Arunachal Pradesh faces protests over 11,000-MW Siang dam, 1,605-MW Subansiri project
Protests erupted in Arunachal Pradesh over proposed hydropower projects, causing violent clashes and significant unrest. People oppose the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project and the Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project, voicing concerns over environmental damage. Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized the need for careful assessment of the projects before proceeding. The proposed developments are linked to fears of water security due to China's dam projects upstream.
Arunachal: 30 CAPF companies deployed across Siang valley amid protests against SUMP
Dibrugarh: Arunachal Pradesh has deployed 30 companies of central armed forces across East Siang, Siang and Upper Siang districts amid escalating protests against the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), following incidents of violence and vandalism during anti-dam demonstrations. Inspector General of Police (Central Zone) Hibu Tamang said the deployment includes personnel from the Central [] The post Arunachal: 30 CAPF companies deployed across Siang valley amid protests against SUMP appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Cong Under Fire Over Fake AI Video as Army Debunks Chinese Intrusion Claims; Rijiju Hits Out
The BJP has accused the Congress of circulating an AI-generated video falsely attributing remarks about Chinese control of parts of Arunachal Pradesh to Indian Army officer Girish Kalia. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju demanded an apology from the Congress, accusing the party of tarnishing the Armys image.The Indian Armys fact-check unit clarified that the viral video was digitally altered and contained fabricated remarks. The original footage was from a 2023 press briefing in Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir, where the officer spoke about infiltration attempts along the Line of Control.The controversy comes amid earlier concerns raised by Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee President Bosiram Siram, who alleged that Chinese PLA forces had advanced 4050 kilometres into Indian territory in certain areas and raised questions about border patrolling and infrastructure.
BJP slams Congress over sharing deepfake videos on China, Arunachal Pradesh
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 27 (IANS) Senior advocate and BJP leader Nalin Kohli on Tuesday criticised the Congress for sharing videos falsely claiming Chinese incursions into Indian territory and alleged that the opposition party was spreading misinformation on matters concerning national security. Speaking to IANS, Kohli said the Congress leaders had posted the videos without verifying their authenticity and accused the party of using sensitive national security issues for political gains. It is very unfortunate that the Congress party and its leaders tweet false things without even gathering information, even when it is against the national interest, to spread fear by saying, Look at what is happening between India and China. This video itself is false. It is AI-generated and far from the truth. They posted it immediately without any application of mind, he said. The BJP leader also referred to the Congress's criticism of previous military operations, including Operation Sindoor, the Balakot airstrikes and the surgical strikes, questioning whether the party was placing political considerations above national interest. Do these Congress party leaders think it is right to put the national interest aside and do this for their own politics? Kohli asked. Earlier, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also condemned the Congress after the Indian Army debunked videos shared by a Congress leader alleging that China had taken control of parts of Arunachal Pradesh. He demanded that Congress apologise for the move. Previously, a Congress spokesperson from Bihar, Ritu Choudhary, in a post, claimed that Chinese vehicles had entered Indian territory. In a fake video, it was alleged that China had taken control of areas in Arunachal Pradesh and that the Indian Army was being denied essential supplies. The Indian Army clarified that the video showed Chinese commercial vehicles at Nathu La Pass in Sikkim, an authorised India-China border trade point, and did not depict a military intrusion. The movement of commercial vehicles at an authorised border trade route is being misrepresented as evidence of a Chinese military intrusion, the Army said. In a separate fact-check issued on Sunday, the Army also dismissed a video circulated by Pakistan-linked social media accounts that purportedly showed Chinese soldiers searching Indian Army personnel in Arunachal Pradesh and claimed that Indian troops needed Chinese permission to move through the state. The Army clarified that the footage was actually from a counter-terrorism mock drill conducted in Bengaluru in May 2026 and had no connection with Chinese forces or military activity in Arunachal Pradesh. It cautioned people against confusing a security exercise with an actual military confrontation. The Army also debunked a video featuring Lieutenant General Girish Kalia, General Officer Commanding of the Spear Corps, which falsely portrayed him as saying that China had taken control of parts of Arunachal Pradesh. According to the Army, the original footage was from a press briefing in Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir, on October 27, 2023, concerning foiled infiltration attempts across the Line of Control. The officer had made no statements about Chinese control over Arunachal Pradesh or the denial of supplies to Indian troops.
Arunachal Pradesh Congress chief Bosiram Siram has alleged that Chinese troops have intruded 40-50 km into Indian territory in Upper Subansiri district, claims that have not been independently verified. Following a visit to border areas from August 26 to 29, Siram said Chinese military activities had restricted locals access to traditional grazing and hunting grounds.
Congress national spokesperson Ritu Choudhary and multiple social media accounts circulated misleading videos claiming Chinese vehicles had entered Indian territory and that China had taken control of parts of Arunachal Pradesh, with one video also alleging that Indian Army troops were being denied essential supplies. The Indian Army and the Ministry of Electronics and Information [] The post Congress Spokie & IT Cell Share Pak ISI Created Deep Fake AI Videos Of Indian Army appeared first on The Commune .
Kiren Rijiju Demands Congress Apology After Army Debunks Videos Claiming Chinese Intrusion
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has demanded an apology from the Congress after the Indian Army debunked two social media posts shared by Congress spokesperson Ritu Choudhary about alleged Chinese incursions and Chinese control over parts of Arunachal Pradesh.
