Hornbill News

  ITANAGAR, July 26:  A new public advocacy body, the Public Rights Action Committee (PRAC), was formally constituted on Saturday with the objective of addressing issues affecting the public. They said their motive is to address the long-pending unemployment of qualified pharmacists in Arunachal Pradesh and concerns over the alleged operation of illegal pharmacies across the state.  The newly formed committee announced its office bearers as Takam Sonia (Chairman), Millo Ambo (General Secretary), Techi Rana Tara (Legal Advisor), and Tana Tamar Tara (Spokesperson). The formation of the committee was announced during a press briefing.  Addressing the media, the committee stated that its first priority will be to take up the issue of employment for an estimated 500–600 qualified pharmacists who, despite possessing the required educational qualifications, continue to remain unemployed. PRAC said it will pursue the matter with the concerned authorities and advocate for fai...

  ITANAGAR, July 25:  Continuing its intensified campaign against drug trafficking, the Special Action Team (SAT) of Capital Police Itanagar arrested a woman allegedly involved in heroin peddling during an operation conducted on July 24 at Mithun Happa Colony, Chimpu. Police have withheld the identity of the accused as the investigation is still underway. Acting on specific and credible intelligence, the SAT team, comprising SI Tejab Tadar, Head Constable Tashi Wangchu, Constables Tasso Taser, Jumter Romin, and Lady Constable Dulley Yashing, launched a swift operation under the supervision of the DySP (HQ), ICR.  The suspect was intercepted near her rented accommodation at Mithun Happa Colony. During questioning, the accused allegedly disclosed that she had hidden narcotics and related materials inside a black polythene bag concealed beneath a pile of old wood within the compound of her rented residence. Following the disclosure, police conducted a search in the presence ...

  TAWANG, July 25:  A 72-hour hunger strike held in solidarity with climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) concluded peacefully in Tawang on Saturday. The three-day protest was led by Lobsang Gyatso and Phuntso Tashi, with active support from the Tawang Middle Zone Students' Union and participation from students and youth from different parts of the district. The hunger strike was organised to express solidarity with Sonam Wangchuk's movement and to demand justice, transparency, and accountability in connection with the alleged NEET examination paper leak.  Protesters said the movement aimed to protect the integrity of the education system and ensure a fair future for students. Speaking at the conclusion of the hunger strike, the organisers thanked students, youth, civil society members, and supporters for standing together throughout the peaceful protest.  They said the overwhelming participation reflected the determination of young peo...

  ITANAGAR, July 25:  Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has expressed his appreciation for former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following his resignation, praising his years of public service and contribution to India's education sector. In a message shared on social media, Khandu described Pradhan as a leader who rose from student activism and brought a deep understanding of the aspirations of young Indians to the education portfolio.  He said Pradhan worked with dedication to strengthen educational institutions and implement key reforms despite the challenges of leading the ministry. Pradhan's resignation came amid widespread public outrage over the alleged NEET paper leak.  The issue had triggered protests across the country, including demonstrations led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and other organisations demanding accountability and his resignation. The government has not officially linked his resignation to the protests. Thanking ...

  MECHUKHA, July 25:  Arunachal Pradesh Tourism Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona on Saturday inaugurated the Mechukha Trout Quest 2.0 at the pristine Yargyap Chu River in the scenic Mechukha Valley of Shi-Yomi district. Held under the theme "Catch, Conserve  and Celebrate," the event aims to promote responsible catch-and-release fishing while showcasing Mechukha's crystal-clear rivers, rich trout habitat and breathtaking natural landscapes. The event has drawn enthusiastic participation from anglers representing Bhutan, Thailand, and several Indian states, including Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Nagaland and Assam.  Their participation reflects Mechukha's growing recognition as an emerging destination for world-class sport fishing and eco-tourism. Speaking on the occasion, Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona said the Trout Quest is more than just a fishing competition.  He said the initiative reflects the state's commitment to promoting respo...

