Fire Safety Awareness Program Held at CHC Rupa During Fire Service Week

 

Rupa, May 7:

As part of the ongoing observance of being held from May 4 to May 10, a comprehensive Fire Safety Awareness Program was conducted at the Community Health Centre (CHC), Rupa on Thursday.

The awareness initiative was organized with the objective of educating healthcare workers, local residents, and business establishments on fire prevention measures and emergency preparedness. The program was led by trained personnel from the Fire Station Bomdila, who conducted live demonstrations and interactive sessions on fire safety management.

During the program, officials demonstrated the proper use of firefighting equipment, including fire extinguishers, and explained immediate response techniques during fire emergencies. Participants were also briefed on evacuation procedures, handling of electrical hazards, and methods to minimize risks in public institutions and commercial establishments.

The event witnessed active participation from the medical staff and administration of CHC Rupa, local shopkeepers from nearby market areas, and members of the local community. Attendees appreciated the practical demonstrations and awareness activities aimed at strengthening public safety and disaster preparedness.

Officials emphasized the importance of community awareness and timely response in preventing fire-related incidents, especially in healthcare institutions and densely populated areas. 

The program concluded with an appeal to citizens to remain vigilant and adopt essential fire safety practices in their homes, workplaces, and public spaces.

Daporijo Hosts Grand Reception for New AAPSU Leadership

 

Daporijo, May 7:

A grand reception programme was organized today at Daporijo by the All Upper Subansiri District Students’ Union (AUSDSU), Tagin Welfare Society (TWS), and other organizations to celebrate the victory of the newly elected Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) leadership and executive members for the 2026–2029 tenure.

The programme was specially organized in honour of the three victorious representatives from Upper Subansiri district, Shri Mato Bui, elected as General Secretary, Shri Zentle Mosu, elected as Finance Secretary, and Shri Tajo Rai, elected as Co-Convenor (West).

The event also witnessed the presence of newly elected AAPSU President Shri Meje Taku along with other executive members of the union.

Earlier, while en route to Daporijo, the AAPSU executive members were warmly received and felicitated in Keyi Panyor district, Lower Subansiri district, and Kamle district by the respective district students’ unions and various organizations, reflecting strong support and enthusiasm for the newly elected leadership.

Hundreds of students, youth leaders, community members, and supporters gathered at Daporijo to celebrate the achievement, describing it as a proud moment for Upper Subansiri district. 

Speakers at the programme stated that the victory reflects the trust, dedication, and strong leadership of the youth, while expressing confidence that the new leadership team would work for the welfare of students and society across Arunachal Pradesh.

The reception programme was marked by traditional greetings, interactions with the leaders, and a festive atmosphere as people extended their support and best wishes to the newly elected team for a successful tenure ahead.

PM SHRI JNV Tawang Wins Arunachal’s Best School Award for Second Straight Year

 

MP SHRI JVN Principal M.L. Meena receiving the award from the officials.

Shillong, May 7:

PM SHRI Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Tawang has once again brought laurels to Arunachal Pradesh by winning the prestigious “Overall Best School (Arunachal Pradesh)” award at the NER Annual Awards 2025–26, marking its second consecutive achievement.

The award was received by Principal M. L. Meena during a grand ceremony held at the NCC Group Headquarters in Shillong. The honour was presented by Wailadmiki Shylla in the esteemed presence of Major General Anurag Vij.

The recognition reflects the institution’s consistent excellence in academics, discipline, NCC activities, co-curricular performance, and overall institutional development. Guided by the NCC motto, “Unity and Discipline,” PM SHRI JNV Tawang has continued to nurture students into responsible citizens, future leaders, and dedicated nation-builders.

Expressing his happiness over the achievement, Principal M. L. Meena stated that receiving the honour for the second consecutive year is a matter of immense pride for the entire JNV Tawang family. He said the award is a reflection of the collective dedication, hard work, and commitment of the students, teachers, parents, and staff members.

He further added that the recognition would inspire the institution to continue striving for excellence while promoting discipline, leadership, patriotism, and the spirit of national service among students.

The achievement also highlights the relentless teamwork and commitment of the teaching and non-teaching staff under the visionary leadership of the Principal. The award has brought immense joy and pride to the institution, adding another milestone to JNV Tawang’s journey of excellence in education and service to the nation.

The entire JNV Tawang fraternity celebrated the accomplishment with great enthusiasm and reaffirmed its commitment towards holistic education, character building, and empowering students to excel in every sphere of life.

Itanagar Police Bust LPG Cylinder Theft Racket Amid Shortage

 

Itanagar, May 6:

Itanagar Police have arrested two persons in connection with a series of domestic LPG cylinder thefts reported from different parts of the capital region, exposing what investigators describe as a wider theft-and-disposal network operating during the ongoing LPG shortage.

