Azeri, Kazakh, Uzbek flavour for Guwahati Asian Film Festival
The three-day event begins on February 7 with the Iranian movie In the Arms of the Tree directed by Babak Khajehpasha
Meghalaya: Five Bangladeshi nationals held during smuggling attempt
Guwahati: The Border Security Force (BSF) Meghalaya Frontier apprehended five Bangladeshi nationals and seized a substantial haul of contraband items along the international border. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, the BSF troops launched an operation in South Garo Hills, resulting in the arrest of five Bangladeshi nationals. They were aged between 17 and 27, who [] The post Meghalaya: Five Bangladeshi nationals held during smuggling attempt appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Assam: 97 smartphones go missing from Tea Tribes and Adivasi Welfare Directorate
Guwahati: An alleged scandal has been reported at the Directorate of Tea Tribes and Adivasi Welfare in Assam, where an audit revealed the disappearance of 97 smartphones from the office building in Guwahati. The smartphones, purchased under the Promotion of Digital Literacy and Usage scheme in 2020-21, were meant for distribution among line sardars in [] The post Assam: 97 smartphones go missing from Tea Tribes and Adivasi Welfare Directorate appeared first on NorthEast Now .
2K IDs blocked to stop scamsters from having first right over railway tickets
CHENNAI: Even after eight years since the Tatkal ticket booking scandal using illegal software on the IRCTC portal came to light in New Delhi, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and other parts of the country, the railways is unable to fully address the portals vulnerabilities, allowing touts and agents to continue using illegal software to book tickets, particularly on high-demand routes. The regular arrest of touts and seizure of tickets by the RPF have failed to deter the malpractice. On November 11 last year, TNIE , in an article, threw light on the difficulties passengers face due to IRCTC portal crash during Tatkal bookings, resulting in ticket unavailability. Meanwhile, agents are selling tickets for the same day at double the rate. However, neither the railways nor IRCTC could provide an explanation for these anomalies. In this backdrop, the Southern railway on Monday announced that 2,003 individual and IRCTC user IDs and 119 agent IDs were blocked, and 10 different illegal software tools used for bulk and Tatkal ticket bookings have been disabled. It also disclosed the implementation of advanced AI technology to curb the use of illegal software in ticket booking. This system aims to detect and block suspicious transactions in real time, including multiple bookings from the same IP address or through VPNs. In December 2017, a programmer with the CBI, a former employee of the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) that maintains the IRCTC portal, was arrested in New Delhi for selling illegal software to travel agents. In this backdrop, the IRCTC introduced a feature that disabled ticket booking in less than 60 seconds and implemented various measures to prevent illegal software from transferring data to the IRCTC database. Despite these efforts, illegal software continues to enable users to bypass Captcha codes and bank OTPs, facilitating bulk and Tatkal ticket bookings. Agents use multiple windows on computers or laptops, each with different user IDs, to book tickets more efficiently. While the general public faces huge ordeal with frequent portal crashes and delays, software users consistently manage to book tickets within 10 to 20 seconds. Over the past 10 months, rail passengers in Tamil Nadu and other states have been complaining about frequent IRCTC portal crashes during Tatkal bookings, resulting in ticket unavailability. However, travel agents have been exploiting the situation by selling tickets at exorbitant prices, particularly on high-demand routes such as Chennai/ Tiruchy to Howrah, Shalimar, Guwahati, Jaipur, Jodhpur, New Delhi, and other northeastern cities, as well as Katpadi to West Bengal routes and Tiruppur/Erode to Bihar and other northern cities. In response to recurring complaints, the railways on Monday outlined measures to curb the misuse of illegal software by agents. In Southern Railway zone alone, 391 cases were registered last year, leading to the apprehension of 404 touts and seizure of 7,506 tickets valued at Rs 1.2 crore last year. Inspector General and Principal Chief Security Commissioner of Southern Railway G M Eswara Rao said AI systems will monitor booking behaviours to detect anomalies indicative of touting activities. Machine learning algorithms will identify and block suspicious transactions in real-time, including multiple bookings from the same IP address or those using VPNs.
KSU opposes Meghalaya Investment Act, calls it draconian
Guwahati: The Khasi Students Union (KSU) distributed pamphlets across Shillong urging citizens to oppose the implementation of the Meghalaya State Investment Promotion & Facilitation Act, 2024 (MSIPF). The KSU claimed that the Act is a draconian and tyrannical law that concentrates power in the hands of a few politicians, disregarding the views and mandate of [] The post KSU opposes Meghalaya Investment Act, calls it draconian appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Minister Ashok Singhal hosts Investors Roadshow in Bengaluru
HT Bureau GUWAHATI, Jan 21: Minister of health & family welfare and irrigation Ashok Singhal successfully hosted an Investors Roadshow in Bengaluru on Tuesday. Organised as a precursor to the highly anticipated Advantage Assam 2.0: Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025, scheduled for February 25 and 26 in Guwahati, the event served as a platform to []
Guwahati Press Club Raises Concern On Arrest Of Journalist Over News Report
The Guwahati Press Club has raised concerns over the arrest of a journalist in Assam over his report on the alleged hit-and-run case in the Biswanath district of the state.
Assam: Six Mile Flyover in Guwahati may collapse soon, engineer warns
Guwahati: A renowned engineer, JN Khataniar has reported raised concerns about the structural integrity of the Six Mile Flyover in Guwahati, Assam. He claims that the flyover is exhibiting signs of distress, including cracks in the reinforced concrete, indicating a potential risk of collapse. Khataniar attributed the deteriorating condition to substandard construction materials and inadequate [] The post Assam: Six Mile Flyover in Guwahati may collapse soon, engineer warns appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Gauhati HC seeks Centre & NHAI to clarify stance on NH 715 alignment
Guwahati: The Gauhati High Court on Monday directed the central government and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to clarify their stance on the alignment of National Highway No. 715, which stretches from Kaliabor Tiniali to Numaligarh. This section of NH 715 (formerly NH 37) is undergoing expansion into a four-lane highway. A division [] The post Gauhati HC seeks Centre & NHAI to clarify stance on NH 715 alignment appeared first on NorthEast Now .
BSF jawan injured in stone pelting by Bangladeshi smugglers
GUWAHATI: A jawan of the Border Security Force (BSF) sustained serious head injuries in stone pelting by Bangladeshi smugglers. The incident occurred on the intervening night of January 20 and 21 near the Narayanganj border outpost falling under the BSFs 90th Battalion in Cooch Behar, West Bengal. The BSFs Guwahati frontier in a statement said the troops deployed on the border observed suspicious movement of a large number of miscreants on the Bangladesh side on January 20. These individuals had illegally and wilfully violated the sanctity of the international border and were attempting to smuggle contraband items with the help of their Indian associates. Alert BSF jawans challenged them to stop their unlawful activities and return to Bangladesh territory. However, the Bangladeshi miscreants ignored repeated verbal warnings, the statement said. The statement further stated that by adopting an aggressive posture, the smugglers abused the BSF personnel and resorted to stone pelting in which a jawan of the force sustained serious head injuries. He was evacuated to a BSF hospital for treatment. The BSF said despite the attack, the troops exercised utmost restraint and used non-lethal measures to disperse the smugglers. Following a search later, the personnel recovered 50 bottles of contraband items. In light of the vulnerability of the border and the increasing activities of trans-border criminals and anti-national elements, BSF troops remain ever vigilant to curb trans-border crimes. They continue to make every effort to ensure that the Indo-Bangladesh international border remains crime-free, the statement said.
