Arunachal gets highest ₹4,900 crore under Pride of Hills scheme

 

Wakka Village, Longding District. (Source:shotsbytakar)

New Delhi, March 29:

Arunachal Pradesh has emerged as the largest beneficiary under the Centre’s newly introduced “Pride of Hills” component of the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) for 2026–27, securing an allocation of ₹4,900 crore out of the total ₹25,000 crore outlay earmarked for hill states.

The initiative has been designed to address the unique financial and developmental challenges faced by hill states, including difficult terrain, low population density, and limited revenue-generating capacity. With Arunachal Pradesh receiving the highest share among all eligible states, the move signals a strong push by the Centre to accelerate development in the frontier state.

The additional funding, which is over and above regular central allocations, is expected to significantly boost capital expenditure in key sectors such as infrastructure and connectivity. Improved road networks, better access to remote regions, and enhanced economic linkages are likely to be among the immediate outcomes if the funds are effectively utilized.

Arunachal Pradesh, which continues to rely heavily on central transfers due to its geographical and fiscal constraints, stands to benefit substantially from this targeted support. The allocation is also expected to complement the state’s ongoing focus on infrastructure-led growth, particularly in areas such as rural connectivity, tourism, and strategic development.

The “Pride of Hills” scheme reflects a broader policy approach aimed at strengthening hill states with additional financial backing, enabling them to overcome structural challenges and achieve faster, more balanced development. Alongside Arunachal Pradesh’s ₹4,900 crore allocation, Himachal Pradesh has been allotted ₹3,920 crore, Nagaland ₹3,880 crore, Uttarakhand ₹3,460 crore, Tripura ₹3,450 crore, Manipur ₹2,400 crore, Meghalaya ₹2,070 crore, Sikkim ₹820 crore, and Mizoram ₹100 crore, highlighting a wide distribution of funds across hill states under the initiative.

Tawang Hosts Vipassana Programme; MLA Announces Biannual Meditation Camps

 

Tawang, March 29:

A programme on “Introduction to Vipassana Meditation – A Path to Inner Peace and Mental Well-being” was successfully conducted at Kalawangpo Convention Hall in Tawang on Sunday afternoon, drawing participation from public representatives, officials, and local residents.

The event was sponsored and organised by MLA Lungla, Tsering Lhamu, and coordinated by Sangey Sangey Phuntsok Nguimo. The session featured resource persons Diganta Kalita and Rishikesh Ji, Trustee of the Assam Vipassana Trust, Guwahati, who provided insights into the practice and benefits of Vipassana meditation.

Among the dignitaries present were ZPC Tawang Leki Gombu, Additional Deputy Commissioner Rinchen Leta, and ZPMs Tenzin Monpa, Pema Tsering, Tsering Yangzom, and Sonam Norzin. Other attendees included Pema Ngawang, Ngawang Norbu, Jampa Tsering, along with members of the general public.

Addressing the gathering, MLA Tsering Lhamu underlined the increasing importance of mental well-being in today’s fast-paced lifestyle. She noted that despite access to material comforts, mental health is often neglected, contributing to rising cases of stress, anxiety, and depression. She also highlighted the growing negative impact of excessive social media use on mental health.

In a key announcement, the MLA stated that Tawang will host two 10-day Vipassana meditation camps annually, one during summer and another in winter, aimed at promoting inner peace, emotional balance, and overall mental wellness within the community.

The programme concluded with a positive response from participants, reflecting growing awareness and interest in meditation practices as a means to achieve mental clarity and well-being.

Bear Cub Rescued in Tirap, Sent for Rehabilitation

 

Tirap, March 29:

In a notable wildlife rescue effort, the Deomali Forest Division successfully rescued a stranded Himalayan black bear cub, estimated to be around one month old, from Borduria village under Deomali subdivision in Tirap district.

According to official sources, the incident came to light on March 26 when local residents, including Ponpong Ruttum and Wanghon Lettey, discovered the cub alone in an agricultural field and promptly informed the Forest Department.

Acting swiftly, a team from the Borduria Forest Range led by Range Forest Officer (RFO) Diwang Lowang reached the site and safely secured the cub under the supervision of the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Deomali Forest Division.