The accused, identified as Yikar Taba and Lingko Tare, were apprehended following a complaint regarding the theft of an LPG cylinder from the verandah of a residence at Jollang.

Acting on local intelligence during investigation of Itanagar P.S. Case No. 121/2026 registered under Section 305(a) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the police intercepted the accused and recovered the stolen LPG cylinder linked to the case.

According to investigators, the accused allegedly conducted reconnaissance in residential areas, targeting houses where LPG cylinders were kept in open spaces or verandahs. The cylinders were reportedly stolen when the houses appeared unattended.

Police further revealed that the accused allegedly took advantage of the panic caused by the ongoing LPG shortage by selling the stolen cylinders at cheaper rates through local contacts and demand generated on social media platforms.

During the course of investigation, police recovered 10 LPG cylinders from various receivers across Itanagar township. Authorities stated that efforts are underway to identify additional victims, trace the remaining stolen cylinders, verify the role of receivers, and establish the complete theft-and-disposal chain.

Public Advisory

Police have appealed to citizens who may have purchased or received LPG cylinders from the accused persons, or from any suspicious or unauthorised source, to voluntarily surrender them at Police Station Itanagar.

Authorities warned that purchasing stolen property is a punishable offence, and legal action will be initiated against any receiver found in possession of stolen cylinders during the investigation.

Citizens have also been urged not to purchase LPG cylinders or household items from unknown persons offering suspiciously low prices, and to immediately report any suspicious sale of LPG cylinders to the police.

Fire & Emergency Services Goes Online Under Arunachal EoDB Portal

Itanagar, May 6:

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has become the fifth department in Arunachal Pradesh to operationalize the State’s Single Window Clearance System under the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) initiative.

The department officially onboarded three key services on May 6, 2026 through the State Single Window Clearance/Ease of Doing Business Portal- www.eodb.arunachal.gov.in⁠�. The newly integrated services include Application for Fire Safety Certificate, Application for No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Fire Department prior to commencement of construction activities, and Application for Renewal of Fire Safety Certificate.

To ensure smooth implementation of the online system, a team from the Planning & Investment Department led by Shri Vikas Vijay, along with members of the EoDB Cell Shri Nihal Pegu, Shri Ankit Kumar, and Shri Nathan Shibu John conducted hands-on training sessions for officials of the Department of Fire & Emergency Services.

Chief Executive Officer of Arunachal Pradesh Innovation and Investment Park, Shri Tabe Haidar, appreciated Director of Fire & Emergency Services Shri Chukhu Appa, IPS, SP Fire Shri John Pada, APPS, Station Officer Shri Buru Mali, and other departmental officials for successfully implementing the Ease of Doing Business initiative through the Single Window Clearance System. 

He also lauded the efforts of the EoDB technical team for successfully onboarding the services online.

Director of Fire & Emergency Services Shri Chukhu Appa, IPS, urged citizens of the state to make use of the online services under the Ease of Doing Business initiative, emphasizing that the digital platform would help ensure seamless, transparent, and efficient service delivery across the state.

Rare ‘Himalayan Gold’ Cordyceps Discovered in Arunachal’s East Siang

 

East Siang, May 5:

A rare species of Cordyceps mushroom, globally prized for its medicinal and commercial value, has been discovered in Arunachal Pradesh’s East Siang district by a research team from the College of Horticulture and Forestry under the Central Agricultural University, led by Dr. Senpon Ngomle.

The discovery is being viewed as scientifically significant because Cordyceps species are typically found in high-altitude Himalayan regions above 3,000 metres. The occurrence of the fungus in a comparatively low-altitude area of East Siang has surprised researchers and opened new possibilities for ecological and biological studies in the region.

Cordyceps, often referred to as “Himalayan Gold,” is among the world’s most expensive medicinal fungi due to its high demand in traditional medicine and pharmaceutical industries. Internationally, premium wild Cordyceps collected from Himalayan regions such as Tibet and Nepal can fetch between ₹17 lakh and ₹34 lakh per kilogram in global markets, while exceptionally rare top-grade varieties have reportedly crossed ₹1 crore per kilogram in East Asian medicinal trade.

The fungus is valued for producing bioactive compounds such as cordycepin and adenosine, which are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anticancer properties. For centuries, Cordyceps has been used in traditional Himalayan and Tibetan medicine to improve immunity, energy and overall health, and today it is widely used in health supplements and modern pharmaceutical products.

