Altercation Erupts at ICR Weekly Market During Enforcement of Saturday-Only Order

 

Itanagar, March 15, 2026:

An altercation broke out on Sunday at a weekly market in the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR) between police personnel and local vendors following the enforcement of a government order restricting market operations.

According to reports, police officials were implementing an order dated March 6 issued by the Commissioner (Home), which permits weekly markets in ICR to operate only on Saturdays while directing them to remain closed on all other days. When authorities attempted to enforce the directive on Sunday, tensions escalated as several vendors resisted the move.

Many local vendors expressed concern that the restriction could seriously impact their livelihood, stating that numerous families rely on weekly markets as a primary source of income and daily sustenance.

The order reportedly follows a representation submitted by various organisations, including APIYO, which has been actively raising concerns over the growing presence of illegal immigrants and the proliferation of unauthorized religious structures in the state.

Meanwhile, social activist Tana Tamar has strongly opposed the order, stating that while the government may intend to regulate the participation of outsiders entering Arunachal Pradesh without proper documentation or through illegal means, the restriction is disproportionately affecting indigenous vendors who depend on the markets for their survival.

Tamar urged indigenous weekly market vendors across ICR to remain united and collectively raise their concerns through lawful and democratic means. He also appealed to the state government to review the March 6 order and adopt a more practical and inclusive approach that safeguards the livelihood of indigenous communities dependent on weekly markets.

Earlier, weekly markets were conducted almost daily at different locations across the ICR on a rotational basis. However, since the order was issued last week, authorities have faced difficulties in implementing the restriction as many local vendors have strongly opposed it. With the situation continuing to draw reactions from both vendors and civil society groups, it now remains for the government to decide whether to continue enforcing the order or review it in a manner that is more accommodating to local and indigenous communities.

Arunachal’s All-Girl Pop Band Gilithigreams Electrifies India Today Conclave 2026

 

New Delhi, March 14, 2026:

In a proud moment for Northeast India’s music community, Gilithigreams, Arunachal Pradesh’s first all-female pop band, delivered a vibrant and high-energy performance at the India Today Conclave 2026 held in New Delhi on March 14.

The four-member group - Tarh Moyon, Weyo Lumi, Tap Pabe, and Nabam Sasum brought the cultural spirit of Arunachal Pradesh to the national stage, captivating the audience with a unique blend of contemporary pop music and indigenous tribal influences. Performing in elegant Nyishi traditional attire, the band showcased their signature “Mountain Soul” style, presenting a mix of original songs and multilingual covers in Hindi, English, and regional dialects.

Their electrifying stage presence, synchronized choreography, and confident vocals drew enthusiastic applause from the conclave audience, which included policymakers, industry leaders, media personalities, and other prominent guests attending one of India’s most influential public affairs events.

A Platform of National Recognition

The India Today Conclave is widely regarded as one of the country’s premier forums for dialogue, bringing together global leaders, innovators, artists, and public figures to discuss important issues and cultural developments. Gilithigreams’ performance at the event marked a significant milestone not only for the band but also for the growing recognition of talent emerging from Northeast India.

Beyond their musical performance, the band used the platform to speak about the challenges and stereotypes often faced by people from the Northeast. Addressing the audience during their session, the members highlighted the need for greater awareness and acceptance, emphasizing that people from the region are Indians and should not be treated as outsiders or foreigners in their own country.

Gilithigreams Performing in India Today Conclave 

From Dance Crew to Pop Sensation

Gilithigreams’ journey to national prominence has been swift and inspiring. The group originally started as a dance crew in 2022, gaining popularity locally for their energetic performances. In 2024, the members transitioned into forming a pop band, combining their dance background with music to create a distinctive performance style.

Their genre-bending approach blends modern pop rhythms with elements of traditional culture from Arunachal Pradesh, allowing them to stand out in India’s evolving music landscape. The group has performed at several regional events and festivals, steadily building a fan base across the Northeast.

Viral Success and Growing Popularity

The band gained widespread attention through their official music video “Morom Toh,” which resonated with audiences online and showcased their creative fusion of contemporary music and regional identity. Their high-energy performance at the Music Head Festival in Itanagar further boosted their visibility and helped introduce their music to a larger audience.