Rescued Bear cub 

The cub was initially provided necessary care and monitoring by forest officials. Subsequently, on March 28, it was handed over to veterinarian Dr. Panjit Basumatary at the Centre for Bear Rehabilitation and Conservation (CBRC), located within Pakke Tiger Reserve, for specialized treatment and rehabilitation. The transfer took place at Namsai in the presence of officials from the Namsai Forest Division.

RFO Diwang Lowang commended the villagers for their timely response and cooperation in safeguarding wildlife. He also urged the public to actively support conservation efforts by avoiding activities such as forest destruction, poaching, and illegal hunting.

Environment & Forest Minister Wangki Lowang lauded the villagers for their prompt action and their role in assisting the Forest Department in rescuing the cub.

India U-23 Beat Bhutan 5–0 in Tri-Nation Tournament

 

Yupia, March 28:

The India U-23 football team delivered a commanding performance to secure a resounding 5–0 victory over Bhutan in the U-23 Tri-Nation International Football Tournament 2026 at the Golden Jubilee Outdoor Stadium in Yupia.

The tournament, being held from March 25 to March 31, 2026, features three national sides, the India U-23 team, Bhutan U-23, and Tajikistan U-23, competing in a round-robin format at the Golden Jubilee Outdoor Stadium. 

Organised as part of international exposure for emerging players, the competition includes three matches: Bhutan vs Tajikistan (March 25), India vs Bhutan (March 28), and India vs Tajikistan (March 31), all scheduled in the evening to maximise fan engagement.

The tournament aims to provide valuable match experience to young footballers while strengthening sporting ties between the participating nations and showcasing Arunachal Pradesh’s growing capability to host international football events.

In the match against Bhutan, India showcased remarkable energy, precision, and attacking flair, dominating proceedings from start to finish. The young Blue Tigers controlled possession, executed quick transitions, and displayed clinical finishing to underline their superiority.

With this emphatic victory, India U-23 have not only strengthened their position in the tournament but also signalled strong intent as they prepare for their final fixture against Tajikistan.

Arunachal Football Teams Storm into Khelo India Tribal Games Semi-Finals

 

Arunachal Pradesh Women’s Football Team
at Khelo India Tribal Games, Odisha

Odisha, March 28:

The Khelo India Tribal Games continues to highlight the immense sporting talent emerging from tribal communities across the country, with the ongoing edition being held in Odisha in 2024.

Amid this national platform, Arunachal Pradesh football has delivered a standout performance, capturing attention with remarkable consistency and determination. Both the Men’s and Women’s football teams have secured their places in the Semi-Finals, even with one group-stage match still remaining, an achievement that underlines their dominance in the tournament so far.

The Arunachal Pradesh Football Association has extended heartfelt congratulations to both teams for their remarkable achievement. The association commended the players for their dedication, teamwork, and fighting spirit, noting that their performance has brought immense pride to the state.

Arunachal Pradesh Men’s Football Team
 at Khelo India Tribal Games, Odisha

The Khelo India Tribal Games, conducted under the Government of India’s Khelo India initiative, aims to promote sports among tribal youth while preserving indigenous heritage and culture. The event brings together talented athletes from tribal regions nationwide, offering them a prestigious platform to compete and gain national exposure.

Football, one of the most popular sports in Arunachal Pradesh, continues to grow steadily, and this achievement reflects the success of grassroots development and sustained efforts by players, coaches, and officials. Both teams have displayed excellent coordination, tactical discipline, and resilience throughout their campaign.

As the competition progresses into the knockout stages, all eyes are now on the Arunachal teams to carry forward their momentum. With strong performances already behind them, hopes are high for a historic finish.

The message remains clear, keep shining, keep winning, and continue bringing glory to Arunachal Pradesh.

Naharlagun Anti-Trafficking Raid Two Arrested Seven Women Rescued

 

Naharlagun, March 27:

In a major operation against immoral trafficking, police teams from Banderdewa Police Station under ICR Naharlagun rescued seven women during a raid conducted on March 27 at two establishments, NK Lodge and Lovely Lodging.

The operation was led by SDPO Naharlagun Rishi Longdo along with IPS (P) officer T. Yangki. According to police, the rescued women, mostly from Assam and belonging to economically vulnerable backgrounds, were allegedly exploited for sex work.

