Hornbill News

  Itanagar, February 28, 2026: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Saturday formally launched the statewide National HPV Vaccination Campaign at Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS), marking a significant step toward strengthening preventive healthcare in Arunachal Pradesh . Health Minister Biyuram Wahge and senior health officials were also present on the occasion. The initiative aims to protect adolescent girls, particularly those aged 14 years, against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a leading cause of cervical cancer . Following the formal launch, vaccination of eligible beneficiaries commenced immediately, with the Chief Minister symbolically handing over HPV vaccination certificates to the first recipients. Strengthening Preventive Healthcare Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of young girls across the state. He emphasized that preventive healthcare remains a key prio...

  Itanagar , February 28, 2026: Despite renewed efforts by the Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) to strengthen waste management infrastructure, visible garbage accumulation continues to raise concerns across several parts of the Capital Region, including Niti Vihar and nearby localities. The IMC recently stationed garbage trucks at multiple identified points, including stretches along the road leading to the Chief Minister’s Bungalow, to facilitate proper disposal of household waste. The move forms part of an ongoing initiative to improve sanitation standards and curb roadside dumping in high-visibility and densely populated areas. However, in some locations, waste can still be seen scattered along roadsides and footpaths. An attached photograph from Niti Vihar shows litter spread around a designated garbage collection vehicle instead of being properly deposited inside it. The situation highlights apparent gaps in implementation and raises questions about both system efficiency...

  Kolkata, February 27, 2026: Acclaimed Bengali actor Swastika Mukherjee is set to headline the Indo-American co-production thriller Chheledhora, with principal photography scheduled to begin soon in Arunachal Pradesh. The film will be shot across key locations in Itanagar and Ziro Valley, bringing renewed national attention to the scenic landscapes of the northeastern state. According to reports, Chheledhora is positioned as a suspense-driven feature film that will combine Indian and American production expertise. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the project is expected to explore an intense narrative backed by visually striking outdoor settings. The collaboration marks a significant international partnership, with the film reportedly being positioned for the global festival circuit. Why Arunachal Pradesh? The selection of Itanagar and Ziro as primary shooting locations reflects the growing appeal of Arunachal Pradesh as a cinematic destination. Itanagar, the capita...

Tawang, February 26, 2026: Seven promising archers from the Tawang District Archery Association (TDAA) have been selected to represent Arunachal Pradesh at the upcoming National Archery Championship in the Under-13 category. The championship is scheduled to be held in Andhra Pradesh next month. In the Under-13 category, Karman Nyima Tashi, Tenzin Dondup, Thupten Tenzing, and Tashi Dorjee were officially announced as members of the state team. The selection process was conducted under the supervision of Mohini Kri, coach at the Khelo India Centre, Tawang. Earlier this month, Tsering Wangchu and Drem Tseru secured their places during the selection trials held in Itanagar. Additionally, Tenzin Dasel was selected in the Under-10 category, taking the total number of young archers from Tawang representing the state to seven. Selection Process and Preparation The young athletes earned their positions after undergoing rigorous selection trials and training sessions. Coaches and officials noted...

  New Delhi, February 26, 2026: The Government of India is set to launch a nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign on February 28, targeting 14-year-old girls as part of a major public health initiative to prevent cervical cancer. The programme, to be rolled out in coordination with state governments, marks a significant step toward strengthening preventive healthcare and reducing cancer-related mortality among women. According to officials from the Union Health Ministry, the campaign will provide free HPV vaccines through government health facilities and school-based outreach programmes. The initiative is expected to complement existing adolescent immunization efforts and expand coverage across both urban and rural areas. Targeting Adolescent Girls Health experts emphasize that administering the HPV vaccine at an early adolescent age offers the most effective protection against the virus before potential exposure. By focusing on 14-year-old girls, the programme ...

  Pasighat , February 27, 2026: Pasighat Police achieved a significant breakthrough in ongoing motor vehicle theft investigations with the recovery of five stolen two-wheelers from different locations across the district. The recovered vehicles are estimated to be worth approximately ₹6.5 lakh. During the operation, police arrested one accused, identified as Kendo Yomso (28), son of Late Nangkong Yomso and a resident of Ngopok village in East Siang district , Arunachal Pradesh . According to police sources, the recovery and arrest were carried out following sustained investigation and coordinated field operations. A team led by Inspector Dujom Bagra , Officer-in-Charge of Pasighat Police Station , conducted the operation along with SI J. Tasung, SI K. Tangha, and ASI R. Lowang. The operation was supervised by SDPO Pasighat , Dr. Akanksha . The stolen two-wheelers were recovered from multiple locations within the district. Police stated that further investigation is underway. In...