  BANA, EAST KAMENG, July 24:  East Kameng Police have seized 60 vials containing suspected narcotic and psychotropic substances weighing 72.7 grams (including the weight of the vials) in a successful anti-narcotics operation conducted along NH-13 in the Bana area. Acting on credible intelligence, police intercepted a suspected Alto 800 vehicle and recovered 46 vials of suspected contraband during a search carried out in the presence of an Executive Magistrate.  Follow-up action led to the arrest of Naga Flago, from whose possession 14 additional vials were recovered during a search conducted under the provisions of the NDPS Act. The Alto 800 allegedly used in the offence and two mobile phones were also seized.  Police said the entire search, seizure and sealing process was conducted in accordance with legal procedures and audio-video recorded through the e-Sakshya application to ensure transparency and evidentiary integrity. During the operation, one police personne...

  ITANAGAR, July 24:  Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister Mama Natung has assured full administrative and financial support from the State Government for the establishment of a new Fire Station at Nirjuli. The assurance came after the Deputy Mayor of the Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC), Tok Tabin Camdir, called on the Home Minister at the Civil Secretariat and briefed him on the proposal for setting up the new Fire Station. During the meeting, Camdir highlighted the growing need for a dedicated fire and emergency response facility in Nirjuli to cater to the increasing population, expanding residential areas, and commercial establishments.  He emphasized that the proposed Fire Station would help reduce response time during emergencies and enhance public safety. Responding to the proposal, Home Minister Mama Natung welcomed the initiative and assured that the State Government would extend full administrative and financial assistance to ensure the project is implemented at ...

  ITANAGAR, July 24:  In a significant breakthrough under the ongoing "Operation All Out" against narcotics, the Special Action Team (SAT) of Capital Police, Itanagar, arrested a suspected drug peddler during a raid conducted in the Mob-II area under Niti Vihar Police Station. The operation, carried out on July 23, was led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (HQ), ICR, Shri Chamrak Arun, APPS, and SDPO Itanagar, Shri Chera Saban, APPS, along with SI Tejab Tadar, HC Tashi Wangchu, Ct. Tasso Tasser, Ct. Jumter Romin, and L/Ct. Dulley Yasing. Acting on specific and credible intelligence, the SAT intercepted the suspect near his rented accommodation at Mob-II after obtaining the necessary legal authorization.  The accused, a resident of Assam whose identity has been withheld to protect the ongoing investigation, was taken into custody without incident. A subsequent search of the rented premises resulted in the recovery of 46 plastic vials containing suspected heroin weighing a...

  ITANAGAR, July 23:  Arunachal Pradesh's Geni Kamki, popularly known as 'Luciidforyou' on Instagram, has emerged as one of the state's most successful digital creators, transforming her passion for performing into a career that has earned her recognition on a national platform. Geni's journey began during her school days when she led Tani Daughters Crew, one of Arunachal Pradesh's popular dance groups.  Her talent and dedication in dance eventually paved the way for a successful career in content creation. Today, Geni boasts over one million followers on Instagram, with several of her videos receiving millions of views.  Her growing popularity has made her one of the most followed social media personalities from Arunachal Pradesh. Recently, she featured in Netflix's India's Got Latent Season 2, where she impressed the celebrity panel with her performance of an unreleased song composed by her brother.  Although she did not win the episode due to the show...

  ITANAGAR, July 23:  Home Minister Mama Natung on Thursday held a meeting with representatives of the All Arunachal Pradesh Border Students' Union (AAPBSU) at the Civil Secretariat to discuss the recent Tarasso–Sango village incident and concerns raised by border communities. The meeting was also attended by Women and Child Development Minister Dasanglu Pul. During the interaction, the AAPBSU delegation submitted its grievances and highlighted issues affecting people residing along the Arunachal Pradesh–Assam border.  The members urged the State Government to take appropriate steps to safeguard the interests of border residents. Responding to the concerns, Home Minister Mama Natung assured the delegation that the Government of Arunachal Pradesh remains firmly committed to protecting the rights and welfare of people living in the border areas. He stated that the government would continue to address the issue through bilateral dialogue and mutual understanding with the nei...

  DAHUNG, July 22:  The Being Monpa Foundation (BMF), led by President Tenzin Dhargey along with its Central Executive Members, visited the Central Institute of Himalayan Culture Studies (CIHCS), Dahung, on Wednesday to meet students who have been staging an indefinite dharna since July 20. The delegation interacted with the protesting students and listened to their grievances against the institute's Director and Administrative Accounts Officer (AAO). The meeting was also attended by the Secretary General of the Monpa Mimang Tsokpa (MMT) and his team, Shri Nabam Gandhi, Vice President (Protocol) of the All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU), representatives of DSU West Kameng, DSU Tawang, Tawang Middle Zone Students' Union (TMZSU), and ARGSU. The discussion focused on the students' long-pending academic and administrative concerns.  Representatives from the participating organisations assured the students that their issues would be taken seriously and stressed th...

