Hornbill News

  Itanagar, April 30: Thousands of members of the Christian community staged coordinated sit-in protests across Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday, opposing the implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978. The statewide agitation was organized by the Arunachal Christian Forum, with major gatherings held in the capital region at Tennis Court, IG Park in Itanagar and Naharlagun, alongside parallel demonstrations across several district headquarters. Leading the protest in Itanagar, ACF president James Techi Tara termed the Act “unconstitutional,” alleging that it disproportionately targets the Christian community and restricts the fundamental right to freedom of religion. He highlighted provisions requiring individuals to report religious conversions to district authorities, stating that such measures infringe upon personal choice, identity, and freedom of worship. The ACF maintained that although the law claims to prohibit forced conversions, its provisions are ...

  Itanagar, April 30: A swift naka operation by Chimpu Police in the early hours of Thursday successfully foiled an attempt to illegally transport cattle at Baath Village, Itanagar. The operation was carried out with support from CRPF personnel. The naka team intercepted a suspicious vehicle (AS-01-BW-5707, an Ertiga) that attempted to breach the checkpoint at high speed. Despite clear signals to stop, the driver deliberately rammed the police team in an apparent attempt to escape, endangering their lives. Demonstrating prompt action and courage, the police chased and intercepted the vehicle. However, the occupants initially managed to flee under the cover of darkness. During the incident, Sub-Inspector Tate Nabam sustained a head injury, while Constable J. Libang suffered a leg injury while performing their duties. Both are currently undergoing treatment at RKM Hospital, Itanagar. Upon inspection of the vehicle, six cattle were found being transported in a highly cruel and inhuman...

Tawang, April 30: A large-scale peaceful protest rally was held today in Tawang, condemning the alleged sexual abuse of a minor girl from Lumla and demanding swift justice along with strict punishment for all accused. The rally commenced from Old Market Mani and proceeded towards the Deputy Commissioner’s Office. Students, youth bodies, civil society groups, NGOs, and local residents participated in significant numbers, expressing solidarity with the survivor and her family. The demonstration was attended by Lumla MLA Tsering Lhamu, ZPM Tawang Block Sonam Nordzin, members of the WWA Tawang, various student organizations, and members of the public. Organizers emphasized that the protest was peaceful, urging participants to maintain discipline and unity while raising their voices against crimes targeting women and children. Huge Public Gathering at Old Market Mani. ( Image: Jambey Tsering) The protest follows a disturbing case involving an 11-year-old girl who was allegedly subjected to ...

  Accused Semmar Basar with Likabali Police. Likabali, April 29: Likabali, Apr 29: In a significant action against illegal drug trafficking, the Likabali Police apprehended an individual with suspected narcotic substances during a routine check at the Likabali Check Gate on Tuesday afternoon. According to official sources, the incident took place at around 3:30 PM when police personnel intercepted one person identified as Semmar Basar, a resident of Nyigam village under Basar in Leparada district, Arunachal Pradesh, based on suspicion. A search operation was carried out following due legal procedures in the presence of an Executive Magistrate and independent witnesses. During the search, police recovered suspected narcotic substances, including heroin and cannabis, from his possession. Seized Narcotics From The Accused. In connection with the seizure, a case has been registered at Likabali Police Station under Case No. 14/2026, invoking Sections 21(a) and 20(b)(ii)(A) of the Narcot...

  Chennai, April 29: A. G. Perarivalan, who spent over three decades in prison in connection with the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, has now enrolled as an advocate and will practice at the Madras High Court. Perarivalan, now 54, formally enrolled with the Bar Council of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry on Monday, marking a transition from being an accused and convict within the legal system to becoming a practicing lawyer in the same system. He stated that his years in prison since 1991 have shaped his perspective, and he intends to focus on cases related to wrongful detention, delays in the justice system, and the rights of undertrial prisoners. He also expressed his intention to provide legal assistance to inmates who lack adequate representation. Perarivalan was arrested at the age of 19 in connection with the 1991 assassination of Rajiv Gandhi, an attack attributed to the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. The allegation against him was that he procured a nine-vo...

