Arunachal Freedom of Religion Act: Christian forums meeting with state HM remains inconclusive
Arunachal Freedom of Religion Act: Christian forums meeting with state HM remains inconclusive Itanagar: Amid the ongoing agitation against the implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978 by the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF), top leaders of the convention on Friday held its first meeting with the states Home Minister Mama Natung [] The post Arunachal Freedom of Religion Act: Christian forums meeting with state HM remains inconclusive appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Arunachal Guv highlights development, education, social reforms on Statehood Day
ITANAGAR, Feb 20: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K T Parnaik (Retd) on Thursday reaffirmed the state governments commitment to improving infrastructure, digital connectivity, and public services to enhance the quality of life for all citizens. Unfurling the national tri-colour at IG Park here, on the occasion of the 39th Statehood Day, the governor acknowledged []
Frontier Highway game changer for Arunachals border development: Rijiju
ITANAGAR, Feb 20: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday asserted that the multi-crore Frontier Highway project will be a game changer for the border areas of Arunachal Pradesh. Speaking at the 39th Statehood Day celebrations here, Rijiju said this is the highest allocation ever made by the Centre for a single project in the country. The Frontier Highway is going to be the largest road project in the history of India. It is going to be around 1,400 kilometres long, [] The post Frontier Highway game changer for Arunachals border development: Rijiju appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Mission Shikshit Arunachal will transform education sector: Officials
Mission Shikshit Arunachal will transform education sector: Officials Itanagar: The Arunachal Pradesh government is considering introducing Mission Shikshit Arunachal by 2029 under the banner of Transformation of education Landscape in Arunachal Pradesh, officials said on Wednesday. An official of the Chief Ministers Office (CMO) said that a detailed comprehensive plan on Mission [] The post Mission Shikshit Arunachal will transform education sector: Officials appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Arunachal Governor reviews TCL security scenario
HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, Feb 19: Arunachal Pradesh Guv KT Parnaik, reviewed the security scenario of the Tirap, Changlang and Longding District with the security agencies at Khonsa, Tirap District on February 17. He said that for the development and progress of the people and the state, a secure environment was paramount. Highlighting the strategic importance []
Appeal to take part in Arunachal statehood Day
HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, Feb 19 : The Itanagar capital complex (ICC) deputy commissioner Talo Potom on Tuesday has appealed the denizens of capital complex to take part in state hood day celebration at IG Park as all the preparation have been nearing completion and finishing touch were being given by all the line department. Speaking []
AAPLU organised awareness and health camp at Dambuk
HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, FEB 18: The All Arunachal Pradesh Labour Union (AAPLU) on Tuesday organised a mega awareness cum health camp which benefited hundreds of local workers community of Dambuk and adjoining areas of Lower Dibang Valley district. The mega awareness camp was organised in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh building and other construction workers []
No external interference to be tolerated in Arunachal, says Governor
ITANAGAR, Feb 18: Emphasising that no external interference will be tolerated in Arunachal Pradesh, Governor Lt Gen (Retd) K T Parnaik has reiterated the state governments commitment to protect its citizens from outside influence and intimidation, particularly in Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts. Chairing a high-level review meeting at Khonsa in Tirap district on Monday, []
Arunachal Pradesh: Protests Erupt Over Namchik Coal Mining Auction in Changlang
HT Digital ITANAGAR, Feb 18: Thousands of locals of Longtom-I & II, Panchun, and Injan of Kharsang held a mass protest rally on Monday against the ongoing auction of the Namchik East and West coal mine projects in Arunachal Pradeshs Changlang district. The demonstrators, expressing their strong opposition to the mining plans, marched en masse []
In a 1st, Assam House session outside Guwahati
GUWAHATI: Assam made history on Monday by holding an Assembly session outside the states seat of power Guwahati, for the first time. Ministers and MLAs woke up early as they took a bus ride to the Bodo heartland Kokrajhar, 210 km away from Guwahati, to be a part of history. Excitement was writ large on their faces. Businesses on the inaugural day of the Budget session were conducted at the secretariat of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) with Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya delivering the customary speech. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma tabled the report of Justice (Retd) Biplab Sarma regarding irregularities committed in the Combined Competitive Examinations of 2013 and 2014 before the Assembly. He termed the session historic. The session from Tuesday will be held at the Assembly building in Guwahati. Minister Pijush Hazarika highlighted the journey of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) from restlessness to peace and development. Fifteen years ago, there was a situation in BTR where people demanded a separate state. Now, they dont want it. They welcomed us for the Assembly session. This is new Assam and new Bharat, Hazarika said. He also said that PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah had been instrumental in developing BTR and establishing peace in the region. Two days ago, Modi stated the NDA governments at the Centre and Assam had been working tirelessly to empower the Bodo community and fulfil Bodo aspirations. He said these works would continue with even greater vigour. I fondly recall my own visit to Kokrajhar where I witnessed the vibrant Bodo culture, the PM had stated. Protest against Freedom of Religion Act in Arunachal Thousands turned up at an Itanagar ground on Monday as the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) staged an eight-hour hunger strike in protest against the state governments move to implement the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978. The participants held posters with messages like We demand the repeal of APFRA and Do not turn us against one another.
