested preparation of comprehensive City Master Plans for both towns to facilitate planned urban development, parking management and better regulation of traffic. Emphasising optimal utilisation of existing government assets, Gupta directed departments to explore the possible reutilisation of defunct or underutilised assets through suitable engagement of Self-Help Groups, NGOs and other community-based organisations. He also stressed conservation of water sources and catchment areas through plantation and other appropriate measures to ensure long-term water security. Deputy Commissioner Badonlum Tawsik presented a comprehensive overview of the district’s developmental status, major infrastructure projects, key achievements, ongoing initiatives and administrative challenges. Shortage of manpower at the Zonal General Hospital, Khonsa, and damage to roads at various locations were among the key issues highlighted. Various departments subsequently presented the status of their respective schemes and projects, covering Health and Family Welfare, Education, Police, PWD, RWD, Urban Development, Rural Development, PHE&WS, Water Resources, Power, APEDA, Agriculture, Horticulture, Election, Fisheries, Veterinary and Animal Husbandry, Environment and Forest, Textiles and Handicrafts and Disaster Management. Superintendent of Police Aditya briefed the Chief Secretary on measures being taken to combat drug peddling and insurgency-related activities. He informed that cases related to drug peddling were being actively pursued, while insurgency-related activities had shown a declining trend in the district. The Environment and Forest Department apprised the meeting of plantation and conservation initiatives being implemented under the CAMPA scheme. The District Agriculture Officer highlighted difficulties faced by beneficiaries in obtaining bank loans under various agricultural schemes, particularly delays in the release and disbursement of sanctioned loans by banks. Similar concerns were raised by the Fisheries Department regarding delays in loan disbursement to beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana and other initiatives under the Aatmanirbhar programme. Chief Electoral Officer Pawan Kumar Sain highlighted the importance of the Chief Minister’s Arogya Arunachal Yojana and other welfare schemes and stressed the need to ensure that eligible beneficiaries are adequately informed and able to access the benefits. The Chief Secretary appreciated the efforts of the district administration and various departments and directed them to maintain transparency, strengthen monitoring mechanisms, ensure quality execution and expedite project implementation so that the intended benefits reach the people within the stipulated timelines. Earlier, Gupta, accompanied by the Chief Electoral Officer, Director, Health & Family Welfare, Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police, Additional Deputy Commissioner and Executive Engineer, PWD, inspected the newly constructed first-floor extension of the existing PWD Circuit House at Khonsa. He appreciated the quality of construction and aesthetic design of the facility and commended Executive Engineer, PWD, Er Taro Jeram, for his efforts in executing the project. The day-long review was aimed at assessing the progress of major developmental projects, identifying bottlenecks and ensuring timely completion of ongoing works for the benefit of the people of Tirap district. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by ADC Khonsa Namneet Singh, IAS, who assured that the directions and observations made by the Chief Secretary would be followed up by the district administration and concerned departments.

TAWANG : PM SHRI School Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Tawang on Saturday organised a hands-on Brick Making Activity under the Kaushal Bodh initiative, providing students an opportunity to connect mathematical concepts with practical skills and real-life applications. Moving beyond conventional classroom learning, students actively participated in the brick-making process and applied mathematical concepts such as dimensions, area and volume through practical measurement, calculation and observation. The activity enabled students to understand how mathematical concepts taught in classrooms are applied in everyday life. It also incorporated Art-Integrated Learning, encouraging creativity, teamwork, experimentation and problem-solving. The hands-on approach made learning more interactive and engaging while helping students develop practical skills, curiosity and a better understanding of mathematical concepts. The initiative reflected the theme of “Learning by Doing | Skills for Life | Mathematics in Action” and demonstrated how skill-based education can make academic concepts more relatable and meaningful. The activity is in line with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the objectives of PM SHRI Schools, which emphasise holistic, competency-based and skill-oriented education. For the students of JNV Tawang, the activity offered a practical way to discover mathematics beyond the classroom, demonstrating how everyday tasks can become meaningful learning experiences.  