Congress state chief claims China entered 50 km into Arunachal Pradesh, CM Pema Khandu fact-checks
Arunachal Pradesh Congress chief Bosiram Siram has claimed that Chinese troops advanced 40 to 50 km into Indian territory in Upper Subansiri district, an allegation rejected by Chief Minister Pema Khandu. The claim comes after the Indian Army debunked a separate allegation by Bihar Congress communication chief Ritu Choudhary involving troop movements. Siram has called for an impartial investigation into reports from border residents.
Arunachal: Gorkha community protests near Hollongi over fatal shooting, accused absconding
Guwahati: Tensions rose near Hollongi along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border on Monday evening, October 26, after a man allegedly shot dead his wifes younger brother during a domestic dispute. Members of the Gorkha community later blocked a road near the interstate border, demanding action over the killing. The accused, identified as 42-year-old Kenba Kami, a [] The post Arunachal: Gorkha community protests near Hollongi over fatal shooting, accused absconding appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Pasighat Protests: 26 Apprehended After Violence
Twenty-six individuals, including five juveniles, have been apprehended in connection with violence during a bandh in Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh, on October 23. The protests were against the proposed mega dam over the Siang river, leading to property damage and clashes. Police have registered eight criminal cases and detained six others for questioning.
For many in the country, a recent statement by ShatrujeetKapur, the Director General of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), regarding face-off situations along the Chinese border in Arunachal Pradesh served as a revealing exercise. The situation suggests that while the distressing pre-and-post-Galwan Valley episodewhich lasted well over four and a half yearsis not repeating exactly, a new trap is being set: the Eastern Ladakh syndrome. This syndrome refers to the sensitive border friction in Ladakh that began in AprilMay 2020 and lasted until October 2024. That standoff was resolved following a meeting between Prime Minister NarendraModi and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, where both leaders pledged to work toward a peaceful resolution of the decades-old boundary dispute. In the aftermath of that summit, and during subsequent high-level meetings, matters appeared to be moving toward a resolution. The brutal clashes in the Galwan Valleyfought in steep gorges at dizzying heights of 14,000 to 17,000 feet on the night of June 1516, 2020had initially generated hope that an Eastern Ladakh-type crisis could be permanently averted. However, the context of this new syndrome is different. It is not necessarily the immediate repetition of a war-like theater along the borders, but rather the constant, lingering threat that it might happen. In military strategy, the psychological impact of such uncertainty is often greater than actual combat conditions. This syndrome cannotand should notbe wished away. Today, China is aggressively upgrading its technology-driven military software and hardware. While these advancements are not exclusively India-specific, the fact that India sits in Chinas immediate neighbourhood cannot be ignored, especially given past betrayals. It should also not be forgotten that China and Pakistan are all-weather friends who have stood by each other in all seasons. Chinese support to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor in May 2025 is a matter of record, opening new vistas of threat for India. China-Pakistan relations are not just standard bilateral relations; they have been further fostered by both countries controlling the occupied territories of Jammu and Kashmir on the other side of the Line of Control (LoC) in the Karakoram range. They are also partners in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which illegally passes through Pakistan-occupied territories of Jammu and Kashmir. That aspect should not be ignored. The ITBP chief did not state anything entirely new; border friction has long existed due to the largely un-demarcated Line of Actual Control (LAC). Nevertheless, his remarks exposed a critical fault line that must be taken seriously, rather than dismissed as a routine occurrence on a borderline where perceptions matter more than ground reality. Addressing troops in Alwar, Rajasthan, the ITBP chief noted, In the past few days, a situation arose where a face-off happened at several locations in Arunachal Pradesh, and it still continues. This statement implies that China has returned to the playbook it deployed in eastern Ladakh prior to the full-fledged military standoff of 2020. It reinforces the reality that patrolling in these sensitive sectors remains far from settled. Crucially, the admission that these face-offs are ongoing means the threat is active and demands a more robust response to prevent a repeat of Eastern Ladakh. It should be averted not only physically but also psychologically. Kapur also highlighted the obvious while praising the capabilities of the ITBPs new combat unit, the Shaurya Commandos, for their skills during these face-offs with the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA). He unequivocally described China as Indias biggest adversary and the China front as the forces most difficult assignment. In sensitive matters of national security, neither underplaying nor overplaying a threat is helpful. The intention behind these face-offs matters more than the immediate physical action. Even if PLA troops pitch tents, display banners, and subsequently retreat, these actions should be read as exploratory steps to test Indias response times and military readiness. They serve as a stark reminder of the early days of the 2020 Ladakh crisis, the memories of which remain deeply etched in Indias military and civil psyche. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) provided necessary clarity on the matter. MEA spokesperson RandhirJaiswal observed: As we have noted in the past, the situation in the India-China border areas gets disturbed from time to time when Chinese forces diverge from established patrolling patterns. He added that both sides continue to use diplomatic and military mechanisms to avoid miscalculation along the LAC, while agreeing to discuss better border management. Domestically, the Arunachal situation has triggered two unhelpful extremes. On one side, certain opposition figures and analysts have rushed to draw alarmist parallels to the 2020 standoff, using the crisis to score political points against the government without realizing that their rhetoric inadvertently aids the adversary and confuses the public. Equally distressing is the counter-narrative from certain retired generals and security commentators who dismiss the entire development as a routine event requiring no alarm. The real picture lies somewhere in between, requiring both context and long-term perspective. As the international landscape shiftswith the US and China actively engaging in new military dialogues between the Pentagon and the PLANew Delhi must look toward a strategic reset. International observers note that India and China must engage in more frank diplomatic and military talks, keeping trade and bilateral interests functional without letting past conflicts entirely dictate the present. India possesses the capacity to manage this balance. Moving forward, Chinese attempts to manufacture an Eastern Ladakh syndrome in the east must be countered through an unyielding combination of sophisticated diplomacy and enhanced military capability.