IIT Guwahati hosts global tech leaders at PIWOT 2025, focus on rural empowerment
IIT Guwahati hosted the PanIIT World of Technology Meet 2025, focusing on innovative solutions for rural development. Key attendees included Ravi Kota and Suresh V. Shenoy. Highlights included the introduction of the Assam Advanced Healthcare Innovation Institute and a tech exhibition showcasing cutting-edge innovations by students and researchers.
Pegu urges student participation in AI webinar by NRI experts
HT Digital GUWAHATI, Jan 21: Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu has lauded the initiative by Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) from Assam and experts from India to organize an Artificial Intelligence (AI) webinar aimed at school students in the state, a press release said on Tuesday. The webinar, scheduled for Saturday, January 25th, 2025, at 8:30 AM []
Assam Police honoured by Manipur Govt on 54th Statehood Day
HT Digital GUWAHATI, Jan 21: In a significant recognition of the support provided by Assam Police to the security forces of neighboring states, the Manipur Government honoured Assam Police on its 54th Statehood Day celebration, CRPF Director General GP Singh informed on Tuesday. The ceremony, held in Imphal, acknowledged the substantial contribution made by Assam []
Assam CS conducts review meeting to accelerate welfare initiatives
HT Digital GUWAHATI, Jan 21: In line with the directives of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, a monthly review meeting was chaired by the Chief Secretary of Assam Ravi Kota, to assess the progress of key welfare initiatives across the state, Chief Ministers Office (CMO) announced on Tuesday. The meeting, attended by Deputy Commissioners []
Assam to distribute over 2.24 crore free textbooks for 2025-26
HT Digital GUWAHATI, Jan 21: The Assam School Education Department is all set to distribute more than 2.24 crore free textbooks to students for the upcoming 2025-26 academic session, Education Minister Ranoj Pegu announced on Tuesday. The large-scale initiative, aimed at ensuring access to education for all, will commence in the second week of February []
Congress gaining momentum in Nagaland as 15 NPP leaders join its fold
GUWAHATI: The Congress, which made a remarkable comeback in Nagaland during last years Lok Sabha elections, is steadily gaining ground in the hill state. On Monday, fifteen senior members of the Conrad K Sangma-led National Peoples Party (NPP) from Meghalaya switched allegiance to the Congress in Nagaland, marking a significant political shift. The Congress viewed this development as a testament to its rising popularity, especially given the tendency of politicians in the Northeast to align with the ruling party. Currently, Nagaland is governed by the BJP-Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) coalition. It is a turning point for the Congress in Nagaland, said state Congress chief and Lok Sabha member S Supongmeren Jamir, welcoming the NPP leaders into the party fold. These young and dynamic leaders are willing to work hard and contribute to the states development. I am hopeful that this zeal will help us work with people at the grassroots. State Congress working president Khriedi Theiinuo echoed Jamirs optimism, expressing confidence in the partys renewed vision and mission. With cooperation from these leaders, we can now march ahead effectively, he said. Among those who joined the Congress, NPP vice president Bitong Sangtam voiced dissatisfaction with the partys stagnation. We were frustrated with the partys lack of progress, Sangtam said. General secretary L Hiketo Shohe added, We believe only Congress can bring about meaningful change. The Congress, once a dominant force in Nagaland, ruled the Christian-majority state multiple times but began to lose its footing after the era of former Chief Minister SC Jamir ended in 2003. Over the years, the partys organisational strength eroded, and it struggled to find leaders of Jamirs stature. The Naga Peoples Front (NPF), which ousted the Congress in the 2003 Assembly elections, held sway for three consecutive terms until the NDPP-BJP alliance disrupted its dominance in 2018. The coalition retained power in 2023, sweeping the polls, with Congress failing to secure a single seat. Against this backdrop, the Congress entered last years Lok Sabha elections as an underdog. Despite the odds, state president Supongmeren Jamir pulled off a stunning victory, earning the nickname Superman Jamir. The recent influx of NPP leaders has bolstered the partys position, sparking hope for a revival of Congress in Nagaland.
Satwik-Chirag march forth at Indonesia Masters
Ashwini and Tanisha, who won the Guwahati Masters super 100 title, last month will take on Malaysia's Pei Kee Go and Mei Xing Teoh next.
Assam: Injured golden langur rescued in Kokrajhar
Guwahati: A Golden Langur with a serious shoulder injury was rescued from Khutamari village of Kokrajhar, Assam by a team of forest officials on Tuesday. The rescue operation, conducted jointly by the Forest Department and Chakrasilla Wildlife Sanctuary, involved the safe transportation of the injured adult male Langur to Tetaguri Veterinary Hospital for immediate treatment. [] The post Assam: Injured golden langur rescued in Kokrajhar appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Questions surround Justice Vermas role in elephant transfer from Arunachal to Vantara
Guwahati: A letter from Justice (Retd) Deepak Verma, Chairperson of the High Powered Committee (HPC) constituted by the Tripura High Court, to the DGPs of six states including Assam has ignited a firestorm of controversy. The letter, dated January 16, shockingly instructs the DGPs to direct their concerned officers to provide escort or security or [] The post Questions surround Justice Vermas role in elephant transfer from Arunachal to Vantara appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Assam Career : IIIT Guwahati Recruitment 2025
Applications are invited for recruitment of various project based positions or career in IIIT Guwahati Assam. Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Guwahati Assam is inviting applications from eligible candidates for recruitment to the post or career of Project Staff cum PhD Position in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) under the project [] The post Assam Career : IIIT Guwahati Recruitment 2025 appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Assam: ATM fraud ring busted in Guwahati
Guwahati: Police dismantled a major ATM fraud racket, leading to the arrest of five individuals suspected of engaging in financial scams in Guwahati, Assam. The apprehended individuals have been identified as Asif Iqbal Hussain, Sahil Ahmed, Ariful Islam, Dewan Azlan Haris, and Abdul Azad. During the police operation, authorities seized 17 ATM cards from various [] The post Assam: ATM fraud ring busted in Guwahati appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Assam CM holds meeting with Vice-President of worlds leading semiconductor vendor in Seoul
Assam CM holds meeting with Vice-President of worlds leading semiconductor vendor in Seoul Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma held a discussion with top official of leading semiconductor in the world in Seoul on Tuesday. Taking to X, CM Sarma wrote, Began todays engagements in Seoul with a productive meeting with Dr Joon Choi, [] The post Assam CM holds meeting with Vice-President of worlds leading semiconductor vendor in Seoul appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Assam: STF arrests suspected jihadi in Dhubri
Guwahati: The Special Task Force (STF) arrested another suspected jihadi from Dhubri in Assam during the ongoing Operation Praghat. A statement by the police said that the wanted jihadi/Islamic extremist was on Tuesday based on a intense investigation. The arrested person has been identified as Ajibar Rahman, 31. The accused is a resident of Chinamari [] The post Assam: STF arrests suspected jihadi in Dhubri appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Bihar man moves court against Rahul Gandhi over loss of milk worth Rs 250
