Hornbill News

  ITANAGAR, July 31:  The Arunachal Pradesh Police (APP) has bid a heartfelt farewell to Inspector General of Police (IGP) Take Ringu, IPS, on his superannuation, marking the conclusion of an illustrious 34-year career in the police service. In a farewell message, the department expressed gratitude for his invaluable contributions to policing and public service in Arunachal Pradesh.  It stated that his dedication, professionalism, and leadership have left a lasting legacy that will be remembered with pride and respect. Last year, Take Ringu, who served as Inspector General of Police (Crime/West), was conferred the President's Medal for Distinguished Service, one of the highest honours in the Indian police service. The prestigious award is presented to officers with an exceptional record of service, recognising sustained leadership, outstanding merit, and commitment to public safety beyond the call of duty. The President's Medal for Distinguished Service and the Police Med...

  TAWANG, July 31:  A two-day Regional Convention on Child Rights began on Friday at the Kalawangpo Convention Hall in Tawang, bringing together representatives from across the Northeastern states to discuss ways to strengthen the protection of children's rights. The convention, organised by the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (APSCPCR), is being held on the theme "Strengthening Child Rights Protection in North East India through Regional Cooperation and Collaborative Action." Chairpersons and Members of the State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCRs) from across the Northeast are participating in the event.  The convention aims to promote regional cooperation, encourage the exchange of best practices, and strengthen child protection mechanisms. Chief Minister Pema Khandu attended the inaugural session as the chief guest.  He was joined by Minister for Women and Child Development and Cultural Affairs Dasanglu Pul, MLA a...

  CHANGLANG, July 31:  In a continued crackdown on drug trafficking, Changlang Police arrested a man and seized approximately 22.2 grams of suspected heroin during an operation in the Nadipar area of Changlang district. The operation was carried out by a team from Changlang Police Station led by Inspector B. Saroh, Officer-in-Charge of PS Changlang, under the close supervision of the Superintendent of Police, Changlang.  The team included Constables Nokwang Khethey, Sushil Rajbhor, Hiarang Apesam, Nowang Wangsa, Lady Constable Aroti Mibang, and Driver Constable Lomdung Hakhi. During the search operation, police recovered the suspected contraband powder, believed to be heroin, concealed in plastic containers from the possession of Manik Bonik, a resident of the Nadipar area. The accused was taken into custody, and a case has been registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.  Police said further investigation is in progress to deter...

  ITANAGAR, July 30:  The Arunachal Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee (APMCC), staged a protest in Itanagar on Thursday against BJP MP and actress Kangana Ranaut over her alleged "gutterchhap" remark concerning students who participated in the NEET paper leak protest. The protesters raised slogans and burnt an effigy of Kangana Ranaut, demanding that she withdraw the alleged statement.  They described the remark as inappropriate and disrespectful towards students exercising their democratic right to protest. Addressing the gathering, Arunachal Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee President Chukhu Nachi said students and youths were only demanding their rights from the government and should not be subjected to derogatory remarks. She said such statements were condemnable and urged public representatives to exercise restraint while commenting on issues involving students and young people. APCC Working President and senior Congress leader Tanga Byaling and Vice President Toko M...

  CHANGLANG, July 30:  Changlang Police have arrested a man accused of murdering another individual in the Namtok Tea Garden area and recovered the alleged weapon used in the crime following a swift investigation. According to the police, information was received at Namtok Police Station on July 29, 2026, that Joy Purty, a resident of Namdang Tea Garden in Margherita, Tinsukia district of Assam, had allegedly attacked Junas Purty with a sharp weapon at Namtok Tea Garden under Changlang district. The injured victim was immediately taken to the Civil Hospital in Margherita for treatment. However, despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. Following the incident, Namtok Police registered a criminal case and launched an intensive search operation to trace the accused.  The operation was led by Sub-Inspector Krishan Kumar, Officer-in-Charge of Namtok Police Station, under the supervision of the Superintendent of Police, Changlang. Acting on leads de...

  ITANAGAR, July 30:  The Arunachal Pradesh Directorate of Health Services, Drugs Control Administration, has ordered a statewide inspection of all pharmacy establishments to ensure compliance with legal and quality standards. The order, issued by Assistant Drugs Controller-cum-Controlling Authority Gebomb Tayeng, directs all Zonal Licensing Authorities (ZLAs) and District Drug Control Officers (DCOs) to inspect medicine retail outlets in their respective jurisdictions. Officials have been instructed to verify pharmacy ownership documents, licences, appointment of registered pharmacists, storage facilities, infrastructure and compliance with the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, along with applicable state rules. The inspection will also include verification of valid drug licences, medicine storage conditions including cold-chain requirements, stock registers, invoices and purchase records.  Authorities will check for expired, counterfeit or unapproved medicines and verify t...