  Itanagar, April 29: The Arunachal Pradesh Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has introduced high-tech thermal drones and launched a week-long hands-on training programme to strengthen wildlife protection and address rising human-wildlife conflict. The training, inaugurated on April 29 in Itanagar by Forest Minister Wangki Lowang, will continue until May 5 at the PCCF office. The initiative focuses on equipping frontline forest personnel with technical skills to operate thermal drones for surveillance, rescue missions, and conflict management. Five thermal drones have been deployed in key conflict-prone and ecologically sensitive areas, Namdapha Tiger Reserve, Deomali Division, Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, Nampong Division, and Itanagar Biological Park. These drones use thermal imaging to monitor wildlife movement in dense forests and low-visibility conditions, enabling faster response to threats such as poaching, illegal trade, encroachment, and animal straying inc...

  Itanagar, April 29: Chera Loku delivered an impressive performance at the 5th World Taijiquan Championships held in Burgas, winning a silver medal while competing against top athletes from 38 countries. Competing in a highly competitive field, Loku showcased exceptional control, precision, and technique in Taijiquan, earning her a podium finish at one of the sport’s premier international events. Her performance stands out as a significant achievement for Indian Wushu, reflecting both her individual dedication and the steady rise of the discipline in the country. The championship, organized under the aegis of the International Wushu Federation, was held from April 23 to 30, 2026, with core competitions conducted between April 26 and 29. The event brought together elite Taijiquan practitioners from around the world, featuring multiple disciplines and categories that tested athletes on technical precision, balance, and artistic expression. The achievement has brought recognition to ...

  Union Minister B. L. Verma interacts with staffs at  Ayushman Arogya Mandir (HWC), at Siiro. Ziro, April 28: Union Minister B. L. Verma concluded a comprehensive field assessment in Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh, evaluating the on-ground implementation of key Central Government schemes aimed at improving housing, food security, healthcare, and rural livelihoods. During the visit, the Minister inspected housing units constructed under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) at Pai Gate, where beneficiaries shared firsthand accounts of how the initiative has enabled access to safe and dignified housing. Emphasizing the government’s commitment to “Housing for All,” Verma reviewed construction quality, beneficiary coverage, and timely delivery of assistance. In Hong village, the Minister visited the Punyo Fair Price Shop operating under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). He assessed the distribution system of subsidized food grains and interacted with local residents to understa...

  Tezu, April 28: Tezu, April 28: Police in Arunachal Pradesh’s Lohit district have foiled an alleged armed extortion attempt targeting a highway construction project and arrested four individuals, officials confirmed on Tuesday. The case came to light following a complaint lodged on April 27, alleging that officials and workers engaged in a National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) project at Tidding were being threatened by persons claiming to be members of the “All Arunachal Pradesh Reformed Delinquent Association (AAPRDA).” According to police, the accused had been demanding money from project authorities. On April 23, they allegedly entered the construction site armed with firearms and issued threats of serious consequences if their demands were not met. Acting swiftly, Tezu Police registered a case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Arms Act and initiated an investigation. Based on specific intelligence inputs,...

  Itanagar, April 28: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Arunachal Pradesh unit, held a “Jan Aakrosh Mahila Mashal Padyatra” protesting against the Indian National Congress and its allies over their opposition to the proposed 33% Women’s Reservation Bill, 2026. The march began from the party’s state headquarters and proceeded along the National Highway, with participants carrying torches as part of the demonstration. Key participants included Junty Singpho (State General Secretary), Nyabi Dirchi (MLA), and Nabam Yahi Tad (State President, BJP Mahila Morcha, Arunachal Pradesh).  They addressed the media during the event, stating that opposition to the Women’s Reservation Bill would affect women’s opportunities in legislative bodies and called for a clear position from Congress and its allies. BJP leaders accused opposition parties, including the Indian National Congress, All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), and TMK, of blocking women’s political representation and described their...