According to the research team, the discovery highlights the immense yet largely unexplored fungal biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh. Scientists have already initiated laboratory studies to determine whether the specimen belongs to an already known species or represents a completely new species unknown to science.

Future research will focus on molecular analysis, genetic identification, cultivation methods and evaluation of its medicinal potential. Researchers also aim to explore sustainable harvesting and conservation practices to ensure long-term ecological protection while creating possible economic opportunities for local communities.

Experts believe the breakthrough could pave the way for advanced scientific research, biodiversity conservation and livelihood generation in Arunachal Pradesh through sustainable cultivation and value-added medicinal products. The finding further reinforces the state’s growing importance as a hotspot of rare biological resources and scientific exploration.

Tawang Workshop Pushes Buddhist Tourism Circuit

 

Tawang, May 6:

Tawang witnessed the inauguration of the Regional Workshop on Development of the Buddhist Circuit in Northeast India on Wednesday, bringing together delegates and representatives from Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka to strengthen regional cooperation and promote Buddhist heritage tourism across South Asia.

Addressing the inaugural session, leaders and participants emphasized the importance of building a vibrant Buddhist tourism circuit rooted in shared spiritual traditions, cultural heritage, and historical connections among neighbouring countries.

Special appreciation was extended to Veena Sikri, Founding Trustee and Convener of the South Asia Women’s Network, along with her associates, for organizing the workshop and continuously fostering regional dialogue and collaboration.

The event highlighted the unique position of Arunachal Pradesh in the Buddhist world. The state is home to several significant Buddhist centres, including the ancient monasteries of Tawang, birthplace of the Sixth Dalai Lama, as well as the spiritually important regions of Bomdila, Dirang, Mechuka and Tuting in western Arunachal. In eastern Arunachal, Namsai continues to preserve and promote the thriving Theravada Buddhist tradition.

Delegates from Nepal in the Regional Workshop on
Development Of the Buddhist Circuit in Northeast India in Tawang.

During the workshop, the state reiterated its commitment to developing a comprehensive Buddhist tourism circuit connecting these spiritual destinations with major Buddhist sites across Northeast India, mainland India, and neighbouring countries. 

The initiative aims to boost tourism, strengthen cultural exchanges, generate economic opportunities, and preserve the region’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy.

Participants also called for stronger regional partnerships, improved connectivity, sustainable tourism infrastructure, and coordinated promotional efforts to transform the proposed Buddhist circuit into a world-class cultural and spiritual tourism destination.

East Kameng Records First Successful Child Adoption Case

 

Seppa, May 6:

In a landmark achievement for child welfare and rehabilitation, the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Seppa, under East Kameng district, has successfully facilitated its first-ever adoption case, marking a significant milestone in ensuring the rights, protection, and future of vulnerable children.

The heartwarming case dates back nearly three years, when an abandoned child was found within the district with no trace of parents or guardians. Following the discovery, concerned authorities launched extensive inquiries and verification processes to locate the child’s family or relatives. However, despite sustained efforts and legal procedures, no claimant came forward to take responsibility for the child.

Recognizing the urgent need to provide the child with safety, care, and emotional support, the District Child Protection Unit intervened promptly and ensured immediate protection under the provisions of child welfare and protection laws. The child was placed under proper care and monitored closely throughout the rehabilitation process.

Officials stated that the adoption process was carried out with utmost diligence, transparency, and sensitivity, strictly adhering to the Adoption Regulations and all relevant legal provisions framed for child protection in the country. Every step of the process was undertaken with the paramount objective of safeguarding the best interests and future of the child.

The successful adoption was completed under the guidance and supervision of Ms. Yashaswini B, IAS, Deputy Commissioner-cum-Chairperson of DCPU, Seppa, East Kameng district. The authorities ensured that all procedures were conducted ethically and professionally, keeping the child’s welfare at the center of every decision.

With the completion of the adoption process, the child has now been placed in a loving and nurturing adoptive family, opening the door to a new life filled with hope, care, dignity, affection, and security.

Officials described the development as more than just the completion of a legal process, calling it the beginning of a brighter future for the child. The achievement also highlights the commitment and dedication of the district’s child protection system towards safeguarding vulnerable children and ensuring that every child receives the opportunity to grow in a safe and supportive environment.

The success story serves as an inspiration for society to support adoption and child welfare initiatives, reinforcing the belief that adoption can transform lives by giving abandoned and vulnerable children the love, stability, and belonging they deserve.

Assam Rifles Organises Yoga Painting Contest at Laju

 

Khonsa, May 5:

In a vibrant initiative aimed at encouraging wellness, creativity and positive values among the younger generation, the Khonsa Battalion of Assam Rifles organised a painting competition for school students at Laju in Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh on May 5, ahead of the upcoming 12th International Day of Yoga.

