World Environment Day Celebrated with Marathon, Plantation Drive in Gumto and Tarasso

 

Doimukh, June 5:

World Environment Day 2026 was observed with great enthusiasm across Gumto and Tarasso through a series of activities including a 5-kilometre marathon, massive tree plantation drives, and awareness programmes aimed at promoting environmental conservation, physical fitness, and sustainable living.

The celebrations witnessed active participation from citizens, students, youths, volunteers, community leaders, and government officials, reflecting a collective commitment towards building a greener and healthier future.

At Gumto, the 5 KM Marathon organised by the Circle Office Gumto drew enthusiastic participation from people of all age groups. The event was flagged off in the presence of Hon’ble MLA Shri Nabam Vivek and Deputy Commissioner Shri Lobsang Tsering. Adding inspiration to the occasion, renowned athlete Shri Tarh Gungte Hura participated as the Icon Runner, motivating the runners and encouraging the spirit of fitness and environmental responsibility among the participants.

As part of the World Environment Day celebrations, awareness was also created on the importance of protecting natural resources, maintaining ecological balance, and adopting sustainable practices in daily life.

Participants of 5 km Marathon at Gumto.

Later in the day, a massive plantation drive was carried out at Nabam Runghi Cricket Ground, Barmani, Tarasso. The programme was organised by Team Robniang Helping Hands Foundation (TRHHF) in collaboration with the Forest Department. Hundreds of saplings were planted with the objective of enhancing green cover and contributing to long-term environmental sustainability.

Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble MLA Shri Nabam Vivek urged the public to actively participate in environmental conservation by planting and nurturing trees. He also encouraged people to adopt organic farming and promote kitchen gardening as a means of achieving self-reliance while maintaining a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.

Deputy Commissioner Shri Lobsang Tsering appreciated the efforts of the organisers, volunteers, and participants for making the programme a success. He stressed the importance of increasing forest cover and preserving the environment for future generations, while calling upon the public to work collectively towards protecting nature.

The observance of World Environment Day across Gumto and Tarasso highlighted the importance of community participation in environmental protection and served as a reminder that every individual contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in creating a cleaner, greener, and healthier society.

Anini Forest Division Marks World Environment Day with Plantation Drive

 

Anini, June 5:

The Anini Forest Division of Dibang Valley District marked World Environment Day 2026 with a plantation drive and environmental awareness programme on Friday, reaffirming its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. The event was organised under the global theme, “Inspired by Nature: For Climate. For Our Future.”

The programme witnessed the participation of several dignitaries, including MLA-cum-Advisor to the Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Shri Mopi Mihu, Deputy Commissioner Shri Bekir Nyorak, Divisional Forest Officer Shri Taluk Rime, SDO Shri Lijum Ete, Executive Engineer (PWD) Shri Binam Messar, Executive Engineer (Urban Development) Shri Olom Apang, District Transport Officer Shri Lamwang Aran, along with officials and staff of the Forest Department.

As part of the observance, a plantation drive was conducted in and around Anini, where saplings were planted to enhance green cover, promote ecological balance, and contribute towards climate change mitigation efforts. The initiative aimed to raise awareness about the importance of tree plantation and environmental stewardship among the public.

Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries underscored the urgent need for collective action to address environmental challenges and protect natural ecosystems. They highlighted the significance of sustainable development practices, conservation of natural resources, and community participation in safeguarding the rich biodiversity of Dibang Valley, one of Arunachal Pradesh’s most ecologically significant regions.

Speaking on the occasion, MLA Mopi Mihu stressed that World Environment Day serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility to preserve the environment for future generations. They encouraged citizens, particularly the youth, to actively engage in environmental protection initiatives and adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily lives.

The programme concluded with a pledge by all stakeholders to continue working towards environmental conservation and sustainable development. The participants reaffirmed their commitment to building a greener, cleaner, and climate-resilient future for Dibang Valley and the state as a whole.

World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5, is a global platform for raising awareness and encouraging action to protect the environment. This year’s observance in Anini reflected the district’s dedication to preserving nature and promoting a sustainable future through meaningful community participation.

BJP Nominates Tai Tagak for Rajya Sabha; Khandu Congratulates Veteran Leader

 

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has nominated veteran party leader Tai Tagak as its candidate for the Rajya Sabha from Arunachal Pradesh, ending weeks of speculation over the party's choice for the lone Upper House seat from the state.