  Tawang, April 28: A capacity-building programme focusing on the balanced use of fertilizers, along with the distribution of agricultural inputs under the Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP), was successfully held on 28th April 2026 at the Nuranang Convention Hall in Jang. The initiative was jointly organized by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute and Krishi Vigyan Kendra Tawang. ZPC Tawang, Leki Gombu, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Dr. M. C. Meena, Principal Scientist and Nodal Officer (Tribal Sub-Plan), IARI, ICAR New Delhi, attended as the Guest of Honour. The event also witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including ZPM Mogto Bongkhar Pema Tsering, Circle Officers Dr. Khoda Oniya and Tage Moonya, FPC Chairperson Nawang Chonzom, ADO Jang Cimey Dolkar, public leader Dorjee Wangchu, and farmers from across the Jang subdivision. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Meena highlighted the significance of the Tribal Sub-Plan scheme and emphasized the adoption of modern sc...

  New Delhi, April 27: Following sustained success in curbing Left-Wing Extremism, particularly against groups such as the Communist Party of India (Maoist), People's Liberation Guerrilla Army, and Maoist Communist Centre, the Centre has redirected its security focus toward ending insurgency in Northeast India, setting an ambitious deadline of 2029. The initiative will begin with Manipur as the primary focus area. According to a report by Hindustan Times, the government plans to redeploy Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), particularly specialized units like the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), from former Maoist-affected regions to insurgency-affected northeastern states including Manipur, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland. The phased redeployment is expected to commence after the West Bengal Assembly Elections and the Amarnath Yatra later this year. Officials indicated that Manipur remains the most affected state, accounting for 77% of all insurgency-related i...

  Yachuli, April 28: Following widespread attention on social media over the poor condition of the road leading to DIET College, Yachuli, repair work has officially commenced, offering much-needed relief to students and local commuters. The issue had gained momentum after videos and images of students highlighting the muddy and dilapidated road went viral, drawing public concern and calls for immediate action. The visual protest, including a student planting paddy on the road, had underscored the severity of the situation, especially during the rainy season. Responding to the growing outcry, local MLA Toko Tatung initiated steps to address the issue. Road repair work began on April 28, 2026, at the BDO Complex stretch in Yachuli, which serves as a key access route for students of DIET College and residents of the area. The development has been widely acknowledged as an example of how the power of social media, along with the role of media channels in highlighting public concerns, c...

  Itanagar, April 28: In a significant academic milestone for Arunachal Pradesh, Miss Taba Jirpu, a Ph.D. research scholar from the Department of Zoology at Rajiv Gandhi University, has been selected for the prestigious Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowship for the academic year 2026–2027. With this achievement, she becomes the first scholar from Rajiv Gandhi University and the state of Arunachal Pradesh to receive this highly competitive international fellowship, marking a proud moment for the academic community in the region. Taba Jirpu’s research is centered on cancer biology, with a specific focus on developing improved therapeutic strategies for pancreatic cancer. Her work explores the role of extracellular vesicles, tiny cell-derived particles in enhancing targeted treatment approaches. The research is considered both impactful and forward-looking, given the global challenges associated with early detection and effective treatment of pancreatic cancer. The Fulbright-Ne...

  Likabali, April 27: The Apex Customary Court Building of Lower Siang district was formally inaugurated on Tuesday at Likabali by Kardo Nyigyor, Deputy Speaker of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly and MLA of Likabali. The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of Gobi Nyicyor and Bomken Basar, along with heads of departments, administrative officials, and members of the Lower Siang District Gao Bura and Buri Welfare Association, including its president Jamar Karlo and secretary Geto Taba. Gaon Buras and Buris from across the district also attended the event. Addressing the gathering, Nyigyor emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness and proper upkeep of the newly inaugurated facility. He issued a strong advisory that serious offences such as molestation, rape, fire-related incidents, and other cognizable crimes must not be resolved at the village level. Instead, such cases should be reported promptly to the police and appropriate legal authorities. He war...

