Three NSCN cadres surrender before Changlang police
HT Correspondent DIBRUGARH, June 23: Three cadres affiliated with the NSCN, including two from the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Reformation (NSCN-R) and one from the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM), voluntarily surrendered before the Changlang district police in Arunachal Pradesh. The surrendered individuals have been identified as Jongham Saijong (43) of Old Jukhi village, []
Northeasts first integrated waste management facility inaugurated in Dibrugarh
HT Correspondent DIBRUGARH, June 19: Dibrugarh MLA Prasanta Phukan on Friday inaugurated the Integrated Waste Management Facility (IWMF) at Lekai in Dibrugarh, the Northeasts first such facility, which will handle industrial, biomedical and other categories of waste. The project has been developed at an estimated cost of Rs 25 crore. Established under the Assam Waste []
Assam: 10 drug traffickers nabbed, contraband items seized
DIBRUGARH, June 15: A total of 10 suspected drug traffickers have been arrested and several incriminating items, including contraband goods, seized in a major operation in Dibrugarh district of Assam, police said on Monday. According to Dibrugarh Senior Superintendent of Police Gaurav Abhijit Dilip, heroin, cash, vehicles, mobile phone and gold have been seized in []
Passenger gives birth aboard train in Assam
GUWAHATI, June 15: A woman travelling on the Dibrugarh-bound Avadh Assam Express gave birth aboard the train after going into premature labour, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) said on Monday. The delivery took place on Sunday with the assistance of a coach attendant and a nurse who was travelling on the train, an NFR release []
Two pistols recovered near Dibrugarh Railway Station
HT Correspondent DIBRUGARH, June 14: Two pistols were recovered from near a railway track at Banipur, close to Dibrugarh Railway Station, on Sunday morning, prompting a security alert and an investigation into a possible arms smuggling link. According to railway police officials, passersby noticed the firearms lying beside the tracks and immediately informed the authorities. []
From Data to Delivery: How ICMR Is Rewiring Indias Health Research for a Healthier Tomorrow
A century of quiet revolution, a decade of urgent reform, and a roadmap to Viksit Bharat 2047 Impact is not created by individuals in isolationit is built by systems working in synchrony. Together, we move from data to decision to impact. As the nation advances toward the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the question before us is not only how we treat disease, but how we build a health system that is anticipatory, equitable, and innovation-driven. At the heart of this transformation lies a reimagined approach to health research, one that connects data to decisions and decisions to impact. Building on the hard-earned lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Indias apex body for biomedical research, has undertaken a series of forward-looking reforms. The reforms range from reimagining its institutional architecture to strengthening the way research is funded and translated into impact. What was once a system rooted in fragmented, investigator-led inquiry is now evolving into a technology-driven, mission-oriented ecosystem. This shift is not merely administrative; it is philosophical. It reflects a deliberate move toward integrated, institute-led research aligned with national priorities, where science is designed not just to generate knowledge, but to solve pressing public health challenges. A cornerstone of this transformation is the restructuring of ICMRs institutional architecture. Recent reforms have expanded the mandates of several institutes, repositioning them as interdisciplinary hubs rather than narrowly defined entities. The evolution of institutes toward domains such as digital health and data science, child health, women health, blood and immune disorders, reflects the changing contours of Indias disease burden and technological capabilities. Another important step is the creation of a network of regional National Institutes of Health Research across the country, from Dibrugarh in the Northeast to Jodhpur in the West. These institutes will conduct operational research closely with state and district health systems to ensure that relevant research is conducted and the output is used on the ground. These are not nominal changes; they signal a strategic reorientation toward future-ready science, where artificial intelligence, genomics, and real-time data systems are integral to public health decision-making. Equally important is the shift from siloed functioning to a connected national research ecosystem. Institutes are now envisioned as resource centres that contribute to a shared national mission, ensuring that evidence generated in one setting informs action across the country. This systems-level thinking is critical in an era where health challenges, be it antimicrobial resistance, pandemics, or non-communicable diseases, are complex and interconnected. Parallel to institutional reforms is a fundamental redesign of the research funding ecosystem. The divide between intramural and extramural research is more transparent in terms of funding mechanisms. But at the same time, they are bridged through a more cohesive and outcome-oriented framework. Intramural research is now largely institute-initiated, aligned with clearly defined mandates and structured within predictable timelines to accelerate translation. Extramural research, on the other hand, has been reorganised into a four-stage innovation cycle: Description, Discovery, Development, and Delivery, ensuring that promising ideas are systematically nurtured into scalable solutions. This integrated continuum, from laboratory discovery to population-level delivery, marks a decisive shift from funding projects to enabling solutions. It is further reinforced by the National Health Research Programme (NHRP), which has identified thirteen priority areas ranging from antimicrobial resistance and tuberculosis to mental health, nutrition, and emergency care. These mission-mode programs are designed to foster multi-institutional collaboration, supported by substantial investments and a clear focus on measurable outcomes. Technology, too, is playing a transformative role. The integration of artificial intelligence into diagnostics, surveillance, and program implementation is helping bridge longstanding gaps between urban and rural healthcare. AI-enabled tools for tuberculosis and diabetic retinopathy screening are already supporting frontline health workers, while innovations such as AI-driven nutritional monitoring are improving program delivery at scale. The i-Drone initiative, which began with vaccine