Riot-Control Forces Airlifted To Arunachal Pradesh After Anti-Dam Protests
Arunachal Pradesh Police have called in two Rapid Action Force (RAF) companies from Navi Mumbai to Pasighat as reinforcements.
Gen Z Strike Called Against Arunachal Dam, Forces Airlifted From Mumbai
The Arunachal Pradesh Police are preparing for the agitation and have called in two Rapid Action Force (RAF) companies from Navi Mumbai to Pasighat as reinforcements.
Arunachals anti-dam protests spread as agitators oppose 1,605 MW Menga hydropower project
In Arunachal Pradesh, opposition to the 1,605 MW Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project is growing fierce. A bandh organized by student groups has brought normal activities to a halt, impacting transportation services. Protesters are pushing for the cancellation of the project, raising alarms over potential environmental damage and safety hazards. Incidents of property damage and clashes with law enforcement have been documented.
China Lectures India On Border Peace After PLA Deviates From Established Patrol Routes In Arunachal
China is lecturing India on border peace after New Delhi flagged frequent PLA face-offs and deviations from established patrol routes in Arunachal Pradesh.Beijing calls its patrols normal activities and asks India to show restraint. But is China seeking stabilityor using its old playbook of advancing, asserting claims and blaming India?Watch: https://youtu.be/llr5oAxuS_k
Arunachal Face-Offs: China Repeating 'Ladakh Toolkit' Vs India; Peace Lecture Exposes Beijing
China breaks the border peace, then lectures India about maintaining it. In Arunachal Pradesh, PLA troops are facing off with Indian forces, Chinese patrols are deviating from established routes, and Beijing calls for restraint without admitting a thing. ITBP chief Shatrujeet Kapur acknowledged frequent face-offs, Delhi highlighted the deviations, and Chinese spokesperson Guo Jiakun responded with a sermon on peace. August reports of Chinese tents near Asaphila add weight to the concerns. From Depsang, Chumar and Doklam to Galwan and Tawang, the same playbook repeats: move forward, obstruct patrols, claim territory, rename land, then blame India. China claims Arunachal as Zangnan, while the thaw, handshakes, flights and border trade now look vulnerable. Beijing preaches stability in summit meetings while testing the status quo on the ground, and India must call it out. Is this genuine diplomacy or salami slicing? Watch the complete story, share your opinions, and subscribe for updates.
Arunachal: 26 arrested, eight cases registered over Pasighat violence linked to Siang dam protests
Pasighat: East Siang Police in Arunachal Pradesh have arrested 26 people, including five juveniles, in connection with violence during protests against the proposed 11.2 gigawatt Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in Pasighat on October 23. Six others have been detained for questioning. According to a press release issued by East Siang Superintendent of Police Pankaj [] The post Arunachal: 26 arrested, eight cases registered over Pasighat violence linked to Siang dam protests appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Violence marks shutdown against another proposed dam in Arunachal Pradesh
Protest against the proposed 1,605-megawatt Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project follows agitation against the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project
School assembly news headlines October 27: Top national, international, business, sports updates
On October 27, significant news from India includes Prime Minister's warning about cyber terrorism and a cyclone alert. The Indian Army has refuted claims regarding Chinese control in Arunachal Pradesh. In international news, Saudi coalition intercepted a missile, and Brazil's left-wing leader won a surprising victory. Indian sports updates include preparations for the T20I series against New Zealand. Lastly, Pakistan has defeated England by one wicket after a notable performance.
Kriti Sanon reunites with her 'Bhediya' co-star Varun Dhawan: Stay Tuned
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 26 (IANS) Kriti Sanon raised excitement among movie buffs as she reunited with her 'Bhediya' co-star Varun Dhawan, along with the director of the movie, Amar Kaushik. She uploaded a short clip on the Stories section of her Instagram handle on Monday. Kriti, Varun and Amar were seen smiling at the camera as they made a howl sound, a reference to their movie 'Bhediya'. Hinting that they might be working on something, the text on the video read, An unexpected reunion that will get you Obsessed! Stay Tuned !! (sic). Varun also reshared Kriti's post on his official handle. While it is not certain, these three might be planning an announcement for 'Bhediya 2'. Meanwhile, apart from 'Bhediya', Kriti and Varun had also done Dilwale' together, and if 'Bhediya 2' materializes, it will mark their third on -screen pairing. In May, these two came together for an evening with friends and music. They were seen having a gala time as they were joined by Kriti's sister Nupur Sanon, her singer husband Stebin Ben, and the 'Fukrey' actor Varun Sharma. All of them were grooving to the Tera Ho Jaun track from Varun's laughter ride 'Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai'. For the unaware, the romantic number has been crooned by Stebin, along with Jonita Gandhi, with lyrics penned by Vayu. The post was captioned, Tera Ho Jaun .. .. .. with the madness...Dont miss the end. Talking about 'Bhediya', the horror-comedy revolves around a road-construction contractor named Bhaskar (Played by Varun) who is bitten by a wolf while working in the forests of Arunachal Pradesh. After the incident, he soon begins experiencing a strange transformation into a werewolf. Kriti is seen essaying the role of Anika, a veterinarian who has more knowledge about the mysterious events than she initially lets on. Bhediya reached the cinema halls in November 2022.
