ST Bachao Andolan Demands Inclusive Talks, Warns of Statewide Shutdown

ASTBAC Chairman Sol Dodum and General Secretary Millo Ambo.

Itanagar, May 22:

The ST Bachao Andolan Committee on Friday warned of launching a four-day statewide bandh across Arunachal Pradesh if the state government fails to respond within six days to its revised memorandum concerning issues related to the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system and other related concerns.

The warning came after members of the committee submitted a petition at the Chief Minister’s Office earlier in the day, demanding what they described as a transparent, inclusive, and broader consultative process on matters affecting the indigenous tribal communities of the state.

Addressing reporters, ST Bachao Andolan Chairman Sol Dodum said the movement has been receiving increasing public support following the recent 36-hour bandh called by the organisation. According to him, the online petition campaign initiated after the bandh has already gathered support from more than 4,700 people within just two days.

Dodum stated that the actual number of supporters could be significantly higher, as many people from rural areas and remote districts either do not use social media platforms like Facebook or were unable to participate in the online petition despite supporting the movement.

“For a movement to receive over 4,700 supporters in just two days itself reflects the growing concern and sentiment among the people,” he said.

The committee members also revealed that they had declined an earlier invitation from Home Minister Mama Natung for discussions. They alleged that they would not participate in closed-door meetings involving only selected representatives.

“We have clearly conveyed that discussions on sensitive matters related to the future of Arunachal Pradesh cannot happen behind closed doors. Even if the meeting is with the Chief Minister alone, we will not accept it,” Dodum stated.

The organisation demanded that any future dialogue must include representatives from all Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) across Arunachal Pradesh, along with legal experts, retired judicial members, academicians, and distinguished public figures to ensure fairness and transparency in the discussion process.

As part of their proposal, the committee has sought the presence of two senior advocates, a retired or serving judge, two PHD holders, two professors, one representative from each CBO of the state, and two representatives from the ST Bachao Andolan Committee during the discussions.

Dodum also reacted to recent remarks made by the Home Minister regarding deployment of security forces in view of the agitation. He said that attempts to intimidate or suppress the movement through security deployment would not deter the protesters.

“No amount of security deployment can silence the voice of the indigenous people if their genuine concerns are not addressed,” he asserted.

The organisation further reiterated its demand for what it termed a “permanent solution” to issues concerning illegal and undocumented Tibetan refugees, illegal Bangladeshi immigrants, and alleged non-Indian illegal Nepali settlers residing in Arunachal Pradesh while availing Scheduled Tribe (ST) benefits.

The committee maintained that these issues have serious implications for the demographic balance, constitutional safeguards, and rights of the indigenous tribal population of the state.

Meanwhile, the ST Bachao Andolan Committee warned that if the government fails to respond positively to their revised memorandum within the stipulated six-day period, the agitation would be intensified through a four-day bandh across Arunachal Pradesh.

Arunachal Declares All Hospitals Tobacco-Free Zones

 

Itanagar, May 22:

The Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, has officially declared all government and private hospitals, District Hospitals, Community Health Centres (CHCs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), and Sub Centres across the state as “Tobacco-Free Zones” with immediate effect.

The notification, issued under the provisions of Section 4 of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, aims to create a healthy, safe, and smoke-free environment for patients, caregivers, healthcare workers, and visitors.

As per the order, the use of any form of tobacco, including smoking, chewing gutkha, paan masala, and related products, has been strictly prohibited within the entire hospital premises. The ban covers hospital buildings, offices, corridors, wards, parking areas, gardens, and canteens.

The government has also directed all health institutions to prominently display “Tobacco-Free Zone” signage at entrances, waiting areas, reception points, lifts, and other public spaces. Boards warning that tobacco use within hospital premises is a punishable offence with fines up to Rs 200 must also be installed.

In another measure, collection boxes are to be placed at hospital entry gates for individuals carrying tobacco products before entering the premises.