  ITANAGAR, July 22: Arunachal Pradesh's acclaimed sculptor Dr. Bahom Kaling Darang from East Siang has brought international recognition to the state. His work has earned him an Honourable Mention in the Sculpture category at the prestigious 18th International ARC Salon Competition, one of the world's leading competitions for contemporary realist art. His award-winning sculpture, Burnt Ember, is currently being exhibited at Sotheby's, New York, marking a significant milestone in his artistic career and highlighting Arunachal Pradesh's growing presence on the global art stage. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein congratulated Dr. Darang on his outstanding achievement, describing it as a moment of immense pride for Arunachal Pradesh.  He praised the sculptor's exceptional talent, creativity, and unwavering dedication to the arts, stating that the international recognition reflects the rich artistic potential of the state. Expressing his best wishes, Mein said he hopes ...

  ITANAGAR, July 22:  The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Arunachal Pradesh, on Wednesday organised a peaceful protest march to the Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) office in Itanagar as part of the party's nationwide protest programme. The march commenced from Akash Deep and witnessed the participation of ministers, legislators, party office-bearers and karyakartas.  Protesters carried BJP flags and banners condemning the Congress and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi's recent dharna outside the Prime Minister's official residence. Banners displayed during the protest carried slogans such as "Protest Against Congress Over Rahul Gandhi's Dharna Outside the Prime Minister's Official Residence" and "Stop Manufactured Chaos." The BJP said the demonstration was organised to protest what it termed as the Congress' politics of disruption and was held following directions from the party's central leadership.  The protest concluded peace...

  ITANAGAR, July 22:  Dr. Joram Aniya, Member of NITI Aayog, visited Gyekar Sinyik (Ganga Lake) in Arunachal Pradesh to assess its potential for sustainable eco-tourism while reviewing measures to enhance climate resilience and disaster preparedness in the ecologically sensitive area. The visit was attended by senior officials from NITI Aayog, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the Central Water Commission (CWC), and other concerned agencies, who conducted a comprehensive assessment of the lake and its surrounding ecosystem. During the visit, the delegation held discussions with local officials and community representatives on the need for detailed scientific studies of the lake's hydrology, geology, and catchment dynamics.  The experts stressed that a better understanding of changing water levels and the region's environmental conditions is essential for developing long-term strategies to mitigate potential risks and ensure sustainable management of the l...

  NEW DELHI, July 21:  Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday said the Central Government acted promptly after reports of the alleged NEET examination paper leak surfaced, resulting in the arrest and imprisonment of 13 people allegedly involved in the racket. Speaking on the issue, Rijiju said the government's top priority was to protect the future of lakhs of students who appeared for the examination.  He said the Centre immediately decided to conduct a re-examination to ensure that deserving candidates were not affected by the alleged malpractice. According to the minister, the re-examination was conducted smoothly and the results were declared without delay, helping minimise uncertainty and disruption for students. Rijiju also said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had directed that strict measures be put in place to prevent such incidents from happening again.  He added that the government has strengthened safeguards to maintain the integrity and...

  ITANAGAR, July 21: The Arunachal Pradesh Government has assured concrete steps to address the ongoing NERIST issue following a high-level consultative meeting chaired by Home Minister Mama Natung on Tuesday. The meeting was attended by Education Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona, Advisor Mutchu Mithi, the Principal Secretary (Home), Commissioner (Education), senior police officials, Home Department officers, and representatives of the ANSU and ANYA. Addressing the meeting, Home Minister Mama Natung said the government remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of students while upholding the sanctity and academic excellence of the North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST).  He emphasized that the issue would be resolved through constructive dialogue and collective efforts. The meeting comes amid growing protests over the functioning of NERIST.  On July 11, ANSU had issued a seven-day ultimatum demanding that the Ministry of Education accept the re...