China took Arunachal areas? Indian Army busts deepfake video targeting border security
The Indian Army has issued a strong warning against a manipulated video circulating on social media that falsely claims China has taken control of parts of Arunachal Pradesh and that Indian troops deployed along the border are being denied essential supplies. The Army has categorically rejected the allegations, identifying the clip as digitally altered content that uses fabricated remarks attributed to a senior military officer.
Meghalaya defeat Arunachal in BCCI
Shillong, Oct 26: Meghalaya put on an excellent first game demonstration to defeat Arunachal Pradesh by 38 runs in their first BCCI Senior Womens T20 Trophy 2026-27 plate group match in Sovima, Nagaland today. Arunachal won the toss and chose to field first, with Meghalaya posting 111/3 in their 20 overs. Arunachal were then restricted [] The post Meghalaya defeat Arunachal in BCCIs Senior Womens T20 first appeared on Highland Post .
Why Indias Mega Dam Has Sparked Fierce Protests In Arunachal? | Siang Project | China's Tibet Plan
Arunachal Pradeshs proposed 11,200 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) has triggered strong opposition from indigenous communities and protests that turned violent in Pasighat. The project, planned across three districts, is being pitched as a strategic counter to Chinas proposed 60,000 MW mega dam at Medog in Tibet. While the state cites water security, flood management and hydropower development, local groups fear displacement, loss of fertile farmland and damage to ancestral heritage. Police reported over 40 personnel injured in the violence. The Centre has deployed around 250 Rapid Action Force personnel, while Chief Minister Pema Khandu has offered talks.
Arunachal: CASR condemns arrest of anti-dam activists, demands release of Siang protesters
Guwahati: The Campaign Against State Repression (CASR) has condemned the arrest of three anti-dam activists in Arunachal Pradesh following the recent violence in Pasighat, demanding their immediate release and an end to the alleged crackdown on the movement opposing the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP). In a press statement, CASR identified the arrested [] The post Arunachal: CASR condemns arrest of anti-dam activists, demands release of Siang protesters appeared first on NorthEast Now .
China and India maintain communication through diplomatic, military channels: Beijing
Digital Desk | Beijing, Oct 26 (IANS) The Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Monday that China and India have maintained communication through diplomatic and military channels while adding that Beijing strictly abides by the relevant agreements and common understandings reached between the two countries as far as maintaining peace and tranquillity in the border areas with concrete actions is concerned. Addressing a regular press conference in Beijing on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun said that China abides by the relevant agreements and understandings reached with India and conducts border patrol and control activities to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and stability in the border regions. He was reacting to a question on the remarks made by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson last week on the situation around Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Arunachal Pradesh. China strictly abides by the relevant agreements and common understandings reached between the two countries, and conducts normal border patrol and control activities to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and stability in the border areas, Guo said. China and India maintain communication through diplomatic and military channels. We hope that India will work with China in the same direction by jointly implementing the common understandings reached between the two sides and maintaining peace and tranquillity in the border areas with concrete actions, he added. The MEA last week said that India and China continue to use existing diplomatic and military mechanisms to resolve outstanding issues and avoid misunderstanding and miscalculation along the LAC. As we have noted in the past, the situation in the India-China border areas gets disturbed from time to time when Chinese forces diverge from established patrolling patterns. Both sides continue to use existing diplomatic and military mechanisms to resolve outstanding issues and avoid misunderstanding and miscalculation along the Line of Actual Control, said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal at a bi-weekly media briefing in New Delhi on October 23. The two sides have also agreed to discuss ways to improve understanding of LAC in appropriate areas for better border management. I would also like to emphasise that the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas is essential for the overall development of bilateral relations, he added.
Arunachal: Additional RAF personnel deployed in Siang region amid protests against mega dam
Dibrugarh: Arunachal Pradesh Police has intensified security measures in the Siang region, airlifting two companies of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) from Navi Mumbai to Pasighat amid protests against the mega Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP). Speaking to reporters, Inspector General of Police Hibu Tamang said one company from the 102nd RAF Battalion based in [] The post Arunachal: Additional RAF personnel deployed in Siang region amid protests against mega dam appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Indian Army Debunks AI Deepfake Video Falsely Claiming Chinese Control in Arunachal Pradesh
The Indian Armys official fact-checking unit has debunked a digitally manipulated deepfake video circulating on social media that falsely attributed remarks regarding Chinese territorial gains in Arunachal Pradesh to Lieutenant General Girish Kalia. The misleading clip alleged a leaked admission by Lt Gen Kalia, claiming China had taken control of Asaphila, Longju, and Taksing Circle, [] The post Indian Army Debunks AI Deepfake Video Falsely Claiming Chinese Control in Arunachal Pradesh appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Arunachal: Public hearing on Upper Subansiri dam cancelled amid bandh and reports of violence
Daporijo: A 12-hour bandh against the proposed 1,605-MW Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project (SUHEP), also known as the Menga Dam, disrupted normal life in Arunachal Pradeshs Upper Subansiri district, with reports of arson, vandalism and clashes with police. The shutdown, called by the All Tagin Students Union (ATSU) and other student organisations and community groups, began [] The post Arunachal: Public hearing on Upper Subansiri dam cancelled amid bandh and reports of violence appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Chinese Have Upper Hand: Arunachal Congress Chief Alleges 40-50 Km Incursion
Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President Bosiram Siram has raised concerns over the India-China border situation, alleging that Chinese PLA forces have advanced 4050 kilometres into Indian territory in certain areas. He also claimed that Indian troops face restrictions on patrolling and highlighted infrastructure and connectivity challenges along the frontier.Siram demanded all-weather road connectivity to the international border, 24/7 mobile internet access and better facilities for troops. He also called for the creation of an Arunachal Regiment and alleged that the Congress delegation was not allowed to meet the Vice President.The territorial claims and allegations made in the byte have not been independently verified.