Maksam Tayeng PASIGHAT : Officers, General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF) personnel and families of the Border Roads Organisation’s (BRO) Project Brahmank have extended voluntary relief assistance to families affected by the devastating floods in Assam. Assam has witnessed widespread flooding during the ongoing monsoon, affecting lives and livelihoods and damaging roads, embankments and agricultural land in several districts, including Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat, Golaghat, Dhemaji, Sonitpur and Bajali. Several areas have also reported disruption to drinking water, electricity, healthcare and transportation. Under the leadership of Chief Engineer Project Brahmank Pankaj Goyal, the personnel organised a voluntary relief campaign and contributed funds and essential items, including rice, food, clothing, footwear, blankets and other daily-use necessities. The collected materials were assembled at Headquarters Chief Engineer Project Brahmank in Pasighat and dispatched to Dibrugarh on August 4. They were subsequently handed over to the Rotary Club of Dibrugarh for distribution among flood-affected families. The initiative reflects the BRO’s ethos of “service beyond duty” and its commitment to humanitarian assistance during natural disasters. While the organisation is primarily tasked with constructing and maintaining critical infrastructure in challenging terrains, its personnel have once again extended support to communities facing adversity. The voluntary contribution highlights the values of compassion, solidarity and national responsibility, while underscoring the importance of collective efforts in providing timely assistance to disaster-affected communities.    

Mingkeng Osik PASIGHAT : Auditions for Miss LU 2026–27 were held at Gidi Notko here on Saturday, with 19 aspiring contestants participating in the selection process. Fifteen contestants will be shortlisted for the subsequent stages of the competition. Miss LU Chairperson Gena Borang Perme said the grand finale, scheduled for September 12, will feature four rounds along with five additional subtitles recognising contestants in different categories. She also announced a special “Secret Subtitle” to add an element of anticipation to the finale. Judge Amoni Diru encouraged the contestants to look beyond competition and support one another. Urging them to “empower each other and lift together”, she stressed the importance of confidence, solidarity and mutual encouragement. Miss LU seeks to provide young women with a platform to build confidence, showcase their talents and personalities, and express their individuality. The pageant also aims to promote exposure, communication skills and personal development. For the participants, the pageant offers an opportunity not only to compete for the crown but also to celebrate their identity and culture, strengthen their confidence and inspire other young women. The shortlisted 15 contestants will advance to the next stages of the competition ahead of the grand finale on September 12.    

NAMSAI : A district-level Panch Sammelan was organised at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall here to sensitise elected representatives and functionaries of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) on the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-RAMG). The programme was chaired by Deputy Commissioner, Namsai, Lobsang Tsering and attended by Gram Panchayat Chairpersons (GPCs), Gram Panchayat Members (GPMs), other PRI representatives, Block Development Officers (BDOs) and concerned block-level officers and officials. A PowerPoint presentation was made on the objectives, provisions and implementation framework of VB-RAMG. ADC-cum-District Panchayat Development Officer N.K. Namchoom sensitised the participants on the significance of the scheme, particularly its focus on four priority areas—water security, rural infrastructure, livelihood infrastructure and climate resilience. She also highlighted the importance of the Viksit Gram Panchayat Plan (VGPP) and stressed the need for grassroots-level planning in alignment with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. Namchoom urged elected representatives and PRI functionaries to actively participate in planning and implementation processes to ensure that development schemes reach the intended beneficiaries effectively. Addressing the gathering, DC Tsering emphasised the crucial role of GPCs, GPMs and other PRI representatives in driving development at the grassroots level. He urged them to make full use of the technical guidance and inputs provided by the BDOs and maintain close coordination with the district administration and line departments. The DC also stressed the importance of clearly understanding their respective roles and responsibilities for the overall development of Namsai district. Highlighting the role of PRIs in community mobilisation, Tsering urged the elected representatives to create greater awareness among people and contribute to collective efforts to eradicate the menace of narcotics from the district. The programme concluded with an emphasis on stronger coordination among PRIs, block-level functionaries and the district administration for effective implementation of VB-RAMG and other development schemes Participants were encouraged to ensure proper planning, convergence, transparency and adherence to prescribed guidelines for successful implementation of government schemes and sustainable development in Namsai district. (DIPR)      