  Itanagar , February 27, 2026: A devastating fire mishap in the intervening night of Thursday and Friday claimed the life of a woman and left two children injured at Lower E Sector in Itanagar, opposite the Civil Secretariat. The fire reportedly broke out at around 12:20 AM and quickly escalated into a massive blaze, causing panic among residents in the area. The deceased has been identified as Tarh Yayum, wife of Tarh Tame. The two injured children have been identified as Tarh Yalke and Tarh Roshni. Both are currently undergoing medical treatment. Sources informed that the postmortem of the deceased was conducted at the Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS). The condition of the injured children is being monitored by medical authorities. Blaze Intensified Rapidly According to reports and eyewitness accounts, the fire spread rapidly within minutes of breaking out. Three LPG cylinders reportedly burst during the incident, intensifying the flames and making fir...

  Itanagar, February 27, 2026: In a move aimed at strengthening educational infrastructure and easing transportation challenges for students, 29 Basar (ST) Assembly Constituency MLA Nyabi Jini Dirchi donated a fully equipped school van to MMR Gurukul School during a formal handover ceremony held at F&G Sector, Itanagar. The donated vehicle will be used to provide safe and reliable transportation for students of the school, particularly those commuting from distant areas. School authorities stated that the initiative would significantly ease travel difficulties and ensure regular attendance. MMR Gurukul School, located in Basar, serves students from various nearby villages. With limited public transport facilities in certain pockets of the region, dedicated school transportation is expected to enhance accessibility and improve overall academic participation. The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries and community members, including Tojir Kadu, Dr. Emi Rumi, Nyamar Riba, E...

  Nafra, February 26, 2026:  A district-level earthquake response mock exercise was successfully conducted on February 26 at the DC Office in Nafra, Bichom district, aimed at strengthening disaster preparedness and enhancing coordinated emergency response mechanisms across departments. The exercise was organized by the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Bichom district, in collaboration with the 12th Battalion of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). The primary objective of the drill was to assess preparedness levels, improve inter-agency coordination, and test the effectiveness of emergency response protocols in the event of a major earthquake. Focus on Preparedness and Rapid Response The mock drill simulated a realistic earthquake scenario, requiring immediate activation of emergency response systems. Participating agencies demonstrated search and rescue operations, evacuation procedures, and on-site emergency medical management. Rescue teams carried out ...

  New Delhi , February 26, 2026: Royal scion of Tripura and founder of the TIPRA Motha Party , Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma , met and interacted with three women from the Northeast who were reportedly racially targeted in Malviya Nagar , Delhi . The meeting came amid growing concern over incidents of racial profiling faced by people from the region in metropolitan cities. In a post shared on his official social media account, Debbarma expressed solidarity with the women and the wider Northeast community. He stated that they have his “unwavering support” and affirmed that he would stand with anyone from the Northeast who has been unfairly profiled or targeted. Emphasising unity, he added that people across the region must remain together as “One Northeast” for the sake of future generations. The interaction has drawn attention online, with several users calling for stronger action against racial discrimination and greater protection for individuals from the Northeast living ou...

  East Siang, February 26, 2026: Under the ongoing Operation Dawn 2.0, East Siang Police apprehended two individuals in separate anti-narcotics operations carried out under Pasighat Police Station and Ruksin Police Station , recovering approximately 9 grams of heroin and 20 grams of suspected ganja. On February 23, 2026, acting on reliable information, the Anti-Drug Squad (ADS) team led by IC ADS Ayup Boko , APPS, along with SI Kuncha Tangha, Ct. Samuel Modi and Ct. Phinjo Kigar, apprehended Nagos Panggen of Jarkong , Pasighat, East Siang district. A body search conducted in the presence of Executive Magistrate Smti. Mum Messer led to the recovery of a small quantity of suspected ganja from his possession. In a separate operation on February 25, 2026, following credible source information received at around 0905 hrs regarding illegal trafficking of narcotic substances, another team led by ADS IC Ayup Boko, APPS, and SI K. Tangha, along with Ct. O. Mize and Ct. A. Tayeng, coordina...