Indian Army debunks manipulated video falsely claiming Chinese control over Arunachal border areas
The misleading clip, propagated across online platforms, falsely claimed that Lt Gen Kalia made a leaked admission stating China had taken control of Asaphila, Longjou, and Taksing Circle in Arunachal Pradesh, and that Indian Army troops deployed in the sector were denied essential supplies.
Indian Army debunks deepfake video falsely alleging Chinese control in Arunachal Pradesh
The News Mill
Arunachal Pradesh Congress chief alleges Chinese incursion up to 50 km inside Indian territory
The News Mill
Shiv Sena(UBT)'s questions border security amid ITBP chief's remarks in 'Saamana'
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 26 (IANS) The Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray on Monday said that a major political storm has erupted following explosive disclosures made by Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Director General Shatrujit Singh Kapoor regarding Chinese incursions along the Arunachal Pradesh border. The Thackray camp in an editorial in the party's mouthpiece, 'Saamana', claimed that the revelations have shattered the government's narrative, exposing alleged systemic suppression of security truths and a failure of national leadership. The editorial said that ITBP Director General Shatrujit Singh Kapoor recently revealed that Chinese troops have crossed the Arunachal Pradesh border, penetrating six to seven kms deep into Indian territory in the Asafila area and establishing military camps. He disclosed that armed clashes between Indian and Chinese forces have been ongoing along the border for the past four months, noting that modern warfare has drastically evolved with the heavy deployment of drones and that China holds a technologically superior military standing. However, as the remarks sparked widespread public concern, the official video of his speech was swiftly removed from the official website. The editorial contended that the Modi government has deliberately attempted to conceal these critical developments from the public. It highlighted that the government has systematically targeted individuals attempting to bring forward the reality of Chinese aggression. Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi had warned a year ago that China was encroaching upon Arunachal Pradesh, but top leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and Rajnath Singh, dismissed his statements as false propaganda and blamed him. Local tribal communities in remote areas of Arunachal Pradesh and youths who posted social media reels about the Chinese intrusion were similarly silenced, with the government dismissing their accounts as enemy propaganda, said the editorial. According to the editorial, former Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravanes autobiography, 'Four Stars of Destiny', has faced government censorship because it addresses the 2020 Ladakh-Galwan clashes and the Agnipath scheme. The book revealed that on the night of August 31, 2020, as Chinese tanks advanced, Gen Naravane sought clear operational directives from Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who allegedly handed down a vague response (Do whatever you think is appropriate) after consulting the Prime Minister -- a situation described in the book as a difficult Hot Potato responsibility, said the editorial. The editorial remarked that Environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk, who brought attention to Chinese intrusion in Ladakh, was branded a raitor by the government. Similarly, the editorial warned that ITBPs Director General may now face similar political branding for speaking the truth. The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena drew a sharp contrast between active military engagements on the border and diplomatic optics in the national capital. While Indian soldiers were locked in active clashes with Chinese troops in Arunachal Pradesh, Prime Minister Modi was busy hosting and entertaining Chinese President Xi Jinping during the BRICS summit in Delhi. The editorial labelled this simultaneous occurrence as an insult to the sacrifices and injuries of frontline Indian troops. Accusing the ruling leadership of using soldiers for political leverage during crises and subsequently abandoning them, the editorial noted that Prime Minister Modi has evaded accountability for major security failures, including the Pulwama attack, the Pahalgam massacre, and the ongoing Chinese incursions in Arunachal Pradesh. The editorial asserted that leadership failing to safeguard national territory must face democratic reckoning and accountability.
Siang project: Arunachal CM holds talks with MLAs, community orgs amid protests
Itanagar, Oct 25: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Sunday held separate meetings with legislators and representatives of the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF) and community-based organisations (CBOs) on the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), stressing the need to balance national security with environmental concerns and the rights of locals. Khandu, in a [] The post Siang project: Arunachal CM holds talks with MLAs, community orgs amid protests first appeared on Highland Post .
CM Pema Khandu emphasizes transparency and dialogue regarding the Siang project amid violent protests in Arunachal Pradesh. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Calls for Transparency Amid Protests Over Siang Multipurpose Project
Arunachal: Centre deploys 250 RAF personnel in Pasighat after Siang project violence
Guwahati: The Centre has deployed around 250 personnel of the Central Reserve Police Forces (CRPF) Rapid Action Force (RAF) in Arunachal Pradesh following violence in Pasighat during protests against the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), officials said on Sunday. The Ministry of Home Affairs directed the deployment of two RAF companies on Saturday, [] The post Arunachal: Centre deploys 250 RAF personnel in Pasighat after Siang project violence appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Protests rage in Arunachal: Indias answer to Chinas mega dam faces resistance in Siang valley
Arunachal Pradesh protests: The ambitious 11,200 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project has sparked huge uproad among local tribes in the state, who are fearful about the potential displacement of over 150,000 people and the loss of villages and farmland.