  Miss Tai Rina Tawang, April 27: In a notable academic accomplishment, Tai Rina, a student of PM SHRI School, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Tawang, has emerged as the State Topper in the National Standard Examination in Biology (NSEB) 2025, one of India’s most competitive school-level science examinations. The NSEB, conducted by the Association of Teachers in Biological Sciences under the aegis of the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education, aims to identify and nurture talented students in biological sciences across the country. The examination serves as the first stage of the national olympiad program in biology. Held on November 23, 2025, the examination saw participation from 42,398 candidates across 1,705 centres in India and abroad. From Arunachal Pradesh alone, 302 students appeared for the test. Tai Rina distinguished herself by securing a position within the top one percent at the state level, thereby earning the distinction of State Topper. Her achievement underscor...

  Lungla, Tawang, April 27:  A capacity-building programme focusing on the balanced use of fertilizers, along with the distribution of agricultural inputs under the Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP), was successfully conducted at Karma Wangchu Convention Hall in Lungla. The initiative was jointly organized by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute and Krishi Vigyan Kendra Tawang. Local MLA Tsering Lhamu attended as Chief Guest, while Dr. M. C. Meena, Principal Scientist and Nodal Officer (TSP), IARI, New Delhi, graced the occasion as Guest of Honour. Among other dignitaries present were ZPM Thutan Gombu, Circle Officer Phamhoi Wangsu, FPC Chairperson Nawang Chonzom, along with public leaders and farmers from across the subdivision. During the programme, Dr. C. K. Singh, SMS (Agronomy), KVK Tawang, was felicitated by the MLA for his contribution to promoting the high-yielding millet variety VL Mandua 376 in Tawang, particularly in the Lungla region. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Meena ...

  Itanagar, April 26: Four Arrested in IG Park Assault and Attempted Abduction Case in Itanagar Itanagar, April 27, 2026: Four persons have been arrested in connection with an alleged assault and attempted abduction incident reported near IG Park, Itanagar. According to police, a written complaint was received at Itanagar Police Station at approximately 12:15 AM on April 27, 2026, regarding an incident that occurred on the evening of April 26 near IG Park. The complainant, an advocate by profession, stated that he had gone to the park for his routine evening run. After completing his run, he was approached by a group of individuals who allegedly mistook him for someone they were searching for. The group reportedly restrained him, physically assaulted him, and attempted to forcibly take him away by holding his hands, legs, and neck. The complainant managed to resist, free himself, and run back towards safety inside the park. He subsequently approached the police station and lodged a...

  Itanagar, April 26: Capital Police has registered a fresh case at the Women Police Station in Itanagar following serious allegations of sexual assault involving minor girls. The matter first came to light at the Naharlagun Police Station. Considering the nature of the allegations, pertaining to crimes against women and children, the complainant was directed to approach the Women Police Station, Itanagar, where a formal FIR was subsequently registered. According to police sources, the case originated from a written complaint filed by the father of one of the victims. He reported that his minor daughter and her friends had gone missing from their rented accommodation in D-Sector, Naharlagun, during the early hours. Preliminary enquiry revealed that the girls were allegedly taken to a hotel in Naharlagun by three male individuals, where the incident is reported to have occurred. Based on the complaint, Ita WPS Case No. 35/2026 has been registered under Section 96 of the Bharatiya Ny...

  Doimukh, April 26: Doimukh Police, in a coordinated anti-narcotics operation with Assam Police, seized approximately 1.3 kilograms of cannabis and arrested two individuals on April 26, 2026. The operation began during routine naka checking at Gumto Gate, where Joram Kunung (22), a resident of Rono in Doimukh, was apprehended after being found in possession of a quantity of cannabis.  During interrogation, he disclosed that the contraband had been procured from a shop in Shantipur, Harmuti, Assam. Acting on this input, a Doimukh Police team led by SDPO Radhe Obing, along with SI(SG) Nur Alom, ASI Fungcha Dolo, and other personnel, proceeded to Shantipur in Harmuti, Assam. The operation was carried out in coordination with Assam Police under the supervision of SP Taru Gusar. During the search, police recovered approximately 1,300 grams of cannabis from the shop and arrested Khogen Saikia (68), allegedly involved in the illegal sale of the substance. A case has been registered ...

