Bodak Village Hosts Cleanliness Drive

 

Bodak, June 3:

A Social Service-cum-Awareness Campaign on Plastic Waste Management was successfully organized at Bodak Village in East Siang district on Wednesday, bringing together PRI members, women leaders, youth volunteers and villagers in a collective effort to promote cleanliness, environmental awareness and community service. The programme was organized by Eco Clean Mission Mebo in collaboration with the PRI Members of Mebo Sub-Division.

The initiative focused on encouraging active community participation in maintaining a clean environment while creating awareness about the growing threat posed by plastic waste. Volunteers carried out cleanliness activities and sensitized residents on the importance of proper waste management, responsible disposal practices and environmental conservation. The campaign highlighted how collective efforts at the grassroots level can contribute significantly towards protecting rivers, forests and villages from pollution.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from people across different sections of society, reflecting a strong sense of civic responsibility and commitment towards community welfare. Organizers emphasized that social service initiatives such as these not only help improve public spaces but also foster greater awareness and cooperation among citizens in addressing environmental challenges.

Among those who participated in the campaign was Oken Tayeng, MLA of the 39th Mebo (ST) Assembly Constituency, who appreciated the efforts of the volunteers, PRI members, women leaders, youth and villagers. He stated that plastic waste is one of the biggest environmental challenges of our time and stressed that protecting rivers, forests and villages requires collective action. Expressing his gratitude to all those involved in the cleanliness drive and awareness programme, he said, “A clean environment is everyone's responsibility. Together, we can make a difference,” while encouraging continued community participation in such social service initiatives.

Rare Dragonfly Rediscovered in Arunachal After 110 Years

 

Itanagar, June 2:

In a remarkable rediscovery that highlights the extraordinary biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh, researchers have documented the rare Long-tailed Duskhawker dragonfly (Gynacantha khasiaca) in Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve after more than 110 years. The species was sighted at Deban during a biodiversity survey conducted in October 2024 and later confirmed through photographic evidence. 

The finding, published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa, marks the first confirmed record of the species in the state since 1914, when it was last documented during the historic Abor Expedition. The rediscovery was made by researchers Mahesh R., Rajesh Gopinath, Gaurav Joshi, and Roshan Upadhya during an eight-day biodiversity assessment along the Miao–Vijaynagar Road within the protected area.

The Long-tailed Duskhawker is distinguished by its striking green eyes, transparent wings, and elongated abdomen. Owing to its rarity and the limited number of records available, very little is known about its ecology, distribution, and population status. The species is currently classified as Data Deficient, emphasizing the need for further research and monitoring. Scientists say the discovery underscores the ecological significance of Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve, one of India's richest biodiversity hotspots located in the Eastern Himalayas near the India–Myanmar border.

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein welcomed the discovery and congratulated the researchers for their contribution to biodiversity documentation and scientific knowledge. He stated, “Kudos to researchers Mahesh R., Rajesh Gopinath, Gaurav Joshi and Roshan Upadhya for documenting this significant finding and contributing to our understanding of Arunachal Pradesh’s rich natural heritage.” He further noted that such discoveries reaffirm the importance of conserving unique ecosystems and strengthening efforts towards scientific research and habitat protection.

Conservationists and researchers have described the rediscovery as a significant milestone for biodiversity conservation in the region, demonstrating that Arunachal Pradesh’s forests continue to hold many unexplored biological treasures. The finding reinforces the importance of sustained field surveys, scientific monitoring, and habitat conservation efforts across the Eastern Himalayas. 

Beyond enriching the state's biodiversity records, the rediscovery of Gynacantha khasiaca serves as a testament to Arunachal Pradesh’s global ecological significance and highlights the critical role of research and conservation in safeguarding its unique natural heritage for future generations.

AAPSU Raises Key Indigenous and Student Issues with Chief Minister

 

AAPSU Executive Members With CM Pema Khandu.