Arunachal: At least 15 arrested over Pasighat violence, more arrests likely
Dibrugarh: At least 15 people have been arrested in connection with the recent violence in Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh, with police indicating that more arrests could follow, Inspector General of Police (Central Zone) Hibu Tamang said on Sunday. Addressing the media, Tamang said additional security personnel had been deployed in Pasighat to maintain law and order [] The post Arunachal: At least 15 arrested over Pasighat violence, more arrests likely appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Centre rushes 2 RAF companies to violence-hit Arunachal Pradesh
Officials say CRPF personnel effectively handled the protests since Friday and ensured the violence did not escalate
Siang Project Protests Turn Violent in Arunachal, Over 40 Cops Injured
GUWAHATI/ITANAGAR: Protests against Arunachal Pradeshs proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) turned violent in Pasighat, East Siang district, with a mob allegedly setting fire to the NHPC office and a police station and vandalising the residences of two MLAs and the state BJP president, police said on Saturday. More than 40 police personnel were [] The post Siang Project Protests Turn Violent in Arunachal, Over 40 Cops Injured appeared first on Northlines .
Protests Over Himalayan Mega-Dam Turn Violent In Arunachal Pradesh
Demonstrators Opposing The Proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project Clash With Police And Torch Buildings Amid Concerns Over Displacement And India-China Water Security.
Arunachal: Anti-dam activist Ebo Mili, youth leader Otul Jerang surrender amid SUMP
Guwahati: Anti-dam activist and advocate Ebo Mili and youth leader Otul Jerang surrendered at Pasighat Police Station on Saturday after violence broke out during a 12-hour shutdown opposing the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in Arunachal Pradesh. Both called for peace and condemned the unrest. The activists have been prominent figures in the campaign [] The post Arunachal: Anti-dam activist Ebo Mili, youth leader Otul Jerang surrender amid SUMPprotests appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Modi-Xi Meeting In December? Fresh Arunachal Border Face-Off Tests India-China Relations
The possibility of another meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in December comes amid fresh concerns over the situation along the India-China border. Reports of military face-offs in Arunachal Pradesh have raised questions about the improvement
Sajjan Singh Yadav, is a 1995-batch IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre, who has been appointed Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir. He will take charge from November 1, 2026, (or the date of joining, whichever is later), succeeding 1989-batch Atal Dulloo, who retires on October 31. Yadav will be the first officer from the AGMUT cadre to hold the post in J&K. Born on January 5, 1969, in Haryana, Yadav brings a strong academic profile having done an MBA in Finance from Delhi Universitys Faculty of Management Studies, an MPA in Public Policy from the Hubert H Humphrey School at the University of Minnesota, an MPA in Economics from Harvard University, and a doctorate in Public Health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. He is also an author whose national bestseller Indias Vaccine Growth Story: From Cowpox to Vaccine Maitri has been translated into multiple languages, alongside Scaling Mount UPSC on aspirants journeys. He has received many awards including the National e-Governance Award (2017-18) and the Presidents Medal for census work. His service record spans more than 30 years across field and policy roles. His early postings included Assistant Commissioner in Mizoram and Deputy Commissioner in Arunachal Pradesh districts like East Kameng and Tawang, and South Delhi. His central deputation featured key roles as Mission Director of POSHAN Abhiyan (National Nutrition Mission), Director of the National Rural Health Mission, and senior positions (Joint Secretary, Additional Secretary, and Special Secretary) in the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance. In Delhi, he served as Finance Commissioner, Commissioner of Food and Supplies, VAT, Excise and Luxury Tax, East Delhi Municipal Corporation, and CEO of the Delhi Jal Board, a role he resumed in June 2026 after repatriation from the Centre at the MHAs request. On seniority, Yadav ranked around 20th on the AGMUT gradation list. Officers from the 1991-1995 batches, including 1992-batch Shaleen Kabra, the Additional Chief Secretary and Financial Commissioner in J&K, was speculated as a frontrunner due to his local experience, stood ahead of him. The appointment surprised observers tracking the succession, underscoring that the Centre weighs competence, domain expertise, especially in finance, public health, nutrition, and urban governance, and institutional confidence alongside pure seniority. He has no prior direct posting or specific engagement with Jammu and Kashmir and his experience has been concentrated in other AGMUT areas and the Centre. As the first AGMUT-cadre Chief Secretary, Yadavs tenure will test how an outsider navigates the J&Ks unique administrative, developmental, and political landscape.
