Arunachal Cabinet Extends Age Relaxation for APPSC Aspirants

 

Itanagar, June 16:

In a major relief for aspirants affected by delays in recruitment examinations, the Arunachal Pradesh Cabinet on Monday approved a one-year extension of the one-time upper age relaxation for eligible candidates of the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC). The decision was taken to ensure that candidates who became overage due to delays in the examination process are not deprived of employment opportunities.

According to the Cabinet decision, the benefit will be available to candidates who had applied for APPSC recruitment examinations advertised in 2022 and subsequently crossed the prescribed upper age limit because of postponements and delays in the conduct of examinations. The extension is intended to address concerns raised by affected aspirants and provide them with a fair chance to compete in upcoming recruitment processes.

The APPSC recruitment delays had impacted a large number of candidates, many of whom risked losing eligibility despite having applied within the prescribed age limits when the vacancies were originally notified. The state government had earlier granted a one-time age relaxation as a special measure, and the latest decision extends that relief by another year.

The Cabinet stated that the move reflects the government's commitment to safeguarding the interests of deserving candidates and ensuring fairness in public recruitment. 

The extension is expected to benefit a significant number of aspirants awaiting APPSC examinations and recruitment notifications, offering them renewed hope and an additional opportunity to pursue government service.

Arunachal Tourism Bags Two National Awards

 

New Delhi/Itanagar, June 16:

Arunachal Pradesh has earned national recognition at the India Today Tourism Survey & Awards 2026, with two of its tourism attractions receiving prestigious honours. Nawang Chotta Homestay in Tawang district and Siang River Rafting were recognized for their outstanding contribution to cultural and adventure tourism respectively, further strengthening Arunachal Pradesh's position as one of India's most unique travel destinations.

Receiving the awards on behalf of the state, Tourism Minister P.D. Sona expressed pride in the achievements and congratulated all stakeholders, local communities, tourism entrepreneurs, and industry partners who have contributed to the growth of tourism in Arunachal Pradesh.

Nawang Chotta Homestay Wins Special Award for Best Tribal Homestay

Located in Lumpo Village under Zemithang Circle in Tawang district, Nawang Chotta Homestay was honoured with the Special Award for Best Tribal Homestay at the India Today Tourism Survey & Awards 2026.

The award recognizes the homestay's efforts in preserving and promoting the traditional Monpa way of life while offering visitors an authentic and immersive cultural experience. Unlike conventional hotels, guests stay directly with a local family in a beautifully preserved traditional Monpa home, providing a rare opportunity to experience the region's customs, traditions, and hospitality firsthand.

Visitors can participate in local Buddhist traditions, wear traditional attire, and enjoy home-cooked tribal cuisine prepared by the host family. This unique experience allows travelers to gain a deeper understanding of the Monpa community and its rich cultural heritage.

The homestay is situated in the breathtaking Zemithang Valley, one of Arunachal Pradesh's most historically and spiritually significant regions. The valley is renowned as the route through which His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama entered India in 1959 after fleeing Tibet. Surrounded by pristine natural beauty and deep cultural significance, the region offers visitors an unforgettable travel experience.

Speaking on the achievement, Minister P.D. Sona said that the recognition celebrates the warmth of Arunachal Pradesh's traditional hospitality, the richness of its tribal culture, and the growing success of community-led tourism initiatives. He noted that homestays such as Nawang Chotta not only provide authentic experiences to visitors but also create meaningful livelihood opportunities for local communities.

Siang River Rafting Wins Editor's Choice Award for Adventure Destination

In another major achievement, Siang River Rafting was adjudged the Winner in the Adventure Destination category under the Editor's Choice Awards at the India Today Tourism Survey & Awards 2026.

The recognition marks a proud moment for Arunachal Pradesh and reaffirms the state's immense potential as one of India's finest adventure tourism destinations. The mighty Siang River, known for its challenging rapids, spectacular landscapes, deep gorges, and untouched wilderness, offers one of the most thrilling white-water rafting experiences in the country.