KAKKI : Essential relief and rescue materials were distributed to flood-affected Kakki village on Saturday by the Ramle Banggo Welfare Society in collaboration with the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and the Department of Forest, Environment & Climate Change, Government of Arunachal Pradesh. The initiative seeks to strengthen community preparedness and response mechanisms for human and wildlife rescue, relief and rehabilitation in the flood-affected area. The materials included solar lamps, rechargeable torches with batteries, headlamps, life jackets, snake rescue kits, ponchos and other essential rescue equipment. The supplies were sponsored by Foundation Segre, WTI and the Department of Forest, Environment & Climate Change. The distribution team was led by Ramle Banggo Welfare Society General Secretary Murter Kakki, along with Wildlife Trust of India Senior Manager Dr Panjit Basumatary and D. Ering Wildlife Sanctuary Foresters Nyaken Zirdo and T. Kaman. Speaking on the occasion, the team stressed the importance of community preparedness and coordinated response, particularly in areas where human settlements are located close to wildlife habitats. The initiative reflects collaborative efforts by community organisations, wildlife conservation agencies and the Forest Department to enhance the safety, rescue and rehabilitation of people and wildlife during natural calamities. The Ramle Banggo Welfare Society expressed appreciation to the sponsoring organisations and the Forest Department for extending timely support to the flood-affected community.(DIPR)

PASIGHAT : A python rescued from Silluk village under Mebo Sub-Division was safely relocated to the D. Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary on Thursday last, highlighting the growing role of local communities in wildlife conservation. The python was rescued by Silluk Swachh Abhiyan (SSA) Chairman Kepang Nong Borang after villagers spotted it near the village. Responding to the information, Borang secured the snake in a cage instead of allowing it to be harmed. The python was later released into the sanctuary in the presence of East Siang Honorary Wildlife Warden M. Tayeng and field staff of the Borguli Wildlife Range. Silluk Village-II Gram Panchayat Chairperson Opung Borang also accompanied the rescue team. Borang said another python of similar age and size was reportedly killed by some village youths the following day. He said the incident prompted him to seek a safer habitat for the rescued python rather than releasing it near the village, where it could face further threats. “When I heard about the sighting of a baby python, I convinced the villagers to help rescue it instead of killing it,” Borang said, stressing the need to change the tendency to harm snakes found near human habitation. He said releasing the python in the nearby village forest could have exposed it to further risks and therefore approached the Borguli Wildlife Range for its safe relocation to the sanctuary. The SSA team has previously undertaken similar conservation efforts, having rescued and released two Chinese pangolins into the D. Ering Wildlife Sanctuary in 2023 and 2024. Opung Borang expressed concern that the mother of the rescued python could still be in the area. She said villagers would make efforts to rescue and safely relocate any other pythons found near the village and urged residents to immediately inform her or Kepang Nong Borang about sightings instead of attempting to kill or capture the animals. She also appealed to the State Forest and Wildlife Department to provide rescue cages, essential equipment and medicines to local community members engaged in wildlife rescue. The Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), D Ering Wildlife Sanctuary, and Range Forest Officer (RFO), Borguli Wildlife Range, appreciated the efforts of Kepang Nong Borang and Opung Borang towards wildlife protection. The DFO also called upon more youths and villagers to participate in wildlife conservation, stressing that greater community involvement was essential for maintaining the region’s ecological balance. The safe relocation of the python underscores how timely intervention and community awareness can help reduce human-wildlife conflict, particularly in villages located close to forest and wildlife habitats. (Source: Maksam Tayeng)