These performances paved the way for their invitation to the India Today Conclave 2026, where they performed before a national audience and received strong appreciation for their originality and cultural representation.

Representing Arunachal Pradesh on the National Stage

With their rising popularity, Gilithigreams has increasingly been viewed as cultural ambassadors for Arunachal Pradesh. Through their music and performances, the band aims to highlight the diversity, traditions, and artistic talent of the state while connecting with wider audiences across India.

Following their performance at the conclave, clips of the band’s act quickly circulated on social media platforms, drawing praise from viewers who applauded their confidence, talent, and cultural pride.

As Gilithigreams continues to gain recognition beyond the Northeast, the band stands as an inspiring example of how regional artists can successfully bring their unique cultural identity to national and global platforms while remaining deeply connected to their roots.

APSSB Grants One-Time Age Relaxation for 740 Constable Aspirants

 

Itanagar, March 13, 2026:

Chairman of the Arunachal Frontier Tribal Front (AFTF), Tadak Nalo, has welcomed the Arunachal Pradesh Government’s decision to grant a one-time age relaxation for candidates affected by the APSSB Constable GD (Civil) and Constable IRBN (Band/Bugler) Examination 2020.

According to Nalo, the recruitment process had witnessed an unusually low success rate. Out of 760 candidates who appeared for the examination for 426 posts in 2025, only 20 candidates managed to qualify, leaving 406 posts vacant.

Following the results, the AFTF and affected aspirants reviewed the issue and concluded that the standard of the question papers was significantly higher than the level required for the posts. The organization also pointed out that provisions existed to relax cut-off marks if insufficient candidates qualified, particularly when large numbers of posts remained vacant.

Taking up the matter, AFTF along with the deprived aspirants approached the state authorities, including Home Minister Mama Natung, the Principal Secretary (Home), APSSB Chairman, and APSSB Secretary, seeking a resolution to the issue.

After nearly eight months of sustained efforts, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh approved a one-time age relaxation through a cabinet decision. The move is expected to benefit 740 aspirants whose age eligibility had already expired due to the delay in recruitment.

With the relaxation granted, these candidates will now be eligible to compete for the 406 vacant posts under the upcoming Special Recruitment Drive for Uniformed Services 2026 to be conducted by the Arunachal Pradesh Staff Selection Board (APSSB).

Nalo expressed appreciation to the Home Minister and concerned authorities for addressing the concerns of the affected candidates. He also informed that updates regarding the proposed exemption from Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST) would be shared after further cabinet approval.

Karko Baane Kebang Rejects Siang Dam, Declares Feb 1 MoU Invalid

 

East Siang, March 14, 2026:

The traditional village council of Karko, known as the Karko Baane Kebang under Jengging Circle in Upper Siang district, has rejected the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) and all related activities within its ancestral territory.

During a village assembly held at the Karko Dere (community hall) on Saturday, members of the community convened under the authority of customary law and declared that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on February 1, 2026 for the Preliminary Feasibility Report (PFR) does not represent the collective will of the people of Karko.

The Kebang stated that the individuals who signed the document did so without the mandate of the village council and without the consent of the community. It further noted that the MoU was reportedly signed at the DC Bungalow garage, which, according to the council, cannot substitute the lawful and customary decision-making process of the village assembly.

According to the Karko Baane Kebang, ancestral land cannot be sold or negotiated through private agreements, and any matter concerning such land must be decided under Adi customary law through the Baane Kebang.

The council emphasized that ancestral lands require ancestral laws to deal with them and therefore the authority of the Karko Baane Kebang and Adi customary laws must be respected.

Invoking protections under Article 371(H), the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873, the Forest Rights Act, 2006, the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification, 2006, the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), the Kebang asserted its legal, constitutional, and customary authority over ancestral land, rivers, forests, and mountains.

After deliberations, the Karko Baane Kebang resolved that the MoU signed on February 1, 2026 is null and void as it does not reflect the decision of the village. The council also declared that Karko village does not consent to the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project and that no dam-related surveys, studies, or activities will be allowed within the jurisdiction of the village.