The award highlights the growing popularity of the Siang as a premier destination for adventure enthusiasts from across India and abroad. The river's breathtaking scenery and exhilarating rafting routes perfectly capture the spirit of adventure that Arunachal Pradesh has to offer.

Minister P.D. Sona congratulated all stakeholders, local communities, tourism professionals, river guides, adventure operators, and enthusiasts whose dedication and commitment have helped establish Siang River Rafting as a nationally recognized adventure destination.

He also expressed gratitude to Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, for their continued support in strengthening tourism infrastructure and promoting tourism development in Arunachal Pradesh.

The minister reaffirmed the state's commitment to promoting adventure tourism in a sustainable, safe, and community-driven manner while ensuring that local communities continue to benefit from tourism growth.

The twin recognitions received by Nawang Chotta Homestay and Siang River Rafting reflect the successful efforts of Arunachal Pradesh in promoting both cultural and adventure tourism. While Nawang Chotta Homestay showcases the state's rich tribal heritage and authentic hospitality, Siang River Rafting highlights its immense natural potential for world-class adventure experiences.

These achievements stand as a testament to the dedication of local communities, tourism stakeholders, and government agencies working together to position Arunachal Pradesh as one of India's most distinctive and promising tourism destinations.

New Butterfly Species Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh

 

Itanagar, June 15:

In a significant breakthrough for biodiversity research, scientists have discovered a new butterfly species in the remote Mayodia Pass region of Arunachal Pradesh's Lower Dibang Valley. The species, named Chonala albistricta, has been formally described in the international scientific journal Zootaxa.

The discovery adds a new member to the rare mountain butterfly genus Chonala, bringing the total number of known species worldwide to ten. Notably, Chonala albistricta is only the second species from this genus ever recorded in India.

Although the butterfly closely resembles Chonala masoni, researchers confirmed it as a distinct species after detailed examinations of its wing patterns, external morphology and anatomical features. The findings underscore the importance of meticulous scientific studies in uncovering hidden biodiversity.

The research was led by noted butterfly expert Krushnamegh Kunte of the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), alongside researchers Fahim Khan and Ujwala Pawar. According to the team, the isolated and rugged landscapes of the Eastern Himalayas continue to offer immense potential for discovering species that remain unknown to science.

Species belonging to the genus Chonala are typically found in high-altitude Himalayan ecosystems and are known for their rarity. Scientists believe that their geographically isolated populations have evolved independently over long periods, resulting in unique biological characteristics.

The discovery of Chonala albistricta further highlights the extraordinary biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh and reinforces the global ecological significance of the Eastern Himalayas. Researchers emphasize that documenting such species is vital for conservation efforts and for improving our understanding of the region's rich natural heritage.

The finding serves as a reminder that even today, some of the world's most remote mountain landscapes continue to reveal remarkable secrets of nature.

APSSB Exam Rekindles Debate Over Arunachal's 80:20 Recruitment Policy

 

Representative visual 

Itanagar, June 15: 

The Arunachal Pradesh Staff Selection Board's (APSSB) Special Recruitment Drive for Uniformed Services Combined Examination 2026, conducted on June 14, has once again brought the state's long-debated 80:20 recruitment ratio into public focus. As thousands of aspirants converged on examination centres across the state, particularly in Itanagar, the presence of a large number of non-Arunachali candidates appearing for vacancies reserved under the 20 percent quota reignited discussions on whether the decades-old policy remains relevant in present-day Arunachal Pradesh. The issue has gained particular significance at a time when unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges facing the state's younger generation.

The 80:20 recruitment ratio was introduced during a period when Arunachal Pradesh faced a shortage of qualified local manpower in several sectors. To ensure the smooth functioning of government departments and essential services, a portion of government posts was kept open for candidates from outside the state. At the time, the policy was viewed as a practical measure to address limitations in educational access and professional expertise within the state. 

However, the socio-economic landscape of Arunachal Pradesh has changed significantly over the years, with the state now producing thousands of graduates, postgraduates, and professionally qualified youths annually from universities and institutions across India.