Arunachal church body stages hunger strike to oppose Freedom of Religion Act
GUWAHATI: Thousands turned up at a ground in Itanagar on Monday as the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) staged an eight-hour hunger strike in protest against the state governments move to implement the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978. Some MLAs were among the participants. The participants held posters which had messages such as we demand the repeal of APFRA, do not turn us against one another, there is no honour in enforcing APFRA. ACF president Tarh Miri claimed that APFRA violates the freedom of accepting faith and religious belief. We oppose this Act. Anti-conversion law is enforced in 11 states. This is only against Christianity, he alleged. ACF secretary general James Techi Tara said the enforcement of APFRA would create hatred among people. Changing faith is ones own choice. Forced conversion is restricted in the Indian Constitution. Show me one instance where a complaint was lodged against forced conversion. We want nothing less than the repeal of the Act, Tara said. Earlier, the state government said APFRA would be implemented in deference to a directive of the Gauhati High Court. The court asked the government to finalise the Acts draft rules within six months from September 2024. Chief Minister Pema Khandu said the rules, being framed as per a directive of the High Court, were not against any religion. The government has been asked to frame the rules to give some more protection to indigenous (faiths), Khandu said. He said he would ask the states department of indigenous affairs minister and the home minister to deliberate the matter together with all stakeholders. The ACF, however, slammed him for his alleged double standard.We dont entertain his statement. In 2018, he himself had announced that he will repeal this draconian law. But in 2024, he announced that it will be implemented. This is his double-standard, ACF president Tarh Miri told TNIE . The Act was introduced in 1978 to safeguard the traditional religious practices of indigenous communities from external influence or coercion.
Arunachal Governor adopts TB patients of Lohit
HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, Feb 16: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, KT Parnaik visited the Zonal General Hospital, Tezu, Lohit District on February 16. During his visit, he visited different wards of the Hospital and interacted with medical officers and nursing staffs. Continuing his ongoing commitment to eradicate tuberculosis in the State, and in his role []
Arunachal Pradesh Governor reviews developmental works of Lohit District
HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, Feb 16: Arunachal Pradesh Governor KT Parnaik, reviewed the central and state government-sponsored programmes, projects and schemes of Lohit at Tezu on February 16. The Governor, who is on a two-day tour of the district, was briefed about the progress and challenges of the flagship programmes. The Governor emphasised the need for []
Arunachal deputy CM attends 55thCentral Taml-D Festival
HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, Feb 16: The 55thCentral Taml-D Festival was celebrated with great enthusiasm in Khoraliang village, Tezu, bringing together the Mishmi community and dignitaries under the theme Connecting to Brotherhood. The festival, a vibrant display of Mishmi community of Lohit Districts rich cultural heritage, focused on fostering unity and communal harmony among communities. Deputy []
Fire destroys over 25 shops in Arunachal district, no casualty reported
ITANAGAR, Feb 15: A massive fire broke out at Tenga Market in Arunachal Pradeshs West Kameng district in the early hours of Saturday, reducing more than 25 shops to ashes, police said. The fire erupted around 4 am, swiftly engulfing the market and causing property damage worth crore of rupees, Rupa police station officer-in-charge, sub-inspector []
Arunachal Governor interacts with tea growers
HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, Feb 15: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt. General KT Parnaik, PVSM, UYSM, YSM (Retd.), interacted with representatives of the states Small Tea Growers at Raj Bhavan here in Itanagar on Saturday. During the meeting, they discussed strategies for promoting Arunachal Pradeshs tea industry. The Governor emphasised the need for organic tea []
Arunachal: Two Police Personnel Suspended for Drug Use in Kra Daadi, Inquiry Launched
ITANAGAR: Two police officers in Kra Daadi district have been suspended for reportedly using drugs, and a departmental investigation has been initiated against them, a top official said on Friday. The two officers were reportedly nabbed in a late-night operation on Wednesday at a meat shop in Palin, the district headquarters. The police team conducted []
Arunachal: East Siang District Shuts Down as ABSU Calls 12-Hour Bandh Over Unmet Demands
Itanagar: Normal life in East Siang district was totally paralysed on Friday as a 12-hour bandh was called by the All Bogong Students Union (ABSU). The bandh was called to protest against the unions failure to meet its many demands, one of which was renaming two educational institutions after states prominent personalities. All business establishments, []
Ali-Aye-Ligang and Tamla Du Festival greetings
HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, Feb 14: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Lt General KT Parnaik has extended his greetings to the people of the State and Mising community of Assam on the joyous occasion of Ali-Aye-Ligang on Friday. He expressed hope that the festivity usher in tranquillity, contentment and happiness in the society. Additionally, the Governor []
Tawang faces power, communication disruptions amidst heavy snowfall
ITANAGAR, Feb 13: Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh has been experiencing heavy snowfall since Tuesday evening, throwing life out of gear in the border district. The entire district has been covered under a thick blanket of snow, district officials said. While snowfall is not uncommon in the region, the prolonged and heavy nature of this spell []
Women panel condemns racist remarks against Arunachali actress
ITANAGAR, Feb 11: The Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) has strongly condemned derogatory and racist remarks made by social media influencer Elvish Yadav against former Miss Arunachal and Big Boss contestant Chum Darang. In a letter addressed to the National Commission for Women chairperson, APSCW chairperson Kenjum Pakam on Monday said that the []
Akashvani Itanagar gets top NE zone honour
Gauhati High Court dismisses PIL challenging tender process for road project
The Gauhati High Court, in a recent judgment, has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) by a resident of Narba Colony, Itanagar, challenging the tender process initiated by the Executive Engineer, DPIU, RWD, Laaying Yangte Division for the construction of a road project in Kurung-Kumey District. The petitioner alleged that the tender process was initiated [] The post Gauhati High Court dismisses PIL challenging tender process for road project appeared first on India Legal .
