Arunachal Assembly Forms Panel on Rising Human–Wildlife Conflict

 

Itanagar, March 12, 2026:

The Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly has constituted a committee to undertake a comprehensive examination of the increasing incidents of human–wildlife conflict across the state and recommend measures aimed at strengthening wildlife protection and improving conflict mitigation strategies.

Announcing the decision in the House on Wednesday, the Speaker informed that senior BJP MLA Wanglin Lowangdong will serve as the chairman of the committee. The panel comprises Congress MLA Kumar Waii and BJP legislators Dr. Mohesh Chai, Topin Ete, and Tsering Lhamu as members, while the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests of the state will function as the member secretary.

The committee has been mandated to conduct a detailed assessment of the issue and submit its report within a period of three months.

The formation of the committee follows concerns raised by Congress MLA Kumar Waii through a Private Member’s Resolution, in which he called for the formulation of a comprehensive and structured policy framework to effectively address the growing instances of human–wildlife conflict in Arunachal Pradesh.

During the discussion, Waii emphasized that the issue extends beyond wildlife attacks on humans and also involves increasing human interference in wildlife habitats. He noted that hunting of wild animals and birds for consumption as well as for commercial purposes continues to pose a serious threat to biodiversity in the state.

While appreciating the Air Gun Surrender Abhiyan initiated in March 2021 by the Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Mama Natung, Waii observed that despite the success of the campaign in encouraging citizens to voluntarily surrender air guns, illegal hunting and exploitation of wildlife persist in certain areas. He further pointed out that the continued presence of wild animal meat in some local markets reflects the ongoing challenges in ensuring effective wildlife protection and enforcement.

The issue has gained renewed urgency in recent months following several tragic wildlife-related incidents reported from different parts of the state. In February this year, Assistant Sub-Inspector Martin Lego of Sunpura Police Station lost his life in a wild elephant attack near the Lohit riverbank in Lohit district. In another incident during the same month, police head constable Chikseng Manpung was killed in a tiger attack near Mayudia along the Roing–Anini road in Lower Dibang Valley district.

Members of the Assembly noted that such incidents highlight the pressing need for a balanced and coordinated strategy that addresses both wildlife conservation and the safety of local communities. The committee is expected to examine the underlying causes of these conflicts, review existing policies and mechanisms, and recommend practical measures to reduce human–wildlife interactions while ensuring the long-term protection of Arunachal Pradesh’s rich biodiversity.

Aalo Police Arrest ICR-Based Peddler Atung Natung with 17.5g Heroin

 

Accused Atung Natung with police team after arrest in Aalo.

Aalo, March 11, 2026:

In a major breakthrough in the ongoing anti-drug campaign, the Anti-Drug Squad of West Siang District Police, along with a team from Aalo Police Station, seized suspected heroin and arrested a drug peddler during a targeted operation on March 11.

Acting on credible intelligence about a suspected drug peddler arriving in Aalo from the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR) with heroin, the police team launched a swift operation at Agam Hotel in Aalo. The team successfully apprehended the accused, identified as Atung Natung, a resident of Side Rebang village under Pakke Kesang police station.

During the operation, approximately 17.5 grams of suspected heroin was recovered from his possession. The seizure was carried out in the presence of Town Magistrate Jumkar Karbi and independent witnesses.

Seized suspected heroin recovered during the operation.

The operation was conducted by a police team comprising SI N. Kojing, SI (SG) D. Angu, Ct N. Angu, and Ct T. Naso, with support from the Officer-in-Charge of Aalo Police Station and SDPO Aalo, under the supervision of DySP Taba Biroy as part of Operation Dawn 2.0.

Following the seizure, Aalo PS Case No. 10/26 was registered under Section 21(b) of the NDPS Act on March 11 and the case is being investigated by SI M. Chithan. The accused has been arrested and produced before the Special Judge (NDPS), who remanded him to judicial custody.

West Siang District Police stated that the successful operation reflects their continued commitment to eliminating drug trafficking and safeguarding the youth from the menace of narcotics. Police also appealed to the public to share information and support the mission of building a drug-free society.

Assam Man Arrested in ₹90,000 Online Iron Rod Fraud Case in Itanagar

 

Itanagar, March 12, 2026:

Police in the Capital Region have arrested a man from Assam in connection with an online financial fraud case in which an Itanagar woman was allegedly cheated of ₹90,000 after being lured into purchasing iron rods at unusually low prices.