Itanagar, June 2:

The Central Executive Members of the All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) today called on Chief Minister and submitted a comprehensive memorandum highlighting several pressing concerns affecting indigenous students and the people of Arunachal Pradesh.

During the meeting, the student body raised a series of long-standing demands related to employment, constitutional safeguards, education, democratic rights, and the welfare of indigenous communities. The Chief Minister reportedly responded positively to the issues presented and assured necessary action on several key matters.

One of the major issues discussed was the demand for making Permanent Resident Certificate (PRC) and Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribe (APST) certificates mandatory in all State Government recruitment processes. AAPSU reiterated its long-standing opposition to the existing 80:20 recruitment ratio and sought stronger safeguards to ensure employment opportunities are protected for indigenous people. In response, the Chief Minister assured that a dedicated committee would be constituted to examine the matter and recommend appropriate measures.

The delegation also pressed for mandatory PRC and APST certification requirements for candidates contesting Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) elections. AAPSU argued that such safeguards are essential to protect indigenous political representation and grassroots democratic institutions. The Chief Minister assured that a separate committee would be formed to study the demand and address concerns related to indigenous political rights.

In a significant development for higher education, the Chief Minister assured the introduction of a State Government-funded fellowship scheme for APST students pursuing PhD programmes in government institutions within Arunachal Pradesh. The proposed fellowship is expected to provide much-needed financial support to indigenous research scholars and strengthen the state's academic and research ecosystem.

The issue of limited examination infrastructure was also highlighted during the meeting. AAPSU urged the government to increase the number of Common University Entrance Test (CUET) centres in Arunachal Pradesh, pointing out the hardships and risks faced by students who are compelled to travel outside the state to appear for the examination. The Chief Minister assured that additional CUET centres would be established within the state from next year to improve accessibility and reduce the burden on students.

Another important assurance came regarding the creation of a designated democratic protest ground in Itanagar. The Chief Minister reportedly agreed to provide a government-designated space for peaceful democratic assembly, recognising the constitutional right of citizens to express their views and concerns through lawful and peaceful means.

Apart from these major issues, AAPSU also placed before the Chief Minister several other state-centric concerns relating to indigenous rights, border connectivity, constitutional safeguards, youth employment, social welfare, and developmental challenges faced by the people of Arunachal Pradesh. According to the student body, these issues received positive consideration and constructive engagement from the government.

AAPSU expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Pema Khandu for his time, openness, and willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue. The union described the meeting as productive and reflective of the democratic spirit, expressing hope that the assurances given would translate into concrete policy measures benefiting the indigenous people and students of Arunachal Pradesh.

WPS Itanagar Holds Student Awareness Programme on Safety and ERSS-112

 

Itanagar, June 2:

WPS Itanagar Conducts Awareness Programme on ERSS-112, New Criminal Laws and Child Safety at Niti Vihar School

Itanagar, June 2: The Women Police Station (WPS), Itanagar, conducted an awareness programme at Government Middle School, Niti Vihar, on Monday with the objective of educating students about the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112), provisions of the newly introduced criminal laws, and issues related to women and child safety.

During the programme, police officials highlighted the importance of ERSS-112 as a nationwide emergency helpline and informed students about the various legal provisions aimed at ensuring public safety and justice under the new criminal law framework. The session sought to enhance legal awareness among young students and encourage responsible citizenship.

A key focus of the programme was the safety and protection of women and children. The officials sensitised students on the concepts of “Good Touch and Bad Touch,” helping them understand personal boundaries, recognise inappropriate behaviour, and take appropriate action in situations of abuse or harassment. Students were also guided on how to seek help from trusted adults and law enforcement agencies whenever required.

The awareness session was led by Sub-Inspector Nikter Ani and attended by Lady Constable Bomge Gamlin, Lady Constable T. Monju, and Constable Ogo Pertin of WPS Itanagar. 