  Anini, February 25, 2026: The football ground at Anini Mini Stadium in Dibang Valley has successfully met international standards after clearing the FIFA Quality Field Testing , marking a significant milestone for sports infrastructure in the region. Chief Minister Pema Khandu shared the development on social media, stating that the certification strengthens the state’s sports ecosystem and creates new opportunities for young athletes. He congratulated all officials and teams involved in completing the project. The achievement is expected to boost football development in the remote district, enabling the venue to host higher-level matches and training programs while promoting grassroots sports among local youth. official FIFA Quality Field Certificate issued under the FIFA Quality Programme for Football Turf. The certification was granted after the ground successfully passed FIFA’s technical field tests, where independent inspectors assessed surface safety, ball performance...

  Kra Daadi, February 26, 2026: Deputy Chief Minister Shri Chowna Mein inaugurated an 84-metre steel truss permanent bridge over the River Kamala Kumei , connecting Jha and Ruhi villages and strengthening local connectivity in Kra Daadi district . The inauguration was carried out in the presence of MLA Mutchu Mithi and other local dignitaries. The newly constructed bridge is expected to ensure dependable all-weather access for residents, easing transportation challenges and improving movement between the two villages. Officials stated that the infrastructure will support daily commuting, access to essential services, and local economic activities. DCM Chowna Mein and MLA Mutchu Mithi with local community. Local representatives and community members welcomed the project, highlighting its importance in enhancing rural connectivity and boosting overall development in the district.

  Israel, February 26, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the “ Speaker of the Knesset Medal ,” the highest parliamentary honour of Israel’s Knesset , during his official visit to the country in February 2026. The medal was presented by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana following the Prime Minister’s address to the Israeli Parliament. According to official statements, the honour recognises Modi’s role in strengthening India–Israel relations and advancing cooperation in areas such as security, innovation, agriculture and technology. Israeli leaders highlighted the growing strategic partnership between the two nations, describing bilateral ties as increasingly robust and multifaceted. In his address, Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Israel and emphasised shared democratic values, economic cooperation and people-to-people engagement. The visit also included discussions on regional security, technological partnerships and future investm...

  East Siang , February 25, 2026: The hunger strike staged by mothers from Ngorlung and Ralung villages against a ferro-silicon factory at the Industrial Growth Centre in Niglok enters its fourth day on Thursday, with protesters demanding the permanent closure or relocation of the plant over alleged risks to public health and safety. The agitation targets the factory operated by M/s Aether Alloys LLP , with local residents claiming that the unit poses serious environmental and safety concerns for nearby communities. Participants of the indefinite hunger strike have gathered at the Ralung Village Community Hall , stating that the protest will continue until authorities respond to their demands. Tensions rose on Wednesday morning after two protesters fell ill during the agitation and were admitted to Ruksin CHC (FRU) for medical treatment, highlighting growing concern among villagers over the health of those participating in the fast. Community members say the movement reflects w...

  Tezu, February 24, 2026 Tezu Police on February 24, 2026 arrested a 37-year-old man, identified as Arulum Tindya, for allegedly peddling illicit drugs in the Tezu township area of Arunachal Pradesh. According to police sources, the operation was launched after credible information was received about suspected drug trafficking activities at ALC Line. A team led by Sub-Inspector P. Baja, along with HC (SG) D. Jugli, HC M. Longri and Constable M. Hakhun, acted under the supervision of DySP Ojing Lego and intercepted the accused at the location. During a search conducted as per legal procedures, officers recovered a green tobacco container containing 8.3 grams of suspected heroin and ₹1,670 believed to be proceeds from drug sales. The seizure was carried out in the presence of Circle Officer Habung Moda and an independent witness. Seized Items from the accused. Police later conducted a follow-up search at the accused’s residence in New Mekuliang, where an additional plastic container...

  New Delhi , February 25, 2026: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Wednesday met the three young women from Arunachal Pradesh who were targeted in a recent racial abuse incident in South Delhi , assuring them of full support and strict action against those responsible. In a social media post, Gupta described the students as “resilient, courageous, and full of promise,” stressing that Delhi stands for diversity, respect, and dignity . She said hatred, discrimination, and intimidation would not be tolerated and urged people not to politicize the sensitive issue while respecting the victims’ privacy. The incident occurred on February 20, when the women were allegedly abused and intimidated by neighbours following a dispute over repair work at their rented flat. A video of the confrontation circulated widely online, triggering public outrage and renewed attention to discrimination faced by people from the Northeast . Delhi Police have arrested Ruby Jain and her husband Harsh Sin...