According to police, the accused posed as a trader using the name “MD Ashiqul Alom” and claimed to be a retailer dealing in iron rods. He reportedly offered the materials at a cheap rate and convinced the victim to make an advance payment. However, after receiving the money, the accused failed to deliver the goods.

Following the complaint, a case was registered at Papu Hills Police Station under Case No. PH/PS 06/2026 under Sections 318 and 319 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) read with Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act.

During the investigation, the accused, identified as Soribuddin Ahmed, was arrested from Kutubpur in Bihpuria, Assam. The arrest was carried out by a police team led by Inspector Gejum Basar along with ASI M. Rebe and Constable Pankaj Saikia.

The operation was conducted under the supervision of Rishi Longdo, APPS, SDPO Naharlagun, and under the guidance of Inspector Torun Mai, Officer-in-Charge of Papu Hills Police Station.

Superintendent of Police (SP) ICR Naharlagun Dr. Nyelam Nega has advised the public to avoid making advance payments to unknown sellers, verify the identity of traders before carrying out transactions, and report cyber fraud immediately to the national Cyber Helpline number 1930.

APIYO Demands Cancellation of Non-APST ZPM in Vijayanagar

 

Itanagar, March 11, 2026:

The Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organisation (APIYO) has demanded the immediate cancellation of the Zilla Parishad Member (ZPM) post held by Bhagat Chetry, a non-APST, who was elected from Vijayanagar in Changlang district during the recently concluded Panchayati Raj elections.

Addressing media persons at the Arunachal Press Club on Tuesday, APIYO president Taro Sonam Liyak questioned how a non-APST candidate was allowed to contest and win from Vijayanagar, which falls under a Scheduled Tribe (ST) reserved Assembly constituency. He alleged that the development violates provisions meant to safeguard the rights and representation of indigenous tribal communities.

Liyak stated that allowing a non-APST individual to participate in Panchayati Raj elections in a tribal-reserved area undermines the protective framework provided under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR), 1873. According to him, such decisions by the district administration and concerned authorities could open the door for more non-APST participation in local governance structures in tribal areas.

The issue gained prominence after the Panchayat elections held in December, where Independent candidate Bhagat Chetry won the ZPM seat with a decisive margin. According to the final round of counting, Chetry secured 1,524 votes, defeating several local candidates. His nearest rival, Ngiyonu Ngawazah (BJP), received 918 votes, while Ngwayoza Yobin (Independent) secured 698 votes. Other candidates included Atibosa Yobin (INC) with 131 votes and Manzil Thakuri (Independent) with 36 votes. Chetry ultimately won the election by a margin of 606 votes.

Bhagat Chetry receiving the
ZPM election certificate from
the Returning Officer.

The result triggered criticism in the politically and ethnically sensitive border constituency, with several members of the local Yobin community raising objections to the eligibility of a non-APST candidate holding a Panchayat position in the area.

Members of the Yobin tribe have reiterated that non-APST settlers are not indigenous to Vijayanagar and therefore should not be eligible to hold Panchayat posts under the Arunachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Act and the BEFR, 1873. In a press note issued on November 19, 2025, the Yobin community stated that non-APST settlers were earlier granted land on a 30-year lease, which expired in 2020.

Citing historical records and the 1961 Census, the community further maintained that Vijayanagar was originally inhabited exclusively by the Yobin people.

APIYO also claimed that local indigenous residents and student communities had raised objections to the participation of the non-APST candidate earlier but their concerns were not addressed by the district administration and concerned representatives.

The organisation said it has already submitted a representation to the Chief Minister seeking immediate intervention and cancellation of Chetry’s ZPM post. Liyak warned that if the government fails to respond to their demand, the organisation may take further steps.

Local community members have also stated that the election outcome has raised broader concerns regarding representation in local self-governance in the border constituency, highlighting the need for clarity and strict adherence to existing rules governing Panchayat elections while safeguarding the interests of indigenous residents.

Namsai Police Seize Suspected Heroin, One Arrested in Mahadevpur Drug Bust

 

Namsai, March 11, 2026:

In its continued crackdown on drug trafficking, Namsai Police achieved another success after apprehending a suspected drug peddler and seizing suspected heroin during an operation in Mahadevpur.

Acting on reliable source information received on March 11, 2026, a police team led by Officer-in-Charge of Mahadevpur Police Station, Inspector Tabin Padung, carried out a search operation following due legal procedures. The team also included Sub-Inspector A.K. Singh, Assistant Sub-Inspector Suresh Yadav, Head Constable T. Pudur, and Head Constable C.J. Mein.

