Mopin Festival Celebrated with Creative Activities in Changlang District

 

Miao, April 9:

The spirit of the Mopin Festival was celebrated with great enthusiasm at the New Age Learning Centre, Miao, in Changlang district, where students engaged in a range of creative and educational activities to mark the occasion.

As part of the celebration, students participated in group poster-making sessions, expressing the essence of the festival through vibrant and meaningful artwork. The posters highlighted various aspects of Mopin, including its cultural significance, traditional practices, and the rich heritage of indigenous communities in Arunachal Pradesh.

To further deepen students’ understanding, a PowerPoint presentation was conducted, focusing on the importance, customs, and traditional foods associated with the festival. The session offered valuable insights into the cultural roots of Mopin and emphasized the need to preserve and promote indigenous traditions and values among the younger generation.

The initiative not only encouraged creativity and teamwork among students but also helped instill a stronger sense of cultural awareness and appreciation for the diverse heritage of the state.

Mopin is a major agricultural festival celebrated by the Galo tribe in Arunachal Pradesh, primarily during the first week of April. It marks the welcoming of the new year, with prayers for a bountiful harvest and rituals aimed at driving away evil spirits. The festival centers on the worship of Mopin Ane, the goddess of fertility and prosperity, and features traditional elements such as the Popir dance, the consumption of locally brewed Apung (rice beer), and the ceremonial smearing of Ette (rice flour) on faces as a symbol of purity and good fortune.

Arunachal Organisations Benefit from ‘Week of Honor’ Drive on Anant Ambani’s Birthday

 

Itanagar, April 9:

A Nationwide “Week of Honor” Donation Drive is being observed across India to mark the birthday of Anant Ambani, focusing on service initiatives for the poor and underprivileged.

The campaign, led by the Anant Seva Foundation in collaboration with local community groups, has undertaken a wide range of humanitarian activities including food distribution, free medical camps, supply of essential items, rehabilitation assistance, mobility aid support, and animal welfare services.

In Arunachal Pradesh, the initiative has covered key locations such as Deepak Nabam Living Home, Prodigal Commune, Parshuram Kund, and Arunachal Cats and Dogs Rescue.

Founder of Deepak Nabam Living Home, Deepak Nabam, expressed gratitude towards the family of Mukesh Ambani for including his destitute home and other organisations in the state. He stated that essential supplies such as water purifiers, wheelchairs, mattresses, and ration sufficient for at least one month were provided, addressing the most urgent needs of the shelter.

In Namsai district, support was extended to Prodigal Commune, run by the Angulimala Welfare Society, which focuses on rehabilitation of individuals recovering from drug dependency through community living and skill development. The assistance is expected to strengthen ongoing recovery programmes as well as support daily operations.

Anant ambani's birthday was celebrated with 
Cake cutting session in Deepak nabam living home.

Meanwhile, Tarun Jamoh, founding member of Arunachal Cats and Dogs Rescue in Lekhi, stated that the equipment received will significantly aid animal rescue efforts. He added that additional required equipment is being dispatched from Guwahati and is expected to arrive within the next few days.

Further, at Parshuram Kund in Lohit district, fodder for around 300 cows along with ration supplies for temple staff and pujaris will be distributed, contributing to the temple ecosystem and supporting local livelihoods.

The drive aims to ensure dignity, care, and essential support to marginalized communities. Organizers reiterated that the initiative is not merely a celebration, but a sustained commitment to uplifting lives and strengthening the spirit of community service across the nation.

Massive Fire Destroys House in Lohit District

 

Sunpura, April 9:

A devastating fire reduced a residential house to ashes in Chailiang village under Sunpura in Lohit district in the early hours of Thursday, leaving a family homeless but miraculously unharmed.

The incident occurred at around 3:00 AM, when flames suddenly engulfed the residence of Sri Yalimso Kamblu. With the fire spreading rapidly, the family had little time to react and could not save any of their belongings. The entire property was reportedly destroyed in the blaze.

Despite the magnitude of the incident, there were no reports of casualties or injuries, bringing a sense of relief amid the tragedy. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and authorities are expected to carry out an assessment.

Local MLA Mohesh Chai confirmed the incident and expressed concern over the loss suffered by the family. He assured that all possible assistance would be extended to support the victims during this difficult time.

Relief materials being provided to the affected family

Responding swiftly, Asing Chai, son of the MLA, visited the affected site along with BJP Lohit Sunpura Mandal President Shri Kaling Manyu and GPC Chailiang Mrs Junumsi Ritti. The team interacted with the affected family and provided immediate relief materials, including CGI sheets for temporary shelter and financial assistance to meet urgent needs.