Arunachali candidates have consistently demonstrated their competence in fields such as administration, education, healthcare, engineering, law enforcement, civil services, and other professional sectors. Against this backdrop, many youths and employment seekers have begun questioning whether the continued reservation of 20 percent of state government vacancies for non-APST candidates still serves its original purpose. Government jobs continue to be among the most sought-after avenues of employment in Arunachal Pradesh due to limited opportunities in the private sector, making every recruitment drive highly significant for local job seekers.

Many observers argue that local candidates today possess the educational qualifications, technical expertise, and professional capabilities required to fill positions across virtually all departments of the state government. They contend that recruitment policies should evolve in accordance with changing realities and prioritize the employment aspirations of the state's own educated and unemployed youth. 

Supporters of a review of the policy maintain that the debate is not about excluding non-local candidates but about reassessing a framework that was formulated under circumstances vastly different from those that exist today.

The APSSB examination has therefore revived a broader conversation about employment, representation, and the future of public recruitment in the state. Many believe that the time has come for a comprehensive assessment of the 80:20 ratio to determine whether it continues to meet the objectives for which it was originally introduced or whether a revised recruitment framework would better reflect the aspirations and employment needs of contemporary Arunachal Pradesh. 

As discussions continue, the issue is expected to remain a subject of public and political debate, particularly among the state's youth, for whom access to government employment remains a critical concern.

PPA Opposes APFRA Implementation, Seeks Wider Consultation

 

Itanagar, June 13:

The People's Party of Arunachal (PPA) has expressed its opposition to the proposed implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978, stating that the move could have implications for communal harmony and social cohesion in the state.

The party's position was adopted during its State Executive Meeting held on June 11, 2026, where members deliberated on the APFRA and the draft rules prepared for its implementation. Following discussions, the executive unanimously resolved to oppose the implementation of the Act and urged the government to reconsider the move in the interest of maintaining unity among the state's diverse communities.

Addressing the media, PPA President Shri Nabam Vivek questioned the relevance of implementing a law enacted nearly five decades ago. He noted that APFRA was passed in 1978 and said that any decision on such a sensitive matter should be preceded by extensive consultations with all stakeholders, including community leaders, religious organizations, civil society groups, and the general public.

Referring to the final draft rules submitted by the High-Powered Committee to Chief Minister Shri Pema Khandu, Vivek raised concerns over provisions relating to the maintenance of records of religious conversions. He questioned the necessity of documenting individuals who adopt or convert to a particular faith, arguing that such measures would neither protect indigenous tribal identities nor effectively prevent religious conversions.

According to Vivek, the implementation of these provisions could potentially create social divisions and affect the longstanding tradition of peaceful coexistence among different communities in Arunachal Pradesh. He emphasized that the state's strength lies in its cultural diversity and mutual respect among its people.

Reiterating the party's commitment to safeguarding the interests of indigenous communities, the PPA President stated that the party would continue to oppose any policy it believes does not reflect public sentiment or serve the welfare of the people. He urged the state government to initiate broader public discussions on the issue before taking any final decision.

Vivek also called on the government to convene a special session of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly to deliberate on the matter in detail and seek a consensus that reflects the aspirations and concerns of the people of Arunachal Pradesh.

RTI Activist Seeks Probe Into Repeated Bandh Calls

 

Itanagar, June 11:

A representation has been submitted to the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh seeking the constitution of an independent enquiry committee to investigate alleged inaction by the Home Department, district administration, police authorities, and the Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organisation (APIYO) over repeated bandh calls in the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR). The memorandum, dated June 9, 2026, was submitted by RTI activist Likha Tolum and received at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar.

According to the representation, the petitioner alleged that APIYO had called multiple capital bandhs within a short span of time, causing inconvenience to the general public and disrupting normal life in the twin capital cities. The memorandum claims that despite district administration orders declaring such bandh calls unlawful and despite repeated warnings from authorities, no FIRs, arrests, or legal action were initiated against those enforcing the shutdowns. The petitioner further alleged that this amounted to unequal treatment under the law and encouraged more pressure groups to resort to bandh culture in the state.