Medical Superintendents and Medical Officers In-Charge of respective healthcare facilities have been designated as “Tobacco Monitors” to oversee implementation and report violations. Officials have been empowered to impose penalties under Sections 4 and 6 of COTPA, 2003.

The notification further prohibits spitting of tobacco products within hospital premises and bans the sale and advertisement of tobacco products within a 100-yard radius of hospitals. No designated smoking areas will be allowed inside hospital campuses.

Additionally, all District Hospitals and Medical Colleges have been instructed to provide counselling and referral support through tobacco cessation centres to help people quit tobacco use.

District Medical Officers (DMOs) and District Programme Officers under the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) have been directed to ensure full compliance within 60 days and submit reports accordingly.

The order was issued by Pawan Kumar Sain, IAS, Commissioner (Health & Family Welfare), Government of Arunachal Pradesh, in the interest of public health.

HDMT 2026 Goes Green with Reusable Water Sippers

 

Aalo, May 20:

In an effort to promote environmental sustainability and reduce plastic waste during the 9th Edition of the Hangpan Dada Memorial Trophy (HDMT) 2026 at Aalo, the Organising Committee has launched a special eco-friendly initiative aimed at minimising littering across all tournament venues.

As part of the initiative, reusable water sippers have been provided to all delegates, officials, team members, and participants associated with the tournament. The committee has urged everyone attending the event to avoid the use of packaged drinking water bottles and instead make use of the reusable sippers distributed by the organisers.

To support the initiative and ensure easy access to safe drinking water, dedicated water refill stations have been set up at all match venues, grounds, and key locations within the tournament premises. The arrangement has been made to provide convenience to players, coaches, officials, volunteers, and other attendees throughout the duration of the event.

According to members of the Organising Committee, the initiative is part of a broader effort to encourage responsible waste management and create awareness about the importance of reducing single-use plastic consumption during large public gatherings and sporting events. The committee stated that such measures not only help maintain cleanliness at the venues but also contribute towards building environmentally conscious habits among the younger generation participating in the tournament.

Participant showing the re-usable water sippers.

The organisers further informed that maintaining a clean and sustainable environment has been given priority during this year’s edition of the tournament, with volunteers and officials also working to ensure proper disposal of waste and cleanliness around the stadium premises.

Expressing appreciation for the cooperation extended by teams, delegates, and visitors, the Organising Committee thanked all stakeholders for supporting the initiative and helping make HDMT 2026 a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable sporting event.

The 9th Edition of the State Level Hangpan Dada Memorial Trophy Football & Volleyball Tournament for Under-16 Boys and Girls commenced on 17th May at Aalo Stadium in West Siang District, bringing together young athletes from different districts of the state to participate in one of Arunachal Pradesh’s prominent grassroots sporting events.

Nabam Vivek Donates Bolero to Gumto CO

 

Doimukh, May 21:

In a significant step towards strengthening grassroots governance and improving administrative efficiency, 14 Doimukh MLA Nabam Vivek donated a brand-new Bolero vehicle to the Gumto Circle Officer (CO) office from his personal resources.

The initiative is aimed at enhancing mobility and ensuring smoother functioning of the local administration, particularly in remote and rural areas where officials frequently undertake field inspections, public outreach programmes, and emergency response duties.

During the handover, the MLA stated that efficient administration at the grassroots level is essential for effective public service delivery and overall development. He emphasized that government offices working directly for the welfare of the people should be equipped with the necessary logistical support to carry out their responsibilities efficiently.

He further assured that similar support and assistance would soon be extended to the Sangdupota and Taraso circle areas as part of his continued efforts to strengthen administrative infrastructure across the constituency.

Officials from the Gumto CO office expressed gratitude to the MLA for the generous contribution and stated that the vehicle would greatly assist the office in conducting official duties, improving accessibility to remote areas, and delivering services more effectively to the public.

The donation has been widely appreciated by local residents and officials alike, who described it as a positive initiative towards improving governance and administrative outreach at the grassroots level.