The incident has drawn attention to the vulnerability of rural households to fire hazards, especially during late-night hours when response time is limited. Local residents have also called for increased awareness and preventive measures to avoid such tragedies in the future.

Further assistance from the administration is expected as officials assess the extent of the damage and explore rehabilitation support for the affected family.

Pema Khandu Inaugurates Upgraded Kitpi Hydel Project in Tawang

 

Tawang, April 9:

Pema Khandu on Thursday inaugurated the re-rated Kitpi Mini Hydel Project (Phase–I) at Kitpi village in Tawang, marking a key step towards enhancing clean and reliable energy in the region.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, along with MLAs Tsering Lhamu and Namgay Tsering, and other dignitaries.

Located on the Nametrong River at Kitpi village, the project is a small hydropower facility that generates electricity using the natural flow of water. The plant has been upgraded from its earlier configuration of 3×500 KW to 2×750 KW, resulting in improved efficiency and enhanced power generation capacity through better optimization of resources.

Sharing details of the project, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein stated that the hydel project was originally commissioned in 1977 and has now undergone significant upgradation at a sanctioned cost of ₹1526.78 lakh. He added that the project is expected to benefit around 1,250 households, covering a population of nearly 4,700 people in the region.

Officials and dignitaries at the project site in Kitpi village

Officials noted that the enhanced capacity will lead to a more stable and reliable electricity supply in Tawang, while also promoting greater use of clean and renewable energy. The upgradation is expected to reduce dependence on conventional power sources and strengthen local infrastructure.

The development is seen as part of the state government’s continued efforts to harness Arunachal Pradesh’s hydropower potential while ensuring sustainable growth. The improved project is expected to significantly boost power availability and support long-term development in Tawang district.

Itanagar Teacher Murdered in Late-Night Attack, Accused Arrested Within Hours

 

Itanagar, April 8:

A shocking murder in the ESS Sector of Itanagar has sent waves of concern across the capital after a 42-year-old woman, Smty. Yaapi Potom, was brutally killed late on the night of April 7. Police have arrested the accused, identified as Daksen Riram, within an hour of the incident.

According to police sources, the victim, a Junior Teacher at Government Secondary School, Chimpu, was at her residence when the accused allegedly arrived around 11:30 PM and called her outside. He then attacked her with a sharp-edged weapon. She sustained critical injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared her brought dead.

Superintendent of Police Jummar Basar confirmed that the accused was apprehended swiftly at approximately 12:30 AM, demonstrating a prompt police response.

The deceased is survived by her two minor children, both below the age of 15, along with her parents and a brother. Family sources indicated that she was the sole breadwinner, making her untimely death even more devastating for the household.

The incident has triggered widespread outrage, with residents condemning the brutal act and demanding strict punishment for the accused.

Police have registered a case under Sections 103(1) and 351(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The motive behind the murder remains unclear, and further investigation is underway to establish the circumstances leading to the crime.

Green Roing Village Scheme Launched

 

Roing, April 6:

In a significant step towards promoting sustainable development and community-driven cleanliness, MLA Mutchu Mithi flagged off the ‘Green Roing Village Flagship Programme’ at Reko village in Roing. The initiative aims to transform villages into clean, disciplined, beautiful, and tourism-ready model communities.

The programme was launched in the presence of local leaders, officials, Gram Panchayat members, NGOs, and enthusiastic villagers, reflecting strong community participation. Addressing the gathering, Mithi highlighted the importance of collective responsibility and urged residents to actively contribute towards maintaining cleanliness, discipline, and environmentally sustainable practices.

As part of the initiative, an annual incentive of ₹50 lakhs has been announced for the best and cleanest village. The programme, introduced under the broader ‘Green Roing’ initiative, also includes a comprehensive village beautification and development scheme to support infrastructure improvement and environmental sustainability.

To ensure continuous engagement and consistent progress, a quarterly evaluation system will be implemented. Every three months, the best-performing village will be awarded ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh from the MLA Local Area Development (LAD) fund. These funds will be utilized for sanitation, beautification, and development works, encouraging villages to compete and improve regularly rather than on a one-time basis.

The programme focuses on key areas such as cleanliness drives, proper waste management, beautification of public spaces, and the promotion of eco-friendly practices. Villagers have been encouraged to work collectively to transform their localities into model villages, enhancing not only living conditions but also their potential as attractive tourism destinations.

Officials noted that the initiative is designed to instill civic responsibility, foster healthy competition among villages, and position Roing as a benchmark for rural development and cleanliness in Arunachal Pradesh.