ITANAGAR : Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to transforming Arunachal Pradesh’s rich handloom tradition into a vibrant economic sector by integrating traditional weaving with modern design, entrepreneurship and global market access while preserving its indigenous heritage. Addressing the inaugural function of the three-day celebration of the 12th National Handloom Day at the DK Convention Centre here, Khandu described handloom as much more than a livelihood activity, calling it the cultural identity and living heritage of the indigenous tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. “Every woven fabric of Arunachal tells the story of our people, our traditions and our identity. Our handloom sector has the potential to become a major driver of rural livelihoods, women empowerment and sustainable economic growth,” he said. Highlighting the state’s weaving tradition, the Chief Minister said Arunachal Pradesh is home to more than 32,000 handloom weavers, the majority of them women, making the sector one of the largest sources of livelihood for rural households. He said the government has been strengthening the handloom ecosystem through improved infrastructure, skill development, design innovation, marketing support and entrepreneurship promotion. Common Facility Centres (CFCs) have been established, weaving infrastructure upgraded and modern equipment introduced to improve productivity while preserving the authenticity of traditional designs. Khandu said weavers are also being trained in contemporary design techniques, natural dyeing, quality improvement and product diversification to enhance their competitiveness in national and international markets. He added that various state and central government schemes are providing financial assistance, raw materials, modern looms and marketing support to weavers and artisan groups. Urging young entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in the sector, he called for combining traditional craftsmanship with modern branding, digital marketing and e-commerce platforms. Emphasising the pivotal role of women in preserving the state’s textile traditions, the Chief Minister said generations of women have safeguarded Arunachal’s cultural heritage through weaving. “Our women have preserved our heritage through handloom for centuries. It is now our responsibility to ensure that this heritage also provides sustainable income and economic independence,” he said. Khandu called for closer collaboration among government departments, designers, educational institutions, self-help groups, cooperatives and private entrepreneurs to develop Arunachal’s handloom products into globally recognised brands. He stressed the need for innovation without compromising the originality of indigenous designs, stating that value addition and quality enhancement would enable local products to access premium domestic and international markets. The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of securing Geographical Indication (GI) registration for the state’s indigenous textile products. He said GI certification would protect traditional knowledge, preserve the unique weaving traditions of different tribes, prevent imitation of indigenous designs and enable artisans to command better prices in the market. Speaking on the potential of sericulture, Khandu described it as a natural extension of Arunachal Pradesh’s handloom ecosystem and a sector capable of generating sustainable livelihoods across rural areas. He noted that the state’s favourable climatic conditions support the production of Eri, Muga, Mulberry and Oak Tasar silk, making Arunachal one of the few states capable of producing all four commercially important varieties of silk. He said strengthening the entire sericulture value chain—from host plant cultivation and silkworm rearing to spinning, reeling and weaving—would boost rural incomes while ensuring a steady supply of quality raw material for the state’s growing handloom industry. Calling for greater convergence between the handloom, textiles and sericulture sectors, the Chief Minister urged officials to promote value addition, branding and stronger market linkages so that Arunachal Pradesh emerges as a leading producer of premium silk and handloom products in the country. Expressing confidence in the sector’s future, Khandu said that with sustained government support, technological intervention and active participation of artisans and entrepreneurs, Arunachal Pradesh can emerge as one of India’s leading handloom destinations. During the programme, the Chief Minister launched the Department of Textiles and Handicrafts’ official website, the Artisan Data Bank and Atii – Arunachal Honey. He also felicitated outstanding weavers and artisans and distributed SAMARTH certificates and Yarn Pass Books to support handloom artisans. The inaugural function was attended by ministers, legislators, senior government officials, representatives of the handloom sector, master weavers, artisans, self-help groups and other stakeholders from across the state.