Gauhati HC raises concerns over Arunachal Pradesh State Human Rights Commissions functioning
The Gauhati High Court, in a recent order, raised significant concerns about the functioning of the Arunachal Pradesh State Human Rights Commission. The Itanagar Division Bench of Justice Kalyan Rai Surana and Justice Mridul Kumar Kalita was hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Tarh Gambo, a resident of Arunachal Pradesh, who sought to [] The post Gauhati HC raises concerns over Arunachal Pradesh State Human Rights Commissions functioning appeared first on India Legal .
Arunachal Guv releases poetry book highlighting importance of birds
ITANAGAR, Feb 6: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) K T Parnaik on Thursday released a poetry book titled Birds are Poems: 100 Narrative Poems at Raj Bhavan here. The book is authored by Prof Tomo Riba, vice-chancellor of Arunachal Pradesh University (APU). Praising Prof Ribas literary endeavour, Parnaik described the book as a beautiful []
GST fraud racket busted: Fake invoices worth Rs 658.55 crore unearthed
Central GST Itanagar Commissionerate has uncovered a racket issuing fake invoices worth Rs 658.55 Crores without supplying goods, leading to a loss of nearly Rs 100 Crores to the government. Two masterminds, Ashutosh Kumar Jha and Bipin Kumar Jha, have been arrested, and forensic analysis is underway.
Rise and Shine in Arunachal 2025 Calendar launched in Itanagar
The Department of Tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, in partnership with Miss India Organisation, Times Group, has launched the Rise and Shine in Arunachal Pradesh 2025 Calendar. The calendar, billed as a tribute to the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Northeastern state, was unveiled on Saturday at an event at the Dorjee Khandu [] The post Rise and Shine in Arunachal 2025 Calendar launched in Itanagar appeared first on The Shillong Times .
Arunachal education minister, AAPSU GS inaugurate annual REILA of RGGPC
HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, Feb 2: The education and RWD minister on Sunday inaugurated the annual REILA (Recreation, Entertainment, Information and Literary activities) celebration of Rajiv Gandhi Government Polytechnic (RGGP) College here at Vivek Vihan. Education minister PD Sona was accompanied by All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU) general secretary Ritum Tali who attended as chief []
Former MLA and centenarian Sorang Takio passes away
HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, Feb 2: Centenarian and father of Tali, former MLA Sorang Takio passed away on Sunday morning. The last rites would be performed on Monday at Tikdo in Papum Pare. Late Takio, father of former MLA Takam Sorang passed away on Sunday morning due to aged old ailments. A popular figure, Takio was []
Rise and Shine in Arunachal Pradesh 2025 Calendar launched in Itanagar
NEW DELHI, Feb 2: The department of tourism, government of Arunachal Pradesh, in partnership with Miss India Organization, Times Group, has launched the Rise and Shine in Arunachal Pradesh 2025 Calendar. The calendar, billed as a tribute to the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Northeastern state, was unveiled on Saturday at an event []
A 10-Year-Old Dies in a Tragic Road Mishap on Her Way to School
Hyderabad: A 10-year-old Class V student who was on the way to school on her fathers two-wheeler died on the spot after a lorry hit their vehicle at Sitanagar on the Shaikpet-Manikonda road. The incident took place at 8.10 am, Filimnagar sub-inspector A. Ganesh Goud said. Her father, a social media manager with an electronic media firm, who survived with injuries said the lorry was being driven in a rash manner and hit their two-wheeler from the rear. We fell on the road and my daughter came under the wheels of the lorry, he said. The 10-tyre multi-axle lorry was carrying a cargo of sugar. The father fell towards the right side and the victim fell on the left side and came under the lorrys wheels. By the time the driver realised and applied brakes, it was too late, said G. Giri who runs a kiosk near the accident spot. The victim, the only daughter of the family, had gone to a taekwondo class at 6 am from her residence in Shaikpet and returned by 7.40. She changed and got ready for school, a family member of the victim said. She was very active and always stood first in her school, the relative said. The victims parents were married around 18 years back and migrated to the city from Suryapet, the family member said. The victim was well-mannered and punctual. It's a great loss, the victims school mate told Deccan Chronicle . Police arrested driver Yasin Quereshi, seized the lorry and registered a case of death due to rash and negligent driving. The victims body was handed over to the family after a post-mortem examination at the Osmania General Hospital.
