Lhakpa Tsering Wins Mr Arunachal 2026; Nabam Tada, Vivek Sangcho Named Runners-Up

 

Itanagar, February 24, 2026:

The 8th edition of Mr Arunachal concluded with Lhakpa Tsering being crowned Mr Arunachal 2026, marking a major milestone in the state’s premier male pageant that celebrates confidence, fitness, and cultural pride. Nabam Tada secured the 1st Runner Up position, while Vivek Sangcho finished as the 2nd Runner Up after an intense finale that evaluated contestants on personality, stage presence, grooming, and overall performance.

Apart from the top three winners, several participants were honoured with special titles recognising individual excellence. Kamin Tali was awarded Mr Talent, while Lidak Geyi received the Mr Photogenic title. Lobsang Gengla earned Mr Best Physique, and Techi Loyen Tara won Mr Best Costume for his standout presentation. Vivek Sangcho also claimed the Mr Viewers Choice title, with Nabam Tada being recognised as Mr Fitness. Keni Kamum was named Mr Best Walk, and Kadom Nopi received the Mr Civic Sense award.

Organisers described this season as more than just a competition, highlighting it as a celebration of confidence, personality, discipline, and the true Arunachali spirit. The successful completion of the 8th edition further strengthened Mr Arunachal’s reputation as a growing platform promoting leadership, self-development, and cultural representation among the youth of Arunachal Pradesh.

APMCC Burns Effigies, Seeks Swift Arrests in Arunachali Girls’ Racial Abuse Case

 

Itanagar, February 24, 2026:

The Arunachal Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee (APMCC) on Tuesday staged a protest in Itanagar, burning effigies of Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta over the alleged racial harassment of three Arunachali girls in Delhi.

Condemning the incident as an affront to the dignity of Arunachal Pradesh and the wider Northeastern region, APMCC leaders demanded the immediate arrest of those involved and urged Delhi Police to expedite the investigation. The protest comes amid growing outrage across the Northeast following reports of racial abuse faced by the victims.

The committee alleged that Rijiju has remained silent despite being a senior leader from the state, asserting that stronger intervention was expected to ensure swift justice. Protesters warned that their agitation would intensify if authorities fail to take prompt and decisive action.

Criticising the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Mahila Congress leaders questioned the effectiveness of the “Beti Padhao, Beti Bachao” slogan, stating that women from the Northeast continue to face discrimination while pursuing education and careers outside the region.

Reiterating their support for the victims, APMCC said it would continue its campaign until strict legal action is taken and safeguards are strengthened to prevent similar incidents in the future.

CM Khandu Marks Nyokum Golden Jubilee in Bameng, Unveils ₹67 Crore Development Initiatives

Bameng, February 24, 2026:

Chief Minister Pema Khandu attended the 50th Golden Jubilee celebration of Nyokum in Bameng constituency, where leaders and residents gathered to mark the cultural milestone. The Chief Minister highlighted the festival’s deep connection with nature, unity, and the traditions of the people.

The event witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including Home Minister Mama Natung, MLA Kumar Waii, Minister Ojing Tasing, Tasso Hinda, Managing Director of PH Construction, along with other officials and community leaders.

Addressing the gathering, Khandu announced development projects worth ₹67 crore for Bameng, describing them as a concrete step toward strengthening infrastructure and accelerating growth in the constituency. He stated that the Golden Jubilee should mark a new beginning, urging collective efforts to build a stronger and self-reliant Bameng.

Congress MP Bimol Akoijam Slams Racial Harassment of Arunachal Women, Seeks Strong Action

 

New Delhi, February 23, 2026:

Congress MP from Inner Manipur, A. Bimol Akoijam, has strongly condemned the recent racial harassment faced by three women from Arunachal Pradesh in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar, describing the incident as part of a troubling pattern of discrimination against people from Northeast India.

Speaking during a press briefing, Akoijam highlighted the repeated instances of racial bias experienced by youths from the region in metropolitan cities across the country. He demanded strong and exemplary action against the accused, stating that strict measures are necessary to prevent such incidents from recurring in the future.

The MP also drew attention to what he described as a deeper structural issue, pointing out the limited presence of Northeast India’s history, society, and culture in school textbooks. According to him, the absence of comprehensive representation contributes to a lack of awareness among large sections of mainland India, making the region and its people largely invisible in the national narrative.

Calling for awareness and sensitivity, Akoijam urged authorities, educational institutions, and civil society to work collectively towards combating racism and promoting inclusivity. The incident has sparked renewed debate on representation, education, and the safety of Northeast communities across India.