The representation specifically seeks an independent enquiry against four entities: the Home Minister, the district administration, police officials, and APIYO. The petitioner has accused the authorities of failing to enforce administrative orders and of not taking action against organisers of bandh calls despite legal provisions and court rulings against forced shutdowns. The memorandum also alleges that while some social activists and protestors have faced legal action under various laws, organisers of repeated bandh calls were allegedly not subjected to similar action.

Another key demand in the representation is compensation for losses and harassment allegedly suffered by members of the public due to repeated shutdowns. The petitioner has argued that citizens, daily wage earners, businesses, commuters and other sections of society were adversely affected by the bandhs and that responsibility for such losses should be fixed through an independent investigation.

The submission comes in the backdrop of recent APIYO-led bandh calls in the Itanagar Capital Region. Earlier this month, a 24-hour bandh called by APIYO reportedly brought normal life to a standstill in the capital region, affecting transport, businesses and public services. Prior to the shutdown, the district administration had declared the bandh unlawful and warned against its enforcement, stating that the issues raised by the organisation had already been addressed through administrative action. 

In the memorandum, the petitioner urged the Governor to constitute an independent enquiry committee to examine whether there had been administrative lapses, selective enforcement of laws, or failure to uphold public interest. The representation also seeks accountability for any damages caused during the bandh periods and calls for measures to prevent what it describes as the growing trend of repeated and unreasonable shutdowns in the state.

As of now, there has been no official response from Raj Bhavan regarding the representation, nor have the Home Department, district administration, police authorities, or APIYO publicly reacted to the allegations contained in the memorandum.

Police Arrest Accused in Separate Crimes Against Women

 

Accused John Loda (19) after his arrest by ICR Naharlagun Police.

Naharlagun, June 11:

The ICR Naharlagun Police have arrested a 19-year-old man in connection with two alarming incidents involving stalking, unlawful entry, and attempted outraging of the modesty of women that occurred during the early hours of June 7.

The first incident was reported at Naharlagun Police Station after a woman alleged that an unidentified individual had been stalking her and attempted to force his way into her residence at around 3:00 AM. According to the complaint, the suspect was discovered within the premises carrying two pairs of scissors and allegedly tried to gain access through both a window and a door. The incident caused significant fear and concern for the victim’s safety.

In a separate but strikingly similar case reported at Nirjuli Police Station, an intruder allegedly entered the rented accommodation of a young woman in Lekhi at approximately 3:30 AM while she was asleep. Police stated that the accused attempted to outrage the victim’s modesty by covering her mouth and cutting her clothes with a pair of scissors.

Displaying remarkable courage and presence of mind, the woman resisted the attack and fought back despite the unexpected assault. During the struggle, she sustained minor facial injuries before the assailant fled the scene.

Following intensive investigation and coordinated efforts, police identified the accused as John Loda (19), a resident of Seppa in East Kameng district. He was apprehended on June 9 by a team from Naharlagun Police Station led by Inspector Krishnendu Dev, Officer-in-Charge of Naharlagun Police Station.

Superintendent of Police Dr. Nyelam Nega praised the bravery and determination shown by both victims in resisting the accused and promptly reporting the incidents. According to the SP, their courage and timely cooperation played a vital role in enabling investigators to make swift progress in the case and secure the arrest of the suspect.

The SP also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to enhance personal safety. Citizens have been advised to ensure that doors and windows are securely locked before retiring for the night, noting that one of the incidents involved entry through an unlocked door.

Reaffirming its commitment to the safety and security of women, the ICR Naharlagun Police stated that strict action will continue to be taken against individuals involved in crimes targeting women and that efforts to maintain public safety will remain a top priority.

Further investigation into the matter is underway. 

Exhibition on 12 Years of Modi Government Achievements Inaugurated in Itanagar

 

Itanagar, June 10:

A state-level exhibition showcasing the achievements of the Government of India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the past 12 years, along with the major developmental milestones of Arunachal Pradesh, was inaugurated today at the State BJP Party Office in Itanagar.