  DAPORIJO, July 30:  The Tagin community and followers of the indigenous Si-Donyi faith are mourning the demise of renowned traditional priest and scholar of Tagin customary law, Late Gogyam Gumja Tamin, who passed away on Thursday morning at the TRIHMS. He was 70. Born to Late Pugo Gumja and Late Jamnu Gumja of Dignium village under Giba Circle, he later settled at Lejirijo village under Sigin-I in Daporijo.  Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to preserving and promoting the indigenous spiritual traditions, customary laws, and cultural heritage of the Tagin community. Having embraced shamanism at a young age, Gogyam Gumja Tamin went on to become one of the most respected traditional priests of his generation.  His extensive knowledge of Tagin customs and rituals earned him widespread recognition and respect across Arunachal Pradesh. His lifelong service to the Si-Donyi faith was marked by the rare honour of serving as the Head Priest of the Si-Donyi Hilo on ...

  Cloth shopping bags being distributed to the participants. TAWANG, July 29:  The Tawang District Administration on Wednesday organised an awareness programme at Old Market to promote the implementation of the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Guidelines 2026. The programme was attended by Town Magistrate Nawang Thutan, Women's Welfare Association (WWA), market welfare committees, officials of the Department of Urban Affairs, the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) operator, shopkeepers and local residents. The session focused on four-way waste segregation at source, covering biodegradable, recyclable, domestic hazardous and sanitary waste, while also explaining the responsibilities of Bulk Waste Generators under the new guidelines. Addressing the gathering, Nawang Thutan said effective waste management begins with individual responsibility.  He urged residents and business establishments to adopt source segregation to help make Tawang a model town for cleanliness and sustainabl...

  KURUNG KUMEY, July 29:  A worker at the Kush Hydropower Project was safely rescued on Tuesday after he became stranded in the Kush River following a sudden cloudburst that caused the river's water level to rise rapidly. The rescued worker has been identified as Sabir Ahmad, a resident of Jammu & Kashmir, who is currently employed at the Kush Hydropower Project in Kurung Kumey district. According to reports, Sabir Ahmad had gone to collect firewood near the river when a sudden cloudburst triggered a flash surge, trapping him in the middle of the Kush River near the project site. Following the incident, local residents and police personnel immediately launched a rescue operation.  Their swift and coordinated efforts resulted in the successful rescue of the stranded worker without any reported injuries. The incident highlights the dangers posed by cloudbursts in the hilly regions of Arunachal Pradesh, where river levels can rise within minutes, often without warning, c...

  ITANAGAR, July 29:  The India Meteorological Department (IMD), Meteorological Centre Itanagar, has issued an impact-based weather forecast warning for thunderstorms with lightning and heavy to very heavy rainfall across several districts of Arunachal Pradesh from July 30 to August 1. According to the forecast, East Siang, Lohit, Namsai and Longding are likely to receive heavy rainfall (6–11 cm in 24 hours) between July 30 and 31.  During the same period, Papum Pare is expected to witness very heavy rainfall (12–20 cm in 24 hours) at isolated places. For July 31 to August 1, heavy rainfall has been forecast for Lower Subansiri, Lower Dibang Valley and Lohit, while Papum Pare is again likely to experience very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. The IMD has advised residents to remain alert as the weather may trigger flash floods, landslides, waterlogging and disruption of road connectivity, particularly in vulnerable and hilly areas.  People h...

  NAMSAI, July 28:  Deputy Chief Minister Shri Chowna Mein on Tuesday inaugurated the newly completed Mini Football Stadium at Chowkham in Namsai district, marking a significant boost to sports infrastructure in the region. The stadium has been funded by the North Eastern Council (NEC) and executed by the Rural Works Department (RWD), Namsai.  The inauguration was attended by 47 Namsai MLA Chau Zingnu Namchoom, Zilla Parishad Chairperson Chau Sujana Namchoom, Secretary of Sports & Youth Affairs Shri Abu Tayeng, the Deputy Commissioner (DC), Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), and other dignitaries. Speaking at the event, Chowna Mein said Chowkham has a rich footballing legacy as the birthplace of Arunachal Pradesh's first international footballer, Late Indrajit Namchoom, as well as renowned footballer Chau Surajit (Gohain) Namchoom and several other talented players. He said the state government is committed to restoring the area's football glory and developing Chow...

  ITANAGAR, July 28:  In a significant step towards environmental conservation, the Youth Mission for Clean River and the Abralow Memorial Multipurpose Society, with support from the Itanagar Smart City Development Corporation Ltd. (ISCDCL), organised a river clean-up drive at the Yamaso River in C-II Colony (Ward No. 10), Itanagar, on World Nature Conservation Day. The Yamaso River, one of the sister rivers of the Yagamso River, merges with it near the end of IG Park.  The clean-up campaign aimed to promote river conservation while encouraging community participation in protecting the environment. The drive witnessed enthusiastic participation from volunteers who worked together to clear waste from the river.  By the end of the campaign, nearly 3,000 kilograms of garbage had been removed, making it one of the largest community-led clean-up efforts in the area. The morning's cool breeze, overcast skies and the gentle flow of the river provided ideal conditions for th...