PATNA : A resident of Bihar has lodged a case in a local court, alleging that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi caused him to drop a pail of milk resulting in a loss of Rs 250. The bizarre development has taken place in Samastipur district, where complainant Mukesh Chaudhary claimed that he received a shock upon hearing Gandhi's fight against the Indian state remark last week. I was in such a state of shock that my bucket full of five litres of milk, priced at Rs 50 per litre, slipped off my hand. Rahul Gandhi was threatening the sovereignty of the nation, alleged Chaudhary. The resident of Sonupur village also showed the media a copy of his petition, filed in the civil court of Rosera sub-division, seeking trial of Gandhi under various BNS sections, including 152 that pertains to sedition. It was not known whether the petition had been admitted by the court. FIR against Rahul Gandhi in Guwahati for fighting Indian State remarks
BENGALURU: In a short time, Bengaluru has gone from being a sleepy city to the IT capital of India with people across the nation coming here to build successful careers. But how does the city fare in supporting working women? A recently released survey conducted by the Avtar Group put Bengaluru right at the top overtaking Chennai, Mumbai, and Hyderabad to become the best city for working women in India, based on criteria like city liveability, safety, womens representation in employment, inclusivity of women in organisations across industries, transport, quality of life, and more. We asked professionals is Bengaluru really the best place for working women? KM Chaitanya, film director The Kannada film industry has to go a long way in terms of inclusion. While we have a lot of women actors; technicians and women directors are few. The scenario is changing now with more and more women stepping in and becoming cinematographers, editors, associate directors and quite a few successful directors. In terms of creating a safe working environment, theres much that needs to be done. We need a committee of women who will oversee complaints about any kind of harassment at the workplace in the film industry. Lahari, advertising professional Within the creative industry in Bengaluru, theres an expectation to put in extra hours regardless of your gender. But when you end up staying in the office until midnight, there are no provisions to get home safely. This is especially uncomfortable for women who travel great distances to get to work. Corporations tend to have better facilities for women employees but the contrast is very stark. Anumitra Ghosh Dastidar, chef I have worked all over India in Mumbai, Delhi, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Goa, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Bengaluru. In the F&B industry, the ratio of women working as chefs is very low its a very male-dominated field. But Bengaluru has more possibilities. When I worked in Goa, no bus was available after 6pm so we would give earlier shifts to women. But here, there are women in my team who take the bus home at 10pm and feel safe doing so and we have not had any issues. Athul Madhav, programme manager, IISc Bangalore When it comes to work opportunities for women, Bengaluru is far better than Thrissur, Kerala, where I grew up. The representation and opportunities women receive are actually positive, and theyre doing a really great job. However, when it comes to safety, Im sceptical. Numerous horrific incidents involving working women have been reported in the media over the last two years. Personally, I know colleagues and friends who have experienced similar incidents. How can such a city be considered safe for women? Preethi Srinivasan, tennis coach As a tennis coach, I was definitely better recognised in Bengaluru compared to Chennai. I was not as guarded and didnt have to worry too much about how others perceived me because people were minding their own business. The remuneration was also better in Bengaluru because of the higher standard of living. The traffic is really bad but you can plan around that and still have a good work-life balance. Sneha Nair, student in Chennai I moved to Chennai from Bengaluru and can say that Bengaluru is definitely more inclusive. I live in a hostel for masters students and working women. Even though theyre taking rent from the working women, they demand that parents be present for admission and call parents if they break curfew. Its also common for flat owners to ask about their parents if renting to working women. They seem to think of women as dependents and not as individuals. Subhashree M, student One can see women from different cultural backgrounds in Bengaluru which is very comforting for women who are trying to live away from their homes. People in Bengaluru are also usually less judgemental than people in Chennai. A woman can go out partying, wear what she wants or even go for a jog in the morning without feeling judged.
HUN Thadou Cultural Fest 2025 at Guwahati Thadou Community
HUN Thadou Cultural Fest 2025 at Guwahati Thadou Community
Woman gives birth to baby at Guwahati Railway station
HT Bureau GUWAHATI, Jan 20: In a dramatic turn of events, a woman fromBihargave birth to a baby onPlatform No 4ofGuwahati Railway Station, turning an ordinary train journey into an unforgettable moment. The woman was travelling fromAgartalato Baraunion theRani Kamlapati Expresswhen she suddenly went into labour pain. On receiving the information, officials of NF Railway []
Free eye screening camp held at Itakhola
HT Correspondent BISWANATH CHARIALI, Jan 20: A free eye screening camp organised by Guwahati Lions Eye Hospital in association Ekal Abhiyan was held at Srimanta Sankardev Bhawan, Itakhola on Monday. An expert team of eye specialists screened the eyes of the visitors. A total of 300 local residents thronged the eye screening camp. Out of []
Assam activists question official silence on mysterious transfer of 21 elephants to Vantara
Guwahati: The transportation of 21 elephants through Assam from Arunachal Pradeshs Namsai to Vantara, a private zoo owned by Reliance at Jamnagar in Gujarat, has sparked controversy and raised several unanswered questions. While the Assam government has denied involvement, environmental activists and journalists have expressed concerns over the secrecy surrounding the transfer and the apparent [] The post Assam activists question official silence on mysterious transfer of 21 elephants to Vantara appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Historic: NIMAS team completes Arunachal leg of Brahmaputra rafting expedition
GUWAHATI: A team of the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS) has achieved a milestone by completing the Arunachal Pradesh leg of the Brahmaputra River Rafting Expedition. The sheer power and scariness of the currents had deterred all previous attempts to navigate this route. Out of the 916-km journey planned, the team navigated 240 km of the river, rafting through one of the most dangerous stretches in the world. This section, from Gellingthe first Indian village where the river enters India from Chinas Tibet region where it is called Yarlung Tsangpoto Tuting is renowned for its Grade 4 and 5 rapids. Known as Siang in Arunachal, the Brahmaputra is revered for its ferocity and unpredictability. A defence statement said this expedition also marked the first attempt to raft the entire Brahmaputra stretch spanning Arunachal and Assam. The NIMAS team was warmly received at Pasighat by the Deputy Commissioner and the Superintendent of Police of East Siang district, along with members of the Water Sports Association. They extended their heartfelt congratulations and appreciation to the team for undertaking such a daring and historical expedition, showcasing the spirit of adventure and resilience, the statement said. Col RS Jamwal, Director of NIMAS, expressed gratitude for the support from local authorities and communities. This expedition is not just about adventure; its about pushing boundaries, overcoming fear, and setting a new benchmark for exploration in India. The teams resilience through the life-threatening rapids of Siang reflects the true spirit of NIMAS, he said. The NIMAS team is now gearing up for the Assam stretch of the Brahmaputra. The team is expected to face new challenges in navigating the vast, powerful river system with its colossal eddies and intricate pathways. This historic expedition is a testament to human determination and a celebration of the unexplored beauty and power of Indias rivers, the statement added.
