State News

Staff Reporter ITANAGAR : The Arunachal ST Bachao Andolan Committee (ASTBAC) on Wednesday urged Law Minister Kento Jini to convene a meeting of the high-power committee constituted to examine issues relating to non-APST lineage claims, protection of indigenous rights and related matters, or issue an order scheduling the meeting at the earliest. Addressing a press conference at the Arunachal Press Club here, ASTBAC chairman Sol Dodum expressed concern over the delay in convening the committee’s meeting, stating that nearly two months have passed since the state government constituted the high-power committees, but no meeting has been called by the committee headed by Jini. Dodum informed that ASTBAC is scheduled to hold its second meeting on the issue on August 11 and urged the law minister to convene the committee meeting without further delay. Expressing disappointment over the inaction, Dodum said that if the meeting is not convened soon, the government should appoint a competent person to head the committee. He further informed that ASTBAC members have been carrying out groundwork across various districts and that surveys in Lohit, Namsai and Lower Dibang Valley districts, including Roing, have already been completed. Dodum also stated that the committee has obtained documents relating to the Nepal-India agreement on the settlement of Nepalis in India, while documents concerning the settlement of Tibetan and Chakma-Hajong communities are yet to be received. He further claimed that thousands of non-APST voters have been deleted during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. Earlier, the state government had constituted four high-power committees following consultative meetings with ASTBAC, the All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) and various indigenous organisations to address issues related to APST certificate verification, non-APST lineage claims, illegal infiltration and strengthening of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) regime. Among the committees, one headed by Law Minister Kento Jini was tasked with examining issues relating to non-APST lineage claims and protection of indigenous rights. Another panel headed by Education Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona was constituted to examine the re-verification of APST certificates and related matters. To strengthen the ILP regime, the government constituted a committee headed by Agriculture and Horticulture Minister Gabriel D Wangsu, while another committee headed by Environment and Forests Minister Wangki Lowang was formed to examine issues related to infiltration and illegal immigrants, as per an official order.    

NAMSAI : Namsai Police arrested a wanted drug supplier from Changlang district and another suspected accomplice, besides seizing 24 grams (gross weight) of suspected heroin during a naka checking operation on Tuesday evening. Acting on specific intelligence, a police team led by Namsai Sub-Divisional Police Officer Kengo Dirchi established a naka near the Piyong Road tri-junction leading to Wagun Road after receiving information that a Hero Splendor motorcycle (Registration No. AR-20A-8039) was transporting suspected heroin from the Innao-Diyun-Changlang route towards Namsai. The information was recorded in writing and communicated to Namsai Superintendent of Police Sangey Thinley in compliance with the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. The motorcycle was intercepted at around 6 pm in the presence of independent witnesses. The occupants were identified as Sunil Kumar Chakma (45) and Subash Chakma (40), both residents of Udaipur-I village under Diyun Police Station in Changlang district. After completing the mandatory legal formalities under the NDPS Act, including service of notices under Section 50, the police searched the accused and the motorcycle. During the search, 24 grams (gross weight) of suspected heroin concealed inside two plastic soap cases was recovered and seized along with the motorcycle and other incriminating articles. The search and seizure proceedings were conducted in the presence of independent witnesses and documented through the e-Sakshya application. A case has been registered at Namsai Police Station under Section 21(b) of the NDPS Act, and investigation is underway to trace the source of the contraband and identify others involved in the drug supply network. The operation was carried out by a team comprising Inspector T Gadi, Sub-Inspector Sanjay Kumar and Constable Gangsa under the supervision of Namsai Superintendent of Police Sangey Thinley. Reiterating its commitment to curbing drug trafficking, Namsai Police appealed to the public to share credible information on narcotics-related activities, assuring that the identity of informants would be kept strictly confidential.  

ITANAGAR : Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd) on Wednesday inaugurated the new Governor Secretariat Building at Lok Bhavan here and dedicated it to the people of the Sstate, describing Lok Bhavan as an institution that truly belongs to the people of Arunachal Pradesh. Chief Minister Pema Khandu, senior state government officers and officials of the Governor Secretariat attended the inauguration ceremony. Addressing the gathering, the Governor said Lok Bhavan serves as a platform for dialogue, cultural exchange, youth engagement and public outreach, bringing governance closer to the people. He urged citizens to regard Lok Bhavan as a house of the people, dedicated to the welfare and progress of every resident of Arunachal Pradesh. Highlighting the state’s developmental progress, Parnaik said Lok Bhavan would continue to remain accessible to citizens, students, entrepreneurs, artists, farmers and representatives of civil society. He added that every visitor should feel a sense of pride and ownership, as the institution reflects the collective aspirations, achievements and rich cultural heritage of the state. Commending the quality and architectural excellence of the new building, the Governor said Arunachal Pradesh is steadily setting new benchmarks in public infrastructure development. Referring to landmark institutions such as the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly and the Gauhati High Court Itanagar Permanent Bench complex, he said these structures exemplify the State’s commitment to functional, aesthetically designed and modern public infrastructure. Such world-class facilities, Parnaik added, reflect Arunachal Pradesh’s growing aspirations and commitment to good governance. Congratulating the Lok Bhavan fraternity, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu said the institution has evolved into a vibrant platform connecting people across regions, communities and cultures. Describing Lok Bhavan as a symbol of inclusive and people-centric governance, he said it has helped bridge geographical distances and cultural diversity while promoting dialogue, mutual respect and collective progress. The Ground-plus-One (G+1) Governor Secretariat Building has been constructed at a cost of ₹10.90 crore with a plinth area of 1,424.63 square metres. Executed by the Public Works Department (PWD), the project commenced on February 24, 2024. The building is equipped with a centrally air-conditioned system, closed-circuit television (CCTV)-based security surveillance and lift facilities, enhancing accessibility, safety, administrative efficiency and public service delivery.      

