Mariam Longri Sashed as Arunachal’s Miss India Representative

Mariam Longri from her Sashing
ceremony. (Source: Femina miss India)

Odisha, March 26:

On March 26, 2026, Mariam Longri was officially sashed as Femina Miss India Arunachal Pradesh during the Sashing Ceremony of the 61st Femina Miss India, marking her formal entry into one of the country’s most prestigious beauty pageants.

A sashing ceremony is a significant moment in any beauty pageant, where contestants are officially presented with a sash bearing their title or representing state. This ceremonial act marks their formal induction into the competition and publicly confirms their role as an official representative. It also serves as an introduction platform, highlighting each contestant’s identity, background, and journey as they step onto the national stage.

Hailing from Kharsang in Changlang district, Longri has been selected as the State Winner of Arunachal Pradesh and will represent the state at the Femina Miss India 2026 grand finale, scheduled to be held on April 18 at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) campus in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

Longri’s journey in pageantry has already been marked by notable achievements. She was earlier crowned Sunsilk Mega Miss Northeast, becoming the first and only winner of the title from the state, a milestone that brought recognition to Arunachal Pradesh on the regional stage.

Mariam Longri during her Sunsilk Mega
Miss Northeast 2018 winning moment.
(Source: The Arunachal Times)

Beyond the glamour of pageantry, she is deeply committed to social causes. She serves as a volunteer and ambassador for the Arunachal Orphan Care Society, where she actively works to support underprivileged children and advocate for those whose voices often go unheard.

Through her platform, Longri has also been encouraging young women across Arunachal Pradesh to believe in their strength, self-worth, and potential to shape their own futures.

Her selection is being seen as a moment of pride for Changlang district and Arunachal Pradesh as a whole, as she prepares to represent the state on the national stage.

Bomdila Police Conduct Drug Awareness Programme at Pedung Village

 

Bomdila, March 26:

Bomdila Police organised a drug awareness programme at Pedung Village aimed at educating the public, especially youth, on the dangers of substance abuse and promoting a drug-free society.

The programme began with a welcome address highlighting its objectives, followed by sessions on commonly abused drugs, the harmful effects of addiction, the role of society in prevention, and ways for youth to stay away from drugs. Information on treatment and rehabilitation for affected individuals was also shared.

SI Passang Dorjee (RO), SP Office Bomdila, led the awareness session, while DySP HQ Bomdila, Shri Shasi Dore, supervised the programme and oversaw the distribution of pamphlets and helpline numbers.

Community leaders, including Gaon Buras, Gram Chairpersons, and village elders, addressed the gathering and emphasized collective responsibility in combating drug abuse.

Participants take a pledge against drug abuse
 during the awareness programme in Pedung Village.
(Source: Kameng Khabar)

Legal awareness was provided by SI Nima Tsering, Officer-In-Charge of Bomdila Police Station, who explained provisions under the NDPS Act along with available rehabilitation options.

A session on HIV and drug-related issues was conducted by Miss Bomgi Kaye, Project Manager of Green Club TI, focusing on health risks linked to substance abuse.

The programme concluded with an interactive session where villagers shared concerns, followed by a pledge-taking ceremony encouraging participants to remain drug-free and support a healthier community.

Pema Khandu Meets Sunil Chhetri on Football Development

 

Itanagar, March 26:

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu recently shared details of a meeting with Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri, held in the presence of members of the Arunachal Pradesh Football Association and representatives of football clubs from across the state.

The meeting signals a deliberate push by the state leadership to strengthen football at both grassroots and institutional levels. By engaging with experienced figures and local stakeholders, the initiative reflects a coordinated effort to develop the sport in a structured manner.

Sunil Chhetri is currently in Arunachal Pradesh to attend the opening ceremony of the U-23 Tri Nation Championship being held at the Yupia Outdoor Stadium in Itanagar. On the opening day, the Chief Minister also announced that a ₹200 crore FIFA-standard football stadium will be constructed in the state capital.

Pema Khandu meets Sunil Chhetri
with APFA officials and football
 club owners in Itanagar.