  DHAKA/ITANAGAR, July 20: Arunachal Pradesh's karate contingent delivered an outstanding performance at the South Asian Senior Karate Championships 2026 held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, with athletes bringing home three medals for India and making the state proud on the international stage. Johny Mangkhya emerged as one of the standout performers, winning two silver medals in the prestigious championship through a series of impressive performances against top competitors from across South Asia. Adding to the state's success, Khyoda Talik clinched the Team Kata Gold Medal, registering a remarkable achievement and further highlighting Arunachal Pradesh's growing stature in the sport. Congratulating the medal winners, Chief Minister Pema Khandu hailed their achievements and said the success reflects the impact of the Chief Minister's Athlete Coaching and Empowerment Scheme (CM ACES), which aims to nurture and support talented athletes from the state. "This is what happens ...

  COLOMBO/ITANAGAR, July 18: Arunachal Pradesh's Sonam Zomba has etched her name in history by becoming the first-ever Karma Fight League (KFL) World Strawweight Champion, defeating Sri Lanka's Chathuri Siriwardana by unanimous decision in the main event of KFL 8 held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on July 18. Hailing from Tawang, Zomba produced a composed and technically superior performance against the home favourite to secure the prestigious world title.  The victory marks another major milestone in her career, coming just months after she successfully defended her Matrix Fight Night (MFN) Women's Strawweight Championship.  The championship bout underwent a last-minute change. Sonam was originally scheduled to face Pakistan's Bushra Akhtar for the inaugural KFL World Strawweight Championship, but Chathuri Siriwardana stepped in as the replacement opponent.  Zomba went on to dominate the contest and claimed the title by unanimous decision.  Following her victory, Arun...

  DHAKA/ITANAGAR, July 19: Yomter Taso of Lower Siang district, Arunachal Pradesh, has brought glory to the state and the nation by winning the gold medal in the Junior Female Individual Kumite (-42 kg) category at the 10th South Asian Karate Championship held in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Representing India, Yomter delivered a commanding performance to secure the top podium finish at one of South Asia's most prestigious karate events, which featured top athletes from across the region.  The championship included competitions in the Cadet, Junior, Under-21 and Senior divisions and was held alongside the 2nd Under-14 South Asia Karate Cup and the AKF Referee and Coaches Course & Examination. Her remarkable achievement has been widely appreciated, with 36 Nari-Koyu MLA Tojir Kadu extending his heartfelt congratulations to the young karateka. Describing the victory as a proud moment for Lower Siang district and Arunachal Pradesh, Kadu said Yomter's dedication, discipline and fighting...

  DOIMUKH, July 19: Students of Taraso Secondary School continue to risk their lives every day by crossing the Taraso River on foot to attend classes, as a bridge that was meant to provide safe connectivity has remained incomplete for nearly eight years. A video that has surfaced online shows students carefully wading through the swollen river, helping one another navigate the strong current while carrying their school bags.  The situation becomes particularly dangerous during the monsoon season, when rising water levels make the crossing increasingly hazardous. The students have appealed to the MLA of the 14th Doimukh Assembly Constituency and the Government of Arunachal Pradesh to expedite the construction of the long-pending bridge.  They said the absence of a proper bridge not only disrupts their education but also puts their lives at constant risk. The issue has been repeatedly raised by local residents and community organizations.  Earlier, the Taraso Circle Yo...

  NEW DELHI, July 18:  The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has passed an Executive Committee resolution expressing deep concern over the health of education reformer and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on an indefinite hunger strike.  The resolution commended his efforts to highlight issues surrounding the NEET examination system and called for greater institutional sensitivity to his demands. Adopted on July 16, 2026, the resolution stated that Wangchuk had placed his health and life at risk for the future of the country's children, bringing national attention to what the Committee described as serious concerns related to the NEET examination and the broader well-being of the nation. The SCBA praised Wangchuk's longstanding contributions to education, innovation, and youth development, describing his work as a model of public service rooted in action, institution-building, and direct engagement with communities.  It said his commitment has transformed c...

  ITANAGAR, July 18:  Lok Sabha MP Tapir Gao has congratulated Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on completing 10 years in office, describing the milestone as a remarkable achievement and expressing confidence in his continued leadership for the state's future. In his congratulatory message, Gao extended his best wishes to Khandu and expressed hope that he would continue to lead Arunachal Pradesh for another 15 years, citing his vision for the state's brighter future. Pema Khandu completed a decade as Chief Minister on July 17, becoming one of the longest-serving Chief Ministers in the history of Arunachal Pradesh.  During his tenure, the state has witnessed significant progress in infrastructure development, road connectivity, governance reforms, digital initiatives, healthcare, education, tourism, and welfare programmes. Khandu's political journey took a decisive turn in 2016 amid political instability when he led 43 of the Congress party's 44 MLAs to the P...