Girls' band from Jharkhand set for Republic Day parade debut
RANCHI: Students of Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya, located in the East Singhbhum district of Jharkhand, are set to give a band performance during the Republic Day celebrations on 26 January. Among three schools chosen nationwide to perform on the rostrum at Kartavya Path, this Jharkhand school earned its place alongside schools from Tripura and Sikkim. Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Education Minister Ramdas Soren, and other senior state officials have congratulated the team on this remarkable achievement. Notably, the Piper Band team from the school secured the first prize in the Zonal Level Band Competition held in Guwahati on 22 December 2024. According to the school warden, the students left for Delhi on Monday. It is really an honour that the Piper band of our school will be a part of the Republic Day at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. A band of 25 girls, mostly tribals, will be performing before the President on Republic Day, said Warden Rajni Murmu. According to the warden, it is due to the hard work and consistent practice that these girls were selected for Republic Day. It is really satisfying that bands from only three schools have been selected from across the country to perform on Kartavya Path, and Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya, Patamda, is one among them, said the warden. According to the State Programme Officer, Dhirasen Soreng, the girl band team from Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya, Patamda, was selected due to their precision and uniformity in playing tunes. The girl band, on the other hand, is quite excited that they will be performing before the President. We never thought that we would ever get selected for the Republic Day parade. It is really a great honour for all of us that we will be a part of the Republic Day parade, said one of the band members, Parvati Mahto, a class 11 student of the school. The band has been in Ranchi since 4 January and practising rigorously to compete with the other schools for the national-level competition, to be held in New Delhi itself before the Republic Day, she added. Mahto informed that the selection process for the pipe band competition began at the block level, followed by district and state levels. The team that was selected at the state level earned the opportunity to participate in the zonal-level competition, ultimately paving the way for their Republic Day debut. Now, they are preparing for the national-level competition, she said. The education department of Jharkhand has been making consistent efforts since 2015 to secure an opportunity to perform on the Republic Day Parade Rostrum.
Two Assam elephants transferred to Reliance Zoo despite CMO denial
Guwahati: Despite a denial from the Assam Chief Ministers Office (CMO) that no elephants have been transported from the state recently, two Assam elephants were transferred to Vantara, a private zoo owned by Reliance Industries, on Monday. Bishnupriya, 18, and Lakshmipriya, 26, who were under the care of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) [] The post Two Assam elephants transferred to Reliance Zoo despite CMO denial appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Hun-Thadou Cultural Festival 2025 To Be Held In Guwahati NorthEast Today
Hun-Thadou Cultural Festival 2025 To Be Held In GuwahatiNorthEast Today
Woman assaulted in Jorhat; Bir Lachit Sena leader detained
HT Digital GUWAHATI, Jan 20: In a disturbing incident that has left Jorhat city reeling, a young woman was assaulted near Nirmal Chariali, turning a verbal argument into a shocking public display of violence, as reported in a news bulletin. The confrontation, captured on CCTV, shows Ritu Phukan, General Secretary of the Bir Lachit Senas []
Assam Govt denies reports of elephant transportation
HT Digital GUWAHATI, Jan 20: The Assam Chief Ministers Office (CMO) has issued a firm denial regarding recent reports and social media posts suggesting the transportation of elephants from Assam, a press release said on Monday. In a statement on the micro-blogging site X, the CMO clarified, No elephants have been transported from Assam in []
Assam Forest Dept seizes pangolin in smuggling bust; 1 arrested
HT Digital GUWAHATI, Jan 20: In a significant crackdown on wildlife trafficking, the Assam Forest Department successfully intercepted a group of alleged smugglers at Dwifang Chowk in Udalguri under the Dhansiri Forest Division, the department officials informed on Monday. During the joint operation, a pangolin, a highly endangered species, was seized from the smugglers, highlighting []
Drugs worth Rs 1 crore seized in Cachar; 1 arrested
HT Digital GUWAHATI, Jan 20: In a significant breakthrough against the drug menace, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma lauded the efforts of Cachar Police after they successfully intercepted a vehicle carrying drugs worth Rs 1 crore at the Digharkhal Toll Gate, a press release said on Monday. Taking to the micro-blogging platform X, the []
Rahul Gandhi booked in Assam for threatening Indian state
Guwahati: A police case has been registered in Assam against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his recent speech to be threatening the sovereignty of the country, with the opposition party dismissing the complaint as a political stunt on Monday, January 20. A complaint was filed at Panbazar police station here by advocate Monjit Chetia on Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
7th Sailadhar Baruah Film Awards: Celebrating Assamese Cinema & Honoring Legends
Guwahati: The release of Halodhia Choraye Baodhan Khai in 1987 was undoubtedly a turning point in Assamese film history. The critically acclaimed movie went on to win the well-deserved National Award for Best Film (Golden Lotus) in 1988, the Grand Prix Leopard and World Ecumenical Award at the Locarno International Film Festival, and Best of [] The post 7th Sailadhar Baruah Film Awards: Celebrating Assamese Cinema & Honoring Legends appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Assam: Solar fences for HEC mitigation energized at HEC-hit villages
Guwahati: Two different community managed solar fences meant for HEC-mitigation were energized and handed over to the community recently at Narayanpara and Puthimari village under Goalpara Forest Division in Assam. Both the fences were implemented by Aaranyak in collaboration with Forest Department, Assam. In the Narayanpara, the Assistant Conservator of Forest (ACF) of Goalpara Subimal [] The post Assam: Solar fences for HEC mitigation energized at HEC-hit villages appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Meghalaya: Mob attempts to dismantle school, curfew clamped
GUWAHATI: Curfew was clamped in areas falling under the Mawkynrew village in Meghalayas East Khasi Hills district on Monday following an incident of mob violence involving a school. The police said the Ramakrishna Mission School at Mawkynrew was established in 2022 after a no objection certificate was issued by the then Sardar (village chief) of Mawkynrew but the incumbent Sardar stood opposed to it. A mob of some 250 people went to the school to dismantle it. However, we thwarted the attempt, Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem told TNIE . The mob had tried to attack our personnel but they exercised restraint. The mob has left. The situation remains tense but under control, Syiem said. Police personnel were still deployed in the area to prevent any untoward incident. There are reports about vandalism of the schools property and injuries to some. The SP said, We have not received any reports of injury to any as of now. Meanwhile, District Magistrate RM Kurbah in an order said, Whereas information is received that there is a serious deterioration of law & order in areas under Mawkynrew Village under Madanrting PS with reports of vandalism causing destruction to property and person at Ramakrishna Mission School, Mawkynrew and these activities are likely to continue with every likelihood of causing serious breach of peace and tranquillity and may lead to loss of life and property. Now, therefore, I, in the exercise of the powers conferred upon me under section 163 BNSS, do hereby promulgate curfew in the above-mentioned site at Mawkynrew Village with immediate effect till further orders, the order said.