Home Minister Mama Natung Graces Arunachal Paragliding Accuracy State Championship 2026 at Lumdung

 

East Kameng, February 23, 2026:

The Arunachal Paragliding Accuracy State Championship 2026 witnessed an enthusiastic turnout as Home Minister Mama Natung attended the event at Lumdung in Papu Valley, East Kameng district, along with Ms. Yashaswini B., Deputy Commissioner of East Kameng.

Organised as a multi-day adventure sports competition from February 20 to 23, the championship brought together skilled pilots and young athletes to compete in precision paragliding. The event included a PGA Judge’s Workshop, practice rounds, and multiple competition days culminating in the final rounds and prize distribution ceremony.

Addressing the gathering, Mama Natung praised the participants for their determination and sporting spirit, stating that the finals reflected precision, focus and courage as athletes soared across the skies with confidence. He highlighted the growing culture of adventure sports in Arunachal Pradesh and encouraged youth to embrace such activities to bring pride to the state.

Participants 

The championship offered equal prize categories for men and women, with winners receiving cash awards, and aimed to promote adventure tourism and professional paragliding in the region. Officials noted that initiatives like these are helping nurture young talent while showcasing the scenic potential of Papu Valley as an emerging adventure sports destination.

Congratulating all participants for their performance, the dignitaries expressed hope that more youth would take up adventure sports and carry Arunachal Pradesh to greater heights in the future.

Manipuri Film ‘Boong’ Wins BAFTA, Director Appeals for Peace

London, February 22, 2026

In a landmark moment for Indian cinema, the Manipuri-language film Boong won the BAFTA award in the Best Children’s & Family Film category, surpassing international nominees including Lilo and Stitch, Arco and Zootropolis 2. The victory highlights the growing global recognition of stories emerging from Northeast India.

Debutant director Lakshmipriya Devi delivered an emotional acceptance speech after receiving the trophy from Paddington Bear, the lead character from the West End show Paddington The Musical. She was joined on stage by producers Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, along with assistant director Rahul Sharda.

Using the platform to address ongoing unrest in Manipur, Devi called for peace and expressed hope that internally displaced children — including young actors involved in the film — would regain their joy, innocence and dreams. She emphasised forgiveness as a powerful human strength and thanked BAFTA for offering a global stage to share that message.

Starring Gugun Kipgen and Bala Hijam, Boong first premiered in the Discovery section at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival. The film later travelled to several major festivals worldwide, including the Warsaw International Film Festival 2024, MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024, the International Film Festival of India, and the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025.

Rahul Gandhi Praises Unity at North East Music Festival in Delhi

 

New Delhi, February 22, 2026:

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi attended the North East Music Festival – Sound Without Conflict at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi, highlighting the cultural vibrancy and unity of India’s North Eastern region. Sharing his experience on social media after the event, Gandhi described the evening as a powerful celebration of diversity, stating that the music and spirit of the North East reflect the country’s true strength.

Held on February 22, the festival made its Delhi debut as a cultural platform blending folk, indie, rock and hip-hop music rooted in the traditions of the North East. Designed to promote peaceful coexistence and dialogue, the event also featured curated food experiences, storytelling spaces and community interactions aimed at strengthening cultural exchange. 

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Manipur MP Bimol Akoijam 

The lineup showcased a wide range of artists from the region. Performances included folk musician Rewben Mashangva, singer-songwriter Taba Chake, hip-hop artists Reble and Borkung Hrangkhawl, and the Tetseo Sisters, while rock band Parikrama delivered a high-energy finale alongside Rudy Wallang and Girish Pradhan of GATC. 

According to reports, Gandhi interacted with several performers during the event and praised the festival’s theme “Sound Without Conflict,” describing it as a reminder that India grows stronger when every culture receives its rightful space. The festival aimed to bring wider national attention to North East music and create an inclusive space where art becomes a bridge for unity and dialogue. 

Two Alleged Drug Peddlers Held with Heroin in Banderdewa

 

Banderdewa, February 22, 2026: 

Banderdewa Police arrested two alleged drug peddlers on Saturday afternoon and seized 10.95 grams of suspected heroin during an operation at Niya Colony.

Acting on specific intelligence, police intercepted a Bajaj Pulsar motorcycle (AS-07W-0148) and apprehended Shivaji Morang (28) and Sarat Kutum (30), both residents of Lakhimpur district in Assam. The contraband, reportedly concealed inside a blue soap case, was recovered from Morang’s possession.

Seized item

A case (BDW/PS/C.No. 12/26) has been registered under Sections 21(b) and 29 of the NDPS Act, and further investigation is in progress.

Superintendent of Police, ICR Naharlagun, Dr. Nyelam Nega, appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the fight against drug trafficking.

