Tadak Nalo-Led AFTF Raises CSLE Ratio and Pending Results Issues with APSSB

 

Itanagar, March 10, 2026:

A delegation of the Arunachal Frontier Tribal Front (AFTF), led by Tadak Nalo and accompanied by several job aspirants, met the Chairman and Secretary of the Arunachal Pradesh Staff Selection Board (APSSB) to raise important concerns related to recruitment examinations and pending results affecting candidates across the state.

During the meeting, the delegation discussed three major issues that have been a matter of concern for many aspirants preparing for government jobs in Arunachal Pradesh. The first issue raised was the alleged violation of the 80:20 ratio in the results of the Combined Secondary Level Examination (CSLE) 2025. The AFTF team sought clarification from APSSB officials regarding how the ratio was implemented in the results and urged the board to maintain transparency and fairness in the recruitment process.

The second issue highlighted by the delegation was the delay in the declaration of the Combined Graduate Level Examination (CGLE) 2025 results for the Upper Division Clerk (UDC) posts. According to the aspirants, the results have remained pending for more than six to seven months, creating uncertainty and anxiety among candidates who have been waiting for the outcome of the examination.

In addition, the delegation also raised concerns regarding the APSSB Constable Examination 2020. It was pointed out during the meeting that around 406 posts reportedly remained vacant following the recruitment process. The AFTF representatives requested the board to provide updates and clarification on the status of these vacant posts and whether further action would be taken to fill them.

The meeting involved a detailed preliminary deliberation between the AFTF team and APSSB officials, where both sides discussed the issues and possible steps to address the concerns raised by the aspirants. The delegation emphasized the need for timely declaration of results and strict adherence to recruitment rules in order to maintain trust among job seekers.

Following the meeting, Tadak Nalo and the AFTF team stated that they will soon submit a formal representation to the APSSB authorities outlining their concerns and suggestions. The representation will include detailed points regarding the CSLE 2025 ratio issue, the delay in CGLE 2025 results, and the vacancies related to the Constable Examination 2020.

The delegation also reiterated that transparent and efficient recruitment processes are essential for safeguarding the interests of youth and job aspirants in Arunachal Pradesh. They expressed hope that the authorities will look into the concerns seriously and take appropriate steps to resolve the issues at the earliest.

Arunachal Budget 2026–27 Prioritizes Sports Development and Youth Empowerment

 

Itanagar, March 10, 2026:

The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has announced a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening sports infrastructure, empowering young athletes, and expanding opportunities for youth under the Arunachal Budget 2026–27.

Presenting the budget in the state legislative assembly, Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Chowna Mein highlighted sports and youth development as a key pillar of people-centric governance.

Among the major announcements is the expansion of financial literacy programmes to reach more colleges, training institutes, and startup hubs, aimed at equipping young people with practical financial knowledge and entrepreneurial skills.

The government has also proposed the Chief Minister’s Athletics Coaching and Empowerment Scheme, designed to identify and nurture talented athletes across the state by providing structured training and support.

In another significant move, the CM School Sports Programme will be launched with a proposed outlay of ₹10 crore to promote sports participation among school students and encourage early talent identification.

Additionally, the state plans to institutionalize the Arunachal State Games as a regular calendar event to boost competitive sports and provide a platform for athletes from across districts to showcase their abilities.

The government also reaffirmed its commitment to implementing the Khelo India Mission, which aims to strengthen grassroots sports infrastructure and create pathways for athletes to compete at national and international levels.

These initiatives reflect the state government’s broader vision of empowering youth, promoting healthy lifestyles, and positioning Arunachal Pradesh as an emerging hub for sports talent in the region.

Kurung Kumey District Launches National Deworming Day Campaign

 

Koloriang, March 10, 2026:

The district-level launching programme of the National Deworming Day (NDD) was held at the Conference Hall of District Hospital, Koloriang, marking the beginning of the deworming campaign scheduled from March 10 to March 15, 2026 in Kurung Kumey district.