RG Kar rape-murder convict gets life sentence, Rs 50,000 fine
Guwahati: Sanjay Roy, convicted for the rape and murder of an on-duty doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, has been sentenced to life imprisonment until death and a fine of Rs 50,000. The verdict was delivered by the Sealdah court on January 20, following his conviction on January 18.Judge Anirban Das stated that [] The post RG Kar rape-murder convict gets life sentence, Rs 50,000 fine appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Meghalaya: Unfenced border with Bangladesh posing security risks
Guwahati: The unfenced Indo-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya has once again sparked concerns over illegal infiltration from Bangladesh. The main point of contention lies in the disagreement over the border fencings construction location. While locals advocate for the fence to be erected along the Zero Line, the 1975 Indo-Bangladesh Agreement prohibits permanent structures within 150 meters [] The post Meghalaya: Unfenced border with Bangladesh posing security risks appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Assam: 2 brick kiln labourers assaulted, stabbed in Kamrup
Guwahati: Two labourers at a brick kiln near Chhaygaon in Kamrup, Assam about 70 kilometres from Guwahati were brutally assaulted and stabbed by unidentified persons. As per reports, the incident took place at a kiln in the Karidal area. The victims were identified as Shah Alam and Julhas Ali. Both of them were residents of [] The post Assam: 2 brick kiln labourers assaulted, stabbed in Kamrup appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Rahul Gandhi Booked In Guwahati Over Remarks On Capture Of Institutions By BJP, RSS
The Assam Police on Saturday registered a case against Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi for his comments that the Congress was fighting not just the BJP and RSS but also the Indian state. The Congress leader has been booked in Guwahati for acts endangering the countrys... The post Rahul Gandhi Booked In Guwahati Over Remarks On Capture Of Institutions By BJP, RSS appeared first on HW News English .
Assam: Suspected poacher killed in Nameri
Guwahati: A suspected poacher was killed after being shot at by forest guards at the Nameri National Park in Assams Sonitpur. As per sources, the suspect who is yet to be identified had illegally entered the park on Sunday night with the aim of killing deer. The forest guards during patrolling traced the movement of [] The post Assam: Suspected poacher killed in Nameri appeared first on NorthEast Now .
FIR Lodged Against Rahul Gandhi Over 'Indian State' Remark | Rahul Gandhi News | Guwahati | Congress
| FIR lodged in Guwahati against Rahul Gandhi over Indian State remarkThe police in Assams Guwahati have lodged a first information report (FIR) against senior Congress leader and leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, for his comment on the Indian State which has led to a controversy. The FIR was lodged on Saturday at the Pan Bazar police station by one Monjit Chetia under sections 152 and 197 (1)d of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for alleged acts endangering sovereignty, unity and integrity of the country. In his complaint, Chetia alleged that the remark was a threat to public order and national security. By mentioning that they (the Congress) were fighting the Indian State, Gandhi consciously incited subversive activities and rebellion among the public.This statement by Rahul Gandhi attempts to delegitimize the authority of the state and portray it as a hostile entity. Such remarks create a dangerous narrative, which could incite unrest and foster separatist sentiments, Chetia alleged in his complaint. Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
Meghalaya: Mass defection to Congress ahead of KHADC elections
Guwahati: Ahead of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) elections in Meghalaya, a large number of members from the Umroi Constituency Peoples Forum (UCPF) are set to join the Congress party on Tuesday. This move follows the recent announcement of MD Syiem, a former UCPF member, as the Congress candidate for Umroi Constituency. According [] The post Meghalaya: Mass defection to Congress ahead of KHADC elections appeared first on NorthEast Now .
HT Bureau GUWAHATI, Jan 19 : Guwahati based journalist and social worker Azizur Rahman Saikia was awarded the Brave Journalist and Social Worker award, in a felicitation programme organised by Pragya Moitri Sahitya Sadhana Manch held in Jyoti Chittraban , Guwahati. Saikia has been active regarding various social issues and doesnt back away from relentlessly []
Assam Governor Lakhsman Prasad Acharya to inaugurate Samutkarsh Mahasivir
HT Bureau GUWAHATI, Jan 19: The Samutkarsh Mahasivir will be inaugurated by Governor Lakhsman Prasad Acharya to be held from January 29 to 31 at Sarusajai Stadium. The mahasivir will be organised by Vidya Bharati Northeast region. To finalise arrangements for accommodation, exhibition sites, and dining facilities for the participants, a crucial meeting was held []
New plant species discovered in Nagaland
Guwahati: A team of botanists has made a significant discovery in Nagaland, identifying a new species of the Aeschynanthus genus, named Aeschynanthus clarkei. This finding adds to the regions growing botanical richness and highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts. The newly discovered species is found in a limited area of the Kiphire district, with [] The post New plant species discovered in Nagaland appeared first on NorthEast Now .
FIR against Rahul Gandhi in Guwahati for fighting Indian State remarks
GUWAHATI: An FIR was registered against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Guwahati for his reported statement The BJP and RSS have captured every single institution, and we are now fighting the BJP, the RSS, and the Indian State itself. The FIR was lodged by an advocate, Monjit Chetia, with the Panbazar Police Station. He said the statement, made in a public forum by a person who is holding the position of Leader of the Opposition, was not an ordinary political remark. The informant believes that these remarks were made with deliberate design and calculated intent to undermine the sovereignty and integrity of the Indian State and to provoke rebellion against the democratically-elected central government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the FIR read. The statement made by the accused has gone beyond the limits of permissible free speech and the same constitutes a serious threat to public order and national security. By declaring that his fight is against the Indian State itself, the accused has consciously incited subversive activities and rebellion among the populace. This is an attempt to delegitimize the authority of the State and to portray it as a hostile force, thereby creating a dangerous narrative that could provoke unrest and separatist sentiments, the FIR further read. The complainant said the remarks were a manifestation of Gandhis frustration over repeated electoral failures. Having been unable to gain public trust through democratic means, the accused now seeks to incite disaffection against the central government and the Indian State, the complainant said. This behaviour is particularly alarming given his position as the Leader of the Opposition, a role that comes with the responsibility to maintain public confidence in democratic institutions. Instead, the accused has chosen to exploit his platform to spread falsehoods and provoke rebellion, endangering the unity and sovereignty of India, the FIR further read.
Assam launches drive to seal illegal rat-hole mines
GUWAHATI: The Assam government has initiated a drive to shut down all rat-hole coal mines following a tragic incident on January 6 at a 300-ft-deep mine in the Umrangso area of Dima Hasao district. Rescue teams recovered the bodies of four miners, while five others remain trapped, with little hope of survival. The disaster was triggered by flooding, which could not be fully drained as the mine is linked to nearby water sources. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently stated that 220 rat-hole mines had been identified in the area. He directed the Mines and Minerals Department to close all such mines in consultation with central agencies. Dima Hasao Superintendent of Police Mayank Kumar Jha confirmed that a massive operation is underway to seal the mines on the instructions of the Director General of Police. We are restricting access, dismantling, and seizing equipment, though the process will take time due to logistical challenges, Jha said. Dima Hasao Superintendent of Police Mayank Kumar Jha confirmed that a massive operation is underway to seal the mines on the instructions of the Director General of Police. We are restricting access, dismantling, and seizing equipment, though the process will take time due to logistical challenges, Jha said. Meanwhile, 13 illegal rat-hole mines were sealed in the Margherita area of Tinsukia district bordering Arunachal Pradesh. Authorities also arrested four workers and seized equipment, including an excavator. It was revealed that illegal miners had been using an abandoned Coal India Limited office and had secured electricity connections. Rat-hole mining tragedies are a recurring issue in the Northeast, where high daily wages of Rs 2,000 to Rs 2,500 attract impoverished workers despite the dangers.