The programme witnessed active participation from students, who engaged in interactive discussions and raised queries related to personal safety and emergency response mechanisms. The police team encouraged students to remain aware of their rights and make use of available support systems whenever necessary.

NERIST Scholars Seek Director’s Reinstatement

 

Itanagar, June 1:

Concern continues to mount at the North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST) following the resignation of its Director on May 29. The NERIST Research Scholars Association (NRSA) has called for immediate intervention by the authorities, alleging that the Director was compelled to resign after a group associated with an external organization reportedly entered his office and pressured him to step down. The association said the incident has created an atmosphere of uncertainty across the campus, affecting students, faculty members, researchers, and non-teaching staff.

Expressing concern over the development, NRSA President John Yigam stated that the outgoing Director had played a key role in advancing the institute’s academic and developmental activities. According to the association, his sudden departure could adversely impact ongoing initiatives and hamper the overall functioning of the premier institution. The scholars stressed that stable leadership is essential for maintaining academic continuity and institutional growth.

The association also highlighted the challenges NERIST faced during the years prior to 2018 when the institute was administered by Directors-in-Charge, arguing that the absence of a permanent Director could once again lead to administrative setbacks.

 Clarifying that it is not affiliated with any political party, organization, or individual, the NRSA maintained that its concerns are solely focused on protecting the academic interests of the institute and its students. It has urged the authorities to either reinstate the Director or facilitate the withdrawal of his resignation.

Warning against prolonged uncertainty, the research scholars cautioned that continued instability could trigger unrest on campus and disrupt academic activities, drawing parallels with the disturbances and book boycotts witnessed in 2018. 

Appealing to the Government of Arunachal Pradesh and all concerned stakeholders for urgent intervention, the association emphasized that the welfare of students and the future of the institute must remain above political considerations. The NRSA asserted that a swift resolution is necessary to safeguard NERIST’s academic integrity, administrative stability, and reputation.

Three Arunachal Scholars Meet President Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan

 

New Delhi/Itanagar, June 2:

Arunachal Pradesh earned a moment of pride as three distinguished scholars from the state participated in a Special Interactive Meeting with the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, held under the “Birsa Lives in New Bharat Week” initiative. The programme was organised by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, as part of the nationwide Janjatiya Garima Utsav commemorating the legacy and contributions of tribal icon Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

The interaction was held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, where around 200 tribal students and scholars from across the country, benefiting from various scholarship schemes of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, had the opportunity to engage directly with the President of India. The event served as a significant platform for young achievers from tribal communities to reflect on the transformative role of education, inclusion, empowerment, and nation-building while celebrating the enduring legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

200 tribal students and scholars from across the country with
President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi.

Representing Arunachal Pradesh at the prestigious event were Dr. Tuyir Riba, Assistant Professor at Assam Don Bosco University; Dr. Baanu Loya, Chief Executive Officer of RuBIC, Rajiv Gandhi University; and Dr. Lali Lingfa, Scientist-B at Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS).

 All three scholars successfully completed their doctoral studies under the National Fellowship for Scheduled Tribes (NFST), a flagship fellowship programme aimed at promoting higher education and research among Scheduled Tribe students.

Congratulating the scholars, Arunachal Pradesh Education Minister P.D. Sona said their participation in the interaction with the President reflects the academic excellence and growing achievements of the state's youth. He noted that their accomplishment not only brings honour to Arunachal Pradesh but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring students to pursue higher education and strive for excellence with confidence, dedication, and purpose.

Tame Phassang Joins Race for BJP Rajya Sabha Nomination

 

Tame Phassang with BJP State President Kaling Moyong in BJP office Itanagar.

Itanagar, June 2:

Former Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) Mayor Tame Phassang has formally expressed his willingness to contest the upcoming Rajya Sabha election from Arunachal Pradesh, submitting his application to BJP Arunachal Pradesh president Kaling Moyong and seeking the party's nomination for the lone seat.