West Siang Police Bust Two Drug Cases in Aalo, Two Arrested

 

Aalo, February 22, 2026:

West Siang District Police have registered a major success against narcotics trafficking after cracking two separate drug-related cases in Aalo, leading to the arrest of two accused — Ronal Reyal, a Head Constable (SG) in the Arunachal Pradesh Police, and Henge Bagra.

Acting on sustained surveillance and intelligence gathered by the Anti-Drug Squad, the operations were carried out under the supervision of Superintendent of Police Kardak Riba. Officials said the back-to-back cases highlight the district’s intensified campaign to curb drug peddling.

Case No. 1 – Aalo PS Case No. 07/2026 (u/s 21(b) NDPS Act)

A team led by DySP Duto Bagra conducted a house search at the residence of Henge Bagra after serving notice under Section 50 of the NDPS Act. The search was carried out in the presence of a town magistrate and independent witnesses to ensure transparency.

Police recovered suspected heroin stored in ten tobacco containers, weighing approximately 12.26 grams in total (inclusive of plastic pouches). A Tecno Pova Curve 5G mobile phone with two SIM cards and a red bucket were also seized. The entire operation was videographed, and all items were sealed on the spot. The accused was arrested, and the case is being investigated by L/Insp Maloty Tayeng.

Seized items from the accused.

Case No. 2 – Aalo PS Case No. 08/2026 (u/s 21(b)/27A/20 NDPS Act)

Following credible information about drug peddling involving a police personnel, another team led by DySP (HQ) Taba Biroy apprehended Ronal Reyal near his rented house in Upper Colony, Aalo. Searches were conducted in the presence of an executive magistrate after due legal procedure.

Police seized suspected heroin weighing about 5.48 grams from a pouch, a vehicle (AR-01N-5177), and the accused’s residence. Additionally, 6.44 grams of suspected ganja, ₹90,000 in cash believed to be sale proceeds, and two mobile phones — a Samsung keypad handset and a Redmi Note 11S — were recovered. The search and seizure process was videographed, and the investigation is being led by Inspector Yomken Riram, Officer-in-Charge of Aalo Police Station.

Officials stated that investigations in both cases are ongoing to identify possible links to a wider drug network. West Siang District Police have urged citizens to report any suspicious activities as part of the continuing drive against narcotics in the region.

19-Year-Old Student from Tripura Hospitalised After Alleged Assault by Live-In Partner in Gurugram

 

Gurugram, February 19, 2026:

A 19-year-old student from Tripura was allegedly subjected to a brutal assault by her live-in partner at a flat in Gurugram’s Badshahpur area. The accused, identified as Shivam from Delhi’s Narela, has been booked under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita after an FIR was registered on February 19.

According to police, the woman is currently undergoing treatment at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi and was initially declared unfit to give a statement due to the severity of her injuries.

In her statement, the survivor alleged that the accused beat her with a steel bottle, smashed her head against a wall, and struck her with an earthen pot. He also allegedly poured sanitiser on her private parts and attempted to set them on fire, attacked her legs with a knife, and threatened to leave her unable to walk or become a mother. She further claimed that he recorded explicit videos of her during the assault.

The incident reportedly took place on February 16. Two days later, on February 18, the woman managed to call her mother using the accused’s phone and informed her about the assault in a local language. Her mother then alerted the police, after which the woman was rescued and taken to hospital. Investigations are ongoing.

First Assam–Arunachal Border Pillar Installed at Seijosa, Marking Major Step in Boundary Resolution

 Pakke kessang, February 21, 2026:

In a significant development for Assam–Arunachal relations, the first official border pillar between Arunachal Pradesh and Assam has been successfully constructed at Seijosa, signaling progress toward resolving the long-standing inter-state boundary dispute.

The milestone follows the spirit of the Namsai Declaration and is being viewed as a concrete step toward ensuring administrative clarity and lasting peace along the shared boundary. The construction process was jointly supervised by senior officials from both states to maintain accuracy and mutual agreement.

Among those present were the Deputy Commissioners of Pakke Kessang and Biswanath, ZPC Pakke Kessang Shri Pani Tayam, SSP Biswanath, Divisional Forest Officers from both states, the Nodal Officer (Survey) from Assam, administrative officials, community leaders, and Gao Burahs.

Officials, villagers and Gaon Burahs from both states.

Minister Biyuram Wahge, while sharing the update, expressed gratitude to Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for their leadership in advancing the boundary resolution process. He also acknowledged the contributions of Home Minister and former Regional Committee Chairman Shri Mama Natung and Assam Regional Committee Chairman (Biswanath) Shri Pijush Hazarika.

Officials stated that the installation of the first border pillar represents an important foundation for future demarcation work and continued cooperation between the two neighbouring states.