The programme was formally launched by Deputy Commissioner Cheechung Chukhu in the presence of District Medical Officer (DMO) Dr. P. Rakshit, District Reproductive and Child Health Officer (DRCHO) Dr. Tadar Tagh, and Medical Superintendent of CTDH Koloriang Dr. Bengia Tani, along with medical officers, nursing officers, health workers, and ASHAs.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the importance of the National Deworming Day initiative in improving the health and nutrition of children by eliminating intestinal worm infections. He emphasized that regular deworming helps children maintain better health, improves their ability to absorb nutrients, and contributes to their overall growth and development.

Health officials present at the programme informed that the campaign will cover children and adolescents across schools, anganwadi centres, and health institutions throughout the district. The initiative will be implemented with the support of healthcare workers, teachers, and ASHAs to ensure maximum coverage.

The National Deworming Day programme is part of a nationwide public health initiative aimed at reducing the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth infections among children and adolescents. The district administration and health department urged parents, schools, and community members to actively cooperate and ensure that all eligible children receive the deworming tablets during the campaign period.

The launch event concluded with a call for coordinated efforts among health workers, educational institutions, and the community to make the campaign successful in Kurung Kumey district.

Arunachal Budget 2026–27 Focuses on Farmer Empowerment, Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Livelihoods

 

Itanagar, March 10, 2026:

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who also holds the Finance portfolio, presented the Annual State Budget for the financial year 2026–27 in the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, outlining a series of initiatives aimed at empowering farmers, strengthening rural livelihoods, and promoting sustainable agriculture across the state.

Under the National Mission on Edible Oils, the government aims to bring more than 36,000 hectares of land under oil palm cultivation by 2027. The state will also continue extending support to farmers and self-help groups through the Atmanirbhar schemes, which have already benefited 59,491 farmers and around 2,000 SHGs, with plans for further expansion.

To encourage youth participation in the agricultural sector, the government will launch Catch Them Young 2.0, a programme aimed at inspiring and training young individuals in modern farming practices and agribusiness opportunities.

The budget also highlights the development of agricultural infrastructure, including the construction of an Agriculture College in East Kameng at an estimated cost of ₹74 crore, which is expected to be completed by the financial year 2026–27.

In an effort to promote climate-resilient and traditional crops, the government will expand the Arunachal Millet and Buckwheat Mission, while also strengthening the role of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) to provide improved technical guidance and training to farmers.

The state also plans to introduce the AI-based Bharat-VISTAAR advisory platform, which will provide technology-driven support and modern agricultural advisories to farmers.

To boost horticulture and crop diversification, the government will implement the Strategic Horticulture Development Model, alongside pilot programmes for flax and ramie cultivation. Additionally, orchid and floriculture projects will be introduced in select districts to promote high-value crops and enhance farmers’ incomes.

In the allied sectors, the government plans to establish honey production units, expand the Kiwi Mission and Mushroom Development Mission, and promote Mithun and Yak rearing to strengthen rural livelihoods.

A Yak Fibre Processing Common Facility Centre at Dirang will also be set up with support from the Government of India to promote value addition and support yak-rearing communities.

Further, the Chief Minister’s White Revolution Scheme 2.0 will be launched to strengthen dairy production and supply chains across the state.

To enhance fisheries and generate additional livelihood opportunities, the government will also focus on the development of reservoirs and Amrit Sarovars, promoting fish farming and improved water resource management in rural areas.

With a combination of infrastructure development, technology-driven farming support, and targeted schemes, the budget aims to strengthen the agricultural economy of Arunachal Pradesh while improving income opportunities for farmers, self-help groups, and rural communities. The initiatives are expected to encourage sustainable farming practices, increase youth participation in agriculture, and create new avenues for growth in the state’s agriculture and allied sectors.

DUA Urges Arunachal Govt to Ban Tobacco, Gutka and Pan Masala

 

Itanagar, March 9, 2026:

A delegation of Dream for United Arunachal (DUA), led by its chairman Dr. Gumjum Haider, met Chief Minister Pema Khandu at the Chief Minister’s Office in the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Monday and submitted a petition demanding a comprehensive statewide ban on tobacco, gutka and pan masala products.

Dr. Haider, a former State Information Commissioner, said the appeal was made in view of growing public health concerns arising from the widespread consumption of such products, particularly among the youth of the state.