During the operation, one person identified as Kalingto Manpoong was apprehended from New Mohong village under Mahadevpur. Upon search, the police recovered and seized 5.23 grams of a whitish-orange coloured substance suspected to be heroin (Diacetylmorphine) from his possession.

Suspected heroin seized from the accused.

Following the seizure, a case has been registered at Mahadevpur Police Station vide MPR PS Case No. 11/26 under Section 21(b) of the NDPS Act.

The entire operation was carried out under the direct supervision of Superintendent of Police (SP) Namsai, Sange Thinley, APPS.

Namsai Police reiterated its firm commitment to eliminating drug trafficking and has urged the public to cooperate by sharing information to help build a drug-free society.

Three-Day Training for Census 2027 Field Trainers Begins in Itanagar

 

Itanagar, March 12, 2026:

A three-day training programme for field trainers under the upcoming Census 2027 for Papum Pare district and the Itanagar Capital Complex began on Thursday at the DC’s Camp Office, IG Park.

Deputy Commissioner-cum-Principal Census Officer of Itanagar Capital Complex, Shri Toko Babu, extended his best wishes to the trainees and briefed them on the significance of the census operation. He urged the participants to learn the procedures meticulously during the training sessions from the master trainer so that the census exercise can be carried out smoothly and efficiently.

Highlighting the importance of the national census, he stated that the data collected through the exercise forms the backbone of government planning, policy formulation and development programmes. He also stressed that accurate enumeration is crucial for ensuring proper allocation of resources and implementation of welfare schemes.

Officials and trainees during the
Census 2027 training session in Itanagar.

The training programme aims to prepare field trainers who will subsequently train enumerators and supervisors involved in the census operation across the district and the capital region.

Shri Khoda Lhasa, Additional District Census Officer, and Shri N. Deka from the DCO, Shillong, were present as observers during the training programme.

Census 2027 is expected to be a major nationwide administrative exercise, with preparations being undertaken across the country to ensure systematic data collection on population and socio-economic indicators. The training of field trainers forms an important step in strengthening the groundwork for the successful conduct of the census in the region.

Forest Department Seeks FIR After Fake Tiger Sighting Video Triggers Panic in Gumto

 

Doimukh, March 11, 2026:

A First Information Report (FIR) has been sought by the Forest Department after a viral video claiming a tiger sighting near J.N.V. School in Gumto created panic among residents and officials.

According to an official letter issued by the Office of the Range Forest Officer (RFO), Doimukh Forest Range under the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, the incident occurred on the night of March 10. Two labourers working within the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) School compound allegedly circulated a video on social media claiming that a tiger had been spotted in the area.

The video quickly spread across social media platforms, triggering widespread concern. Forest officials reported receiving numerous calls from officers, staff members, media personnel, and members of the public throughout the night seeking confirmation about the alleged sighting.

Range Forest Officer Taje Dupit stated that the viral claim caused considerable disturbance and confusion, with several people urging him to immediately travel to Gumto late at night to verify the situation. However, he was unable to proceed at midnight due to prior commitments and health issues.

The following morning, the RFO and his staff visited the reported site near J.N.V. School in Gumto and conducted a thorough inspection of the surrounding area. After checking the entire location where the animal was allegedly seen, the team found no pugmarks or evidence indicating the presence of any tiger or large wild cat.

Following the verification, the Forest Department concluded that the viral claim was false and had unnecessarily created fear among the public.

In the letter addressed to the Officer-in-Charge of Doimukh Police Station in Papum Pare district, the RFO requested police to register an FIR and take legal action against the individuals responsible for spreading the alleged fake news.

Two persons have been named in the complaint: Narayan Das and Bimal Das, both reportedly working within the compound of J.N.V. School, Gumto. The department has urged authorities to book them under appropriate legal provisions for spreading misinformation that caused public panic.

Officials emphasized that spreading unverified information, particularly regarding wildlife sightings, can create unnecessary alarm and disrupt public order. Authorities have urged the public to verify facts before sharing such content on social media.

Panel Formed to Monitor ₹67 Crore Bameng Development Package

 

Bameng, March 11, 2026:

A meeting of the Golden Jubilee Nyokum Yullo Celebrations Committee Bameng-2026 (GJNYFB-2026) was held at the official residence of its Chairman, Bharat Sonam, to discuss the ₹67 crore developmental package announced for the Bameng Assembly Constituency.

The development package was announced by Pema Khandu during the Nyokum festival celebration held in Bameng on February 24, 2026.

During the meeting, members held a detailed discussion on how the funds should be utilized effectively for the benefit of the public. The committee unanimously emphasized that the allocated amount must be used in a transparent and responsible manner to ensure it serves the larger interest of the people and prevents any misuse.