  New Delhi, February 25, 2026:  Delhi Police have arrested Harsh Singh in connection with the alleged racial abuse of three women from Arunachal Pradesh in south Delhi’s Malviya Nagar , officials confirmed on Wednesday. The development comes after his wife, Ruby Jain, was taken into custody earlier as part of the same investigation into an FIR registered at Malviya Nagar Police Station .  Police said the case escalated after provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act were invoked based on available evidence, leading to the probe being transferred to an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP)-rank officer under senior supervision.  The incident reportedly took place on February 20 when a dispute over dust from electrical installation work at a rented apartment turned into a heated confrontation between neighbours. The complainants alleged that Singh used racially derogatory language and threats targeting their Northeast...

  New Delhi, February 25, 2026:  Delhi Police on Wednesday arrested Ruby Jain in connection with a case involving alleged racial abuse and insulting language against three women from Northeast India in south Delhi’s Malviya Nagar area, officials said. The arrest followed an investigation into an FIR registered at the Malviya Nagar Police Station . According to a police statement, the case intensified after relevant provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act were invoked. With the addition of these sections, the investigation has been entrusted to an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP)-rank officer and is being closely supervised by senior officials to ensure a comprehensive probe. Police sources said the alleged incident involved verbal abuse and the use of derogatory remarks directed at the victims, who are neighbours of the accused in the same locality. Authorities had earlier named a male individual in the FIR, and his ro...

  Itanagar, February 24, 2026: The 8th edition of Mr Arunachal concluded with Lhakpa Tsering being crowned Mr Arunachal 2026, marking a major milestone in the state’s premier male pageant that celebrates confidence, fitness, and cultural pride. Nabam Tada secured the 1st Runner Up position, while Vivek Sangcho finished as the 2nd Runner Up after an intense finale that evaluated contestants on personality, stage presence, grooming, and overall performance. Apart from the top three winners, several participants were honoured with special titles recognising individual excellence. Kamin Tali was awarded Mr Talent, while Lidak Geyi received the Mr Photogenic title. Lobsang Gengla earned Mr Best Physique, and Techi Loyen Tara won Mr Best Costume for his standout presentation. Vivek Sangcho also claimed the Mr Viewers Choice title, with Nabam Tada being recognised as Mr Fitness. Keni Kamum was named Mr Best Walk, and Kadom Nopi received the Mr Civic Sense award. Organisers descr...

  Itanagar, February 24, 2026: The Arunachal Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee (APMCC) on Tuesday staged a protest in Itanagar, burning effigies of Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta over the alleged racial harassment of three Arunachali girls in Delhi. Condemning the incident as an affront to the dignity of Arunachal Pradesh and the wider Northeastern region , APMCC leaders demanded the immediate arrest of those involved and urged Delhi Police to expedite the investigation. The protest comes amid growing outrage across the Northeast following reports of racial abuse faced by the victims. The committee alleged that Rijiju has remained silent despite being a senior leader from the state, asserting that stronger intervention was expected to ensure swift justice. Protesters warned that their agitation would intensify if authorities fail to take prompt and decisive action. Criticising the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Mahila Congress leaders questioned...

Bameng , February 24, 2026: Chief Minister Pema Khandu attended the 50th Golden Jubilee celebration of Nyokum in Bameng constituency, where leaders and residents gathered to mark the cultural milestone.  The Chief Minister highlighted the festival’s deep connection with nature, unity, and the traditions of the people. The event witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including Home Minister Mama Natung , MLA Kumar Waii , Minister Ojing Tasing , Tasso Hinda , Managing Director of PH Construction, along with other officials and community leaders. Addressing the gathering, Khandu announced development projects worth ₹67 crore for Bameng, describing them as a concrete step toward strengthening infrastructure and accelerating growth in the constituency.  He stated that the Golden Jubilee should mark a new beginning, urging collective efforts to build a stronger and self-reliant Bameng.

  New Delhi, February 23, 2026: Congress MP from Inner Manipur, A. Bimol Akoijam , has strongly condemned the recent racial harassment faced by three women from Arunachal Pradesh in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar , describing the incident as part of a troubling pattern of discrimination against people from Northeast India . Speaking during a press briefing, Akoijam highlighted the repeated instances of racial bias experienced by youths from the region in metropolitan cities across the country. He demanded strong and exemplary action against the accused, stating that strict measures are necessary to prevent such incidents from recurring in the future. The MP also drew attention to what he described as a deeper structural issue, pointing out the limited presence of Northeast India’s history, society, and culture in school textbooks . According to him, the absence of comprehensive representation contributes to a lack of awareness among large sections of mainland India, making the region and ...