The stadium will be developed under the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE), with construction expected to commence within this year. The proposed facility aims to host national and international-level matches while significantly strengthening football infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh.

Arunachal Pradesh, with its strong sporting culture and youth participation, is increasingly being seen as a region with significant untapped football potential. The emphasis on collective collaboration points toward long-term planning focused on talent development and improved infrastructure.

Arunachal Women Set for ASMITA Pencak Silat League

 

Team Arunachal with Coach Bishu Tailu

Itanagar, March 26:

The Arunachal Pradesh women’s team is set to participate in the ASMITA Khelo India Women Pencak Silat League 2025–26, scheduled to be held at the SAI Stadium in Shillong from March 26 to 27, 2026.

The two-day national-level competition, part of the Khelo India initiative, aims to promote women’s participation in martial arts and provide a competitive platform for emerging athletes.

Team Arunachal Squad:

Santilly Pul – U-50 kg

Akangsha Barai – U-55 kg

Meko Liyak – U-60 kg

Bajimlu Malo – U-65 kg

Totoisi Mitti – U-70 kg

Meta Pao – U-45 kg

Coach: Bishu Tailu

The team enters the championship with a strong sense of purpose, aiming to showcase talent and bring recognition to Arunachal Pradesh on the national stage. With disciplined preparation and focused training, the athletes are expected to deliver competitive performances across weight categories.

The participation reflects the growing presence of the state in martial arts disciplines and underlines continued efforts to nurture women athletes through structured sporting initiatives.

Seppa Minor Assault Accused Arrested After Days on the Run

 

Seppa, March 25:

Police in East Kameng district have arrested an accused in connection with a sexual offence involving a minor, days after he went into hiding following the registration of the case.

According to official sources, the incident was reported at the Women Police Station, Seppa, on March 19, 2026, at around 4:30 PM. An FIR (No. Spa/WPS/10/2026) was registered under Section 65(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, along with Section 4 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.

Following the complaint, the victim was immediately referred for medical examination as per due procedure. However, the accused absconded soon after the case was registered, prompting police to launch a sustained search operation.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, March 24, the Yangfo Welfare Society, while addressing the media, strongly condemned the alleged abuse of a 12-year-old girl. The society termed the incident as a heinous crime and urged the Police Department to take immediate and strict action to apprehend those involved.

The search operation was carried out under the supervision of SP East Kameng Kamdam Sikom, APPS. DySP (HQ) Habung Sama led the team, assisted by Inspectors S. Chena and Wiphang Pokna. After continuous efforts, the accused, Lalung Lochung, was successfully traced and arrested on March 25, 2026.

Police officials stated that all legal procedures were strictly followed during the arrest and subsequent custody. Further investigation into the case is currently underway.

AAPSU Team Seeks FIR Over Alleged Defamatory Clips

 

Itanagar, March 25:

The AAPSU General Election 2026 election team has submitted a complaint at Itanagar Police Station seeking registration of an FIR against two individuals, Miss Khyoda Yallam and Shri Likha Maj, over the alleged creation and circulation of false and defamatory audio-video clips.

According to the complaint dated March 25, the individuals are accused of creating, circulating, and spreading audio-video clips with malicious intent against the election team to obtain undue advantage in the election process.

The complaint states that the clips are being widely circulated on social media platforms, including WhatsApp and Facebook, and allegedly refer to a “deal of five crore something,” falsely suggesting involvement of the election team. The team has denied any connection, stating that the contents are false, fabricated, misleading, and defamatory in nature.

It further states that the clips appear to have been circulated with malicious intent to damage reputation, create public confusion, and cause harm to the professional and personal standing of those involved.

The election team has requested authorities to register an FIR, conduct a thorough investigation to identify the origin, creators, and distributors of the clips, and take immediate steps to stop further circulation. The complaint also calls for strict legal action against all responsible persons under relevant provisions related to defamation, criminal conspiracy, and dissemination of false information through electronic means.

The team has stated that it is ready to cooperate with the investigation and provide any further information or evidence as required.

