KVK Tawang Holds SAC Meeting to Review Progress, Chart 2026 Action Plan

 

Tawang, March 27:

The Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting of Krishi Vigyan Kendra Tawang was held at its conference hall on Friday, bringing together scientists, officials from allied departments, farmers, bankers, and representatives from Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs).

The meeting reviewed the progress achieved during 2025–26 and outlined a comprehensive action plan for 2026, with a focus on strengthening agricultural practices and improving farmers’ livelihoods in the district.

The session was chaired by Dr. A. Tamin, District Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development Officer (DVO), Tawang. Key participants included Radhey Lailang, Agricultural Development Officers (ADOs) from various blocks, the Chairman of Tawang Green FPC, and officials from National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, including the District Development Manager.

Dr. A.N. Tripathi, Senior Scientist-cum-Head of KVK Tawang, highlighted the objectives of the meeting, emphasizing the importance of aligning scientific interventions with local agricultural needs. The technical session featured detailed presentations by Subject Matter Specialists on the Annual Progress Report for 2025 and the proposed Annual Action Plan for 2026.

Members engaged in active discussions on programme implementation, stressing the need for timely dissemination of agricultural technologies at the grassroots level to enhance productivity and sustainability.

In his address, Dr. Tamin urged farmers to adopt improved technologies to maximize productivity and income, especially from small landholdings with limited resources. He also underscored the importance of convergence between KVK and allied departments to ensure sustainable agricultural development and better income generation for farmers in the region.

Pema Khandu Lauds Public Support for Subansiri Upper HEP

 

Itanagar, March 27:

Pema Khandu has lauded the people of Upper Subansiri for their active participation in the Environmental Public Hearing of the 1605 MW Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project, calling it a strong reflection of community engagement in the state’s development journey.

The public hearing, held on March 24 at Singik Hall in Daporijo, was conducted by the Arunachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board as part of the statutory process for environmental clearance. The session witnessed participation from public representatives, officials, NHPC Limited representatives, and local stakeholders.

Appreciating the conduct of the hearing, Khandu extended his gratitude to the local committee led by Rollen Dagam for ensuring a transparent, inclusive, and peaceful process. He also acknowledged receiving the Public Hearing Report submitted by the committee.

The Chief Minister emphasised that community participation remains central to the state’s development agenda. He noted that the overwhelming response from stakeholders, including affected families, indicates growing public confidence in the project and its potential benefits.

During the hearing, project authorities presented details on environmental safeguards, socio-economic benefits, and developmental prospects. Stakeholders were given the opportunity to raise concerns, particularly regarding compensation and local impacts, which were addressed as part of the consultative process.

Khandu reiterated that the Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project is a key infrastructure initiative that will generate employment, strengthen local economies, and enhance revenue for the state. He further highlighted provisions such as allocation of 2% of the project cost for local area development, including direct financial benefits to affected families.

Reaffirming the government’s long-term vision, Khandu stated that with people at the heart of every milestone, Arunachal Pradesh is steadily progressing towards becoming India’s hydropower capital, while ensuring environmental sustainability and addressing local concerns.

Bharat Lok Sangeet Arunachal Utsav 2026 Concludes on a Vibrant Note in Pasighat

 

Pasighat, March 26:

The third edition of the Bharat Lok Sangeet – Arunachal Pradesh Utsav 2026 concluded successfully at the Siang festival ground near Raneghat in Pasighat, marking the end of a two-day cultural celebration that brought together diverse folk and classical traditions from across India.

Organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh in collaboration with the East Siang district administration, the festival was held under the aegis of the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative from March 25 to 26. It aimed to promote cultural exchange, national integration, and sustainable tourism while providing a vibrant platform for artists and communities.

Over the two days, the festival showcased a rich blend of performances, including traditional dances of indigenous tribes such as Adi, Puroik, Lisu, Ollo, and Bugun, along with cultural presentations from Tirap district. The inclusion of Garba from Gujarat and Veerabhadra Kunitha from Karnataka reflected the broader spirit of unity in diversity, bringing multiple cultural identities onto one stage.

Speaking during the inaugural session, MLA Muchu Mithi stressed the importance of preserving traditional art forms and cultural heritage in the face of rapid social change. Tourism Secretary Ranphoa Ngowa also highlighted how such festivals support folk artistes while promoting cultural tourism and generating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.

As the festival came to a close, it left behind lasting impressions on youths, cultural enthusiasts, and visitors alike. Beyond its colourful performances, the utsav strengthened cultural pride, encouraged the preservation of indigenous traditions, and reinforced the spirit of unity among diverse communities. The successful आयोजन stood as a testament to the enduring relevance of folk culture, while also positioning Arunachal Pradesh as a growing hub for cultural tourism in India.

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.