Phassang stated that he remains committed to serving the people of Arunachal Pradesh with sincerity, dedication and a spirit of public service if given the opportunity to represent the state in the Upper House of Parliament. He also sought the support of the party leadership as the BJP begins the process of selecting its nominee.

His entry comes at a time when the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party is witnessing significant interest in the Rajya Sabha seat. Speaking at a recent press conference, state BJP president Kaling Moyong confirmed that 12 aspirants have submitted their applications for the party ticket, though he refrained from disclosing their identities officially.

According to party sources, the list of aspirants reportedly includes Environment, Forest, Geology and Mining Minister Wangki Lowang; incumbent Rajya Sabha MP Nabam Rebia; Pasighat West MLA and former Lok Sabha MP Ninong Ering; former ministers Taba Tedir and Tage Taki; former state BJP presidents Tai Tagak and Dr Tangor Tapak; Forest Corporation Chairman Nalong Mize; BJP Core Committee member Kenyir Ringu; state executive member Dotam Sora; BJP leader Nuney Tayang; entrepreneur and Kurung Kumey district BJP vice president Ha Tatu; and former IMC Mayor Tame Phassang.

The large number of contenders highlights the importance attached to the lone Rajya Sabha seat and presents the party leadership with the task of balancing organisational experience, political representation and electoral considerations. Several aspirants have long-standing associations with the party and have held key positions in government and the organisation.

Party sources indicate that the selection process will involve consultations between the state leadership and the BJP's central leadership. Recommendations from Chief Minister Pema Khandu, state BJP president Kaling Moyong and other senior leaders are expected to play an important role before a final decision is taken.

With multiple prominent leaders and party veterans in the fray, the BJP's choice for the Rajya Sabha nomination is being closely watched across the state. The party is expected to announce its candidate after completing internal deliberations and consultations in the coming days.

AAPSU Rejects TMPK Demand, Reaffirms ILP Mandatory for All Non-APSTs

 

Itanagar, June 1:

The All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) has categorically rejected the stance taken by the Assam-based Takam Mising Porin Kebang (TMPK) against the application of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system to members of the Mising community residing in Arunachal Pradesh.

Responding to TMPK's recent statement, AAPSU President Meje Taku asserted that the ILP system remains a non-negotiable constitutional and legal mechanism designed to safeguard the rights, identity, and interests of the indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh. He emphasized that the regulation applies uniformly to all non-Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribe (non-APST) individuals without exception.

While acknowledging the historical presence of the Mising community in the region and their longstanding cultural and social ties with several indigenous tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, Taku maintained that such associations cannot override the legal framework governing entry and residence in the state.

"The Inner Line Permit system is not a matter of sentiment or community preference. It is a constitutional and statutory safeguard meant to protect the indigenous character of Arunachal Pradesh. No community, irrespective of historical ties or ethnolinguistic affinity, can claim exemption from a law that applies equally to all non-APST persons entering or residing in the state," Taku stated.

Reiterating the Union's position, he said AAPSU remains firm that the ILP requirement is mandatory for every non-APST individual and that there can be no compromise on the issue.

AAPSU further stressed that the ILP system is not an arbitrary administrative measure but is deeply rooted in constitutional and statutory provisions. The permit regime derives its authority from the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873, which was retained to protect the demographic and cultural integrity of indigenous communities in the region.

The Union also highlighted that Article 371(H) of the Constitution of India grants special responsibilities to the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh concerning law and order, reinforcing the state's unique constitutional safeguards and the necessity of preserving mechanisms such as the ILP.

AAPSU maintained that the continued enforcement of the ILP remains essential for protecting the interests, identity, and customary rights of the indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh.

Boundary Forum Holds Peaceful Rally in Daporijo, Seeks Early Resolution

 

Daporijo, June 1:

Members of the Upper Subansiri–Kamle District Boundary Disputed People's Forum on Sunday organized a peaceful rally in Daporijo, demanding immediate resolution of the long-pending boundary dispute between Upper Subansiri and Kamle districts.