World TB Day Observed in Tawang; District Reports 32 TB Mukt Panchayats

 

Tawang, March 24:

The 143rd World Tuberculosis (TB) Day was commemorated at the Conference Hall of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Tawang, with participation from district officials, healthcare professionals, and community representatives, reaffirming a collective commitment toward a TB-free society.

The programme was attended by ZPC Leki Gombu, Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo, and Additional Deputy Commissioner Rinchin Leta, along with District Medical Officer Dr. Urgen Lhamu, DRCHO-cum-DTO Dr. Rinchin Neema, Medical Superintendent of KDS District Hospital Dr. Tenzin Kunga, and other health officials, PRI members, and Gaon Burahs.

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo stated that although TB prevalence in Tawang remains relatively low, sustained awareness and adherence to proper treatment are essential for complete eradication. She informed that the district has recorded 32 TB Mukt Panchayats, up from 29 last year, and urged PRI members and Gaon Burahs to actively spread awareness and encourage early testing.

ZPC Leki Gombu stressed the importance of grassroots awareness campaigns and the role of Panchayats in educating rural communities. He also highlighted the importance of routine vaccination and expressed his willingness to adopt a TB patient as a gesture of support.

Earlier, Medical Superintendent Dr. Tenzin Kunga delivered a detailed presentation on the history, impact, and prevention of tuberculosis, emphasizing community participation in elimination efforts.

In his welcome address, DRCHO-cum-DTO Dr. Rinchin Neema acknowledged the contributions of frontline health workers and cautioned that even a single TB-positive case can lead to wider transmission if not managed effectively. He noted that Tawang has achieved 11 Gold, 14 Silver, and 7 Bronze TB Mukt Gram Panchayats. Gold status signifies three consecutive years without TB cases, Silver for two years, and Bronze for one year. At present, only nine patients are undergoing DOTS treatment in the district.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by SMO Dr. Tsering Penjor and administration of the TB Mukt Bharat pledge, reinforcing the district’s resolve to eliminate tuberculosis.

19 Siang Villages Submit Final Plea Against Siang Upper Project

 

Upper Siang, March 24:

In a significant development, 19 villages of the Siang Valley on Tuesday submitted the first phase of what they termed a “final and binding mass public representation” to the NHPC Regional Office in Pasighat, firmly opposing the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project.

The representation was submitted at around 9:00 AM to Amar Nath Jha, General Manager (Civil), NHPC, who also serves as the Head of Project for Siang Lower and Siang Basin Works. Jha has been actively involved in consultations with district authorities and local stakeholders across Siang and Upper Siang districts.

According to the representatives, the submission reflects a unanimous and non-negotiable mandate of the Adi community. The key resolutions outlined in the representation include:

Complete rejection of the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project dam

Opposition to any Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) activities

Immediate end to all discussions related to the project

Community leaders stated that this decision has emerged from traditional institutions and collective public consensus, declaring it final and binding.

Siang villagers submit representation
 to NHPC in Pasighat opposing the
Siang Upper Project

They further asserted that the remaining villages will soon submit their representations in a second phase, strengthening what they described as a unified stand of the Adi people.

Issuing a strong warning to NHPC, the government, and private power developers, the villagers emphasized that there is “zero consent” for any dam-related activities in the Siang Valley. They cautioned that any attempt to proceed with surveys, studies, agreements, or project implementation would be seen as a violation of indigenous rights, customary laws, and constitutional protections.

The statement also warned that if the mandate is ignored, the Adi people would be compelled to take appropriate action under their customary laws to safeguard their land, identity, and future.

No Anti-Dam Protesters Only genuine Compensation Seekers Says Nyato Dukam

 

Daporijo, March 24:

The Environmental Public Hearing for the proposed Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project (1605 MW) was conducted on Tuesday at Singik Hall in Daporijo by the Arunachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board, as part of the statutory process for grant of Environmental Clearance.

The hearing was chaired by Deputy Commissioner Taso Gambo and attended by Commerce and Industries Minister-cum-local MLA Nyato Dukam, MLA Taniya Soki, Chairman of the Subansiri Upper HEP Liaisoning Committee Rolen Dagam, district officials, NHPC representatives, members of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), and the general public.