During the interaction, the delegation stressed that the protection of public health and the well-being of citizens must remain a priority for the government. It highlighted the serious health hazards linked to tobacco and similar substances, including oral cancer, heart disease and several other life-threatening illnesses.

The DUA also pointed out that the use of gutka and pan masala has contributed to increasing instances of public spitting and littering, leading to the deterioration of public spaces such as hospitals, educational institutions and government offices. The organisation said this trend runs contrary to the vision of maintaining a clean and healthy Arunachal Pradesh.

Dr. Haider further observed that such addictive habits are not part of the indigenous traditions and cultural heritage of the state. According to him, these practices weaken traditional values associated with discipline, physical well-being and a healthy lifestyle.

Members of DUA interacting with CM Pema Khandu

Following the meeting with the Chief Minister, the DUA delegation also met Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein at the Legislative Assembly office and briefed him about the petition, urging coordinated administrative action to address the issue.

The organisation also called on the state government to initiate large-scale awareness and sensitisation programmes across Arunachal Pradesh. It suggested involving local leadership, including corporators and panchayat representatives, so that the campaign can reach even remote villages.

DUA further expressed its willingness to work with the government in carrying out awareness initiatives aimed at reducing the use of tobacco and related products.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu described the interaction as “meaningful” and appreciated the organisation’s efforts and vision towards building a healthier and more united Arunachal Pradesh.

Mukto Students on Educational Exposure Tour Meet CM Pema Khandu in Itanagar

 

Itanagar, March 9, 2026:

Students from the Mukto Assembly Constituency in Tawang district are currently participating in a five-day educational exposure tour aimed at expanding their learning beyond classroom boundaries through visits to key institutions and heritage sites across the state.

The tour has been organised by the All Rhebla Gangsum Students' Union (ARGSU) under the theme “World Beyond Classroom,” with the objective of providing students first-hand exposure to governance, culture, history and wildlife conservation.

During their visit to the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly in Itanagar, the students also had the opportunity to meet and interact with Chief Minister Pema Khandu.

The Chief Minister encouraged the students to make the most of the exposure tour and approach learning with curiosity and enthusiasm. He urged them to take inspiration from the experiences gained during the visit and to understand how institutions function and contribute to the development of the state.

As part of their itinerary, the students explored several important heritage and educational sites. These included the Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, where they learned about the diverse cultures and traditions of Arunachal Pradesh, and the historic Ita Fort, one of the state’s most prominent historical landmarks.

Student interacting with CM Pema Khandu. 

The students also visited the Pakke Tiger Reserve, where they gained insights into biodiversity conservation and the importance of protecting wildlife habitats. The reserve, located in Seijosa of Pakke Kessang district, is known for its rich biodiversity and conservation initiatives.

Educational exposure tours such as this are increasingly recognised as valuable learning opportunities, enabling students to experience governance, heritage and environmental conservation beyond textbooks.

The initiative by ARGSU has been appreciated for promoting experiential learning and providing young students with meaningful educational exposure. For many participants, the tour offers a rare opportunity to directly witness the functioning of institutions and explore the state’s cultural and natural heritage.

The students are expected to continue visiting several more sites during the remaining days of the tour, making the programme both a memorable and enriching learning experience.

Meghalaya CM Condemns Alleged Assault on Northeast Students Near Saket Court in Delhi

 

New Delhi, March 8, 2026:

Two students from Northeast India were allegedly attacked by a group of hooligans near the Saket District Court Complex in Delhi on Sunday evening. The victims reportedly include a woman from Manipur and a transgender student from Assam.

According to preliminary information, the two were taking a walk in the area when a group of men allegedly passed lewd and derogatory remarks at them. When one of them objected to the comments, the situation reportedly escalated.

The accused allegedly assaulted one of the victims with belts during the altercation. The injured student was later taken to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi for medical examination and treatment. Further details regarding the identity of the accused or any arrests are yet to be confirmed.

Reacting to the incident, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma strongly condemned the alleged attack and expressed concern over repeated incidents targeting people from the Northeast in mainland India. In a statement shared on social media, Sangma said he was angered by the reported assault on the two individuals from Manipur and Assam near Saket Court in Delhi and termed such acts unacceptable.