Call for activating ALGs for boosting connectivity, tourism
ITANAGAR, Jan 27: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) K T Parnaik on Monday called for activating all Advance Landing Grounds (ALGs) in the state to their full potential, emphasising their importance for both the armed forces and civilian use. During a meeting with Air Marshal Surat Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the Indian []
ITBP, Arunachal agri marketing board ink pact to boost market access for farmers
ITANAGAR, Jan 27: A Memorandum of Understanding was signed on Monday between the Indo-Tibetan Border Police and the Arunachal Pradesh Agriculture Marketing Board at Tuting in Upper Siang district, officials said. The partnership aims to create a sustainable market platform for local farmers and self-help groups (SHGs), improving their livelihoods and boosting the regions agricultural []
Arunachal CM vows to bridge development gaps in Siang district
ITANAGAR, Jan 27: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday acknowledged that Rumgong region in Siang district has remained undeveloped for long and assured that every effort will be made to address the developmental gaps. Joining the Hiyom Banggo Unying Giidi festival at Rumgong, Khandu emphasised governments commitment to ensuring equitable progress for the []
AP civil supplies minister conducts ward inspection in Tenali
Vijayawada :Food and civil supplies minister, Nadendla Manohar, conducted a ward inspection in Tenali on Monday, addressing long-standing civic issues and promising sweeping reforms. The inspection revealed several infrastructure gaps left by the previous administration, including an incomplete housing project worth `530 crore meant for poor beneficiaries, the minister claimed. During his visit to the municipal high school, the minister interacted with students and teachers. He said immediate action will be taken to level the school's boundary wall, which had been in disrepair. We have uncovered several instances where welfare pensions were arbitrarily canceled by the previous government. An investigation is under way, and we will ensure justice for all legitimate beneficiaries, he said. The minister announced several new initiatives for Aitanagar, including a park near the water tank, at a cost of `1.30 crore. This would open by summer. The other plans are for the modernization of existing parks and development of new walking tracks, renovation of the pond adjacent to Aitanagar school and a three-year programme to integrate Anganwadi students into government municipal schools On women's empowerment, he outlined plans to strengthen the savings societies and create income-generating opportunities. Our government is committed to transparent governance and inclusive development, he stated. The inspection highlighted issues with previous housing projects, wherein some units were completed without basic amenities while others remained only on paper despite land allocation. The minister promised that these irregularities would be set right.
Wildfire engulfs Tawang Chu river belt in Arunachal
ITANAGAR, Jan 24: Wildfire engulfed the adjoining areas of Tawang Chu river in Arunachal Pradesh on Friday morning, officials said. The fire spread rapidly, threatening Sagkyur and nearby villages, district officials said. Quick intervention by the Lungla administration, with support from Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), Indian Army personnel from Tawang Brigade, local police and residents []
Kiren Rijiju pushes for pineapple festivals national recognition
ITANAGAR, Jan 24: Union minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday said the soil in Arunachal Pradeshs West Siang district, particularly in the Bagra area, is fertile and ideal for pineapple cultivation. Addressing the valedictory event of the Arunachal Pineapple Festival (APF) at Bagra, the Union parliamentary affairs minister shared his vision of elevating the festival to []
Chinas mega hydropower project threat to water security
ITANAGAR, Jan 24: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday expressed concern that the neighbouring Chinas plan to construct the worlds largest hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo river will have a devastating effect on the state and Assam. The Yarlung Tsangpo river enters Arunachal Pradesh as Siang and becomes the Brahmaputra in Assam []
Arunachal Dy CM pledges support to farmers at pineapple fest
ITANAGAR, Jan 23: Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein has reaffirmed the governments commitment to empowering farmers and fostering agricultural development in the state. Speaking at the inaugural day of the three-day Arunachal Pineapple Festival at Bagra in West Siang district on Wednesday, Mein assured farmers of the governments unwavering support for their growth. []
Spices cultivation can become sustainable income source in Arunachal Pradesh: Minister
ITANAGAR, Jan 23: Cultivating spices can become a sustainable income-generating endeavour in Arunachal Pradesh if pursued with dedication, the states Commerce and Industry Minister Nyato Dukam said on Thursday. Addressing a buyer-seller meeting for spices at the DK Convention Hall here, he expressed concern and said that some farmers were focussing solely on government subsidies []
BJP to implement law on womens reservation: New party chief
ITANAGAR, Jan 22: Newly elected Arunachal Pradesh unit BJP president Kaling Moyong on Wednesday said that the ruling party will implement the law on womens reservation in the next assembly elections in the state in letter and spirit. This will provide women with a platform to participate in governance and will enhance their role in []
4 tourists fall in frozen Sela Lake in Arunachal while attempting to walk