YUPIA : The Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP) on Wednesday launched the first phase of its humanitarian assistance for families affected by the flash floods that struck several districts of the state between June 26 and 29 by handing over a cheque of ₹2,05,732 to the Papum Pare district administration. The cheque was presented to Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner Hage Mamu at her office by an IFCSAP delegation led by its President Dr Emi Rumi. The delegation also included General Secretary Maya Murtem and IFCSAP Papum Pare District Unit President C.K. Yab. Expressing gratitude for the gesture, the DC said such acts of compassion and solidarity would further strengthen the spirit of brotherhood and unity among the people of Arunachal Pradesh. During the interaction, Dr Emi Rumi briefed the Deputy Commissioner on IFCSAP’s statewide crowdfunding initiative launched to support families affected by the flash floods. He said the assistance for Papum Pare was mobilised through contributions from IFCSAP Bichom District Unit (₹18,500), IFCSAP Pakke Kessang District Unit (₹51,500), IFCSAP Papum Pare District Unit (₹85,732) and the IFCSAP Central Executive Committee (₹50,000), taking the total assistance for the district to ₹2,05,732. Dr Rumi informed that relief assistance for the remaining flood-affected districts would be handed over by Friday, completing the first phase of IFCSAP’s statewide flood relief initiative.    

LONGDING : The Longding District Department of Horticulture organised a training-cum-awareness programme for farmers at Kamhua-Noknu village on Wednesday to promote scientific horticulture practices and create awareness about key government schemes. Around 30 farm families participated in the programme, which focused on strengthening technical knowledge and familiarising beneficiaries with flagship horticulture initiatives, including the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), Atma Nirbhar Bagwani Yojana (ANBY) and Atma Nirbhar Plantation Scheme (ANPS). The sessions highlighted the Area Expansion Programme under MIDH with emphasis on cluster-based crop management, sustainable horticultural development under ANBY and expansion of plantation coverage through ANPS. Longding Horticulture Development Officer Jaman Rangkham, who served as the resource person, conducted technical sessions on scientific cultivation practices for various horticultural crops. He also sensitised farmers on the balanced and efficient use of manures and fertilisers, besides promoting the use of organic plant protectors and eco-friendly crop guards for effective management of pests and diseases. Supported by departmental field functionaries, the interactive programme equipped participating farmers with modern cultivation techniques and sustainable farming practices aimed at improving productivity, crop health and farm income. (DIPR)    

TAWANG : PM SHRI School Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Tawang, celebrated Navodaya Foundation Day with great enthusiasm on Wednesday, commemorating 40 years of the Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti’s commitment to nurturing rural talent and providing quality education. The celebration began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp followed by the invocation song. Tawang Zilla Parishad Member and Mahila Morcha District President Sonam Nordzin attended the programme as the chief guest, while Tawang Assistant Commissioner Tenzin Jambey attended as the guest of honour. Alumni of JNV Tawang, Parent-Teacher Council (PTC) members and Vidyalaya Management Committee (VMC) members were also present. The programme featured colourful cultural performances, patriotic songs, traditional dances and literary presentations by students, showcasing the rich talent and values nurtured by the institution. Welcoming the gathering, Principal M L Meena highlighted the school’s achievements in academics, National Cadet Corps (NCC), sports, Olympiads and co-curricular activities, besides the successful implementation of various PM SHRI initiatives. He reiterated the institution’s commitment to holistic education and the all-round development of students. In her address, Nordzin congratulated the school community on completing four decades of excellence and appreciated the institution’s consistent achievements in academics, environmental conservation and child safety initiatives. She encouraged students to remain disciplined, confident and socially responsible while striving to become responsible citizens. Addressing the students, Jambey, a proud alumnus of JNV Tawang, shared his journey and urged them to uphold the values of discipline, integrity, perseverance and dedication in their pursuit of excellence and meaningful service to society. Adding a nostalgic touch to the celebration, distinguished alumnus Sangey Phuntsok recounted the institution’s journey from its temporary campus to its present permanent campus. He encouraged students to make the most of the opportunities provided by the school and remain focused on achieving their goals. The occasion also witnessed the felicitation of students for outstanding achievements in academics, NCC, sports, Olympiads, cultural activities and other co-curricular events. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, celebrating four decades of the Navodaya movement’s enduring commitment to nurturing rural talent and shaping future leaders. (DIPR)