The council reaffirmed that Karko village stands united in protecting its ancestral land, rivers, forests, and cultural heritage, and will resist any attempt to impose the SUMP without the genuine consent of the people under Adi customary law and the authority of the Karko Baane Kebang.

APFA Unveils Official Match Ball for U-23 Tri-Nation Championship in Yupia

 

Itanagar, March 14, 2026:

The Arunachal Pradesh Football Association (APFA) has officially unveiled and received the newly designed match ball for the upcoming U-23 Tri-Nation International Football Championship 2026, which will be held from March 25 to March 31, 2026 at the Golden Jubilee Outdoor Stadium in Yupia.

The specially designed football will serve as the official match ball for the entire tournament, adding a distinctive identity to the championship. The international football event will feature three participating nations India, Bhutan, and Tajikistan, at the U-23 level, and is expected to attract football enthusiasts from across the region.

The championship is being seen as an important sporting event for Arunachal Pradesh, as it brings international football to the state and provides a valuable platform for young players to showcase their talent and gain competitive experience. Hosting such tournaments also reflects the growing importance of the state in the football landscape of Northeast India.

APFA expressed its sincere appreciation to Nivia Sports, the association’s State Kit Partner, for designing and providing the official match ball for the tournament. The association acknowledged the company’s consistent support in strengthening football development in Arunachal Pradesh.

Match Fixture Chart For The Upcoming
U-23 TRI Nation Championship 2026

According to APFA, Nivia Sports has been actively contributing to the promotion of football in the state by supplying quality sports equipment and supporting various grassroots as well as professional football initiatives. Their involvement has played a significant role in encouraging young players and expanding football activities across different parts of the state.

The association further stated that collaborations with established sports brands help enhance the standard of tournaments and provide better facilities for players. Such partnerships also contribute to the broader goal of developing football in Arunachal Pradesh and across the Northeast region.

With preparations underway, APFA expressed optimism that the upcoming U-23 Tri-Nation International Football Championship 2026 will be a successful and memorable event for players, officials, and football fans alike.

Aalo Police Hold Drug Awareness Drive in West Siang Villages

 

West Siang, March 14, 2026:

As part of the nationwide Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, the Aalo Police Station in West Siang district carried out a drug awareness campaign in several villages to educate residents about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of community support in tackling addiction.

The awareness drive was led by Inspector Y. Riram, Officer-in-Charge of Aalo Police Station, along with Sub-Inspectors Lakhi Mena, Manthan Chithan, Anil Pangge, Yimo Ori and Head Constable Dukar Tada. The police team visited remote villages including Our Panya, Pobdi and Rigo, where they interacted with villagers, youth and community leaders.

During the awareness sessions, the police team explained the harmful physical, social and economic impacts of drug abuse. They emphasized that addiction can affect anyone in society and urged people not to treat it as a stigma. Instead, it should be addressed as a health condition requiring understanding, support and treatment, in line with the approach promoted by the United Nations.

Police team with villagers

Officials also highlighted the importance of early awareness and community participation in preventing substance abuse, especially among young people. Villagers were encouraged to stay vigilant, guide the younger generation and seek help for individuals struggling with addiction.

The initiative reflects the continued commitment of Arunachal Pradesh Police to support the government’s efforts in building a drug-free society. Such outreach programmes in rural and remote areas are seen as an important step toward strengthening public awareness and protecting communities from the growing threat of drug abuse.

F&ES and SDRF Personnel Honoured for Role in Containing East Siang Forest Fire

 

East Siang, March 13, 2026:

Personnel of the Fire & Emergency Services (F&ES) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been honoured for their crucial role in containing the massive forest fire that broke out in the Mebo Sub-Division of East Siang district earlier this month.

The fire, which raged from March 6 to March 12, affected large areas of forest and surrounding land. According to official reports, nearly 140 hectares of reserve forest and around 200 hectares of community forest, agricultural, and horticultural land across Sigar, Ralling, and Mebo were impacted by the blaze.