3 Dead, Several Hospitalised in Changlang–Bordumsa Mushroom Poisoning

 

Changlang, April 7:

Changlang district has reported a series of alarming mushroom poisoning incidents over the past week, prompting urgent public health advisories from authorities.

In Changlang, nine individuals from two separate families reportedly fell ill after consuming wild mushrooms suspected to be toxic. All were promptly admitted for medical treatment and have since recovered due to timely intervention by healthcare professionals.

However, a more tragic incident occurred in Bordumsa, where four members of a single family consumed wild mushrooms. Three of them lost their lives, while one individual survived and is undergoing treatment.

Health experts believe the cases may be linked to the consumption of a toxic wild mushroom species, most likely Chlorophyllum molybdites, commonly found during the rainy season. This species is often mistaken for edible mushrooms due to its similar appearance, making it particularly dangerous.

Medical officials have warned that several toxic mushroom varieties closely resemble edible ones and can cause severe health complications, including vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, seizures, and even organ failure.

Dr. Gumlat Ong Maio, Medical Officer In-Charge of Community Health Centre (CHC) Bordumsa, urged the public to exercise extreme caution and strictly avoid consuming wild mushrooms.

The district administration has issued a public advisory with the following key guidelines:

Do not collect or consume wild mushrooms

Consume mushrooms only from verified and safe sources

Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear after consumption

Spread awareness within the community to prevent further incidents

Authorities have emphasized that even experienced collectors can misidentify toxic mushrooms, and have particularly cautioned against serving such food to vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.

AdiSU Bandh Violence as Stone Pelting Injures Police in Pasighat

 

Pasighat, April 8:

A 24-hour bandh called by the Adi Students’ Union (AdiSU) turned violent on Tuesday, with incidents of stone pelting reported from multiple locations across Pasighat. The unrest resulted in injuries to several police personnel and at least one civilian, escalating concerns over the deteriorating law and order situation in the region.

The bandh was announced by AdiSU following the detention of its Vice President Dutin Jamoh and former General Secretary Ton Boli during an incident at the Deputy Commissioner’s office earlier in the day. Protesting the action, the union warned that the shutdown would be strictly enforced if the detained members were not released within two hours.

Nongku Aje, President of the AdiSU East Siang Unit, held the district administration accountable for any consequences arising from the situation, alleging that the authorities’ actions had provoked public unrest.

Further intensifying the situation, Tanyo Burang, President of the AdiSU Upper Siang Unit, raised objections to the re-election process scheduled at Sibo village. He cautioned that proceeding with the election amid ongoing disputes could trigger further unrest and warned that both the district administration and the Adi Baane Kebang (ABK) would be held responsible for any untoward incidents.

With tensions continuing to rise, the situation in Pasighat remains volatile as authorities monitor developments closely ahead of the bandh and the controversial re-election process.

161 Engineers Appointed in Arunachal; Felicitation Held in Itanagar

 

Itanagar, April 7:

In a significant boost to the state’s technical workforce, appointment orders were handed over to 161 successful candidates of the Arunachal Engineering Service Examination-2025 during a grand felicitation programme held at the Dorjee Khandu State Convention Centre, Itanagar. The selected candidates will join as Assistant Engineers across various Works Departments of the State Government.

The programme commenced with the soulful rendition of Vande Mataram, setting a tone of patriotism and pride for the occasion. The ceremony witnessed the presence of top state leadership, including Pema Khandu, along with cabinet ministers such as Mama Natung, Balo Raja, Ojing Tasing, Kento Jini and Nyato Dukam, among others, who jointly handed over the appointment letters to the candidates.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister congratulated the newly recruited engineers for their achievement and emphasized the critical role they will play in shaping the state’s infrastructure and development trajectory. He urged them to uphold integrity, professionalism and dedication in their service, particularly in reaching remote and underserved regions of Arunachal Pradesh.

Highlighting the cultural significance of the moment, he noted that such occasions reflect the deep-rooted values, unity and strong sense of identity of the people of the state. He further described it as an honor to be part of the great Bharatiya civilization and called upon the young engineers to contribute meaningfully towards nation-building through their work.

Newly appointed Assistant Engineers pose for a group
 photograph at the felicitation ceremony in Itanagar

Home Minister Mama Natung, who also attended the programme, shared in a social media post that as the young engineers begin their journey in public service, they must apply their knowledge and skills to strengthen infrastructure, especially in remote and underserved areas. He stressed that their work should deliver practical solutions that improve lives and support the state’s development, while assuring them of his full support in building a stronger and more resilient Arunachal Pradesh.