APIYO Demands Justice for Gumin Mize

 

Bihpuria/Itanagar, May 21:

APIYO General Secretary Tapor Maying on Wednesday visited Bihpuria Police Station in Assam’s Lakhimpur district to gather first-hand information regarding the arrest of renowned anti-drug activist and Arunachal Anti-Drug Warriors President Gumin Mize.

Mize was reportedly arrested by Bihpuria Police from Itanagar on Tuesday in connection with Bihpuria PS Case No. 72/2026, which has been registered under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) along with provisions of the Arms Act.

Speaking to the media after visiting the police station, Tapor Maying informed that Gumin Mize has now been transferred to Lakhimpur Police Station for further legal proceedings, as the case has already been formally registered.

He further stated that Mize’s family members are on their way to Lakhimpur to seek bail from the competent court.

Raising concerns over the circumstances surrounding the case, Maying alleged that the matter could possibly be a “well-planned conspiracy” to trap the anti-drug activist. He claimed that the husband of the complainant had previously been arrested in a drugs-related case a few years ago.

According to Maying, Gumin Mize had stated that he and his associates were allegedly attacked during the incident, following which warning shots were fired in the air in retaliation and self-defence.

The APIYO leader also informed that he has spoken to Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister Mama Natung and urged him to intervene in the matter to ensure justice for Gumin Mize, whom he described as a renowned social worker and anti-drug crusader.

The arrest of Gumin Mize has triggered widespread reactions across Arunachal Pradesh, with several student bodies, youth organizations, and social groups expressing support for the activist and demanding a fair and transparent investigation into the case.

Arunachal Pradesh Rural Bank Opens New Branch at Longding to Boost Financial

 

Longding, May 20:

The inaugural ceremony of the Arunachal Pradesh Rural Bank (APRB), Longding Branch, was held on 20 May 2026 at Longding Headquarters, marking a significant step towards strengthening financial inclusion and rural banking services in the district.

The newly established branch was formally inaugurated by Thangwang Wangham, who attended the occasion as the Chief Guest. The programme was also graced by the presence of Guest of Honour Kunal Yadav, along with Dekio Gumja and Vikal Sharma.

Among other distinguished attendees were Phongwang Matey, PRI members, officials from various government departments, and members of the public.

During the event, speakers highlighted the importance of APRB as a Regional Rural Bank and a Scheduled Bank owned by the Government. The establishment of the bank in Longding district is expected to significantly improve financial accessibility in underserved and remote areas.

The dignitaries emphasized that the presence of APRB in the district would strengthen financial inclusion initiatives, enhance priority sector lending, and provide better access to agricultural and small business credit facilities. The services are expected to particularly benefit Self-Help Groups (SHGs), farmers, entrepreneurs, and rural communities across the district.

The bank will also facilitate the implementation of various government-backed social security and welfare schemes, including PMJJBY, PMSBY, and Vikshit Bharat – G RAM G, among others. In addition, APRB aims to provide modern digital banking services in line with emerging banking technologies, ensuring convenient and efficient banking solutions for the people.

The programme concluded with appeals from all dignitaries urging the public to actively avail the banking facilities and make full use of the newly opened APRB branch for economic growth and financial empowerment in the district.

ACBSU Seeks Security Checkpoints in Changlang Border Areas

Members of The All Changlang Border Students Union (ACBSU)
With Deputy Commissioner of Changlang. 

Changlang, May 19:

The All Changlang Border Students Union (ACBSU) on May 19, 2026, submitted a formal representation to the Deputy Commissioner of Changlang on behalf of the villagers of Hanchengkan, Phinbiro-I, and Phinbiro-II, urging immediate administrative intervention in the ongoing Assam–Arunachal border dispute affecting the region.

In its representation, the union expressed serious concern over alleged illegal incursions by personnel of the Assam Forest Department into disputed areas under Changlang district. Highlighting growing insecurity among border residents, ACBSU appealed to the district administration to establish permanent security checkpoints in all vulnerable and disputed locations to prevent further tension and safeguard the interests of the local population.