delivery and has expanded to transport critical medical supplies such as corneas, exemplifies how cutting-edge technology can overcome geographic barriers and bring care closer to communities. At the frontier of science, advances across the medtech gamut, from medical devices and diagnostics to next-generation vaccines and therapeutics, are enabling more targeted, patient-centric interventions. In parallel, the integration of traditional knowledge systems through innovative, evidence-based models is gaining global recognition. These efforts are reinforced by a strong push toward indigenous innovation. Schemes like First in the World Challenge, complemented with platforms such as MedTechMitra and the Medical InnovationsPatent Mitra initiative, are accelerating the journey from research to commercialization, ensuring that publicly funded science translates into affordable, accessible technologies for the people. The true measure of these reforms, however, lies in their impact on public health. Initiatives such as the India Hypertension Control Initiative have demonstrated how evidence-based strategies can transform chronic disease management at scale. Mission-mode programs in emergency care, including mobile stroke units and rapid cardiac response systems, are redefining outcomes in life-threatening conditions. Expanded diagnostic networks and indigenous technologies are strengthening early detection and treatment across diseases ranging from cancer to infectious outbreaks. These efforts are closely aligned with the National Health Policy 2017, which emphasises preventive and promotive healthcare, universal access, and quality of care. They also reflect a broader commitment to equity, ensuring that the benefits of scientific progress reach every citizen regardless of geography or socioeconomic status. As we look to the future, the vision is clear. ICMR will continue to serve as a catalyst, bringing together researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and industry to build a resilient and responsive health ecosystem. The roadmap to 2047 will be shaped by advances in digital health, bio-manufacturing, and sustainable development, with a strong emphasis on capacity building and global collaboration. It is important to recognise that health research is not an isolated endeavour; it is a collective national enterprise. The transformation underway within ICMR is an invitation to all stakeholders to participate in this journey, to co-create solutions, and to ensure that science serves society in the most meaningful way. A reformed health research system is not an end in itself. It is the foundation upon which a healthier, more equitable, and more resilient India will be built, an India where every discovery leads to delivery, and every innovation translates into impact. (The author is the Secretary, Department of Health Research, MoHFW and DG, Indian Council of Medical Research. Courtesy: PIB)
Assam Government Increases Dearness Allowance for Employees
Guwahati, June 6: The Assam government has made a significant decision to increase the dearness allowance (DA) for state employees, providing them with much-needed relief. In addition, the government has approved the establishment of a special development authority to develop Dibrugarh as the second capital of the state. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the ... Read more Assam Government Increases Dearness Allowance for Employees
Assam Cabinet approves DA hike, Rs 500-crore Dibrugarh development push
Assam's government employees and pensioners will see a Dearness Allowance and Relief increase to 60 percent. A second state capital region is being established in Dibrugarh, with development plans and infrastructure funding. Rules for promoting Grade IV employees to Grade III positions are amended.
Three Tinsukia youths held while allegedly attempting to join ULFA-I
HT Correspondent DIBRUGARH, May 29: Security forces foiled an alleged recruitment attempt by the banned United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) after apprehending three youths from Tinsukia district who were reportedly on their way to join the outfit. The youths have been identified as Antu Moran (34), Bijoy Moran (28) and Newton Moran (22), all []
Two-Day ICAI Sub-Regional Conference Kicks Off in Dibrugarh on May 23
Dibrugarh, May 23: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is set to host a two-day sub-regional conference starting today, organized by the Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, and Guwahati branches under the Eastern India Regional Council. The event will take place at the Manohari Tea Resort, focusing on the theme Saptasetu: Connecting the Seven Sisters through ... Read more Two-Day ICAI Sub-Regional Conference Kicks Off in Dibrugarh on May 23
Assam Rifles Provides Urgent Relief to Family Affected by Fire in Changlang
Dibrugarh, May 13: A devastating fire early Tuesday morning in Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh destroyed a familys hut, causing significant financial loss. Fortunately, the Assam Rifles swiftly intervened, providing immediate relief materials to the affected family. The incident occurred near the BSNL office in Changlang, where a local residents bamboo hut was engulfed in ... Read more Assam Rifles Provides Urgent Relief to Family Affected by Fire in Changlang
Assams Historic Mandate Signals a Developed, Secure, and Self-Reliant Nation: Sarbananda Sonowal
Guwahati, May 5: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal welcomed the impressive performance of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the Assam Assembly elections. He described this mandate as a strong endorsement of development-oriented governance and people-centric leadership. The MP from Dibrugarh congratulated Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for the coalitions remarkable victory ... Read more Assams Historic Mandate Signals a Developed, Secure, and Self-Reliant Nation: Sarbananda Sonowal
Joy in Assams Tea Gardens as BJP Secures Victory
Dibrugarh, May 4: The resounding victory of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Assam Assembly elections has brought smiles to the faces of women working in the states tea gardens. Female workers from the Manohari tea estate in Dibrugarh district expressed their hopes and confidence in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP government. ... Read more Joy in Assams Tea Gardens as BJP Secures Victory
Dibrugarh Election Results 2026 News: With the 2026 Assembly elections on the horizon, Dibrugarh presents a battleground for the BJP, which has held sway in this constituency for the last twenty years. Local residents express growing unease over everyday problems like traffic congestion and floods, alongside concerns about employment.