  KHONSA, July 17:  In a significant boost to ongoing peace and counter-insurgency efforts in Arunachal Pradesh, a cadre of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Reformation (NSCN-R) surrendered before security forces and police in Tirap district on July 17. The surrendered cadre has been identified as SS Lieutenant Colonel Penngam Konyak (42), son of Late Tzemkai Konyak and a resident of Nyasa village under Longtongzong Khel Post Office in Mon district of Nagaland. According to official information, Penngam Konyak surrendered before a joint team comprising the Tirap Police, 44 Assam Rifles, and 36 Battalion CRPF at the Office of the Superintendent of Police, Khonsa. Officials said the surrender reflects the sustained efforts of the police and security forces to encourage insurgents to abandon the path of violence and join the mainstream.  They described the development as another positive step towards strengthening peace, stability, and security in Tirap district. T...

  LIKABALI, July 18:  In a major breakthrough in the Malinithan Mandir theft case, the Lower Siang District Police have arrested a man from Assam for allegedly receiving stolen sacred artefacts taken from the historic temple. The arrested accused has been identified as Muhammad Ali Hussain, a resident of 3 No. Gandhinagar, Sissiborgaon, Silapathar in Assam's Dhemaji district. According to police, Hussain had allegedly purchased the stolen sacred articles from the main accused, Toli Geyi. Police said the accused had been constantly changing locations in an attempt to evade arrest. Acting on credible intelligence, a police team tracked him down and successfully apprehended him on 17 July 2026. The operation was carried out under the close supervision of Abraham Taying, Officer-in-Charge of Likabali Police Station. The team was led by Sub-Inspector Kardo Ori, the Investigating Officer of the case. Hussain has been arrested under Section 317(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)...

  PASIGHAT, July 17:  In a successful joint operation, Mebo Police and Pasighat Police, with active support from the Mithun Owners Association, arrested three persons for allegedly stealing and illegally transporting a mithun.  The stolen animal was successfully recovered. The accused have been identified as Philip Lego (28) of Ayeng Village under Mebo Police Station, Kanggong Lego (19) of Ayeng Village, and Nandu Nath (22), a driver from Chumoni Village in Assam's North Lakhimpur district. According to police, the accused allegedly stole the mithun from the Partung area and were transporting it towards the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR).  Acting on specific intelligence, police intercepted the vehicle carrying the stolen animal at the Gumto Police Check Gate, leading to the recovery of the mithun and the arrest of all three accused. A case has been registered at Pasighat Police Station as PSGT P.S. Case No. 77/2026 under Sections 303(2) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyay...

  ITANAGAR, July 17:  In a landmark move to strengthen the justice delivery system, the Arunachal Pradesh Cabinet has approved the proposal for the Arunachal Pradesh Advocates Protection Bill, 2026.  The legislation aims to safeguard the lives and properties of advocates while ensuring a safer working environment for the legal fraternity. Once enacted by the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, the Bill will become the state's first dedicated law providing legal protection to advocates. The decision was taken during the Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday. The proposed legislation is designed to protect advocates from threats, violence, intimidation and unlawful interference while performing their professional duties. According to the Cabinet, the Bill seeks to ensure that legal professionals can carry out their responsibilities without fear, thereby reinforcing public confidence in the justice delivery system.  The legislation is also ...

  NEW DELHI, July 17:  Arunachal Frontier Tribal Front (AFTF) Chairman Tadak Nalo on Friday visited the CJP protest site at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi, where activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite fast since June 27. During the visit, Nalo met Wangchuk and expressed his solidarity with the activist. Sharing a message after the meeting, he wrote, "You are not alone. India stands with you." Wangchuk is participating in the ongoing CJP-led protest demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in national entrance examinations, including NEET.  The protesters are calling for comprehensive reforms in the examination system, greater transparency in recruitment and admissions, and action against those responsible for the alleged lapses.  They have also sought the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Nalo has long been vocal on education reforms in Arunachal Pradesh and has consistently worked for the interests of...