Tagak's nomination comes after an extensive consultation process involving both the state and central leadership of the BJP. Party sources indicated that several prominent leaders were considered during the selection process, including Environment, Forest, Geology and Mining Minister Wangki Lowang, incumbent Rajya Sabha MP Nabam Rebia, Pasighat West MLA and former Lok Sabha MP Ninong Ering, former ministers Taba Tedir and Tage Taki, former state BJP president Dr Tangor Tapak, Forest Corporation Chairman Nalong Mize, BJP Core Committee member Kenyir Ringu, state executive member Dotam Sora, BJP leader Nuney Tayang, entrepreneur and Kurung Kumey district BJP vice president Ha Tatu, and former IMC Mayor Tame Phassang.

Recommendations from Chief Minister Pema Khandu, state BJP president Kaling Moyong and other senior party leaders were understood to have played a significant role before the final decision was taken by the party leadership.

Following the announcement, Chief Minister Pema Khandu congratulated Tai Tagak on his nomination, describing it as a fitting recognition of decades of unwavering commitment to the organisation and its ideals.

Khandu said Tagak stood firmly with the BJP during challenging times when many were hesitant to be associated with the party and worked tirelessly at the grassroots level to strengthen its presence across Arunachal Pradesh.

Stating that the nomination reflects Tagak's loyalty, perseverance and dedication to the cause, the Chief Minister expressed confidence that he would effectively represent the interests and aspirations of the people of Arunachal Pradesh in the Rajya Sabha and wished him success in his new responsibility.

Three Arrested with 38.70g Suspected Heroin at Banderdewa

 

Banderdewa, June 3:

In a significant breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking, Banderdewa Police arrested three alleged drug peddlers and seized 38.70 grams of suspected heroin during a naka checking operation conducted at the Banderdewa Check Gate.

The operation was launched based on specific intelligence inputs regarding the transportation of narcotic substances from Assam into Arunachal Pradesh. Acting swiftly on the information, a police team led by Inspector Kipa Hamak, Officer-in-Charge of Banderdewa Police Station, along with SI B. Pegu, SI T. Hinda, L/Ct. Rita Devi, and personnel from the CRPF, established a strategic checkpoint and laid a trap to intercept the suspected vehicle.

During the operation, the team stopped and searched a Maruti Alto K10 bearing registration number AR-01V-3694. A thorough inspection of the vehicle led to the recovery of 30 vials containing suspected heroin, weighing a total of 38.70 grams, including the weight of the vials.

Following the seizure, police arrested three individuals allegedly involved in the transportation and distribution of the contraband. The accused have been identified as Khyoda Mama of Jully-Jollang, Itanagar; Khoda Tadi of F&G Sector, Itanagar; and Guriya Rai of Chimpu in Papum Pare district.

A case has been registered at Banderdewa Police Station under Sections 21(b) and 29 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, vide BDW/PS Case No. 30/2026. Investigators have initiated further inquiries to trace the source of the seized narcotics and identify other individuals connected to the trafficking network.

The operation was conducted under the overall supervision of Dr. Nyelam Nega, APPS, Superintendent of Police, Naharlagun ICR, as part of the ongoing crackdown on drug trafficking and related criminal activities in the Itanagar Capital Region.

Police officials stated that efforts to curb the menace of narcotics will continue with intensified surveillance, intelligence-based operations, and strict enforcement measures across the region.

APIYO Announces June 5 Bandh, Warns of Direct Action

 

The Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organisation (APIYO) has announced a fresh 24-hour bandh beginning at 5 a.m. on June 5 and ending at 5 a.m. on June 6, alleging continued government inaction on its long-pending demands concerning alleged illegal mosques and illegal immigrants in the state.

The announcement comes just days after APIYO's 24-hour bandh observed on May 28, 2026. According to the organisation, the decision to intensify its agitation was taken due to what it described as the government's persistent ignorance of issues repeatedly raised by the indigenous youth body.

Addressing the media, APIYO president Taro Sonam Liyak stated that despite several memorandums, meetings, protests and the recent bandh, the state government has failed to take any concrete action on the organisation's key demands. He alleged that assurances given by the government have not translated into action on the ground.

Liyak reiterated APIYO's demands, which include action against alleged illegal immigrants and the demolition of alleged illegal religious structures that the organisation claims were constructed without proper authorization.