Massive fire engulfs 18 tents at Maha Kumbh Mela in UP
Guwahati: A massive fire erupted at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday following explosion of two LPG cylinders in Sector 19. The blaze quickly engulfed 18 tents, sending shockwaves through the gathering of devotees. Firefighters responded swiftly, deploying 15 fire tenders to contain the flames. While a few individuals sustained minor [] The post Massive fire engulfs 18 tents at Maha Kumbh Mela in UP appeared first on NorthEast Now .
FIR against Rahul in Guwahati over remarks on BJP & RSS
Assam: Another suspected jihadi arrested in Bilasipara
Guwahati: Another suspected jihadi operative was arrested in Bilasipara of Dhubri, Assam on Sunday. As per sources, the latest arrest was made by the Special Task Force (STF) of the Assam Police based on specific inputs. The suspect was identified as Jaheer Ali, a resident of the same district. He is reportedly being brought to [] The post Assam: Another suspected jihadi arrested in Bilasipara appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Assam: 33 elephants transferred to Vantara from Arunachal, activists raise concerns
Guwahati: At least 33 elephants are being transported from Arunachal Pradesh to Vantara, a private zoo at Jamnagar in Gujarat owned by Anant Ambani. The elephants, reportedly purchased from private owners in Lohit district, are being transported in 16 animal ambulances with Gujarat registration. Vantara, an initiative of Anant Ambani, the younger son of Reliance [] The post Assam: 33 elephants transferred to Vantara from Arunachal, activists raise concerns appeared first on NorthEast Now .
FIR filed against Rahul Gandhi for 'fighting Indian state' remark
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi faces legal issues following his statement on January 15, 2025, claiming BJP and RSS's capture of institutions and fighting the Indian State. An FIR in Guwahati accuses him of endangering India's unity and fostering rebellion, under Sections 152 and 197(1)d of Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita.
FIR registered against Rahul Gandhi for his 'we are now fighting... Indian State' remarks
Rahul Gandhi faces an FIR after claiming the BJP, RSS, and the Indian State have captured institutions, stating his battle is against the Indian State itself. The FIR, filed at Guwahati's Pan Bazar Police Station, accuses Gandhi of inciting rebellion and undermining state authority, posing threats to public order and national security.
Assam police chief GP Singh appointed CRPF Director General
Guwahati: Assam Police chief Gyanendra Pratap Singh has been appointed as the Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), according to a Personnel Ministry order. Singh, a 1991 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, will serve in the role until his superannuation on November 30, 2027. The [] The post Assam police chief GP Singh appointed CRPF Director General appeared first on NorthEast Now .
An innovator revolutionising handloom
ASSAM: Dipak Bhuyan is no engineer, nor is he technician. Fixing appliances has been his passion. You would find him at his Sivasagar residence sitting in a nest of iron bars of various shapes and sizes that had piled up as he worked on his dream project 15 years ago. His efforts did not go in vain. After five years of relentless efforts, he created the Maina Semi-automatic Handloom. Since then, it has revolutionised Assams weaving landscape. Bhuyan, a BSc (Mathematics) who retired as a superintendent engineer from the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation in 2015, had set up an enterprise with ten handlooms. However, the response was not satisfactory. He visualised a loom which can be operated by anyone. Efforts began soon and he innovated his semi-automatic loom, made entirely of iron, in 2015. He got a patent too. His company, Dipak Bhuyan Creation Private Limited, rolled it out in the market in 2016. It was an instant hit, prompting Bhuyan to augment the production. All along, he kept upgrading the loom. He makes the primary machinery, and gets the accessories made outside Assam. We have so far sold more than 1,200 looms of different variants in the Northeast, mostly Assam. Some were purchased in West Bengal too, says Bhuyans son Sanglap. So why is this loom unique? Sanglap says, To my knowledge, ours is the only semi-automatic loom that operates faster than any other such unit. There are some in Assam. They can also work fast but for 1-2 minutes. Our loom can work fast and continuously for upto 10 minutes. It is unique because you dont have to be an expert weaver to operate it. Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal had also tried his hand at it. He could weave around two inches in minutes. According to Sanglap, the Maina Semi-automatic Handloom is five times faster than common handlooms. Also, one does not need a lot of space to operate it. Handloom business is taking a beating because it is difficult for weavers to earn a decent wage. There is a ban in Assam on use of power looms to make traditional items. As our loom works faster, production is more, so people using it can pay a decent wage to their weavers. We feel our technology is unmatched, he says. The price of a Maina Semi-automatic handloom ranges from `90,000 to `1.4 lakh. According to Sanglap, many people have not been able to buy it as availing loan is a lengthy process. We get calls from people in Odisha, Ahmedabad. They want to buy just one machine. Perhaps, they want to come up with a replica. My father is not interested, he says. Sometime ago, IIM-Calcutta approached Bhuyans company for collaboration and purchased 3% of its shares, calling it mentoring share. IIM-Calcutta came to know us at an event organised by the North Eastern Council in Guwahati. There were representatives from 500 start-ups and we gave a presentation. IIM-Calcutta selected five of them, including us, Sanglap says. My father has a knack of playing with tools. He would remove everything from their places and then, fix it. He is versatile. He was the empanelled director of Doordarshan Guwahati, Sanglap adds.
Ex-gratia cheques given to families of those killed, trapped in Umrangso coal mine
GUWAHATI, Jan 18: Ex-gratia cheques were on Saturday given to families of miners whose bodies have been recovered and those still trapped in the flooded Umrangso coal mine, even as the dewatering process of the mine continued. Assam Mines and Minerals minister Kaushik Rai handed over the cheque of Rs 10 lakh each to the []
Awareness programme on road safety
HT Bureau GUWAHATI, Jan 18: A special awareness programme was organised by Nehru Yuva Kendra, Kamrup (Metro) in association with district administration as well as transport department at Arya Vidyapeeth College in Guwahati on Saturday. The programme was organised as part of the National Road Safety Week from January 17 to 23 aiming to raise []
Assam Launches Global Outreach Ahead Of Key Investment Summit
Assam has launched a global investment drive in the run-up to the Advantage Assam 2.0, the state's signature global investment and infrastructure summit, scheduled to be held in Guwahati on February 25 and 26.
Purabi Dairy sells over 2 lakh litres of milk and milk products during Magh Bihu festival in Assam
Purabi Dairy achieved over 2 lakh litres in milk and dairy product sales during Magh Bihu, marking a 35% increase from last year. Curd sales saw a 70% rise. The cooperative also inaugurated its fifth milk booth in Guwahati and plans to set up ten more, enhancing product accessibility across Assam.