The exhibition was inaugurated in the presence of Member of Parliament Shri Tapir Gao, BJP Arunachal Pradesh State President Shri Kaling Moyong, MLA and Advisor to the Minister of Health & Family Welfare Shri Mohesh Chai, MLA Shri Tai Nikio, MLA Shri R. Tebin, and several party leaders, public representatives, and workers.

The exhibition highlights the transformative journey of India under the BJP-led Government, reflecting the impact of key reforms, welfare initiatives, infrastructure development, economic progress, and people-centric policies implemented during the last 12 years. It also showcases the remarkable achievements and rapid development witnessed across Arunachal Pradesh under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Shri Pema Khandu.

Speaking on the occasion, the leaders emphasized that the exhibition serves as a testament to the vision, commitment, and inclusive governance of the Modi Government. They noted that the country has witnessed unprecedented growth in sectors such as connectivity, healthcare, education, digital transformation, social welfare, and national security, resulting in improved quality of life for millions of citizens.

The exhibition further underlines Arunachal Pradesh's developmental progress, highlighting major advancements in road connectivity, infrastructure, healthcare facilities, education, tourism, and welfare programmes that have contributed to the state's growth and prosperity.

As the nation commemorates 12 years of dedicated service, good governance, and inclusive development, the exhibition reflects the story of a resurgent India and a progressive Arunachal Pradesh. 

It stands as a reminder that visionary leadership, collective efforts, and active public participation remain the driving forces behind sustainable development and lasting progress.

Capital Police Intensify Drive Against ILP Violators

 

Itanagar, June 9:

The Itanagar Capital Police, under the supervision of Superintendent of Police (SP) Jummar Basar, has intensified its enforcement drive against violators of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) regulations across the Capital Region as part of its ongoing efforts to ensure strict compliance with existing laws.

According to police authorities, the operation forms part of a routine enforcement exercise conducted under the provisions of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR), 1873, which governs the entry and stay of non-Arunachal Pradesh residents in the state.

During regular verification and checking drives carried out across various locations within the Capital Complex, police teams have identified a significant number of individuals found residing or travelling without valid ILP documents. Authorities stated that appropriate legal action is taken against violators in accordance with the law, including externment from the state and other necessary measures wherever required.

The Capital Police clarified that such enforcement activities are conducted regularly throughout the year as part of standard policing procedures aimed at safeguarding the interests of indigenous communities and ensuring adherence to the state's permit regulations. However, many of these operations do not always receive media attention despite being carried out consistently.

Police officials further informed that ILP verification drives will continue across the Capital Region and urged all residents, business establishments, employers, landlords, and visitors to cooperate with law enforcement agencies during inspections.

The Capital Police also appealed to citizens to ensure that all non-residents residing, working, or conducting business within the state possess valid Inner Line Permits and comply with the provisions of the BEFR, 1873.

Residents of the Capital Complex have been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of ILP violations to the nearest police station. Authorities reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order while ensuring strict implementation of the Inner Line Permit system in the state.

ACF to Hold Mass Rally in Itanagar Against APFRA Rules on June 18

 

Itanagar, June 8:

The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) has announced a mass vehicle rally in Itanagar on June 18, escalating its opposition to the proposed implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978, and the draft rules recently finalized for its enforcement.

The rally is expected to draw participants from districts across Arunachal Pradesh and is being organized as part of the forum's continuing campaign against the APFRA framework, which has emerged as one of the most debated issues in the state.

The announcement comes at a significant juncture, with the High-Powered Committee (HPC) constituted by the State Government having finalized the draft rules under the Act and submitted its report and recommendations to Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday.

The submission marks the culmination of months of consultations, deliberations, and stakeholder engagements undertaken after the government initiated the process of framing rules for the implementation of the legislation. Although APFRA was enacted by the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly in 1978 and subsequently received Presidential assent, it remained largely dormant for nearly five decades due to the absence of operational rules.