Itanagar: Four tourists fell into the frozen Sela Lake in Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, while attempting to walk on its icy surface, an official said on Monday. However, they were safely pulled out of the icy water, the district official said. At Sela Pass in Arunachal Pradesh. My advice to tourists: Walk on the Frozen Lakes with experienced people, drive carefully on slippery snow roads and be aware of snow avalanche. Temperatures is freezing so wear warm clothes and enjoy. Your safety is important. pic.twitter.com/UWz8xOzd57 Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) January 5, 2025 The incident took place at the scenic lake, located at an altitude of 14,000 feet on Sunday, when the four tourists from Assam, including one woman, ventured onto the frozen surface despite clear risks. Fortunately, their companions acted quickly, pulling them out of the icy water and preventing a tragedy, the official said. The incident occurred around 10 am when the tourists ventured onto the frozen surface of the lake. There was no casualty reported and all of them are fit and fine, additional deputy commissioner (ADC) Hakraso Kri said. Local authorities had previously issued warnings against such activities. In December last year, Tawang Deputy Commissioner Kanki Darang had advised visitors to avoid walking on high-altitude frozen lakes, including Sela Lake, Shongetser Lake, PT Tso Lake, and the lakes around Bumla Pass. For the local community, these lakes hold deep cultural and spiritual significance. According to tradition, tampering with or polluting these sacred water bodies is believed to invite misfortune. Meanwhile, Union Parliamentary Affairs minister Kiren Rijiju who hails from the state has cautioned tourists to remain careful while walking in such frozen lakes. Enjoy mountains but be careful of snow avalance, icy roads and ice lakes, Rijiju said in a post on X. At Sela Pass in Arunachal Pradesh. My advice to tourists: Walk on the frozen lakes with experienced people, drive carefully on slippery snow roads and be aware of snow avalanche. Temperatures is freezing so wear warm clothes and enjoy. Your safety is important, he added.
Arunachal to frame rules to implement the Act to curbs religious conversion
Mr Khandu made this announcement recently in a programme organised by the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP) in Itanagar on Friday, Mr Khandu said that the Act would play a significant role in preserving Arunachals indigenous faith and cultures
ITANAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu said the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), estimated to cost Rs 1.13 lakh crore, was being planned by the Centre not just for generating electricity but to maintain the natural flow of the river all year round and mitigate risks of flooding if China released excess water. Khandu's remarks came in the wake of China approving the construction of the world's largest dam , at a cost of USD 137 billion, on the Brahmaputra river in Tibet close to the Indian border. The dam is to be built at a huge gorge in the Himalayan reaches where the Brahmaputra river makes a huge U-turn to flow into Arunachal Pradesh and then to Bangladesh. The SUMP, with an estimated installed capacity of 11,000 mw, is not just about generating power, but also about maintaining the natural flow of the Siang river and mitigating potential flood risks from water releases by China, Khandu told PTI in an interview. Describing SUMP as a project of national importance, he said hydropower generation is only the secondary goal of it. The real objective of the project is to save the Siang river and the communities that have depended on it for generations, he said. The survey for preparing the pre-feasibility report of the projects is yet to be done amid stiff opposition from locals who are concerned about displacement, loss of livelihoods, and environmental impact of the mega dam. Warning of severe consequences if China's project moves ahead without safeguards, Khandu said the neighbouring country's plans to divert water from the Brahmaputra into its arid regions could drastically reduce the flow of the Siang river during winters. In such a scenario, the volume of water could decrease so much that one might be able to cross the mighty river on foot, he claimed. The proposed Siang project would create a reservoir capable of storing 9 billion cubic meters of water. This would ensure the river maintains a consistent flow, even during dry seasons. Additionally, the reservoir would act as a buffer in case of sudden water releases from upstream Chinese dams, potentially averting catastrophic flooding in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Bangladesh, he said. Acknowledging the ongoing bilateral discussions between India and China, the CM cautioned against complacency. China is unpredictable and can do anything, Khandu said, underscoring the need for India to remain vigilant. We cannot take chances when it comes to national security and the welfare of our people, he said. The Chinese government approved the construction of the hydropower project in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo river, the Tibetan name for the Brahmaputra. It is expected to generate more than 300 billion kWh of electricity each year enough to meet the annual needs of over 300 million people. The total investment in the dam could exceed one trillion yuan (USD 137 billion), which would dwarf any other single infrastructure project on the planet, including China's own Three Gorges Dam, regarded as the largest in the world. On the concerns of the locals, Khandu said the government would conduct extensive surveys before finalising the plans. Only