During the session, project authorities presented key details of the proposed hydropower project, including its environmental aspects, developmental potential, and expected socio-economic benefits. Stakeholders were given the opportunity to express their views, concerns, and suggestions.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Nyato Dukam expressed optimism that the project would bring transformative changes for affected families as well as for the state and the nation. He appealed to all stakeholders to cooperate with NHPC for smooth execution of the project. He also reiterated that there are no anti-dam protesters in Upper Subansiri, stating that the concerns raised are primarily by families seeking proper compensation for their land. The Minister further assured that the report of the Subansiri Upper HEP Liaisoning Committee would be taken up with the State Government for appropriate consideration.

Notably, an overwhelming majority of stakeholders, including affected families, expressed support for the project during the hearing. Chairman Rolen Dagam welcomed the provision of allocating 2% of the project cost for local area development, with 1% to be directly transferred to the accounts of affected families, ensuring sustained financial benefits.

Group General Manager of Subansiri Upper HEP, Deepak Ratan Sagar, reiterated NHPC’s commitment to maximizing benefits for local communities. He highlighted that the project is expected to generate employment opportunities, strengthen market and supply linkages, support Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and contribute to the state’s revenue.

According to the district administration, the hearing was conducted in a transparent, peaceful, and orderly manner in compliance with environmental norms, ensuring broad public participation. The feedback collected will be forwarded to the concerned authorities as part of the environmental appraisal process.

The Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project is a major infrastructure initiative in the region, and the successful conduct of the public hearing marks a significant milestone towards its implementation, with the state aiming to balance development with environmental sustainability while addressing local concerns.

Stone Pelting Erupts Outside ABK Office Amid AdiSU Election Row

 

Pasighat, March 24:

The ongoing dispute surrounding the Adi Students’ Union (AdiSU) elections took a serious turn on Tuesday as protests intensified outside the Adi Bane Kebang (ABK) office, leading to clashes between two groups and incidents of stone pelting.

The unrest follows a formal representation submitted earlier by AdiSU (Apex) to the ABK leadership, seeking immediate intervention to halt what it termed as an “unlawful and forceful” attempt by the ABK Youth Wing to conduct a parallel election at Pasighat.

According to sources, tensions escalated when opposing groups gathered near the ABK office premises, resulting in heated arguments that quickly turned violent. Stone pelting was reported from both sides, creating panic in the area and disrupting normal movement.

AdiSU (Apex) had maintained that its elections were already conducted as per established norms and that a duly elected executive body is currently in office. The organization also raised concerns that any parallel election would not only be unauthorized but could interfere with the internal autonomy of AdiSU.

Further complicating the matter, the dispute is reportedly sub judice before the High Court, Itanagar Bench, raising legal concerns over the conduct of any fresh election during this period.

Security forces were rushed to the spot to control the situation and prevent further escalation. Authorities are closely monitoring the developments, while appeals for calm have been issued from multiple quarters.

The situation in Pasighat remains tense, with the possibility of further unrest if the matter is not resolved promptly.

Changlang Police Seize 202.5g Heroin, One Arrested

 

Changlang, March 22:

In a significant breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking, the Anti-Drug Squad of Changlang District Police successfully apprehended a suspected drug peddler during a targeted operation conducted in the early hours of March 22, 2026.

Acting on credible intelligence inputs, the police team carried out a raid at PHED Colony in Changlang. During the operation, the suspect was found in possession of 17 soap cases containing suspected heroin. The total weight of the seized contraband is approximately 202.5 grams, indicating a substantial quantity likely intended for distribution.

The accused was immediately taken into custody, and the seized narcotics were confiscated in accordance with prescribed legal procedures. A case has been registered at Changlang Police Station vide Case No. 02/2026 under Section 21(b) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

Seized Narcotics from the Accused.

Police officials stated that the operation was conducted with precision and underscores the department’s continued commitment to tackling the menace of drugs in the region. Investigators are now working to trace the source of the contraband and identify any wider network involved in the supply and distribution of narcotics.

Authorities have reiterated their appeal to the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by sharing information related to drug activities, emphasizing that community participation is crucial in ensuring a drug-free society.

Further investigation in the case is currently underway.