GoI appoints Sajjan Singh Yadav as J&K Chief Secretary
Srinagar, Oct 24:The Government of India on Saturday appointed Sajjan Singh Yadav as the new Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, replacing Atal Dulloo and ending weeks of speculation over J&Ks top administrative post. The order issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs said that Yadav was transferred from Delhi to Jammu and Kashmir and appointed as Chief Secretary from November 1, 2026, or the date he assumes office. Yadavs appointment marks a major change in J&K's administrative structure. Yadav becomes the first of the core AGMUT officers to take charge of the J&K administration after the exclusive J&K cadre was abolished in 2021 and merged into the broader AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and Union Territories) pool. The decision also ends speculation supporting some other senior candidates in the succession race. Officers currently hold ing positions in J&K belonging to earlier batches and senior to Yadav include Shaleen Kabra of the 1992 batch who is Financial Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department; Ashwani Kumar of the 1992 batch, who is Financial Commissioner (ACS), Power Development Department (PDD); Dheeraj Gupta of the 1993 batch who is Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister; Ashish Chandra Verma of the 1994 batch who is Financial Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production Department; Sheilender Kumar of the 1995 batch who is Additional Chief Secretary Finance Department; and Anil Kumar Singh of the 1995 batch who is Additional Chief Secretary Public Works Department (PWD). Apart from them, Bipul Pathak of the 1992 batch, Navin Chowdhary of the 1994 batch, and Rohit Kansal of the 1995 batch, all currently on deputation are also seniors to Yadav. The AGMUT cadre is responsible for Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and eight Union Territories: the NCT of Delhi, Puducherry, J&K, Ladakh, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and Lakshadweep. Yadav, who is experienced in dealing with the complicated administrative arrangements of Union Territories, held the positions of Additional Chief Secretary and Chief Executive Officer at the Delhi Jal Board. He has done a postgraduate diploma in Public Policy from the Hubert Humphrey School from Minnesota University, a Masters in Finance from Delhi University, and a Masters in Economics from Harvard University. The bureaucratic transition takes place at a politically sensitive time in J&K. After years of direct central rule, when an elected assembly was restored, the new Chief Secretary had to deal with a special kind of power-sharing situation. In the present arrangement under the Union Territory system, the Lieutenant Governor, appointed by the Centre, maintains control over important matters like Police, public order, and the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) bureaucracy, while the elected Chief Minister leads the civilian government. The Chief Secretary in J&K is responsible for coordinating the work of the various government departments. The post is essential for putting administrative decisions into effect and for handling the relationship between the bureaucracy, the elected government, and the Lieutenant Governors administration. That a senior officer drawn from the wider Union Territory cadre has been appointed to lead J&K bureaucracy is significant at a time when administrative coordination and the allocation of responsibilities between the elected government and the Centre are still politically sensitive. No reason was given in the order issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs for refusing to grant an extension to the outgoing Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, a member of the original J&K batch who turned sixty on Saturday and is set to retire on October 31. Dulloo has held the position of Chief Secretary since December 2023. Earlier, it was reported that Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had suggested a one-year extension for Dulloo. However, the final decision had to be made by the competent authority in charge of approving the appointment and the arrangements for service. Dulloo has left behind an administrative legacy of handling the large-scale security and logistical requirements of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and of J&Ks first Assembly elections in 10 years. However, a rift started between him and the civilian government during his last weeks in office. Dulloo was involved in a row concerning a proposal aimed at restoring J&Ks statehood, a politically sensitive matter. Dulloo and the administrations Law Secretary had sent a letter to Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather to oppose the introduction and discussion of the resolution, citing legal concerns as the reason. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah strongly objected to the intervention, and the action in question aroused criticism from the Members of Parliament as well as leading to a privilege-motion notice being tabled against the officials. The controversy intensified the questions concerning the relationship between the bureaucracy and the elected government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, which came into office in 2024 after a period of direct administration by the central government. Although the Government of India has not officially confirmed that the dispute over statehood was the reason why the government rejected Dulloos extension, the fact that the transition has taken place shows that administrative control in J&K is still being readjusted. It also raises questions regarding Dulloos next task. According to reports, Dulloo is being considered for the post of Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission, which currently has no chairman. However, there has not been any official announcement regarding the matter.
Arunachal Jobs 2026 : Kendriya Vidyalaya Itanagar Recruitment
Applications are invited for recruitment of various teaching positions or jobs in Kendriya Vidyalaya Number 2 Itanagar Arunachal Pradesh in 2026. Kendriya Vidyalaya Number 2 Itanagar Arunachal Pradesh is inviting applications from eligible candidates for recruitment to the posts or jobs of Post Graduate Teacher (PGT) in Physics in 2026. Name of post : PGT-Physics [] The post Arunachal Jobs 2026 : Kendriya Vidyalaya Itanagar Recruitment appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Anti-Dam Protests Turn Violent In Arunachal Pradesh; Several Injured | Siang Dam Row
Protests against the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in Arunachal Pradesh turned violent during a 12-hour bandh on October 23. Police fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators in Siang and East Siang districts. At least four women were injured near Geku, while clashes near Ranaghat Bridge in Mebo reportedly left several people injured and damaged multiple vehicles. Protesters demanded the release of arrested activists, reinstatement of suspended village headmen, withdrawal of pre-feasibility activities and removal of security forces. Chief Minister Pema Khandu urged residents to support the preparation of the project's Pre-Feasibility Report and seek information from the government. The proposed hydropower project has faced opposition over concerns about indigenous rights, land, livelihoods and environmental impact.
The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee has strongly condemned the violence and demanded an independent inquiry into the use of tear gas shells against protesters during the bandh
Kapil Sibal addressed a press conference criticizing RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's Vijayadashami address concerning regime change. He argued that calls for change in India are democratic and peaceful unlike unrest abroad. Sibal accused the government of stifling dissent and manipulating legal processes against opposition leaders. Additionally, he raised concerns about foreign interference and territorial integrity in Arunachal Pradesh.
'Border gets disturbed from time to time': MEA blames China after ITBP chief's face-off remark
The statement followed ITBP chief Shatrujeet Singh Kapur's remarks about ongoing face-offs with Chinese troops at multiple locations in Arunachal Pradesh. MEA stressed that both countries continue diplomatic and military engagement to resolve outstanding issues and maintain peace along the LAC
Siang dam protest turns violent as mob torches NHPC office and police station in Arunachal
Protests erupted in Arunachal Pradesh against the proposed 11,200-MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project amid local opposition. Following a 12-hour bandh, protesters clashed with police and vandalized several properties, including political leaders' residences. Several police personnel sustained injuries from stone-pelting incidents during the unrest. The Arunachal Pradesh government has called for caution against misinformation regarding the project. Authorities stress the need to consider local interests and concerns during the project's evaluation.