Victims receiving treatment at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi

He further stated that racial bullying should not become the “new normal” and urged authorities to take stringent action against those responsible for the incident.

The alleged incident has once again raised concerns over the safety of people from Northeast India in the national capital. It comes just weeks after the Malviya Nagar incident in Delhi, where three girls from Arunachal Pradesh reportedly faced racial harassment by a group of men who allegedly passed offensive remarks targeting their identity.

That case drew national media attention and sparked widespread outrage on social media, with several organizations and student groups demanding strict action against the accused and stronger safeguards for people from the Northeast living in Delhi. The matter remains under investigation, and authorities are expected to look into the latest incident as well.

Bameng MLA Kumar Waii Donates 46,000 sq m Land Near Holongi for Buddhist Monastery

 

Itanagar, March 8, 2026:

In a significant gesture supporting spiritual and cultural heritage, Bameng MLA Kumar Waii has donated 46,000 square metres of land at Holongi, near Donyi Polo Airport in Itanagar, for the establishment of a Buddhist monastery.

Expressing heartfelt gratitude for the generous contribution, Guru Thegtse Rinpoche, Padma Shri awardee and head of Khinmey Nyingma Monastery in Tawang, described the initiative as a noble step towards preserving and promoting the region’s rich spiritual traditions.

Rinpoche stated that the proposed monastery will serve as an important centre for prayer, meditation, and spiritual learning, providing a peaceful space for devotees, monks, and visitors. He noted that the monastery will not only strengthen Buddhist spiritual practices but also contribute to the preservation of the cultural and religious heritage of Arunachal Pradesh.

According to Rinpoche, such initiatives play a vital role in nurturing the values of compassion, harmony, and wisdom taught in Buddhism. The monastery is expected to become a place where people from different backgrounds can seek spiritual guidance, inner peace, and knowledge of Buddhist philosophy.

Visit to proposed monastery site at Holongi

Rinpoche also appreciated the inclusive spirit shown by MLA Kumar Waii, noting that he has also donated land for the establishment of churches. He described these gestures as a reflection of mutual respect, harmony, and unity among different faiths and communities in the region.

He further remarked that acts of generosity like this strengthen the social fabric and encourage society to uphold the ideals of peace, tolerance, and coexistence.

Conveying his sincere appreciation, Guru Thegtse Rinpoche extended his best wishes to MLA Kumar Waii for his continued dedication and service to the people. He expressed hope that the establishment of the monastery will bring lasting peace, spiritual growth, and blessings to the community and future generations.

26.06 g Suspected Heroin Seized in Namsai, One Arrested

 

Chongkham, March 7, 2026:

Police in Arunachal Pradesh’s Namsai district seized 26.06 grams of suspected heroin during a search operation in the Mimey area under Chongkham Police Station and arrested one person in connection with the case.

According to police sources, the operation was carried out on March 7 following credible information about the illegal sale of contraband substances in the area. Acting on the input, a police team reached the residence of the suspected individual and conducted a search in accordance with legal procedures in the presence of an Executive Magistrate and independent witnesses.

During the search, officials recovered two soap cases containing a yellowish-orange coloured powder suspected to be heroin. The contraband had been concealed inside the residence. Upon weighing, the seized substance was found to be 26.06 grams.

The accused has been identified as Chow Yasha Hopak (41), son of Late Chow Kungong Hopak and a resident of Village Gunanagar under Chongkham Police Station in Namsai district. He was arrested at the spot in connection with the case.

The operation was led by SDPO Namsai Shri Kengo Dirchi and Lady Inspector Nang Kyamo Khen, Officer-in-Charge of Chongkham Police Station, in the presence of Executive Magistrate Shri Kenge Loya.

The search operation was conducted under the supervision of Superintendent of Police, Namsai, Shri Sangey Thinley (APPS).

A case has been registered at Chongkham Police Station (Case No. 03/2026) under Sections 21(b) and 25 of the NDPS Act, and further investigation is currently underway.

Balen Shah Secures Landmark Victory in Nepal Election Amid Gen-Z Political Wave

 

Kathmandu, March 7, 2026:

Balendra Shah, Popularly known as Balen Shah, the rapper-turned-politician who rose to national prominence in recent years, has delivered one of the most striking results in Nepal’s political history by defeating former Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli in the Jhapa-5 constituency during the 2026 parliamentary elections.