after these studies, we will know the exact location of the dam, its height, and the submergence area, he said, adding that a public hearing will be held to listen to people's concerns . The CM said India was a democratic country, and it does not believe in forcing things on its people. However, he criticised activists, accusing them of spreading misinformation among villagers about the project . He claimed that these activists were instigating people without providing accurate information about the project's benefits. I urge people to come forward and get their confusions addressed through dialogue, he said. Khandu also spoke about the state's broader hydropower development plans. He said the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) recently sanctioned Rs 1,750 crore for the 186 mw Tato-I Hydro Electric Project and Rs 1,939 crore for the 240 mw Heo Hydro Electric Project in the Shi Yomi district. The CM said the state has signed agreements with NHPC, NEEPCO, THDCIL, and SJVN to develop 13 hydropower projects with a combined capacity of over 11,000 mw. Once completed, these projects are expected to generate substantial revenue for the state. The Centre has also approved a significant equity support scheme to boost hydropower development in the Northeast, he said. Under this initiative, Rs 4,136 crore has been allocated to northeastern states to develop hydroelectric projects with a cumulative capacity of 15,000 mw by 2032. This initiative will transform the hydroelectric landscape of Arunachal Pradesh and the northeast region, Khandu said, adding the Centre has also agreed to increase the Local Area Development Fund (LADF) contribution from power projects to over 2 per cent. We are taking steps to ensure that Arunachal Pradesh becomes a powerhouse for the nation while protecting the interests of our people and environment, he added.
Siang Project Not Just For Generating Power But Mitigating Flood Risks Posed By China: Arunachal CM
ITANAGAR, Dec 29: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu said the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), estimated to cost Rs 1.13 lakh crore, was being planned by the Centre not just for generating electricity but to maintain the natural flow of the river all year round and mitigate risks of flooding if China released excess water. Khandus remarks came in the wake of China approving the construction of the worlds largest dam, at a cost of USD 137 billion, on [] The post Siang Project Not Just For Generating Power But Mitigating Flood Risks Posed By China: Arunachal CM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Arunachal school overhead water tank collapses, 3 students die
Itanagar: Three students of a private school were killed and three others injured when an overhead water tank collapsed and fell on them in Arunachal Pradesh's Naharlagun on Saturday, police said. The students were playing at the St Alphonsa School in Model Village when the tank collapsed injuring six students, Naharlagun Superintendent of Police Mihin Gambo said. All the injured were rushed to the Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS), Naharlagun, where three were declared dead. A post-mortem is currently underway, the SP said. The deceased are class 9 students while the injured belong to class 6 and 7, police said. The police have detained the school principal, owner, and four other staff members for questioning. Preliminary investigations suggest that the water tank may have exceeded its capacity. However, we are probing the matter further to determine the exact cause, the SP added. Three students of a private school were killed and three others injured when an overhead water tank collapsed and fell on them in Arunachal Pradesh's Naharlagun on Saturday
'Progress in last decade bridged gap between Delhi, Northeast': PM Modi
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said efforts have been made over the last decade to bridge the emotional and developmental gap between Delhi and the Northeast, emphasising the importance of bringing the region closer to the nations heart. Inaugurating the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav here to celebrate the vibrancy of the Northeast, Modi said the progress of the region was not given much emphasis under the previous governments due to fewer population and votes in those states. He said the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government was the first to create a dedicated ministry for the region and also earmarked 20 per cent budget of every ministry for its development. Describing the event as a significant step toward new avenues for progress across the northeastern states, Modi said the region is now getting opportunities for every section. The PM said that during the last decade, his government tried to reduce the feeling among people about the gap of Delhi and Dil with the Northeast. Union ministers made 700 visits to the Northeast in the last decade and the government was connecting the region with the trinity of emotion, economy and ecology, he said. In the last decade, we have seen a wonderful journey of the development of the Northeast but it was not easy. We have taken every possible step to connect the northeastern states with Indias growth story, he said. For a long time, we have seen how development was weighed against votes. Northeastern states had fewer votes and seats, so previous governments did not pay attention to the development of the region, he said. Modi said he believes the coming days are of eastern India and the Northeast. Like Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai and Bengaluru, cities of the region such as Guwahati, Shillong, Imphal, Itanagar and Aizawl will be new beacons of growth, the PM said.