ZIRO : Demonstrating that compassion transcends geographical boundaries, the Ziro Royal Enfielders (ZRE), a motorcycle club based in Lower Subansiri district, carried out a humanitarian relief mission for flood-affected families in Assam by donating essential relief materials through Sukafa Riders Motorcycle Club at Nazira in Sivasagar district. A Tata Mobile carrying relief supplies departed from Ziro, while an Isuzu truck and two private vehicles transporting additional materials from Itanagar joined the convoy to Sivasagar, delivering much-needed assistance to flood-hit communities. The relief mission marked the second phase of ZRE’s humanitarian campaign. Collection drives were organised in Ziro and Itanagar on July 29 and 30, during which volunteers gathered new and reusable essential items. The donated materials included drinking water, phenyl, sanitary pads, clothing, towels, bed sheets, utensils, footwear, undergarments and other daily necessities. Speaking on the initiative, Club Chief Nending Ommo said the campaign was inspired by the overwhelming support extended by people of Assam to Arunachal Pradesh during the recent flash floods in Keyi Panyor district. “When the people of Keyi Panyor were affected by flash floods last month, Ziro Royal Enfielders organised an online donation drive. We were deeply moved that nearly half of the contributions came from generous individuals and motorcycle clubs from Assam. Their solidarity during our difficult time will always be remembered. Today, when our brothers and sisters in Assam are facing one of the worst flood situations, it became our moral responsibility to stand beside them. This relief campaign is a small gesture of gratitude, humanity and brotherhood,” he said. Vice Chief Hage Duyu said the riding fraternity has always stood for unity beyond geographical and political boundaries. “Arunachal Pradesh and Assam are neighbours, and while political or border-related issues may sometimes create differences, humanity should always unite us. Through this initiative, we wanted to convey a simple message that the people of Assam are not alone in this difficult time. Arunachal Pradesh stands firmly with them,” he said. General-in-Command Duyu Deilyang said the club chose to personally deliver the relief materials despite challenging road conditions to reaffirm its solidarity with the affected communities. “Our contribution may be modest, but it comes with sincere concern and compassion. We are grateful to every individual donor and the riding fraternity that supported this campaign,” he said. He also acknowledged the support extended by fellow riding clubs, including Royal Arunachal Riders, Mountain Folks, Eastern Hill Riders, Arunachal Riders Consortium, Arunachal Bullet Club, Decent Souls and Royal Gorkha Riders. Explaining why the relief materials were handed over to Sukafa Riders Motorcycle Club, Ommo said the club coordinated with the local riders, who have been actively engaged in relief work for the past two weeks and were best placed to ensure that the aid reached the most deserving beneficiaries. He added that ZRE follows a policy of safeguarding the dignity and privacy of disaster victims by avoiding the public disclosure of their identities during relief operations. The initiative also received support from Monroe Phukan, a noted solo rider from Sivasagar, who assisted ZRE throughout the mission. Sukafa Riders Motorcycle Club Chief David and Secretary Sanjay expressed gratitude to Ziro Royal Enfielders for the thoughtful initiative, describing it as a meaningful gesture that strengthened the bond of brotherhood between the riding communities of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. The relief mission reflected the spirit of the riding fraternity, where motorcycles became vehicles of compassion, solidarity and hope, reaffirming that humanity rises above borders and differences in times of crisis.    

PITAPOOL : Members of the Retired Government Employees of Keyi Panyor District on Wednesday visited Possa and parts of the NEEPCO area in Pitapool Circle to interact with families affected by the devastating floods and landslides triggered by cloudbursts in June. The delegation, led by Chairman Taba Teni, Secretary Yowa Topu and Convenor TD Neckom, inspected areas that were severely impacted by the June 24 cloudbursts, which triggered landslides and flash floods, causing loss of lives and extensive damage to property. As a gesture of solidarity and support, the retired employees handed over financial assistance raised through contributions from their monthly pensions to the affected families. The delegation was accompanied by Padma Shri awardee Techi Guvin, senior leader Dr Joram Begi, Chukhu Tallar, Nich Tadar, noted artist Bengia Tabb and JT Toko, among others. Keyi Panyor Zilla Parishad Chairperson Nabam Piju, Possa Gram Panchayat Chairperson and other local leaders were present during the visit.