Echoing similar sentiments, Minister Ojing Tasing described the occasion as a proud moment, celebrating the determination and excellence of the young engineers. He stated that they will play a vital role in building resilient infrastructure and driving progress across Arunachal Pradesh, adding that their success reflects the promise of a brighter and more empowered future. He extended his warm congratulations and best wishes to all the successful candidates as they step forward to shape the destiny of the state.

The ceremony marked not only the formal induction of a new batch of engineers into public service but also reinforced the government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure development and empowering youth through meaningful opportunities.

Green Roing Village Program Launched with ₹50 Lakh Incentive

 

Roing, April 6:

In a significant step towards promoting sustainable development and community-driven cleanliness, MLA Mutchu Mithi flagged off the ‘Green Roing Village Flagship Programme’ at Reko village in Roing. The initiative aims to transform villages into clean, disciplined, beautiful, and tourism-ready model communities.

The programme was launched in the presence of local leaders, officials, Gram Panchayat members, NGOs, and enthusiastic villagers, reflecting strong community participation. Addressing the gathering, Mithi highlighted the importance of collective responsibility and urged residents to actively contribute towards maintaining cleanliness, discipline, and environmentally sustainable practices.

As part of the initiative, an annual incentive of ₹50 lakhs has been announced for the best and cleanest village. The programme, introduced under the broader ‘Green Roing’ initiative, also includes a comprehensive village beautification and development scheme to support infrastructure improvement and environmental sustainability.

To ensure continuous engagement and consistent progress, a quarterly evaluation system will be implemented. Every three months, the best-performing village will be awarded ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh from the MLA Local Area Development (LAD) fund. These funds will be utilized for sanitation, beautification, and development works, encouraging villages to compete and improve regularly rather than on a one-time basis.

The programme focuses on key areas such as cleanliness drives, proper waste management, beautification of public spaces, and the promotion of eco-friendly practices. Villagers have been encouraged to work collectively to transform their localities into model villages, enhancing not only living conditions but also their potential as attractive tourism destinations.

Officials noted that the initiative is designed to instill civic responsibility, foster healthy competition among villages, and position Roing as a benchmark for rural development and cleanliness in Arunachal Pradesh.

Arunachal’s Lipin Ete Clinches Gold, Silver at USA Open Karate Championship 2026

Texas, April 5:

In a moment of immense pride for Arunachal Pradesh and the nation, young karateka Lipin Ete has delivered a historic performance on the global stage by clinching one gold and one silver medal at the prestigious USA Open Karate Championship 2026 held in Texas, United States.

Hailing from Itanagar, Lipin has emerged as a trailblazer for the Northeast, becoming the first female athlete from Arunachal Pradesh, and the entire region, to secure a podium finish at the USA Open, one of the most competitive and respected tournaments in international karate.

A student of Don Bosco College, Itanagar, Lipin has been rigorously training at Xtreme Martial Arts India (XMA Academy), where her discipline, consistency, and technical excellence have been instrumental in shaping her journey. Her latest achievement reflects years of dedication and a steady rise through the ranks of competitive karate.

The championship, conducted from April 1 to 5 at the Fort Worth Convention Center, brought together more than 3,500 athletes from over 40 countries, making it a truly global sporting spectacle. Competitors participated across multiple categories including kata (forms), kumite (sparring), and team events, with each segment witnessing intense competition among some of the best karate practitioners in the world.

Representing India as part of the national karate contingent, Lipin stood out with her remarkable composure and skill, successfully competing against seasoned international athletes. Her gold medal performance demonstrated technical precision and strategic execution, while the silver medal further underscored her consistency at the highest level of competition.

The Indian team’s participation was overseen by the Karate India Organisation, under the leadership of president Bharat Sharma and general secretary Sanjeev Kumar Jangra. Their guidance and support ensured that the athletes were well-prepared to compete on the international stage, reflecting a growing standard of excellence in Indian karate.

Organised by the USA National Karate Federation in association with the U.S. Olympic Committee, the USA Open is widely regarded as one of the premier events in the sport. Its scale, level of competition, and global participation make it a key platform for athletes aiming to establish themselves internationally.

Lipin Ete’s achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a significant boost for women in sports, particularly from Arunachal Pradesh and the Northeast region, which has been steadily producing talented athletes across disciplines. Her success is expected to inspire a new generation of young girls to pursue martial arts and represent India on global platforms.

As India continues to make its mark in global sporting arenas, performances like Lipin’s reaffirm the country’s growing presence in martial arts and highlight the immense potential of athletes from remote regions.