Home Minister Mama Natung Graces Arunachal Paragliding Accuracy State Championship 2026 at Lumdung

 

East Kameng, February 23, 2026:

The Arunachal Paragliding Accuracy State Championship 2026 witnessed an enthusiastic turnout as Home Minister Mama Natung attended the event at Lumdung in Papu Valley, East Kameng district, along with Ms. Yashaswini B., Deputy Commissioner of East Kameng.

Organised as a multi-day adventure sports competition from February 20 to 23, the championship brought together skilled pilots and young athletes to compete in precision paragliding. The event included a PGA Judge’s Workshop, practice rounds, and multiple competition days culminating in the final rounds and prize distribution ceremony.

Addressing the gathering, Mama Natung praised the participants for their determination and sporting spirit, stating that the finals reflected precision, focus and courage as athletes soared across the skies with confidence. He highlighted the growing culture of adventure sports in Arunachal Pradesh and encouraged youth to embrace such activities to bring pride to the state.

Participants 

The championship offered equal prize categories for men and women, with winners receiving cash awards, and aimed to promote adventure tourism and professional paragliding in the region. Officials noted that initiatives like these are helping nurture young talent while showcasing the scenic potential of Papu Valley as an emerging adventure sports destination.

Congratulating all participants for their performance, the dignitaries expressed hope that more youth would take up adventure sports and carry Arunachal Pradesh to greater heights in the future.

Manipuri Film ‘Boong’ Wins BAFTA, Director Appeals for Peace

London, February 22, 2026

In a landmark moment for Indian cinema, the Manipuri-language film Boong won the BAFTA award in the Best Children’s & Family Film category, surpassing international nominees including Lilo and Stitch, Arco and Zootropolis 2. The victory highlights the growing global recognition of stories emerging from Northeast India.

Debutant director Lakshmipriya Devi delivered an emotional acceptance speech after receiving the trophy from Paddington Bear, the lead character from the West End show Paddington The Musical. She was joined on stage by producers Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, along with assistant director Rahul Sharda.

Using the platform to address ongoing unrest in Manipur, Devi called for peace and expressed hope that internally displaced children — including young actors involved in the film — would regain their joy, innocence and dreams. She emphasised forgiveness as a powerful human strength and thanked BAFTA for offering a global stage to share that message.

Starring Gugun Kipgen and Bala Hijam, Boong first premiered in the Discovery section at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival. The film later travelled to several major festivals worldwide, including the Warsaw International Film Festival 2024, MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024, the International Film Festival of India, and the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025.

Rahul Gandhi Praises Unity at North East Music Festival in Delhi

 

New Delhi, February 22, 2026:

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi attended the North East Music Festival – Sound Without Conflict at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi, highlighting the cultural vibrancy and unity of India’s North Eastern region. Sharing his experience on social media after the event, Gandhi described the evening as a powerful celebration of diversity, stating that the music and spirit of the North East reflect the country’s true strength.

Held on February 22, the festival made its Delhi debut as a cultural platform blending folk, indie, rock and hip-hop music rooted in the traditions of the North East. Designed to promote peaceful coexistence and dialogue, the event also featured curated food experiences, storytelling spaces and community interactions aimed at strengthening cultural exchange. 

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Manipur MP Bimol Akoijam 

The lineup showcased a wide range of artists from the region. Performances included folk musician Rewben Mashangva, singer-songwriter Taba Chake, hip-hop artists Reble and Borkung Hrangkhawl, and the Tetseo Sisters, while rock band Parikrama delivered a high-energy finale alongside Rudy Wallang and Girish Pradhan of GATC. 

According to reports, Gandhi interacted with several performers during the event and praised the festival’s theme “Sound Without Conflict,” describing it as a reminder that India grows stronger when every culture receives its rightful space. The festival aimed to bring wider national attention to North East music and create an inclusive space where art becomes a bridge for unity and dialogue. 

Two Alleged Drug Peddlers Held with Heroin in Banderdewa

 

Banderdewa, February 22, 2026: 

Banderdewa Police arrested two alleged drug peddlers on Saturday afternoon and seized 10.95 grams of suspected heroin during an operation at Niya Colony.

Acting on specific intelligence, police intercepted a Bajaj Pulsar motorcycle (AS-07W-0148) and apprehended Shivaji Morang (28) and Sarat Kutum (30), both residents of Lakhimpur district in Assam. The contraband, reportedly concealed inside a blue soap case, was recovered from Morang’s possession.

Seized item

A case (BDW/PS/C.No. 12/26) has been registered under Sections 21(b) and 29 of the NDPS Act, and further investigation is in progress.

Superintendent of Police, ICR Naharlagun, Dr. Nyelam Nega, appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the fight against drug trafficking.