  ITANAGAR, July 17:  In a landmark achievement for medical education in Arunachal Pradesh, the Tomo Riba Institute of Health & Medical Sciences (TRIHMS), Naharlagun, has been granted an ECFMG Sponsor Note and officially listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS) on July 13, 2026.  It is the first medical college in the state to receive this internationally significant recognition. The recognition opens new opportunities for eligible TRIHMS MBBS graduates to pursue higher education, residency training, and medical careers in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and several other countries, subject to prescribed eligibility requirements. The ECFMG Sponsor Note also enables eligible graduates to apply for ECFMG Certification, an essential step for those seeking postgraduate medical training and licensure abroad.  The listing further strengthens the international recognition of TRIHMS and its MBBS degree. The institute...

  LIKABALI, July 17:  Likabali Police have successfully solved the theft case involving the historic Malinithan Archaeological Site, recovering most of the stolen temple articles and arresting the accused within days of the incident. According to police, a complaint was lodged on July 5, 2026, by the Malinithan Vikash Parishad Committee after unknown miscreants allegedly broke into the Malinithan Temple during the intervening night of July 4–5 and stole several ritual items.  The stolen articles included 10 brass bells (ghantis), one Khalid, six copper pots (Tamba Ghoti), and one aluminium bucket. Following the complaint, Likabali Police Station Case No. LKB/PS/FIR/27/2026 was registered under Section 305(a)(d) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).  The investigation was assigned to Sub-Inspector Kardo Ori under the supervision of Inspector Abraham Taying, Officer-in-Charge of Likabali Police Station. The investigation team employed a combination of conventional poli...

  ITANAGAR, July 16: Home Minister Mama Natung received a courtesy call from Shri Angad Mehta, IPS, and Smt. Shweta Nagarkoti, IAS, as the officer couple prepares to assume their new administrative responsibilities in New Delhi. During the meeting, the Home Minister lauded their exemplary service in Keyi Panyor district, where Angad Mehta served as Superintendent of Police (SP) and Shweta Nagarkoti served as Deputy Commissioner (DC).  He wished both officers continued success, fulfillment, and distinction in their new assignments. Shweta Nagarkoti, a 2020-batch IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre, played a key role in leading relief and rehabilitation efforts during the recent monsoon cloudbursts in Keyi Panyor.  Along with her husband, IPS officer Angad Mehta, a 2020-batch AGMUT cadre officer recruited through the UPSC Civil Services Examination, she personally supervised on-ground damage assessments and coordinated relief operations at severely affected landslide sites, incl...

  ITANAGAR, July 15:  The Government of Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday conducted a comprehensive review meeting to assess the progress of establishing new Municipal Corporations in Namsai, Aalo, Ziro, and Tawang, with an emphasis on accelerating the process for their early operationalization. The meeting was held in the presence of Balo Raja, Minister for Urban Affairs & Land Management, Shri Techi Kaso, Advisor to the Minister (Urban Affairs & Land Management) and MLA of 13-Itanagar Assembly Constituency, along with the Commissioner (Urban Development), Director of Urban Local Bodies (ULB), and the Deputy Commissioners of the four districts. During the meeting, the progress made in each district was reviewed in detail, with discussions focusing on the key administrative and procedural steps required to establish the new Municipal Corporations within the stipulated timeline. The Minister directed all concerned officers to expedite the process by ensuring the timely sub...

  ITANAGAR, July 15:  The Meteorological Centre, Itanagar, has issued a five-day district-wise weather warning for Arunachal Pradesh, indicating heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning across several parts of the state between July 15 and July 19.  According to the warning map, Orange Alert (Be Prepared) has been issued for Pakke Kessang and Papum Pare on July 15, with forecasts of heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.  Most other districts remain under a Yellow Alert (Be Updated), while central and northern districts are under the green category. On July 16, orange alerts continue for Pakke Kessang and Papum Pare, while yellow alerts remain in effect for several western and eastern districts. For July 17, the orange alert expands to include East Kameng, Pakke Kessang, Papum Pare, and Changlang, indicating an increased likelihood of heavy rainfall and associated weather hazards. On July 18, orange alerts remain in force over East Kameng, Pakke K...