The programme was conducted with the objective of spreading awareness about the importance of yoga, healthy living and holistic well-being among school children. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students from different schools, who expressed their creativity and understanding of yoga through colourful artworks based on the theme “Yoga for Harmony and Peace.”

Through their paintings, the young participants beautifully highlighted the benefits of yoga, physical fitness, mental wellness, inner peace and harmony in daily life. Many artworks also reflected messages of unity, discipline, healthy habits and stress-free living, showcasing the students’ awareness and imagination.

The International Day of Yoga is observed globally every year on June 21 following its adoption by the United Nations in 2014 after a proposal by India. The day aims to raise awareness worldwide about the numerous physical, mental and spiritual benefits of practising yoga. Over the years, the observance has become a global movement promoting healthier lifestyles, mindfulness and overall well-being across communities and nations.

A young girl receiving prize from the Assam rifles officials.

Officials of Assam Rifles said the competition was organised not only to mark the upcoming International Day of Yoga but also to inspire children to embrace yoga as a way of life for achieving physical fitness, mental strength and emotional balance. They encouraged the students to continue participating in creative and positive activities that contribute to personal growth and social harmony.

The event concluded with the felicitation of winners with prizes and certificates in recognition of their outstanding performances. All participants were also appreciated for their active involvement, enthusiasm and artistic efforts, making the programme both meaningful and inspiring for the young students of the region.

Gegong Apang Seeks Pema Khandu’s Resignation Over CBI

 

Itanagar, May 6:

Veteran politician and former Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Gegong Apang has demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Pema Khandu following the Supreme Court-directed preliminary enquiry by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into alleged irregularities in the awarding of Public Works Department (PWD) contracts.

According to reports published by The Arunachal Times, the enquiry pertains to allegations that PWD contracts worth nearly Rs 1,270 crore were awarded to members of the chief minister’s family over a span of ten years.

Reacting strongly to the development, Apang stated that a fair and impartial investigation would not be possible while Pema Khandu continues to remain in office as the sitting chief minister.

“A CBI enquiry cannot be expected to be free and fair when the sitting chief minister belongs to the ruling party in power at the Centre and the CBI functions under the executive control of the Union Home Minister,” Apang said.

The former chief minister further asserted that if Khandu does not step down during the course of the enquiry and is later given a clean chit, serious doubts would remain over the credibility and independence of the investigation.

“If Pema Khandu does not submit his resignation and the preliminary enquiry gives him a clean chit, we will be forced to believe that the enquiry was never free and fair,” Apang added.

The controversy has intensified political debate in Arunachal Pradesh, with opposition voices and critics closely monitoring the developments surrounding the Supreme Court-ordered probe. However, no official response from Chief Minister Pema Khandu or the state government had been issued at the time of filing this report.

The CBI preliminary enquiry is expected to examine the process through which the contracts were allegedly awarded and whether any violation of rules, conflict of interest, or misuse of official position took place during the period under scrutiny.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pema Khandu, while addressing the media on Tuesday, denied any involvement in the corruption allegations that prompted the preliminary inquiry by the CBI and asserted that he has full faith that the truth will emerge.

“I have no involvement whatsoever in this case. I am so confident that I have not even engaged my personal lawyer to represent me at the Supreme Court,” Khandu said, adding that there was “no reason to worry.”

Jiyabur Rahman Arrested in Dirang Dumper Theft Case

 

Dirang, May 5:

The Dirang Police have successfully solved a vehicle theft case involving a stolen dumper truck from the 14-Mile village area under Dirang subdivision, leading to the arrest of one accused from neighbouring Assam.

According to police officials, the case was registered on May 3, 2026, following a complaint regarding the theft of a dumper bearing registration number AS-23-DC-3407 belonging to Badri Rai & Company. Acting swiftly on the complaint, Dirang Police launched an investigation under Case No. 03/2026 registered under Section 303(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

During the course of the investigation, police utilized GPS tracking technology to trace the movement of the stolen vehicle. The dumper was reportedly tracked moving towards Golaghat district in Assam.

With prompt coordination between Dirang Police and the Golaghat and Merapani Police of Assam, the vehicle was successfully intercepted and seized within the jurisdiction of Merapani Police Station.

Police identified the accused as Jiyabur Rahman (30), who was allegedly found in possession of the stolen vehicle at the time of interception. He was subsequently taken into custody.

The accused has been produced before the Court of the Hon’ble Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM), Bomdila, for further legal proceedings.

Police officials stated that the successful recovery of the vehicle highlights the effectiveness of inter-state police coordination and the timely use of technology in solving vehicle theft cases.