West Siang Police Bust Two Drug Cases in Aalo, Two Arrested

 

Aalo, February 22, 2026:

West Siang District Police have registered a major success against narcotics trafficking after cracking two separate drug-related cases in Aalo, leading to the arrest of two accused — Ronal Reyal, a Head Constable (SG) in the Arunachal Pradesh Police, and Henge Bagra.

Acting on sustained surveillance and intelligence gathered by the Anti-Drug Squad, the operations were carried out under the supervision of Superintendent of Police Kardak Riba. Officials said the back-to-back cases highlight the district’s intensified campaign to curb drug peddling.

Case No. 1 – Aalo PS Case No. 07/2026 (u/s 21(b) NDPS Act)

A team led by DySP Duto Bagra conducted a house search at the residence of Henge Bagra after serving notice under Section 50 of the NDPS Act. The search was carried out in the presence of a town magistrate and independent witnesses to ensure transparency.

Police recovered suspected heroin stored in ten tobacco containers, weighing approximately 12.26 grams in total (inclusive of plastic pouches). A Tecno Pova Curve 5G mobile phone with two SIM cards and a red bucket were also seized. The entire operation was videographed, and all items were sealed on the spot. The accused was arrested, and the case is being investigated by L/Insp Maloty Tayeng.

Seized items from the accused.

Case No. 2 – Aalo PS Case No. 08/2026 (u/s 21(b)/27A/20 NDPS Act)

Following credible information about drug peddling involving a police personnel, another team led by DySP (HQ) Taba Biroy apprehended Ronal Reyal near his rented house in Upper Colony, Aalo. Searches were conducted in the presence of an executive magistrate after due legal procedure.

Police seized suspected heroin weighing about 5.48 grams from a pouch, a vehicle (AR-01N-5177), and the accused’s residence. Additionally, 6.44 grams of suspected ganja, ₹90,000 in cash believed to be sale proceeds, and two mobile phones — a Samsung keypad handset and a Redmi Note 11S — were recovered. The search and seizure process was videographed, and the investigation is being led by Inspector Yomken Riram, Officer-in-Charge of Aalo Police Station.

Officials stated that investigations in both cases are ongoing to identify possible links to a wider drug network. West Siang District Police have urged citizens to report any suspicious activities as part of the continuing drive against narcotics in the region.

19-Year-Old Student from Tripura Hospitalised After Alleged Assault by Live-In Partner in Gurugram

 

Gurugram, February 19, 2026:

A 19-year-old student from Tripura was allegedly subjected to a brutal assault by her live-in partner at a flat in Gurugram’s Badshahpur area. The accused, identified as Shivam from Delhi’s Narela, has been booked under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita after an FIR was registered on February 19.

According to police, the woman is currently undergoing treatment at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi and was initially declared unfit to give a statement due to the severity of her injuries.

In her statement, the survivor alleged that the accused beat her with a steel bottle, smashed her head against a wall, and struck her with an earthen pot. He also allegedly poured sanitiser on her private parts and attempted to set them on fire, attacked her legs with a knife, and threatened to leave her unable to walk or become a mother. She further claimed that he recorded explicit videos of her during the assault.

The incident reportedly took place on February 16. Two days later, on February 18, the woman managed to call her mother using the accused’s phone and informed her about the assault in a local language. Her mother then alerted the police, after which the woman was rescued and taken to hospital. Investigations are ongoing.

First Assam–Arunachal Border Pillar Installed at Seijosa, Marking Major Step in Boundary Resolution

 Pakke kessang, February 21, 2026:

In a significant development for Assam–Arunachal relations, the first official border pillar between Arunachal Pradesh and Assam has been successfully constructed at Seijosa, signaling progress toward resolving the long-standing inter-state boundary dispute.

The milestone follows the spirit of the Namsai Declaration and is being viewed as a concrete step toward ensuring administrative clarity and lasting peace along the shared boundary. The construction process was jointly supervised by senior officials from both states to maintain accuracy and mutual agreement.

Among those present were the Deputy Commissioners of Pakke Kessang and Biswanath, ZPC Pakke Kessang Shri Pani Tayam, SSP Biswanath, Divisional Forest Officers from both states, the Nodal Officer (Survey) from Assam, administrative officials, community leaders, and Gao Burahs.

Officials, villagers and Gaon Burahs from both states.

Minister Biyuram Wahge, while sharing the update, expressed gratitude to Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for their leadership in advancing the boundary resolution process. He also acknowledged the contributions of Home Minister and former Regional Committee Chairman Shri Mama Natung and Assam Regional Committee Chairman (Biswanath) Shri Pijush Hazarika.

Officials stated that the installation of the first border pillar represents an important foundation for future demarcation work and continued cooperation between the two neighbouring states.