  ITANAGAR, July 15:  In a major initiative to support government job aspirants in Arunachal Pradesh, Home Minister Mama Natung met Ms. Osin Mosu, Founder Director of Northeast PSC, at the Civil Secretariat to discuss launching a Special Scholarship Programme for 100 APSSB aspirants from the 11th Seppa West (ST) Assembly Constituency. The programme, proposed in collaboration with Northeast PSC and the Northeast Hornbill Foundation, aims to provide deserving candidates with quality coaching, expert guidance, mentorship, and structured preparation for the Arunachal Pradesh Staff Selection Board (APSSB) examinations. During the meeting, the Home Minister appreciated Ms. Osin Mosu's initiative, describing it as an important step towards empowering educated youth through quality coaching and equal opportunities.  He said investing in the youth is an investment in the future of Arunachal Pradesh. He also noted that making quality APSSB coaching accessible to deserving students ...

  SEPPA, July 14:  The East Kameng District Administration on Tuesday carried out a comprehensive inspection of flood-affected and landslide-vulnerable areas in and around Seppa town as continuous rainfall and rising river levels heightened concerns over public safety. Deputy Commissioner Ms. Yashaswani B, IAS, accompanied by the Circle Officer of Seppa and colony chairpersons, visited several vulnerable low-lying areas along the Kameng River and Pacha River to assess the impact of recent heavy rainfall, riverbank erosion, and increasing water levels. The inspection covered Shantipur, Kameng Tampa, Ashoka Colony, Sangkam, and Abo Tani Colony, where officials evaluated the extent of damage, identified erosion-prone stretches, and reviewed the district's preparedness to respond to any emerging emergency. During the field visit, the Deputy Commissioner interacted with local representatives and officials to gather firsthand information on the prevailing situation.  She direct...

  NAMSAI, July 13:  Namsai Police arrested an alleged drug peddler during a targeted anti-drug operation at Nongtaw Khamti-II Village and seized 35 grams (gross weight) of suspected heroin along with other incriminating materials. The accused has been identified as Shri Chow Wingseng Kamthong. The operation was launched based on specific and credible intelligence regarding his alleged involvement in narcotics trafficking. According to police, a search of the accused's residence was conducted in the presence of independent witnesses.  During the search, officers recovered 35 grams (gross weight) of suspected heroin concealed inside a medicine container kept in a flowery sling (tamul) bag in the kacha kitchen attached to the house.  Police also seized other articles believed to be associated with drug trafficking. The operation was led by Dy. SP Kengo Dirchi, SDPO Namsai, assisted by H/C T. Mossang, Ct. N. Gangsa, Ct. H. Taming, Ct. S. Yongkuk and Ct. (IRB) C.P. Simit,...

  ITANAGAR, July 13:  The Arunachal Pradesh Range Forest Officers Association (APRFOA) elected its new executive committee during its Conference-cum-Meeting held at Donyi Polo International Hotel in Itanagar. The members unanimously elected Shri Dare Tatung, Range Forest Officer (RFO), as the President of the Association, while Shri R.K. Koba was chosen as the General Secretary. The remaining members of the executive committee were also elected unanimously. Expressing his gratitude after assuming office, President Shri Dare Tatung thanked the members for the confidence they had placed in him and pledged to work collectively for the betterment of the Association and the forestry sector in the State. He reiterated the Association's commitment to working in close coordination with the Department of Environment & Forests, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, to promote effective conservation and sustainable management of the State's rich forest resources. Highlighting the Associat...

  PASIGHAT, July 13:  The Indian Army's Spearhead Gunners, under the aegis of the Spearhead Division, successfully conducted a five-day Basic Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) and Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) Training Programme for around 120 NCC cadets of the 22 AP NCC Battalion in Arunachal Pradesh. The training was held from July 8 to 10 at the 22 AP NCC Battalion, Pasighat, followed by practical sessions from July 11 to 12 at the Sigar Military Station. The programme offered cadets comprehensive exposure to modern drone technology through a series of lecture-cum-demonstrations, simulator-based training, live drone flying, equipment displays, drone repair demonstrations, and interactive practical sessions.  Participants were introduced to the fundamentals of drones and their components, as well as the operational use of UAS in surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Cadets also received hands-on training in Counter-UAS (C-UAS) techniques, gaining insight into id...