He said the June 5 bandh is intended to send a strong message to the government regarding public dissatisfaction over the delay in addressing the issues raised by the organisation. APIYO further warned that the movement could be intensified across the state if the government continues to remain unresponsive.

The APIYO president stated that while the organisation's previous agitations were peaceful in nature, the June 5 bandh would mark a more aggressive phase of the movement. He announced that APIYO members would proceed to dismantle alleged illegal structures within the Capital Region if the authorities fail to take action. He also warned other organisations against opposing or obstructing the proposed agitation.

The organisation appealed to the public to extend cooperation during the bandh and maintained that its agitation would continue until its demands are addressed.

APIYO leaders indicated that further programmes and the future course of the movement would be announced in the coming days depending on the government's response.

Toko Tatung Announces Free Education, Online Coaching for Keyi Panyor Students

 

Yachuli, June 2:

A mass tree plantation programme was jointly organized by the NCP Keyi Panyor District Unit and the district administration on Wednesday to commemorate two years of service by MLA of the 16th Yachuli (ST) Assembly Constituency, Toko Tatung. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from elected representatives, party leaders, senior citizens, youths, and members of the public. However, the highlight of the occasion was the MLA's major announcement of free education and free online coaching support for students across the district.

Addressing the gathering, Tatung declared that all students studying from Class I to Class XII in government schools of Keyi Panyor district will receive free education, with all educational expenses to be borne by the MLA. The initiative aims to ensure that no child is deprived of education due to financial constraints and reflects the district's growing focus on human resource development alongside environmental conservation.

In another significant step towards strengthening the education sector, the MLA announced the launch of free online coaching for students throughout the district. The coaching programme is intended to provide additional academic support, particularly for students who require extra guidance, personalized attention, or more time to grasp classroom lessons. The initiative is expected to help improve learning outcomes and create equal educational opportunities for students from remote and rural areas.

The announcements were made during a large-scale plantation drive that covered a route stretching from the Division Commissioner (West) Gate at Yachuli to Chulyu Village. The programme saw active participation from the Zilla Parishad Chairperson (ZPC), Zilla Parishad Members (ZPMs), Gaon Burahs, Gram Panchayat Chairpersons (GPCs), Gram Panchayat Members (GPMs), senior party members, community leaders, and local residents.

Speaking on the district's environmental vision, Tatung highlighted Keyi Panyor's emergence as India's first "Bio-Happy District" following the successful Beej Utsav initiative. He announced that 50,000 Cherry Blossom saplings have been prepared for plantation across the district, with the goal of dedicating one sapling to every citizen. The ambitious initiative seeks to transform Keyi Panyor into a vibrant Cherry Blossom Valley while promoting ecological sustainability and community participation.

The MLA expressed gratitude to the district administration, NCP leaders, elected representatives, senior citizens, youths, and the people of the constituency for their continued support. He emphasized that investing in education and empowering young people through accessible learning opportunities would play a crucial role in building a stronger and more prosperous future for the district and the state.

IMC Begins Eviction Drive Along NH-415 in Nirjuli

 

Itanagar, June 3:

The Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) on Wednesday commenced an eviction drive against roadside vendors and unauthorized structures along National Highway-415 in Nirjuli, following the expiration of a 10-day deadline issued last month for the removal of encroachments.

Teams from the municipal body carried out the operation in areas where vendors had continued to occupy roadside spaces despite repeated directives. The drive focused on clearing illegal meat, fruit, and vegetable stalls as well as temporary structures erected along the highway, which authorities said were obstructing public spaces and contributing to increasing traffic congestion on one of the Capital Region’s busiest road corridors.

The action follows an order issued by IMC on May 25, directing all roadside meat, vegetable, and fruit vendors operating along NH-415 within the city limits to immediately cease business activities and dismantle their structures within ten days. The notice was issued by Joint Commissioner Khoda Lasa (APCS), who stated that the vendors were operating in a haphazard manner along the highway, creating serious concerns related to traffic management, sanitation, and public safety.

According to the municipal corporation, the open sale of meat and other perishable products in unhygienic roadside conditions poses potential health risks to the public. Authorities noted that such practices could increase the likelihood of zoonotic diseases, including Anthrax, Leptospirosis, Cysticercosis, Brucellosis, and Rabies. The corporation also observed that the concentration of vendors along the highway had led to frequent traffic bottlenecks, posing inconvenience to commuters and increasing the risk of road accidents.