A coordinated firefighting effort involving multiple government agencies, local volunteers, and security forces helped bring the situation under control. The Indian Air Force also played a vital role by conducting aerial firefighting operations, carrying out 54 water-dropping sorties and releasing more than 1.62 lakh litres of water to suppress the flames.

Despite extremely challenging conditions, teams on the ground worked tirelessly to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby habitations. Their swift and coordinated response ensured that there were no reports of human casualties or livestock losses.

Officials and firefighters pose for a photo
after receiving appreciation certificates.

Heavy rainfall in the region further helped reduce the intensity of the fire, allowing authorities to suspend aerial operations while continuing ground surveillance to prevent possible flare-ups.

In recognition of their dedication and exemplary service, the Superintendent of Police (SP) of East Siang issued Appreciation Certificates to the personnel of F&ES and SDRF involved in the operation. Certificates of appreciation have also been dispatched to the Fire Stations at Roing, Tezu, Likhabali, and Jonai for their valuable support during the firefighting efforts.

Authorities stated that ground teams remain on alert and continue to monitor the situation, highlighting the importance of coordinated inter-agency collaboration in effectively managing such natural disasters.

IMC Orders Scrap Dealers to Obtain Licences, Warns Against Garbage Tearing by Rag Pickers

 

Itanagar, March 12, 2026:

The Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) has issued a notice directing all scrap dealers operating within its jurisdiction to obtain valid trade licences and ensure that rag pickers engaged by them do not tear garbage bags collected from households.

According to the notice issued by IMC Commissioner Kego Jilen on March 12, the civic body observed that several scrap dealers are currently operating without proper trade licences under the IMC jurisdiction. It was also found that these dealers collect scrap materials through rag pickers employed by them.

The IMC further stated that rag pickers are frequently seen tearing open garbage bags containing household waste that are dumped by citizens in stationed IMC sanitation vehicles and designated collection points. Such activities reportedly scatter waste in surrounding areas and create unhygienic conditions, causing public nuisance.

IMC order copy

In response, the corporation has directed all scrap dealers to obtain valid trade licences from IMC and ensure that rag pickers refrain from tearing garbage bags disposed of by households.

The notice warns that failure to comply with the directive will lead to necessary action under the relevant Acts, Rules, and By-Laws.

The order applies to scrap dealers operating in Itanagar, Naharlagun, Nirjuli, and Banderdewa areas under the jurisdiction of the Itanagar Municipal Corporation.

CM Pema Khandu Hands Over LADF Funds for Pare and Panyor Hydro Projects

 

CM Pema Khandu hands over LADF
cheque for Pare Hydroelectric Project.

Itanagar, March 13, 2026:

Chief Minister Pema Khandu, along with Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, handed over cheques under the Local Area Development Fund (LADF) for the Pare Hydroelectric Project and the Panyor Lower Hydroelectric Project to the respective district administrations. The initiative aims to support the welfare and development of Project Affected Families and local communities in the project areas.

An amount of ₹23.16 crore under the LADF for the Pare Hydroelectric Project, developed by NEEPCO Ltd., was handed over to the Deputy Commissioner of Papum Pare district. The allocation covers the period from 2018 to 2024–25 and will be utilized for community development, infrastructure improvement, and welfare initiatives in the affected areas.

The Panyor Lower Hydroelectric Project was commissioned long before the introduction of LADF provisions. However, responding to the aspirations of local communities, the State Government has decided to extend benefits through a welfare-oriented initiative by providing 1 percent LADF from the State’s share of free power for the benefit of Project Affected Families.

CM Pema Khandu hands over LADF cheque
for Panyor Lower Hydroelectric Project.

Keyi Panyor MLA Toko Tatung, Doimukh MLA Nabam Vivek, MLA Ninong Ering, Keyi Panyor Deputy Commissioner Shweta Nagarkoti Mehta, Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner Vishakha Yadav, along with other officials, were also present on the occasion.

The initiative reflects the State Government’s commitment to ensuring that major development projects translate into tangible benefits for local communities and contribute to their overall welfare and progress.

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.