Construction of 'permanent' river embankment by Bangladesh along border raises alarm in Tripura
GUWAHATI: The construction of a 'permanent' river embankment by Bangladesh at zero point along the border with India has set alarm bells ringing in Tripura. The construction is taking place between Bangladeshs Moulvibazar and Tripuras Unakoti districts. River Manu flows between the districts and it is feared that the situation in Unakoti might be devastating during the next flood. Officials in Tripura said Bangladesh did not inform India before getting ahead with the work. The construction is being seen as a one against the spirit of the Indo-Bangla Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Peace which does not allow any permanent construction on 150 yards from the zero point. Accompanied by senior officials, Unakoti District Magistrate Dilip Kumar Chakma inspected the site on Friday. They (Bangladesh) are building an embankment for protection from floods. We visited the border area to take stock of it. We thought they have substantially raised the height of their old embankment, Chakma told media. We will be required to strengthen our existing embankment as water will flow towards us more now. The matter has to be dealt with at a higher level, he further stated. According to the DM, the Indian embankment is located around 350 yards from the zero point. We have no idea about the length of the embankment, roughly around 1 km of it is visible. Work is still in progress. We learnt that they are preparing to make it pucca. I feel India should take necessary steps, he added. It was learnt that the state government would take up the matter with the Centre after receiving a report from the DM. The matter was first brought to the notice of the state government by local Congress legislator Birajit Sinha. I noticed the construction during a recent visit to the border and brought it to the governments attention in the Assembly. The government had no idea. I insisted on immediate measures. The Chief Minister said necessary steps would be taken in consultations with the central government, Sinha told TNIE on Saturday. Bangladesh raised the embankments height to a great extent, the floods would leave a trail of devastation in Unakoti, particularly the Kailasahar town, he added. Our embankment has a low elevation. It is very old and weakened. It requires repairs urgently. Last year, the water of River Manu entered the Kailasahar town through a rusty sluice gate and wreaked havoc, Sinha also said.
Assam Govt invites entries for Tribal Film Competition 2025
HT Digital GUWAHATI, Jan 18: The a Assam Institute of Research for Tribals and Scheduled Castes (AIRTS), under the Department of Tribal Affairs (Plain), Government of Assam, has announced a unique opportunity for filmmakers to participate in a competition celebrating Indias rich tribal culture, Education Minister Ranoj Pegu announced on Saturday. The event, which will []
School bus accident in Umrangso claims one life; many injured
HT Digital GUWAHATI, Jan 18: A devastating accident early Saturday morning near the Necem cement factory in Assams Dima Hasao district claimed the life of a student and left several others injured, as reported in a news bulletin. The incident involved a school bus carrying students of Sacred Heart School, which overturned in Umrangso under []
Assam: Purabi Dairy records record sales during Magh Bihu, opens new milk booth in Guwahati
Guwahati: Assams leading dairy cooperative, Purabi Dairy, achieved a significant milestone during the recent Magh Bihu festival, recording daily sales exceeding 2 lakh liters of milk and milk products. This represents a 35% increase compared to the previous years Magh Bihu sales. The surge in demand, particularly for curd (70% increase) and cream (40% increase), [] The post Assam: Purabi Dairy records record sales during Magh Bihu, opens new milk booth in Guwahati appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Prez approves appointment of 17 Assam Police Service officers to IPS
HT Digital GUWAHATI, Jan 18: In a significant development for Assam, the President of India Droupadi Murmu has approved the appointment of 17 officers from the Assam Police Service (APS) to the Indian Police Service (IPS), Director General of Police (DGP) GP Singh announced on Saturday. The appointments were notified by the Ministry of Home []
Guwahati Police arrest goat thieves, foil museum heist
HT Digital GUWAHATI, Jan 18: In two significant unusual cases, the Guwahati Police rescued four stolen goats and recovered stolen mobile phones from a museum heist, the police officials informed on Saturday. In the first incident, a team from the City General Police District (CGPD) under Pan Bazaar Police Station intercepted a car (registration number []
Assam to host first Guwahati Asian Film Festival, to showcase films from across Asia
Guwahati: The first Guwahati Asian Film Festival (GAFF) is all set to open with screening of----In the Arms of the Tree, an Iranian film directed by Babak Khajehpasha, setting an inspiring tone for the inaugural edition of the festival. The film is Iran's official submission for the 97th Academy Awards and will open the festival, scheduled from February 7 to 9, 2025 at the historic Jyoti Chitraban Film Studio, Guwahati. A landmark event for film enthusiasts, creators, and industry professionals, this three-day festival will showcase the best of Asian cinema while providing a platform for cultural exchange and creative dialogue. The closing film of the festival will be My Melbourne by directors Imtiaz Ali, Rima Das, Onir and Kabir Khan. GAFF 2025, organized by Trending Now Media, is dedicated to showcasing the dynamic and diverse storytelling traditions of Asia while placing a special spotlight on the rich and vibrant cinema of Assam and the North-East region. The festival will feature a curated selection of 22 films from over 200 feature film entries from across Asia, representing countries such as Iran, Nepal, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Bangladesh, Hong Kong, Azerbaijan, Philippines, Sri Lanka and Turkey. A special competitive section, exclusively for films from North-East India, will recognize outstanding achievements in categories including Best Film, Best Direction, and Best Performance, celebrating creativity, technical excellence, and storytelling. The honorary Festival Director Monita Borgohain told reporters, GAFF 2025 is all set to be a vibrant celebration of Asias rich storytelling traditions. We are proud to present a thoughtfully curated lineup that promises to captivate audiences and inspire filmmakers. Every film has been carefully selected to offer a transformative cinematic journey, bridging cultures and sparking meaningful conversations. The three-day event will also host engaging panel discussions and workshops led by renowned filmmakers and industry experts, fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration. It will provide opportunities for filmmakers, actors, and enthusiasts to network and explore future creative projects. Urging the people of Guwahati to attend the festival, the programme Director Mr Kishore Kumar Sarma, said, This is an excellent opportunity for the cine-lovers to relish the finest cinematic masterpieces from across Asia. GAFF 2025 is set to bring the world to our doorstep, allowing audiences to experience diverse cultures, stories, and artistic expressions right here in the heart of Assam. The internationally renowned Sri Lankan filmmaker Prasanna Vithanage will grace the event as a chief guest. Moreover, adding to the festivals fame, renowned film critic and festival advisor Srinivasa Santhanam, National Award-winning film critic and filmmaker Utpal Borpujari, National Award-winning filmmaker Manju Borah, and prominent film critic, music journalist, and editor Dalton Christopher will be integral parts of the 1st GAFF. The inaugural edition of Guwahati Asian Film Festival aims to become a cornerstone cultural event, fostering global appreciation for Asian cinema.