As a continuation of the initiative, ACBSU leaders also met the Superintendent of Police and the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Changlang, where a detailed and constructive discussion was held regarding the prevailing border-related issues between Arunachal Pradesh and Assam in the district.

During the meeting, the union strongly urged the authorities to deploy integrated patrolling teams comprising officials from the Forest Department and law-enforcement agencies. ACBSU proposed that such joint patrolling exercises be conducted at least two to three times every month in the disputed areas to maintain peace, strengthen coordination among departments, and ensure the safety and security of affected villagers.

The student body stated that regular monitoring and coordinated ground-level action are essential to prevent further misunderstandings and avoid escalation of tensions along the sensitive border areas.

ACBSU further expressed appreciation for the positive response received from the concerned authorities and conveyed hope that concrete measures would be implemented at the earliest. 

The union reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights and security of border residents and emphasized that the people of the affected villages deserve to live in peace, stability, and without fear.

Rupa Bayor Wins Bronze, Qualifies for 2026 Asian Games

 

Itanagar, May 19:

Arunachal Pradesh’s ace taekwondo player Rupa Bayor has brought pride to the nation after qualifying to represent India at the 2026 Asian Games and securing a Bronze medal at the 2026 Asian Taekwondo Poomsae Championships.

With this remarkable achievement, Rupa has become the first Indian athlete to win medals in two consecutive editions of the Asian Taekwondo Championships, scripting a historic milestone for Indian taekwondo.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein have lauded Rupa Bayor for her exceptional achievement, describing her success as a proud moment for Arunachal Pradesh and the nation.

 They praised her dedication, discipline, and perseverance, stating that her accomplishment reflects the immense sporting potential of the state’s youth.

Rupa’s journey from Arunachal Pradesh to the continental stage reflects the immense potential and determination of young Indian athletes. 

As she now prepares to represent the country at the 2026 Asian Games, people across the state and the nation have extended their best wishes for her continued success and glory on the international platform.

Arunachal Cake Artists Win Big at Asia Cake Oscars

 

chefs Tacho Taggu and Suresh Sabar in Colombo
After winning the title of Non-Dairy and Cake Sculpture 
& Sugar Models at 4th Asia Cake Oscars.

Colombo/Arunachal, May 17:

Two talented cake artists from Arunachal Pradesh have brought international recognition to India after securing top honours at the prestigious 4th Asia Cake Oscars (World Edition), held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on May 17.

Renowned chefs Tacho Taggu and Suresh Sabar, both based in Pasighat, achieved remarkable success by winning prestigious titles in the categories of Non-Dairy Flowers and Cake Sculptures & Sugar Models. The international competition witnessed participation from celebrated pastry chefs, sugar artists, and culinary experts representing several countries, making the achievement even more significant.

Representing India on the global stage, the Arunachali duo captivated judges with their breathtaking edible creations, exceptional artistic detailing, creativity, and technical perfection. Their intricate sugar craft and lifelike cake sculptures stood out among entries from across Asia and beyond, earning them widespread appreciation and acclaim at one of the most respected cake artistry platforms in the world.

The Asia Cake Oscars is regarded as a premier international event in the field of cake decoration and sugar artistry, attracting some of the finest talents from the global baking and pastry industry. Winning at such a prestigious competition is considered a major milestone for professional cake artists and culinary creators.

The achievement of Tacho Taggu and Suresh Sabar has brought immense pride to Arunachal Pradesh and the nation as a whole, showcasing the immense talent emerging from the Northeast in the field of culinary arts. Their success also highlights the growing recognition of Indian cake artistry on the international stage.

This is not the first major accomplishment for the award-winning duo. Earlier this year, in January, chefs Tacho Taggu and Suresh Sabar had already made the state proud by winning a gold medal at India’s Largest Cake and Bake Show (2nd Edition), held in Guwahati, Assam, from January 9 to 11. Their outstanding performance at the national-level competition established them among the leading cake artists in the country.

Over the years, both chefs have earned admiration for their dedication, creativity, and commitment to elevating cake artistry and sugar craft in the region. Their latest international triumph in Sri Lanka further cements their reputation as among India’s finest cake artists and serves as an inspiration for aspiring bakers and culinary professionals across Arunachal Pradesh and the Northeast.