Tiger Sighting Sparks Fear in Habia Village; Locals Urge Immediate Forest Department Action

 

Sangdupota, February 21, 2026:

Concern has gripped residents of Habia village under the Sangdupota Circle after reports of a tiger roaming openly in the area, raising serious safety concerns among villagers of Habia Panchayat.

Speaking to the media, GPM Nabam Tajang stated that villagers have been reporting the suspected presence of tigers for several days, with multiple mithuns allegedly killed in recent incidents. The situation has created fear among locals who depend heavily on nearby forests for collecting vegetables, firewood, and other daily necessities.

Tajang emphasized that the continued movement of the tiger near human settlements poses a significant risk, particularly to those who frequently venture into forested areas. He has appealed to the Forest Department to take precautionary measures at the earliest to prevent any untoward incident and to ensure the safety of both villagers and wildlife.

Authorities are yet to issue an official statement regarding the reported sightings, while residents remain on alert amid growing concerns over human-wildlife conflict in the region.

ASI Martin Lego Dies in Wild Elephant Attack at Sunpura in Lohit District

 

Sunpura, February 21, 2026:

ASI Martin Lego, a dedicated police officer from Jeko village posted at Sunpura Police Station, tragically lost his life following a wild elephant attack at Sunpura in Lohit district on the morning of February 21, 2026.

Known for his sincerity, discipline, and unwavering commitment to duty, ASI Lego served the force with honour and dedication. His sudden demise has left the police fraternity and the local community in deep shock and grief.

Tezu MLA Mohesh Chai also shared a condolence message on social media, expressing deep sorrow over the incident. In his message, he said he was “very sad to learn the unfortunate demise of ASI Martin Lego (APP) of Jeko village today morning,” and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family while praying for eternal peace for the departed soul.

The tragic incident highlights the risks faced by frontline personnel even beyond conventional threats. His service and sacrifice will be remembered with pride and respect.

Prayers are offered for eternal peace to the departed soul, and strength and solace to his bereaved family during this difficult time.

First English–Apatani Bird Pocket Guide of Ziro Valley Unveiled on 40th Statehood Day

 

Ziro, February 21, 2026
Marking the 40th Statehood Day celebrations, the Hapoli Forest Division, in collaboration with the Birding Club, Ziro, released the region’s first bilingual English–Apatani pocket guide documenting 119 bird species found in Ziro Valley.

The guide was unveiled by MLA Hage Apa, representing the 17th Ziro-Hapoli Assembly Constituency, during the Statehood Day celebrations held at the District Secretariat. The event was attended by Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme, Superintendent of Police Keni Bagra, ZPC Hibu Dumi, former minister Tage Taki, Divisional Forest Officer Tilling Taker, heads of departments, ZPMs, and members of the public.

Published by the Hapoli Forest Division under the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh Birding Club, Ngunu Ziro, and Ziro Bird Walk, the pocket guide represents the second major effort to document the valley’s avifauna. It follows the 2022 coffee table book Birds of Ziro, which first showcased the rich bird diversity of the valley.

The pocket guide aims to promote wildlife conservation awareness while supporting the preservation of the Apatani language. Officials stated that the publication is designed as a compact and accessible resource for bird enthusiasts, students, and local communities, encouraging responsible nature appreciation through education and community participation.

Three Arunachal Women Allege Racial Abuse; FIR Filed in Delhi

 

New Delhi, February 21, 2026:

An alleged case of racial harassment involving three women from Arunachal Pradesh has been reported in Malviya Nagar after a minor dispute inside a residential building escalated into a confrontation.

The incident reportedly took place on the evening of February 19, when drilling work was underway in a fourth-floor apartment during an air-conditioner repair. Residents living on the first floor objected after dust and debris allegedly fell into their area, leading to an argument between both sides.

According to the complainants, the disagreement intensified and the accused allegedly made offensive and racially insensitive remarks directed at them and people from the Northeastern region. The women claimed that stereotypes and inappropriate comments about their profession and personal lives were used during the exchange.

Police were called to the scene, and sources said an FIR has been registered at Malviya Nagar Police Station. The case is now under formal investigation, while the Special Police Unit for North-Eastern Region (SPUNER) is said to be monitoring developments. Authorities indicated that appropriate action will be taken and efforts are being made to ensure justice.

The women also stated that a building broker later informed them that they would need to vacate the flat within two months due to proposed construction work. However, they alleged that other residents were unaware of any such plans, raising further concerns about the situation.

The complainants have demanded a public apology from the accused, saying the remarks were not only directed at them but were offensive to the wider Northeastern community. The incident has renewed discussion about the challenges and discrimination faced by people from the region in major metropolitan areas.