Development of NE neglected by previous govt due to fewer votes, seats: PM Modi
Mr. Modi said Guwahati, Shillong, Imphal, Itanagar and Aizawl will follow the paths of Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai and Bengaluru
Arunachal cops apprehend Ri-Bhoi village headman
From Our Correspondent NONGPOH, Dec 5: Badhok Nongmalieh, the headman of Mawtnum village in Ri-Bhoi, was arrested on Wednesday night by a team from Itanagar Police Station, Arunachal Pradesh. The arrest was carried out within the jurisdiction of Nongpoh Police Station, following a Non-Bailable Warrant of Arrest (NBWA) issued by the Judicial Magistrate First Class []
Upset over girlfriend's affair, man commits suicide in Hyderabad
Hyderabad: Pahadishareef police said a driver, Naveen Sharma, died by suicide at his house in Natua Enclave of Jalpally late on Wednesday night. Police said Sharma was in love with a girl for 10 years and was upset when he came to know that she was in an affair with another person. Two die after mistakenly consuming chemicals at Osmania Hospital Two persons who reportedly mistook a chemical and consumed it died while undergoing treatment at Osmania General Hospital (OGH). Malakpet police identified the victims as Chintala Narender and his friend G. Venkatesh. They were found unconscious by Lakpathi, the employer of the victims, near Saleemnagar Park on Wednesday evening, and shifted to the OGH. Police said the duo was drinking liquor and mistook the contents of an abandoned bottle and drank it. Teenager commits suicide at home A 16-year-old Intermediate second-year student died by suicide at her house in Sitanagar, Filmnagar police said on Thursday. The victim had earlier quarrelled with her father, an autorickshaw driver, who had refused to drop her at college. Police said the father, who used to drop her at college daily, was earlier angered by the student talking with her classmates for too long. On Wednesday, he refused to drop her even though she called him to do so. When he returned home, the father found the students body at home and informed the police. Ganja worth Rs 53 lakh seized The special teams from Bhadrachalam excise task force intercepted a car and seized 210 kilograms of ganja and other property worth `53 lakh on Thursday, and arrested transporters Pune natives Pandari and Dattatreya. The duo was taking the contraband from AP to Pune and was then intercepted at the Bhadrachalam RTO check post, Bhadrachalam SHO Rahimunissa Begum said. The duo was produced before a court for remand. V.B. Kamalahasan Reddy, director of TG excise enforcement, appreciated the action of the Bhadrachalam police. Awareness manual against drugs released Higher education principal secretary Burra Venkatesham on Thursday released an awareness manual against drugs, at a programme for educational institutions here on Thursday. He directed the educational institutions to form prahariclubs/anti-drug Committees and educate students on the ill effects of drugs. He also said that we have to control the Drug menace at any cost because it will spoil our nation with Narco Terrorism. Sandeep Shindilya, director for TGNAB, said awareness programmes played a major role in curbing the drug menace. TGNAB links cocaine found in Telangana raids to Afganistan Telangana Anti-Narcotics Bureau (TGNAB) has found that the cocaine that was seized during a crackdown on smugglers here was similar to that found in Afghanistan. TGNAB officials have shared the information with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. We have shared intelligence on synthetic drugs with agencies across borders to identify the main foreign suppliers involved in smuggling drugs into the country, TGNAB director Sandeep Shandilya told Deccan Chronicle. He said that foreign intelligence had helped secure leads on the main drug suppliers. TGNAB for the first time invoked the Smugglers and Foreign Exchange Manipulators (Forfeiture of Property) Act, 1976 (Safema) on August 22 to neutralise the resources of the smuggler gangs frequently indulging in smuggling. That operation involved the seizure of `40.3 lakh cash and the TGNAB under the act secured an attachment order and seized property worth `5.2 crore from a family of Nanakramguda.
1962 India-China war: Motorcycle expedition in Arunachal commemorates Battle of Walong
Itanagar, Nov 9: Commemorating the Battle of Walong and paying tribute to the valiant soldiers who fought heroically during the 1962 India-China war, the Indian Army organised a motorcycle expedition from Mipi to Meshai in Arunachal Pradesh, officials said. Defence Spokesman Lt Col Mahendra Rawat said that remembering the 1962 Battle of Walong and paying [] The post 1962 India-China war: Motorcycle expedition in Arunachal commemorates Battle of Walong appeared first on The Shillong Times .
Arunachal Pradesh Shocker! Police constable molests woman near Itanagar police station
A police constable has been arrested here for allegedly molesting a young woman near the Itanagar police station, a senior police officer said on Friday.
Case filed against Arunachal artist for killing a chicken, drinking its blood in a performance
Arunachal Pradesh police filed a case against artist Kon Waii Son, who killed a chicken and drank its blood at a performance in Itanagar. The incident was reported by PETA India. They cited studies linking animal cruelty to psychological disturbance and criminal behavior. PETA India advocates for stronger penalties for animal cruelty.