Official figures released by the Election Commission of Nepal show that Shah secured 68,348 votes, while Oli finished far behind with 18,734 votes. The result gives Shah a commanding victory margin of nearly 49,600 votes. The tally is also being reported as the highest vote count ever recorded by a parliamentary candidate in Nepal, highlighting the scale of public backing behind his campaign.

The outcome is widely interpreted as a powerful signal of a generational shift in Nepalese politics, with younger voters playing a decisive role. Shah’s rise has been closely connected to the Gen-Z-led protest movement of 2025, when large demonstrations broke out across the country over issues such as corruption, economic hardship, and a controversial temporary ban on social media platforms.

Those protests eventually forced the government to step down and set the stage for the 2026 general election, which became the first nationwide vote following the youth-driven uprising. The election saw participation from nearly 19 million registered voters, including a significant number of first-time young voters who had previously taken part in the demonstrations.

Before entering mainstream politics, Shah built a reputation as a hip-hop artist and later worked as a structural engineer. His political breakthrough came in 2022, when he won the Kathmandu mayoral election, positioning himself as an independent-minded reformist figure challenging Nepal’s traditional political establishment.

Balendra Shah During His 
Election Rally & Campaign.

In the 2026 parliamentary race, Shah contested under the banner of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). His campaign focused on promises of strong anti-corruption reforms, better delivery of public services, and expanded opportunities for young people, themes that resonated strongly with the country’s youth and urban voters.

Early national trends also suggested that the Rastriya Swatantra Party was performing strongly across multiple constituencies, reflecting growing public frustration with long-dominant political parties.

Political observers say the election could mark a turning point in Nepal’s political landscape, with grassroots youth activism translating into electoral success for a new generation of leaders. If coalition negotiations after the election align in his favor, Shah could potentially emerge as one of the youngest prime ministers in Nepal’s history, opening a new chapter in the country’s governance.

Arunachal Govt Limits Weekly Markets to One Day; Saturday Fixed for ICR and Papum Pare

 

Itanagar, March 6, 2026:

The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has issued an order restricting the conduct of weekly markets across the state to only once a week, with Saturday designated as the market day for the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR) and Papum Pare district. The directive was issued by the Home Department on March 6, 2026, following a meeting chaired by the state’s Home Minister to deliberate on issues raised by several local organisations.

According to the official order, the decision was taken after reviewing representations submitted by organisations including the Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organisation (APIYO) and the All Naharlagun Youth Organisation (ANYO). The government noted that weekly markets were being conducted on multiple days across different locations, which led to frequent participation of non-local vendors and raised concerns about the possible entry of unauthorized immigrants into the state.

The order further stated that the practice of operating markets on several days was also contributing to revenue loss for the state government.

Under the new directive, weekly markets in ICR and Papum Pare district will now be permitted only on Saturdays, and conducting such markets on other days will not be allowed. For the rest of the districts in Arunachal Pradesh, the respective Deputy Commissioners have been directed to fix one specific day in a week for the operation of weekly markets within their jurisdictions.

The issue of weekly markets has been under discussion for several months, with local organisations raising concerns over the activities taking place in these markets. Groups such as APIYO, ANYO and the Indigenous Youth Force of Arunachal (IYFA) have been demanding the closure or strict regulation of weekly markets in the ICR region since last year, citing fears that outsiders were entering Arunachal Pradesh under the pretext of doing business in these markets.

These organisations have also raised broader concerns related to illegal settlements in the capital region. They have demanded the demolition of alleged illegal structures such as masjids, madrasas and panja khanas in Itanagar and Naharlagun, claiming that such constructions violate existing regulations and contribute to concerns over unauthorized entry into the state.

Meanwhile, the state government has directed all Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police to implement the new order immediately. District authorities have been instructed to ensure strict enforcement of the directive and submit an Action Taken Report to the Home Department after its implementation.

With the issuance of the order, the government has made it clear that weekly markets across Arunachal Pradesh will now be strictly limited to one day in a week, with district administrations responsible for regulating and monitoring their operations.