The Act was originally introduced to prohibit religious conversions carried out through force, fraud, or inducement. However, without an implementation framework, successive governments did not operationalize the legislation.

The issue regained prominence in recent years following demands from several indigenous organizations and cultural bodies, which argued that implementation of the Act was necessary to safeguard indigenous faiths, traditional practices, and cultural identities.

According to sources familiar with the proceedings, the HPC examined suggestions and feedback from indigenous organizations, community leaders, government departments, legal experts, and religious groups before unanimously adopting the final draft report.

One of the key recommendations approved by the committee is the extension of the reporting period for religious conversions. Under the revised draft, any individual undergoing religious conversion will be required to submit the prescribed declaration within three months, providing a more practical and flexible timeline than earlier proposals.

The committee has also incorporated a specific provision clarifying that the rules shall apply equally to all religions and communities, irrespective of faith or denomination, with the aim of ensuring uniform implementation of the law. In addition, the draft rules reportedly include procedures relating to the reporting and documentation of religious conversions, timelines for filing complaints, and mechanisms for inquiry and verification.

The ACF, however, has remained firmly opposed to the move. The forum had earlier served a 15-day ultimatum to the State Government demanding an immediate halt to the rule-making process and calling for wider consultations with stakeholders before any decision on implementation is taken.

Forum leaders have expressed concerns that certain provisions of the proposed rules could affect constitutional guarantees relating to freedom of religion and individual rights. They have also questioned the adequacy of consultations conducted during the drafting process and urged the government to reconsider its approach.

With the June 18 vehicle rally expected to witness large-scale participation from across the state, the issue is likely to remain at the centre of public discourse in the coming weeks as both supporters and opponents of the proposed rules continue to press their respective positions on the future of the APFRA framework.

Arunachal Pradesh Man Sentenced to Life for Repeated Rape of Minor Stepdaughter

 

Papum Pare, June 8:

A Special POCSO Court in Papum Pare district delivered a landmark verdict this Monday, sentencing a 37-year-old man, Tayo Pordung, to imprisonment for the remainder of his natural life for the systemic sexual abuse of his minor stepdaughter.

Special Judge (POCSO) Dr. Hirendra Kashyap handed down the sentence following Pordung’s conviction under Section 376(3) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), read in conjunction with Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. In addition to the life sentence, the court imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on the convict.

Case Background

The horrific ordeal came to light in June 2024, when the victim, then 14 years old, finally mustered the courage to disclose the abuse to her mother. Following the revelation, the mother promptly lodged a formal complaint at the Women Police Station in Itanagar.

The investigation revealed that the accused had been sexually assaulting the victim since she was approximately 11 years old. Throughout this three-year period of abuse, Pordung utilized coercive tactics, repeatedly threatening to kill both the victim and other family members to ensure her silence.

Investigation and Trial

The case was assigned to Sub-Inspector Bamang Yakum. Notably, this investigation marked a significant milestone, as it was the first case handled by the newly recruited officer.

During the trial, the prosecution led by Special Public Prosecutor Kagam Bagra, presented a robust case by examining four key witnesses:

The victim

The victim’s mother

The medical officer

The investigating officer

The court concluded that the prosecution had proven beyond a reasonable doubt that Pordung exploited his position of trust as a stepfather to subject the child to repeated aggravated penetrative sexual assault.

Verdict and Judicial Observation

In his ruling, Judge Dr. Hirendra Kashyap rejected the defense’s plea for leniency. The court underscored the heinous nature of the crimes, noting the profound psychological and physical harm inflicted upon the victim. The judge further remarked on the complete lack of remorse displayed by the convict, explicitly stating that he was not entitled to any relief under probation laws.

In addition to the POCSO charges, Pordung was found guilty of:

Criminal Intimidation (Section 506 IPC)

Cruelty to a Child (Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act)

The court has directed that the victim be considered for support under the Arunachal Pradesh Victim Compensation Scheme. The convict was formally informed of his right to challenge the verdict by filing an appeal before the Gauhati High Court.