Arunachal Musician Booked For Killing Chicken, Drinking Blood On Stage
Arunachal Pradesh Police registered an FIR against artist Kon Waii Son for publicly killing a chicken by slitting its throat and then drinking the bird's blood during a recent performance in Itanagar, officials said on Tuesday.
Disengagement process in certain areas along LAC 'almost complete': Rajnath Singh
ITANAGAR: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said the disengagement process in certain areas along LAC was almost complete based on consensus achieved between India and China. Unveiling a statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and inaugurating the Major Ralengnao 'Bob' Khating Museum of Valour at Tawang, Singh referred to the broad consensus achieved by India and China to restore the ground situation in certain areas along the LAC. India and China have been holding talks at both diplomatic and military levels to resolve the differences in some areas along the LAC. As a result of the talks, a broad consensus was developed on the basis of equal and mutual security. The consensus includes the rights of patrolling and grazing in traditional areas, he said. Based on this consensus, the process of disengagement is almost complete. Our efforts will be to take the matter beyond disengagement; but for that, we will have to wait a little longer, he added. Singh, who could not travel to Tawang due to inclement weather, virtually inaugurated the statue of Patel and the museum from Tezpur in Assam's Sonitpur district. The Defence Minister recognised Major Bob Khating's crucial role in establishing Indian administration up to McMahon Line in February 1951, highlighting Tawang's strategic significance. Major Khathing not only led the peaceful integration of Tawang into India but also established essential military and security frameworks, including the Sashastra Seema Bal, Nagaland Armed Police, and the Naga Regiment. The 'Museum of Valour' now stands as a tribute to his bravery and foresight, inspiring generations to come, he said. Singh commended the Indian Army and local communities for their initiative in creating the museum. Indian, Chinese troops exchange sweets at several border points on Diwali after disengagement Singh paid glowing tributes to Sardar Patel, acknowledging his instrumental role in unifying over 560 princely states post-independence, a feat that stands as a testament to his indomitable resolve and commitment to a unified India. This statue 'Desh Ka Vallabh' will inspire people, reminding them of the strength in unity and the unwavering spirit required to build a nation as diverse as ours, he said. The defence minister underscored the significance of unity and harmony and the North-East's unique role in the nation's identity. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of ensuring economic and infrastructure development of the entire region. Holistic development of the nation is possible only when the North East prospers. We will create such a North East which is strong and prosperous not only naturally and culturally but also economically, he added. Singh also highlighted the crucial role of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in the progress of the region. He made special mention of the Sela tunnel linking Assam and Tawang, a project that enhances connectivity across Northeast regions. In the times to come, the Arunachal Frontier Highway project will play a major role in connecting the entire North East region, especially the border areas. This 2,000-km long highway will prove to be an important strategic and economic asset for the region as well as the entire nation, he said. Singh further commended the Armed Forces' engagement in the region, from NCC initiatives and local economic support to crucial disaster relief efforts. Armed Forces not only provide security but also become a medium for development in that region by cooperating with the people of the border areas. This further strengthens India's commitment to ensuring development, peace, and security in the Northeast, he said. Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd), Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, GOC-in-C Eastern Command Lt Gen RC Tewari, 4 Corps GOC Lt Gen Gambhir Singh and other senior civil and military officials attended the event at Tawang. After inaugurating the statue and museum virtually from Tezpur, the Defence minister returned to the national capital on Thursday, winding up his two-day visit to Gajraj Corps headquarters at Tezpur, an official spokesperson said. Singh, whose tour was originally scheduled for Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang, could not visit the border state due to inclement weather, the Defence spokesperson added. The Defence minister has returned to New Delhi by an Indian Air Force flight at around 11 am, he said.
Rajnath To Inaugurate War Memorial, Sardar Patel Statue In Arunachal
ITANAGAR, Oct 30: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will visit Tawang district in Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday to inaugurate the Museum of Valour dedicated to Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing and unveil a statue of Bharat Ratna Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in the border district. Singh will also celebrate Diwali with soldiers stationed along the India-China border, officials said on Wednesday. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh will also join the event, they said. Sharing the information in X, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister [] The post Rajnath To Inaugurate War Memorial, Sardar Patel Statue In Arunachal appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Portion of retaining wall along Krishna River on Sitanagaram side collapses
Vijayawada: A section of the retaining wall along the Krishna River on the Sitanagaram side collapsed due to damage sustained from heavy rains and unprecedented floods in September. The already deteriorating river wall structure fell into the Krishna River two days ago after suffering further damage from the recent rains. Local residents have urged authorities to repair the wall immediately or construct a temporary barrier to prevent vehicles or pedestrians from falling into the river. The road on the Sitanagaram side is frequently used by residents of Sundaraiah Nagar, Undavalli, and Tadepalli to commute into Vijayawada city from the Prakasam Barrage side. It is also important to note that sections of the railing on the Prakasam Barrage have slightly tilted, posing a danger to pedestrians and commuters alike on the structure.
