State News

Staff Reporter ITANAGAR :  The All Arunachal Pradesh Youth Organisation (AAPYO) on Tuesday urged the state government and Union Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju to intervene in the alleged forced resignation of North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST) Director Prof. Narendranath S. Addressing a press conference at the Arunachal Press Club here, AAPYO president Kipa Kanam alleged that NERIST, one of the premier educational institutions in the region, is facing a crisis due to what he described as “dirty politics” within the institute, adversely affecting its reputation and academic environment. Kanam informed that the organisation has submitted representations to Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju seeking immediate intervention into the matter. The organisation demanded the termination of suspended NERIST officials Mai Kuru Camder and Doge Kamduk, alleging their involvement in irregularities related to the Recruitment Rules (RRs) 2022 governing non-teaching staff appointments. It also questioned the circumstances surrounding the resignation of the institute’s Director. Referring to the promotion of Camder, Kanam alleged that his elevation from Joint Registrar to Registrar within 48 days was irregular and claimed that no sanctioned vacancy existed for the post at the time. He further alleged that Kamduk’s promotion from Section Officer to Assistant Registrar was carried out in violation of established procedures. Kanam also alleged that shortly after suspension orders were issued against the two officials, certain individuals compelled the Director to resign. Describing the development as detrimental to the institution’s administrative integrity, he claimed that external interference had adversely affected the functioning of the institute. Demanding a thorough investigation, AAPYO called for the arrest of all individuals allegedly involved in or facilitating the Director’s resignation, including the suspended officials and others concerned. The organisation further alleged irregularities in the implementation of various projects and schemes within NERIST. Kanam claimed there were anomalies in project reports, misuse of development funds and disruptions in the procurement of laboratory and scientific equipment. As a result, students were allegedly forced to rely on outdated laboratory infrastructure despite the availability of funds for academic and infrastructural development. AAPYO urged the Union Minister to take decisive action against the suspended officials rather than keeping them under suspension. It also appealed to community leaders, student bodies and the public to refrain from politicising educational institutions. “Institutions like NERIST are sacred places of learning. Students are the backbone of the nation, and such institutions must be protected from vested interests and political interference,” Kanam said.      

AALO : A District Level Monitoring Committee (DLMC) meeting was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall here on Tuesday under the chairmanship of West Siang Deputy Commissioner Mindo Loyi to review the implementation of Central and state government flagship schemes and developmental projects in the district. The meeting began with a welcome address by Aalo Assistant Commissioner-cum-District Planning Officer Koj Tacho, who highlighted the importance of effective implementation and monitoring of welfare schemes and development initiatives undertaken by various departments. Addressing the gathering, Loyi urged Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) leaders to actively participate in DLMC meetings to strengthen coordination and monitoring of developmental activities. Emphasising accountability, he directed all government departments to maintain quality standards and ensure the timely completion of projects. Highlighting the Smart Meter initiative, the Deputy Commissioner described it as a progressive measure that would benefit consumers through improved energy management and encouraged citizens to adopt the system positively. Expressing concern over declining water levels in the district, Loyi stressed the need for concerted efforts to curb deforestation and protect the environment. He also directed departments to submit updated reports on the progress of ongoing projects and schemes. West Siang Zilla Parishad Chairperson Nyali Bagra underscored the need for transparent and effective implementation of development schemes sanctioned by both the Centre and the state government. He urged departments to keep the Zilla Parishad informed about the execution of various schemes and ensure that benefits reach genuine beneficiaries. Bagra also stressed that salary payments should not be released to teachers who remain absent from duty. He further called upon all stakeholders to take stringent measures against hunting, illegal fishing and deforestation to safeguard the district’s biodiversity and natural resources. The meeting concluded with discussions on developmental activities, welfare schemes, environmental conservation and measures to strengthen good governance in the district. Among those present were Additional Deputy Commissioner Mabi Taipodia Jini, Zilla Parishad Members, Heads of Departments and other district officials. (DIPR)

ITANAGAR : The Department of Research on Tuesday formally launched its year-long Platinum Jubilee celebrations, commemorating 75 years of service and contributions to the intellectual, cultural and developmental landscape of Arunachal Pradesh. Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Tai Tagak attended the inaugural programme as the chief guest and inaugurated a special exhibition showcasing the department’s historical journey, achievements and contributions over the past seven and a half decades. He also launched the Platinum Jubilee Logo Design Competition, marking the formal commencement of the celebrations. In his address, Tagak underscored the need to strengthen research institutions in the state, particularly for documenting indigenous knowledge systems and preserving Arunachal Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage for future generations. Delivering the keynote address, Padma Shri awardee YD Thongchi reflected on the department’s pivotal role during the formative years of the state’s administration and stressed the need to restore its prominence in contemporary governance and research. The programme featured a plenary session on the past, present and future of research in Arunachal Pradesh. Dr Radhe Yampi presented a paper tracing the department’s 75-year journey, achievements, challenges and future opportunities. Prof. Ashan Riddi spoke on historical research and archival development, while Prof. Jumyir Basar highlighted research excellence, innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration and capacity building. Dr Tarh Ramya discussed the role of research in policy formulation and governance. The event was attended by academicians, researchers, scholars, government officials, students and members of the public. As part of the year-long observance, the department will organise a series of academic, cultural and heritage-related programmes. A major mid-term event proposed for October 2026 includes a national and international conference and conclave focusing on the promotion, preservation, documentation and protection of indigenous knowledge systems, cultural heritage, research methodologies and emerging areas of research. The Platinum Jubilee celebrations aim not only to honour the department’s rich legacy but also to chart a visionary roadmap towards its centenary year in 2051.      

ITANAGAR : Arunachal Pradesh has earned national recognition at the India Today Tourism Survey & Awards 2026, securing two prestigious accolades that highlight the state’s growing stature in adventure tourism and community-based hospitality. The state received the Editor’s Choice Award for Adventure Destination for the world-renowned Siang River Rafting, while Nawang Chotta Homestay in Lumpo village (under Zemithang circle in Tawang district) was conferred the Special Award for Tribal Homestays. Receiving the awards, Tourism Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona described the recognition as a proud moment for Arunachal Pradesh and a strong reaffirmation of the state’s immense potential as one of India’s premier adventure tourism destinations. He said the mighty Siang River, known for its breathtaking landscape and thrilling rafting experience, truly represents the spirit of adventure that Arunachal Pradesh offers to visitors from across the globe. Sona congratulated local communities, tourism stakeholders, guides, adventure enthusiasts and tourism professionals for their continued efforts in promoting the Siang region as a world-class adventure destination. He also expressed gratitude to union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and the Ministry of Tourism for their continued support towards the growth of tourism in the state. Sona reiterated the state government’s commitment to promoting adventure tourism in a sustainable, safe and community-driven manner. Congratulating Nawang Chotta Homestay on winning the Special Award for Best Tribal Homestay, Sona said the recognition celebrates the warmth of Arunachal Pradesh’s traditional hospitality, the richness of its tribal heritage and the growing importance of community-led tourism. He noted that homestays play a crucial role in providing visitors with authentic cultural experiences while simultaneously creating livelihood opportunities for local communities and contributing to rural economic development. The Tourism Department expressed gratitude to all stakeholders and well-wishers who have supported its efforts to showcase the unique experiences, natural beauty and cultural diversity of Arunachal Pradesh. The twin awards are expected to further strengthen Arunachal Pradesh’s position as a leading destination for adventure, eco and cultural tourism in the country. (Source: UNI)