The remarkable success of the Pasighat-based chefs has been widely celebrated by well-wishers, culinary enthusiasts, and members of the artistic community, who have hailed the duo for bringing glory to the state and the country through their extraordinary talent and hard work.

Anini’s Rubi Lombo Makes History as Arunachal’s First MTB Coach for Team India

Itanagar, May 18:

In a landmark achievement for sports in Arunachal Pradesh, cyclist and coach Rubi Lombo from Anini in Dibang Valley district has created history by becoming the first Mountain Bike (MTB) coach from the state and the only female coach from Arunachal Pradesh to be selected by the Sports Authority of India for Team India at the upcoming Asian Mountain Bike Championships 2026 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Her selection marks a proud moment not only for Arunachal Pradesh but also for the entire Northeast region, highlighting the growing presence of women and athletes from the frontier states in international cycling and sports coaching.

Congratulating Rubi Lombo on her historic achievement, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu extended his best wishes to her and Team India for the prestigious continental championship.

The Chief Minister stated that her accomplishment reflects dedication, perseverance, and the rising sporting talent emerging from Arunachal Pradesh. He expressed confidence that Rubi Lombo would continue to bring laurels to the nation while inspiring a new generation of cyclists and young sportspersons from the Northeast and beyond.

The Asian MTB Championships is one of Asia’s premier cycling events, bringing together elite mountain biking athletes and coaches from across the continent. 

Rubi Lombo’s inclusion in the Indian contingent is being seen as a significant milestone for women’s participation and representation in professional cycling from the region.

Her journey from the remote district of Dibang Valley to the international sporting stage is expected to motivate aspiring athletes, especially young women, to pursue competitive sports and coaching at national and international levels.

3rd IRBn Seijosa Reviews Welfare, Infrastructure & Administrative Issues at BHQ

 

Sejosa, May 18:

A comprehensive review meeting was convened on Monday at the 3rd IRBn Battalion Headquarters, Seijosa, under the chairmanship of Worthy Commandant Shri Manish Shaurya, IPS, to review the overall functioning of various branches and to address key administrative, infrastructural, and welfare-related issues concerning Battalion personnel and their families.

During the meeting, the Commandant held detailed interactions with the In-Charges of different branches and patiently heard the issues, grievances, and suggestions pertaining to their respective sections. Emphasis was laid on strengthening administrative coordination, improving operational efficiency, and ensuring better welfare facilities within the Battalion Headquarters.

One of the major highlights of the meeting was the discussion on the proposal for establishment of a Wet Canteen-cum-Restaurant for the benefit and convenience of troops. The condition and functioning of the existing BHQ Mess and Dry Canteen were also reviewed, and discussions were held regarding their upgradation and modernization to enhance the quality of services being provided to the personnel.

The Commandant also took serious note of the persistent water scarcity and poor network connectivity issues being faced within the Battalion campus and directed the concerned branches to initiate immediate corrective measures for their timely resolution. Electricity-related issues affecting different parts of the Battalion area were discussed extensively, and necessary instructions were issued to identify feasible and long-term solutions to improve the power supply system.

Branch In-Charges during the Battalion review meeting at Seijosa BHQ

Special focus was given to the welfare of families residing in the Battalion Headquarters. In this regard, the renovation and modernization of the Children’s Playground located in the family lines were deliberated upon to provide improved recreational facilities and a safer environment for the wards of Battalion personnel.

Addressing the gathering, Worthy Commandant Shri Manish Shaurya, IPS, assured all Branch In-Charges that genuine welfare-related concerns of troops and their families would be addressed on priority basis. He reiterated the Battalion Headquarters’ commitment towards providing a conducive, efficient, and improved working and living environment for all personnel and their family members.

The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from all concerned branches to work in close coordination for strengthening administrative efficiency, improving welfare infrastructure, and ensuring better living conditions within the Battalion Headquarters.