The rally was held after obtaining official permission from the Deputy Commissioner of Upper Subansiri district. According to the order issued on May 27, 2026, the procession was allowed to proceed from Veterinary Colony to the DC Office via New Market and Gandhi Market between 10 am and 12 noon on June 1.

Led by chairman Dosh Dasi Tamin, participants marched through the town carrying banners and placards highlighting their demands. The forum called for immediate demarcation of the Upper Subansiri–Kamle district boundary, re-notification of the Arunachal Pradesh government notification issued on May 27, 2025, conduct of Census 2026 in the affected areas, and construction of a welcome gate for Upper Subansiri district at JNV Gate.

The protesters urged the government and concerned authorities to take prompt action on the boundary issue, which they said continues to affect residents living in the disputed areas. 

The rally concluded peacefully at the DC Office, with organizers maintaining that their movement is aimed at securing administrative clarity and safeguarding the interests of the affected population.

Nyobia Circle Declared Tobacco-Free

 

Koloriang, May 31:

World No Tobacco Day was observed at Nyobia General Ground, Koloriang, on Saturday, during which Nyobia Circle under Sangram Administrative Block was officially declared a Tobacco-Free Circle.

The programme was inaugurated by Shri Pama Bagang, ADC Nyapin, in the presence of Dr. Tadar Tagh, DRCHO-cum-District Nodal Officer (NTCP), Shri Hillang Taro, ZPM Sangram, Shri Bamang Taniang, former AAPSU member and social worker, the Circle Officer of Nyobia, Officer-in-Charge of Sangram Police Station, Heads of Departments, Gaon Burahs, PRI members, youth representatives, Medical Officers of CHC Sangram, Health and Wellness Officer Nyobia, members of the District Tobacco Control Cell (DTCC), and the public.

Speakers highlighted the harmful effects of tobacco use and stressed the importance of community participation in promoting a tobacco-free environment, particularly among younger generations.

World No Tobacco Day, observed annually on 31 May, is a global initiative of the World Health Organization (WHO) aimed at raising awareness about the health risks associated with tobacco use and encouraging measures to reduce tobacco consumption.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders and residents to support tobacco-control efforts and maintain the tobacco-free status of Nyobia Circle.

Mising Community Should Not Be Under ILP Regime: TMPK

 

Itanagar, May 31:

Tilak Doley, President of the Takam Mising Porin Kebang (TMPK), has stated that while the Mising community supports the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) in Arunachal Pradesh for the protection of indigenous tribal identity, it cannot accept the application of the ILP regime to the community.

In a statement shared on social media, Doley said TMPK has always supported the safeguarding of indigenous communities. However, he maintained that the Mising people should not be treated in the same manner as outsiders for the purpose of ILP implementation, citing historical and long-standing socio-cultural ties with Arunachal Pradesh.

He said demands to bring the Mising community under the ILP regime overlook the historical relationship between the Mising people and Arunachal Pradesh. Doley noted that the Mising, Nyishi, Adi, Galo, Apatani and Tagin communities broadly belong to the Tibeto-Burman ethnolinguistic family and have shared historical and cultural connections. He also pointed out that members of the Mising community continue to reside in districts such as East Siang, Lower Siang, Namsai and Papum Pare.

According to Doley, the Mising people maintained deep-rooted links with Arunachal Pradesh even before the introduction of the ILP system by the British administration, making demands to apply ILP to the community unnecessary and unfortunate.

He also opposed resistance to granting Permanent Resident Certificates (PRC) to Mising residents of Arunachal Pradesh and described attempts to impose ILP on the community as regrettable.

“The Mising people are not seeking to assert dominance or demand special privileges in Arunachal Pradesh. However, based on historical context and long-standing ties, we cannot accept the application of ILP to the Mising community,” Doley said.