Investigations revealed that NK Lodge, owned by Kuru Richo of Arunachal Pradesh and leased to Nazrul Islam from Assam, had been used for trafficking activities for the past eight months. During questioning, the lodge manager, Moina Das, admitted that all six rooms of the lodge were being used for illegal activities.

Similarly, Lovely Lodging, owned by Nalo alias Tagin Baido, was initially leased to Tate Taha and later sub-leased to Fardaus Ahmed for about one year and two months. Ahmed reportedly confessed that the premises had been used for immoral trafficking for the past three to four months.

Police stated that the accused followed a pattern of luring vulnerable women from Assam to the lodgings for sex work. Customers paid room rent directly to lodge managers along with additional service charges. The managers allegedly retained a major share of the earnings, while the women received only 25–50 percent.

Two accused Fardaus Ahmed (35), a resident of Morigaon, Assam, and Moinab Das (34), a resident of Dhemaji, Assam, have been arrested under relevant sections of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956, along with other applicable laws.

The operation was conducted under the supervision of Naharlagun SP Dr. Nyelam Nega, who commended the team for the successful rescue and crackdown. Police confirmed that further investigation is underway.

Sai Seva Sangathan Plans Health Centre Upgrade in Ziro

 

Ziro, March 27:

A nine-member delegation from Sri Sathya Sai Seva Sangathan, led by National Youth Coordinator Laxmikant Sharma, arrived in Ziro Valley to conduct a comprehensive survey aimed at upgrading the Health Centre at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre, which is operated by Helping Hands.

The visiting team held an interactive session at the Centre with key stakeholders, including Hibu Robin, ZPC Hibu Dumi, Executive Director Er. Punyo Hinda, TDO Tai Arun, along with Helping Hands volunteers and Gaon Buras and Buris of Hong village.

As part of their visit, the delegation conducted extensive field assessments of healthcare facilities across the valley, including Gyati Takka General Hospital, as well as multiple Primary Health Centres and wellness centres, to evaluate existing gaps and healthcare needs of the local population.

Addressing the gathering, IPS officer Hibu Robin presented the formation and operational framework of Helping Hands, highlighting its global volunteer network spanning cities such as London, Dubai, and China. He detailed the organisation’s wide-ranging initiatives, including emergency assistance, blood donation drives, combating racial discrimination, crime awareness campaigns, transportation of mortal remains of Northeast individuals, and career counselling. He also outlined the educational and skill-based programmes offered at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre, including coaching support for competitive examinations like UPSC and State PCS through CSR initiatives.

  

Stakeholders and community members during the

 interactive session at Mahatma Gandhi Centre, Hong. 

(Source: IPR Lower Subansiri)

Speaking on behalf of the visiting team, Laxmikant Sharma elaborated on the philosophy and service initiatives of the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Sangathan, guided by the principle “Love All, Serve All.” He emphasized the need for active community participation to successfully implement their mission in Ziro Valley.

The primary objective of the visit is to carry out a village-level survey under the Tribal Women Welfare Programme, aimed at providing regular medical support to orphaned children and residents of the valley. The initiative also seeks to upgrade the existing Health Centre at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre, Hong, to improved standards.

Under the broader Sri Sathya Sai Tribal Development Programme, the organisation focuses on holistic upliftment of tribal communities through interventions in education, healthcare, hygiene, and social and spiritual development, while preserving indigenous culture. Notably, Hong village in Ziro has been selected as the first village in India to be covered under this programme.

Fire Destroys Two Houses in Laho Village, Families Displaced

 

Khonsa, March 27:

A devastating fire, reportedly caused by an electrical short circuit, gutted two dwelling houses in Laho Village under Dadam on the night of March 26, leaving families homeless and destroying valuable belongings.

According to reports, the fire broke out at the residence of Tanwang Hakhun and quickly spread to a nearby PMAY-funded house belonging to Wanghat Kamhua. Both MIB-type structures were completely reduced to ashes before the blaze could be brought under control.

Important documents, household items, and traditional valuables were lost in the incident. To prevent the fire from spreading further, a third house in the vicinity was dismantled as a precautionary measure.

Following the incident, Khonsa West MLA Chakat Aboh responded swiftly by dispatching a relief team led by Pentom Kamhua. Immediate assistance in the form of essential commodities was provided to the affected families.

The MLA has also assured additional support, including the provision of CGI sheets to aid in the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the damaged homes.

No casualties have been reported in the incident

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.