IMC stated that the roadside vending activities violate provisions of the Arunachal Pradesh Municipal Corporation Act, 2019, the Arunachal Pradesh Municipal Act, 2007, and the Executive Order issued by the District Magistrate of the Capital Region on September 24, 2024. The corporation maintained that the eviction drive is part of a broader effort to ensure orderly urban development, improve public hygiene, and maintain smooth vehicular movement along NH-415.

Municipal officials appealed to vendors and shop owners to cooperate with the administration, emphasizing that the exercise is being undertaken in the larger public interest. They reiterated that strict action would continue against those who fail to comply with the regulations and warned that the cost of demolition and removal of debris would be recovered from the concerned vendors and structure owners.

The eviction drive is expected to continue in phases across other stretches of the highway as IMC intensifies its efforts to remove encroachments and restore public spaces within the Capital Region.

Bodak Village Hosts Cleanliness Drive

 

Bodak, June 3:

A Social Service-cum-Awareness Campaign on Plastic Waste Management was successfully organized at Bodak Village in East Siang district on Wednesday, bringing together PRI members, women leaders, youth volunteers and villagers in a collective effort to promote cleanliness, environmental awareness and community service. The programme was organized by Eco Clean Mission Mebo in collaboration with the PRI Members of Mebo Sub-Division.

The initiative focused on encouraging active community participation in maintaining a clean environment while creating awareness about the growing threat posed by plastic waste. Volunteers carried out cleanliness activities and sensitized residents on the importance of proper waste management, responsible disposal practices and environmental conservation. The campaign highlighted how collective efforts at the grassroots level can contribute significantly towards protecting rivers, forests and villages from pollution.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from people across different sections of society, reflecting a strong sense of civic responsibility and commitment towards community welfare. Organizers emphasized that social service initiatives such as these not only help improve public spaces but also foster greater awareness and cooperation among citizens in addressing environmental challenges.

Among those who participated in the campaign was Oken Tayeng, MLA of the 39th Mebo (ST) Assembly Constituency, who appreciated the efforts of the volunteers, PRI members, women leaders, youth and villagers. He stated that plastic waste is one of the biggest environmental challenges of our time and stressed that protecting rivers, forests and villages requires collective action. Expressing his gratitude to all those involved in the cleanliness drive and awareness programme, he said, “A clean environment is everyone's responsibility. Together, we can make a difference,” while encouraging continued community participation in such social service initiatives.

Rare Dragonfly Rediscovered in Arunachal After 110 Years

 

Itanagar, June 2:

In a remarkable rediscovery that highlights the extraordinary biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh, researchers have documented the rare Long-tailed Duskhawker dragonfly (Gynacantha khasiaca) in Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve after more than 110 years. The species was sighted at Deban during a biodiversity survey conducted in October 2024 and later confirmed through photographic evidence. 

The finding, published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa, marks the first confirmed record of the species in the state since 1914, when it was last documented during the historic Abor Expedition. The rediscovery was made by researchers Mahesh R., Rajesh Gopinath, Gaurav Joshi, and Roshan Upadhya during an eight-day biodiversity assessment along the Miao–Vijaynagar Road within the protected area.

The Long-tailed Duskhawker is distinguished by its striking green eyes, transparent wings, and elongated abdomen. Owing to its rarity and the limited number of records available, very little is known about its ecology, distribution, and population status. The species is currently classified as Data Deficient, emphasizing the need for further research and monitoring. Scientists say the discovery underscores the ecological significance of Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve, one of India's richest biodiversity hotspots located in the Eastern Himalayas near the India–Myanmar border.

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein welcomed the discovery and congratulated the researchers for their contribution to biodiversity documentation and scientific knowledge. He stated, “Kudos to researchers Mahesh R., Rajesh Gopinath, Gaurav Joshi and Roshan Upadhya for documenting this significant finding and contributing to our understanding of Arunachal Pradesh’s rich natural heritage.” He further noted that such discoveries reaffirm the importance of conserving unique ecosystems and strengthening efforts towards scientific research and habitat protection.

Conservationists and researchers have described the rediscovery as a significant milestone for biodiversity conservation in the region, demonstrating that Arunachal Pradesh’s forests continue to hold many unexplored biological treasures. The finding reinforces the importance of sustained field surveys, scientific monitoring, and habitat conservation efforts across the Eastern Himalayas. 