  ITANAGAR, July 28:  Ms. Hage Mamu, IAS (2017 batch), officially assumed charge as the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Papum Pare district on Tuesday.  She takes over from Shri Lobsang Tsering, who has been transferred and posted as the Deputy Commissioner of Namsai district. Prior to her new assignment, Ms. Mamu served as the Deputy Commissioner of West Siang district from September 2023 to August 2025. During her tenure, she was associated with several administrative and developmental initiatives in the district. Following her tenure in West Siang, she was selected for the prestigious Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Programme, a Fulbright exchange initiative funded by the United States Department of State.  The programme offers accomplished professionals an opportunity to enhance their leadership and professional expertise through academic and practical engagement in the United States. Ms. Mamu is the first direct-recruit IAS officer from the Apatani community and the s...

  NIRJULI, July 27:  In a major breakthrough against the recent rise in two-wheeler thefts across the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR), Nirjuli Police has recovered 11 stolen two-wheelers, arrested four accused, and apprehended two Children in Conflict with Law (CCLs). The action was taken in connection with Nirjuli Police Station Case No. 51/2026 registered under Sections 303(2) and 331(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The arrested accused have been identified as Monu Borah alias Durna Borah (31), Govind Nath (28), Khyoda Tako alias Pako (19), and Amit Doley (32). Police said the two apprehended juveniles were also allegedly involved in the theft racket. The recovered vehicles include five TVS Ntorq 125 scooters, a Honda Grazia, Hero Xtreme 125, Bajaj Pulsar N160, Yamaha Ray ZR, Yamaha R15, and a TVS Wego 110. The stolen vehicles had been reported missing from Itanagar, Papu Hills, and Nirjuli, while the source of some recovered vehicles is still under verification. The ...

  MECHUKHA, July 27:  The second edition of Mechukha Trout Quest 2.0 concluded on Sunday after two days of competitive angling along the scenic Yargyap Chu River, bringing together fishing enthusiasts from across India and abroad. The event witnessed the participation of 56 anglers from Thailand, Bhutan, and several Indian states, making it an international sport fishing and eco-tourism in Arunachal Pradesh. Participants competed in both Fly Fishing and Lure Fishing categories under the guidance of Derek D'Souza, IGFA India Representative, and renowned fly angler Bobby Satpal. The valedictory ceremony was attended by Arunachal Pradesh Minister Gabriel D. Wangsu, who distributed prizes to the winners and congratulated all participants for making the event a grand success. Addressing the gathering, the Minister reaffirmed the State Government's commitment to transforming Mechukha into a national benchmark for trout farming, recreational angling, and sustainable eco-tourism....

  ITANAGAR, July 26:  Citizens, students, and social activists gathered in large numbers in Itanagar on Sunday evening to participate in a peaceful candlelight march titled "One Last Tribute". The march was organised to pay homage to the students who lost their lives in connection with the recent paper leak issue. Holding candles and placards, participants marched peacefully through the city while observing silence in memory of the deceased students. The gathering served as both a tribute to the victims and a collective call for justice, transparency, and accountability in the education system. Participants also expressed solidarity with those who were allegedly assaulted during the recent protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. Speakers and attendees condemned the reported violence and reiterated the need to protect the democratic right to peaceful protest. The demonstrators renewed their demand for a fair, transparent, and accountable recruitment and examination system. They...

  ITANAGAR, July 25:  Gangphung Gangsa, a talented martial artist from Votnu village in Longding district, has brought laurels to Arunachal Pradesh by winning the gold medal at the 11th All India Police Games 2026–27 held in Hyderabad. Gangphung is currently serving as a Sub-Inspector in the Special Task Force (STF).  His latest achievement has brought pride to the people of Longding and the entire state while inspiring young athletes to pursue excellence in sports. Congratulating Gangphung on his remarkable success, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein described the victory as a proud moment for Arunachal Pradesh.  He said the achievement is a testament to Gangphung's dedication, discipline and perseverance, adding that his success reflects the spirit of determination and excellence. The Deputy Chief Minister also wished Gangphung continued success in his sporting career and expressed confidence that he would bring many more laurels to Arunachal Pradesh in the years to...

  ITANAGAR, July 26:  In a major breakthrough, Niti Vihar Police has busted a two-wheeler theft racket, solving three theft cases registered as PS Case Nos. 33/26, 34/26, and 36/26 under Section 305(b) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Acting on sustained investigation and credible intelligence inputs, police apprehended several Children in Conflict with Law allegedly involved in the thefts. During the operation, officers recovered a total of seven stolen scooties from different locations across the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR), including Itanagar and Naharlagun. Police said efforts are underway to identify the rightful owners of some of the recovered vehicles. Authorities are also verifying whether the recovered scooties are linked to other theft cases. Meanwhile, investigators are pursuing fresh leads to recover additional stolen two-wheelers and identify other individuals who may have been involved in the theft racket. The investigation is continuing, and police have a...

  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...