To strengthen supervision and ensure accountability in the execution of developmental projects, the members resolved to constitute a Monitoring Committee. The committee will oversee the planning, implementation, and progress of all projects undertaken under the ₹67 crore package.

The Monitoring Committee will be headed by Kumar Sonam as Chairman. Other members include Raja Dodum as General Secretary, Nima Dodum as Vice Chairman, and Yello Sonam as Convenor. The committee also includes Niku Tara, Tukfi Riang, Krishna Dolo, Dadi Tara, Kaya Tara (ZPM Bameng-01), Sunny Dodum, and Vicky Waii Sonam as members.

The committee will closely monitor the execution of developmental works across the Bameng Assembly Constituency to ensure that projects are implemented efficiently and the funds are utilized properly.

Meanwhile, the members have also submitted a letter to Kumar Waii, urging that the developmental funds be utilized judiciously and transparently for the welfare and progress of the people of the constituency.

Through the formation of the monitoring body, the committee aims to maintain transparency and ensure that the development initiatives announced for Bameng are implemented effectively and benefit the local community.

Biri Takar Wins National Gold at 7th Para Badminton Championship

 

Telangana, March 10, 2026:

Para badminton player Biri Takar from Arunachal Pradesh delivered a remarkable performance at the 7th National Para Badminton Championship 2026 held in Hyderabad, Telangana, winning the gold medal in the Men’s Doubles SL3–SU5 category and bringing national recognition to the state.

Takar partnered with Harshit Choudhary of Madhya Pradesh, and the duo produced a dominant performance throughout the tournament. In the final, they defeated Paralympic gold medalist Nitesh Kumar and Ruthick Raghupati in a closely contested match to clinch the national title. The victory marked one of the biggest achievements for Arunachal Pradesh in para badminton at the national level.

The championship, which took place from 6 to 10 March 2026, brought together some of the country’s best para badminton players across various disability categories. The event is one of the most important domestic competitions in India’s para badminton calendar and serves as a platform for athletes to qualify for international tournaments and major events such as the Asian Para Games and the Paralympics.

Biri Takar has been steadily building a strong reputation in para badminton over the past few years. In 2022, he created history by becoming the first para badminton player from Northeast India to win a medal at a BWF international tournament, securing a silver medal at the BWF Uganda Para Badminton International in the men’s singles SL4 category. 

Earlier in 2026, Takar also won a bronze medal at the Egypt Para Badminton International, a BWF Level-2 tournament, where he competed against several top-ranked international players. 

His journey to success has been shaped by years of dedication and training. Takar underwent professional training at the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy in Hyderabad, one of India’s premier badminton training centers, where he refined his skills and prepared for high-level competitions. 

Sports officials and well-wishers from across Arunachal Pradesh have congratulated Takar for his latest achievement, noting that his victory will inspire many aspiring para athletes in the state. His consistent performances at national and international tournaments have also strengthened Arunachal Pradesh’s growing presence in para sports.

With this national gold medal, Biri Takar continues to establish himself as one of the leading para badminton players from the Northeast, raising hopes of representing India in major international competitions in the coming years.

CM Pema Khandu Felicitates Jan Bhagidari 2026 Winners

 

Itanagar, March 10, 2026:

Chief Minister Pema Khandu, along with Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein and Speaker Tesam Pongte, attended the felicitation ceremony for the Best Five Suggestions under Jan Bhagidari 2026, recognizing citizens who contributed innovative ideas for the State Budget.

Jan Bhagidari, which means people’s participation, is an initiative that encourages citizens to actively take part in governance by submitting ideas and suggestions for the State Budget. The initiative aims to strengthen participatory governance by allowing people from different sections of society to share solutions and proposals that can contribute to the development of Arunachal Pradesh. Selected suggestions are acknowledged by the government and may help shape future policies and development programmes.

The winners of Jan Bhagidari 2026 were felicitated for their valuable contributions:

Bangkong Perme – Clean & Green Environment

Sonjoy Bagang – Transforming Rural Arunachal

Lakhi Mena – Peaceful Society

Milli Bharat – Governance & Policy Reforms

Christina Langkam – Unlocking Tourism Potential

Congratulating the winners, CM Pema Khandu appreciated their thoughtful ideas and emphasized that citizen participation plays an important role in strengthening policy-making and promoting inclusive development in Arunachal Pradesh. He stated that initiatives like Jan Bhagidari help bridge the gap between the government and the people while encouraging collective responsibility for the state’s progress.

 

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.