Assam: Massive No Road, No Vote protest in Kokrajhar
Guwahati: Residents of Chamarpara in Assams Kokrajhar district have launched a large-scale protest with the slogan No Road, No Vote, demanding the construction of a much-needed road due to the severe hardships caused by poor road conditions. The main demand is the construction of a road connecting Nayapara Nachanguri to Chamarpara, a longstanding issue that [] The post Assam: Massive No Road, No Vote protest in Kokrajhar appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Sanjay Roy found guilty in RG Kar rape and murder case
Guwahati: A local court in Kolkata has convicted 33-year-old civic police volunteer Sanjay Roy for the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at the state-run RG Kar hospital. The courts 160-page judgment, delivered by the Additional District and Sessions Court in Sealdah, found Roy guilty under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to [] The post Sanjay Roy found guilty in RG Kar rape and murder case appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Meghalaya has more schools than needed, reveals study
GUWAHATI: Meghalaya has more schools than needed, a departmental study revealed. The state has 14,582 schools against a population of 29,66,889 (Census 2011). For comparison, Manipur, with a population of 25,70,390, has only 4,617 schools while Tripura (population 36,73,917) has only 4,929 schools. Similarly, Himachal Pradesh, which has a more challenging terrain than Meghalaya, has 17,826 schools, serving a population of 68.64 lakh. Kerala, with a population of 3.34 crore -- more than 11 times that of Meghalaya, has more or less the same number of schools -- 15,864. This disproportionate number of schools in Meghalaya has resulted in skewed student enrollment. Another key finding of the study is that Meghalaya has 206 schools with zero enrolment and 2,269 schools with single-digit enrolment. Additionally, the state has an unusually high number of aided schools. Nationwide, aided schools account for less than 5 per cent of the total number of schools. However, in Meghalaya, the proportion is 29 per cent. According to the study, a reason behind the large number of schools is that a single school is often counted multiple times in the data. This occurs when a private school seeks multiple grants from the government. For example, a school may be counted as four separate schools (SSA, Adhoc, Deficit and Private), even though it is managed and owned by a single entity, the study said. As far as performance is concerned, the pass percentage of the Secondary School Leaving Certificate examination in the state in the past ten years was between 50.31 and 56.96. When asked if the government will merge the schools with zero enrolment with nearby schools as done in neighbouring Assam, Commissioner & Secretary Vijay Mantri told TNIE that the government would take a decision by the end of February. Meghalaya also has a skewed distribution of institutes of higher education. East Khasi Hills district has 47 such institutes as against 15 in West Garo Hills, ten in Ri-Bhoi, seven in West Jaintia Hills, three each in Eastern West Khasi Hills, South West Garo Hills, West Khasi Hills, two each in East Garo Hills and South West Khasi Hills and one each in East Jaintia Hills, North Garo Hills and South Garo Hills districts.
Assam: School student killed in Dima Hasao as bus overturns
Guwahati: A student died after a school bus overturned in Dima Hasao, Assam on Saturday morning. As per reports, the incident took place near the Necem cement factory in Dima Hasaos Umrangso. Several others were left severely injured during the accident. The deceased was identified as Dalmur Rongpi, a student of a private school in [] The post Assam: School student killed in Dima Hasao as bus overturns appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Assam: CMs Vigilance Cell raids Dhubri DFOs house in Guwahati
Guwahati: The Chief Ministers Vigilance Cell conducted a raid at the residence of a Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) in Guwahati, Assam, on Saturday morning. Hiranya Pathak who is posted in Dhubri is accused of owning property that is disproportionate to his known sources of income. The raid took place at Pathaks house in Narengi, Guwahati, [] The post Assam: CMs Vigilance Cell raids Dhubri DFOs house in Guwahati appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Republic Day: Assam Governor to unfurl national flag in Guwahati, CM in Dibrugarh
Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya will unfurl the national flag in Guwahati for Republic Day, while Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma will do so in Dibrugarh. Sarma has directed officials to ensure adequate arrangements for the celebrations across newly created Co-districts, with a focus on cleanliness drives and necessary preparations for parade and march past.
NE Direct Selling Conference amp Expo at Guwahati IDSA
NE Direct Selling Conference amp Expo at Guwahati IDSA
State remembers Rupkonwar with fond memories
HT Bureau GUWAHATI, Jan 17: The Geetanagar Shatadal Sahitya Sabha in Guwahati observed the 73rd Silpi Divas with a solemn tribute program on its premises. On this occasion, the current president of the Satadal Sabha, Padumi Pathak, hoisted the flag of the Assam Sahitya Sabha. Vandana Hazarika, the cultural secretary, offered tribute to the martyrs, []
Akasas Makar Sankranti special meal
HT Bureau GUWAHATI, Jan 17: Caf Akasa, the onboard meal service of Akasa Air, announced the launch of the third edition of its special Makar Sankranti meal, with an all-new menu to celebrate the first festival of the year in the skies. This festive delight comprises of Urad Dal Kachori served alongside delectable Undhiyu accompanied []
Guwahati-bound flight makes emergency landing at Chennai airport
The IndiGO flight took off around 3.50 p.m. and was airborne for almost 50 minutes
Arunachal Pradesh police appeal to armed group members to return, key recruiter held
GUWAHATI: Arunachal Pradesh police on Friday appealed to the members of a newly-floated armed group to return to mainstream. It also assured that no legal action will be taken against them if they do so on their own accord. The police also arrested the key recruiter, Tana Hasi, and established the identities of several youths recruited by the group, United Tani Army (UTA). Return voluntarily to your families and communities. No legal action will be taken against you if you come forward on your own, the police said in a statement. We understand that many of you may have been misled or pressured into joining. If you step back now, we will provide you with support to reintegrate into society and pursue a better future, the statement further stated. The police said the investigation revealed that Hasi was in direct contact with senior members of UTA and Naga Insurgent groups and that he acted as a link between the group and vulnerable youth. He was the main recruiter who facilitated the transportation of the youth to the camps associated with banned organizations. He has been actively scouting for new recruits, the police said, adding that they foiled the attempt of a youth to join the outfit. Stating that social media platforms and local networks were used to persuade youth to join UTA, the police said the case highlights the dangerous activities of the organisation that seeks to destabilise peace and exploit the potential of youth for violent purposes. The police advised parents to remain vigilant and guide their children away from harmful influences. The police are committed to dismantling recruitment networks like those operated by UTA and ensuring peace in the state. We urge the public to stay alert and report any suspicious activities. Together, we can prevent these harmful ideologies from spreading and protect the future of our youth, the police said. One Anthony Doke is the UTA chief. Recently, the outfit issued a statement opposing the construction of mega dams, issuance of ST certificates to non-native tribals and seeking the relocation of Chakma-Hajong refugees. Later, it also released a few videos of its training camps.
Assam records 16.41% drop in road fatalities; CM urges safety
HT Digital GUWAHATI, Jan 17: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a significant reduction in road accident fatalities during the festive period between December 24, 2024, and January 15, 2025, a press release said on Friday. According to the data, the state witnessed 163 fatalities, a 16.41% decrease compared to 195 fatalities recorded during []
BSF foils smuggling attempts along Indo-Bdesh border
HT Digital GUWAHATI, Jan 17: In a significant breakthrough against transborder smuggling, the Border Security Force (BSF) achieved notable successes in thwarting illegal activities along the Indo-Bangladesh border, the BSF officials informed on Friday. In the first operation, BSF Guwahati personnel from the 162 Battalion apprehended a smuggler with 26 cattle heads near the border []