Beyond enriching the state's biodiversity records, the rediscovery of Gynacantha khasiaca serves as a testament to Arunachal Pradesh’s global ecological significance and highlights the critical role of research and conservation in safeguarding its unique natural heritage for future generations.

AAPSU Raises Key Indigenous and Student Issues with Chief Minister

 

AAPSU Executive Members With CM Pema Khandu.

Itanagar, June 2:

The Central Executive Members of the All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) today called on Chief Minister and submitted a comprehensive memorandum highlighting several pressing concerns affecting indigenous students and the people of Arunachal Pradesh.

During the meeting, the student body raised a series of long-standing demands related to employment, constitutional safeguards, education, democratic rights, and the welfare of indigenous communities. The Chief Minister reportedly responded positively to the issues presented and assured necessary action on several key matters.

One of the major issues discussed was the demand for making Permanent Resident Certificate (PRC) and Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribe (APST) certificates mandatory in all State Government recruitment processes. AAPSU reiterated its long-standing opposition to the existing 80:20 recruitment ratio and sought stronger safeguards to ensure employment opportunities are protected for indigenous people. In response, the Chief Minister assured that a dedicated committee would be constituted to examine the matter and recommend appropriate measures.

The delegation also pressed for mandatory PRC and APST certification requirements for candidates contesting Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) elections. AAPSU argued that such safeguards are essential to protect indigenous political representation and grassroots democratic institutions. The Chief Minister assured that a separate committee would be formed to study the demand and address concerns related to indigenous political rights.

In a significant development for higher education, the Chief Minister assured the introduction of a State Government-funded fellowship scheme for APST students pursuing PhD programmes in government institutions within Arunachal Pradesh. The proposed fellowship is expected to provide much-needed financial support to indigenous research scholars and strengthen the state's academic and research ecosystem.

The issue of limited examination infrastructure was also highlighted during the meeting. AAPSU urged the government to increase the number of Common University Entrance Test (CUET) centres in Arunachal Pradesh, pointing out the hardships and risks faced by students who are compelled to travel outside the state to appear for the examination. The Chief Minister assured that additional CUET centres would be established within the state from next year to improve accessibility and reduce the burden on students.

Another important assurance came regarding the creation of a designated democratic protest ground in Itanagar. The Chief Minister reportedly agreed to provide a government-designated space for peaceful democratic assembly, recognising the constitutional right of citizens to express their views and concerns through lawful and peaceful means.

Apart from these major issues, AAPSU also placed before the Chief Minister several other state-centric concerns relating to indigenous rights, border connectivity, constitutional safeguards, youth employment, social welfare, and developmental challenges faced by the people of Arunachal Pradesh. According to the student body, these issues received positive consideration and constructive engagement from the government.

AAPSU expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Pema Khandu for his time, openness, and willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue. The union described the meeting as productive and reflective of the democratic spirit, expressing hope that the assurances given would translate into concrete policy measures benefiting the indigenous people and students of Arunachal Pradesh.

WPS Itanagar Holds Student Awareness Programme on Safety and ERSS-112

 

Itanagar, June 2:

WPS Itanagar Conducts Awareness Programme on ERSS-112, New Criminal Laws and Child Safety at Niti Vihar School

Itanagar, June 2: The Women Police Station (WPS), Itanagar, conducted an awareness programme at Government Middle School, Niti Vihar, on Monday with the objective of educating students about the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112), provisions of the newly introduced criminal laws, and issues related to women and child safety.

During the programme, police officials highlighted the importance of ERSS-112 as a nationwide emergency helpline and informed students about the various legal provisions aimed at ensuring public safety and justice under the new criminal law framework. The session sought to enhance legal awareness among young students and encourage responsible citizenship.

A key focus of the programme was the safety and protection of women and children. The officials sensitised students on the concepts of “Good Touch and Bad Touch,” helping them understand personal boundaries, recognise inappropriate behaviour, and take appropriate action in situations of abuse or harassment. Students were also guided on how to seek help from trusted adults and law enforcement agencies whenever required.

The awareness session was led by Sub-Inspector Nikter Ani and attended by Lady Constable Bomge Gamlin, Lady Constable T. Monju, and Constable Ogo Pertin of WPS Itanagar. 

The programme witnessed active participation from students, who engaged in interactive discussions and raised queries related to personal safety and emergency response mechanisms. The police team encouraged students to remain aware of their rights and make use of available support systems whenever necessary.