Railways announce special one-way train from Bengaluru to Dibrugarh via Vizag to ease rush
Over the East Coast Railway jurisdiction, the service will provide essential stoppages at Kottavalasa, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam, Palasa, Brahmapur, Khurda Road, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Bhadrak.
Security Forces Arrest Three ULFA Members in Nagaland
Dibrugarh, April 25: Security forces arrested three members of the banned United Liberation Front of Assam (Independent) during an anti-terrorism operation in the Mon district of Nagaland on Friday. According to official sources, the suspects were active in the Foamching area and were heading towards Shangnyu village at the time the operation commenced. Acting on ... Read more Security Forces Arrest Three ULFA Members in Nagaland
Waris Punjab De chief Amritpal Singh taken into custody after NSA detention ends
Amritpal Singh is now in police custody. His detention under the National Security Act has ended. Punjab Police arrested him in connection with the 2023 Ajnala police station attack. He was brought to Dibrugarh Police Station for interrogation. Legal proceedings will happen via video conferencing. Singh faces charges in multiple cases.
Political Tensions Rise Over Womens Reservation Bill, Sarbananda Sonowal Criticizes Congress
Dibrugarh, April 23: Central Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched a sharp attack on Congress and its allies in the INDIA bloc on Wednesday. He accused them of opposing the Womens Reservation Amendment Bill, 2026, aimed at increasing womens participation in legislative bodies. Speaking at a press conference at the BJP district office in Dibrugarh, Sonowal stated ... Read more Political Tensions Rise Over Womens Reservation Bill, Sarbananda Sonowal Criticizes Congress
Summer special train to run between Mysuru and Dibrugarh
Nine Held As Sporadic Clashes Mark Assam Polls; Voting Remains Smooth
Poll violence erupts in Dibrugarhs Khowang, BJP-AJP trade charges
Women Workers from Dibrugarh Tea Gardens Share Their Experiences with PM Modi
Mumbai, April 7: Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited a tea garden in Dibrugarh during his campaign in Assam. He engaged in conversations with a group of female workers from the expansive tea estate. Currently, these tea garden workers are on a Bharat Darshan tour, exploring the sacred cities of Uttar Pradesh, including Ayodhya and ... Read more Women Workers from Dibrugarh Tea Gardens Share Their Experiences with PM Modi
Tea Tribe Factor Intensifies Battle In Upper Assam Ahead Of Polls
As the Assam Assembly Elections 2026 approaches, Upper Assam, particularly the Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts, has emerged as a crucial political battleground
Bridging the Brahmaputra: Bogibeel reshapes Assam-Arunachal link ahead of polls
The Bogibeel bridge has transformed connectivity in eastern Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. This road-cum-rail link over the Brahmaputra river has shortened travel times dramatically. Dhemaji is experiencing business growth. Dibrugarh sees increased real estate activity and attracts students. Tourism in Arunachal Pradesh is also on the rise. The bridge enhances national security through faster military movement.
Assam Elections Will Shape the Future: Sarbananda Sonowal
Dibrugarh, April 4: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal intensified the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) election campaign in Upper Assam on Friday. He emphasized that the results of the upcoming assembly elections will determine the future of Assam and the protection of the identity and rights of the Assamese people. While addressing several rallies in Margherita, Majuli, ... Read more Assam Elections Will Shape the Future: Sarbananda Sonowal
'I am a Chaiwala too': Modi interacts with tea garden workers in Dibrugarh
Pakistani Spy Arrested at Assam Air Force Station for Leaking Sensitive Information
Dibrugarh, March 23: A joint operation by the Air Force and Rajasthan Intelligence has led to the arrest of a staff member at an Assam Air Force station on charges of espionage for Pakistan. The accused, identified as Sumit Kumar (36), hails from Lahurpar in Prayagraj district, Uttar Pradesh, and worked as Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS) ... Read more Pakistani Spy Arrested at Assam Air Force Station for Leaking Sensitive Information