  Bhalukpong, April 25: An awareness campaign focusing on drug abuse, cybercrime, and child labour (NCL) was conducted at the Bhalukpong Police Station, West Kameng District, on April 25, 2026. The programme was organized for students of Government Secondary School, Upper Bhalukpong, under the initiative of the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Bhalukpong. During the session, students were educated on the dangers and long-term consequences of substance abuse, the rising threats of cybercrime, and the legal and social implications of child labour. The SDPO emphasized the importance of awareness, responsible digital behavior, and informed decision-making among young individuals. Police demonstrate equipment to students. In addition to the awareness talks, the students were given a practical overview of police operations. They were briefed about various weapons, wireless communication (WT) equipment, and riot control gear used by the police.  Officials also explained the func...

  Liromoba, April 26: A group of parents under the banner of the Liromoba VKV Parents Group staged a protest against the recent hike in admission and related fees at Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya (VKV), Liromoba. The demonstrators marched with placards and raised slogans, voicing strong opposition to what they termed an “abrupt and unjustified” fee increase. Protesters displayed banners outlining their key demands, including the immediate minimisation of admission fees and rollback of the revised fee structure. Many placards highlighted concerns over affordability, stressing that the sudden hike has placed a significant financial burden on families. Beyond the fee issue, the parents also pointed out gaps in basic facilities. They demanded improved transportation services for students and teachers, better computer access, and the introduction of vocational support such as tailoring facilities with staff. Infrastructure development was another major concern, with calls for better clas...

Thupsung Dhargye Ling Monastery, Dirang. (Image: Mon Rising) Dirang, West Kameng, April 25: A shocking theft at Thupsung Dhargye Ling Monastery in Dirang has left the local community distressed and outraged after ten sacred statues were reportedly stolen from the premises. The incident came to light when members of the monastery discovered that several niches, once home to revered idols, had been left empty, with ten statues found missing from their designated places. The missing statues were not merely artistic creations but objects of deep spiritual importance, symbolizing faith, devotion, and the cultural heritage of the region. Residents and devotees have expressed strong emotions over the incident, calling it a serious violation of a sacred space. Many described the loss as deeply personal, noting that the statues formed an integral part of their belief system and identity. Empty niches mark missing sacred idols at Dirang monastery (Image source: Mon Rising) The theft has also rai...

  Keyi Panyor, April 25: In a tragic incident triggered by inclement weather, a 43-year-old Public Works Department (PWD) engineer lost his life after a tree, uprooted by heavy rain and strong winds, fell on a moving vehicle along National Highway-13 in Arunachal Pradesh on Saturday morning. The accident took place at around 8:00 am on the Potin–Posa stretch of NH-13, specifically between Pitapull and Potin. According to police, a Toyota Fortuner travelling from Itanagar towards Pipsorang was struck by a massive log that suddenly collapsed onto the passenger side of the vehicle amid intense rainfall and gusty winds sweeping across the region. The deceased has been identified as Deken (Deccan) Sorang (43), who was serving as a Junior Engineer under the Public Works Department and was posted in Pipsorang under Kra Daadi district. He was travelling in the front passenger seat at the time of the incident. Accompanying him was the driver, Shan Rai (36), a resident of Dhemaji district in...

  Khonsa, April 24: In a significant development, a cadre of the NSCN-IM surrendered before security forces in Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh on April 24, 2026. The individual has been identified as SS Lieutenant Thinwang Deosa (60), a resident of Sanliam village under Lazu Circle in Tirap District.  He surrendered at the Superintendent of Police’s office in Khonsa in the presence of Tirap Police and personnel from the Assam Rifles. During the surrender, Deosa handed over one 7.65 mm pistol (made in the United States), along with a magazine and seven live rounds of ammunition. Officials stated that the surrender marks a positive step toward ongoing efforts by security forces to restore peace, stability, and development in the region, which has long been affected by insurgent activities.

  Glimpses from the inauguration of key infrastructure facilities at Nere, East Kameng district. (Image: Mama Natung Facebook) Nere, East Kameng, April 25: In a significant push toward strengthening grassroots administration, Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister Mama Natung on Saturday inaugurated a series of key infrastructure facilities at the newly established Debeyar Circle Headquarters in Nere. The inaugurated facilities include the Circle Office for the Debeyar Circle Officer, residential quarters for the Circle Officer, a Panchayat Bhawan, a Guest House, and a Forest Guest House. These developments are aimed at enhancing administrative efficiency and ensuring better service delivery in the region. Addressing the gathering, the Home Minister emphasized that the establishment of the circle headquarters marks a crucial step in bringing governance closer to the people. He stated that decentralization of administrative services would significantly reduce the need for residents to trav...

  Itanagar, April 24: In a remarkable medical achievement, a 30-year-old woman from Kurung Kumey district safely delivered healthy, full-term triplets through a caesarean section at Polo Hospital. Triplet pregnancies are widely regarded as high-risk due to increased chances of complications for both the mother and the babies. Such cases are most often associated with assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF). However, in this instance, the pregnancy was entirely natural, making it exceptionally rare. The complex surgical procedure was successfully led by gynaecologist Dr Posting Bayang Neri, along with MS Dr Meli Dodum. Despite the inherent risks involved in multiple births, the medical team reported that the operation proceeded smoothly without any intra-operative or post-operative complications. Dr Neri highlighted the uniqueness of the case, stating that spontaneous triplet pregnancies carried to full term are extremely uncommon. He further confirmed t...

  Pasighat, April 24: The Adi Students’ Union (AdiSU) felicitated Gumin Mize, President of the Arunachal Pradesh Anti-Drugs Warriors (APADW), in recognition of his dedicated efforts toward building a drug-free Arunachal Pradesh. A prominent social activist, Mize has been at the forefront of a grassroots movement against drug trafficking and substance abuse, particularly in the East Siang and Itanagar regions. Through consistent community engagement, awareness drives, and active intervention, he has played a significant role in mobilizing youth and civil society against the growing menace of narcotics. Widely regarded by locals as a “real-life hero,” Mize’s contributions were formally acknowledged in 2025 when he was named among the “Unsung Heroes of Arunachal.” His work includes tracking drug peddlers and strongly advocating for accessible, high-quality rehabilitation services for individuals struggling with addiction. AdiSU, while honoring Mize, expressed its commitment to support...

  New Delhi, April 24: In a significant political development, Raghav Chadha has officially announced his decision to join the Bharatiya Janata Party, triggering a major split within the Aam Aadmi Party. The move is being seen as a substantial blow to AAP leadership, particularly party chief and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Addressing a press conference, Chadha stated that a large section of AAP’s presence in the Rajya Sabha, reportedly around two-thirds of its 10 MPs, will merge with the BJP. He confirmed that the necessary documents have been signed and submitted to the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, formalizing the transition. Among those expected to join him are Harbhajan Singh and Swati Maliwal, along with Rajinder Gupta, Vikram Sahney, Ashok Mittal, and Sandeep Pathak. The development indicates one of the largest parliamentary shifts involving AAP since its formation. Explaining his decision, Chadha delivered a sharp critique of his former party, alleging that AAP has ...

  Minister Dasanglu Pul arrived in the presence of Home minister Mama Natung, other dignitaries and local public. East Kameng, April 24: National Panchayat Day 2026 was celebrated with remarkable scale and enthusiasm in East Kameng district, setting a new benchmark not only for the district but across the state of Arunachal Pradesh. Organized under the theme “Atmanirbhar Panchayat Se Samriddh Bharat Tak,” the event marked a historic milestone as the first large-scale Panchayat Day celebration of its kind in the region, reflecting a strong commitment toward grassroots governance and rural development. The programme was meticulously organized by the Panchayat Department of East Kameng under the leadership of Smti. Pai Pizi Yangfo, Zilla Parishad Chairperson (ZPC) of 03-East Kameng and Organising Chairman. The event witnessed the collective efforts of all 13 Zilla Parishad Members (ZPMs), Panchayat staff, and Block Offices, whose coordinated planning and execution ensured a vibrant an...