New plant species in Arunachal named after CM Pema Khandu
Guwahati: Botanists have identified two new flowering plant species in Arunachal Pradeshs Changlang district, with one named after Chief Minister Pema Khandu in recognition of his contribution to the states development and scientific activities. The newly described species, Ophiorrhiza shidiensis and Ophiorrhiza pemae, were discovered in the Vijoynagar valley and documented in a research paper [] The post New plant species in Arunachal named after CM Pema Khandu appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Four injured in clash with police over Siang Project in Arunachal Pradesh
At least four women were injured on Friday after a clash broke out between police personnel and protesters over the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project in Arunachal Pradesh, prompting security forces to fire tear gas shells to disperse the mob
Asaduddin Owaisi demands clarity on Chinese intrusions in Arunachal Pradesh border
The News Mill
Clashes mark bandh against power project in Arunachal
Itanagar: Protesters clashed with the police during a 12-hour bandh against the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project in Arunachal Pradesh on Friday, prompting security forces to fire tear gas shells to disperse the agitators, officials said. The bandh was called from 5 am in Siang, Upper Siang and East Siang districts against the proposed 11,200 MW []
India-China border frictions recur as Chinese forces stray from patrol routes, MEA clarifies stand
Indo-Tibetan Border Police Director General Shatrujeet Kapur addressed recent border tensions with Chinese forces in Arunachal Pradesh. These tensions arose from Chinese forces straying from established patrolling routes along the Line of Actual Control. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the need for maintaining peace and tranquillity in border areas. Both nations are utilizing diplomatic and military channels to resolve ongoing issues effectively.
Congress urges PM Modi to clarify Arunachal border situation
Congress has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to brief Parliament and the nation on the border situation in Arunachal Pradesh, with party president Mallikarjun Kharge questioning whether India's patrolling access has been compromised.
Bengal: Greater conservation efforts to save the ghost of the mountains
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 23 (IANS) With their habitat constantly under threat, conservationists in India have called for greater efforts to monitor snow leopards, known as the Ghost of the Mountains. Snow leopards share their high-altitude habitat with local communities. Indias conservation efforts include community involvement and support for livelihoods alongside protection of snow leopard ecosystems, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) said on Friday on the occasion of International Snow Leopard Day. In India, snow leopards can be largely found in the high-altitude, cold, arid and rugged terrains of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Despite its large distributional range, the population of snow leopards across the world is dwindling, making it one of the most endangered cats in the world. The global population of snow leopards is estimated to be between 3500 and 7000 individuals, according to the Snow Leopard Conservancy - India Trust (SLC - IT). This organisation works for the conservation of the species and other animals in Ladakh and Spiti. It has identified the major threats that this magnificent animal faces. Snow leopards are highly threatened in India due to poaching for their pelts and body parts, a decline in prey base (mostly Blue Sheep and Asiatic Ibex) due to increasing domestic livestock that tend to quickly deplete the high-altitude pasture lands; and retaliatory killings by village communities whose livestock, sometimes 50 at a time, are killed for food by these predators. More recent threats include hydroelectric projects, mining and climate change, SLC - IT has said. The breeding pattern of the animal itself also makes it a highly vulnerable species, as a female snow leopard generally gives birth to only one or two cubs once in two years. So any change affecting their ecology makes it very difficult for these animals to improve their population base quickly. Known to be an umbrella or keystone species, the survival of these animals as the top predator hence becomes critical for the survival of other species in the ecosystem, it has said. According to the Ladakh Union Territory Administration, the Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI) Report 2024 estimates 718 snow leopards in India, with Ladakh hosting the highest population of about 477. The Indian Army, which has bases close to where snow leopards live, has been playing a key role in the conservation of the animal. It collaborates with civil authorities to protect snow leopards and high-altitude ecosystems in Ladakh. On World Wildlife Day this year, the Fire and Fury Corps signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Forest, Ecology and Environment Department of the Union Territory of Ladakh. Under this agreement, a Joint Snow Leopard Conservation Cell has been established to monitor wildlife movements, share field observations from remote border areas, and curb threats like free-ranging feral dogs. Apart from snow leopards, the partnership protects the Himalayan Wolf, Bharal (Blue Sheep), Ibex, Marmot, and the Black-necked Crane. The initiative aligns with India's commitments under the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Program (GSLEP).
Indigenous knowledge unlocks secrets of Mishimi Takin in Arunachal Pradesh
Guwahati: Indigenous communities in Arunachal Pradesh have helped researchers uncover the seasonal movements, habitat use and congregation patterns of the Mishmi Takin, a vulnerable mountain ungulate found in the Eastern Himalayas. A study published in Frontiers in Conservation Science has found that traditional ecological knowledge held by the Idu Mishmi, Digaru Mishmi, Miju Mishmi and [] The post Indigenous knowledge unlocks secrets of Mishimi Takin in Arunachal Pradesh appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Owaisi Seeks Centres Clarification on China Border
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi demanded a detailed report and a special Parliament session after the ITBP chief confirmed continuing face-offs along the Arunachal Pradesh border.
China face offs continue in Arunachal Pradesh: ITBP Chiefs Big Revelation Explained
Confrontations with Chinese troops continue to take place at multiple sites along the border in Arunachal Pradesh, according to Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) director general Shatrujeet Kapur. This is the first official confirmation of the scale of the rising tensions on the north-eastern border since July this year.
India stated on Friday that the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) becomes disturbed whenever Chinese troops diverge from established patrolling patterns, reiterating that peace and tranquillity on the border are crucial for bilateral relations. The remarks were made by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a regular media briefing, [] The post LAC Situation Disturbed When Chinese Troops Diverge From Patrolling Patterns, Says MEA Amid Arunachal Pradesh Face-Off Reports appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
MEA says Chinese patrol deviations disturb border peace, hinder ties
India's External Affairs Ministry spokesperson highlighted ongoing disturbances at the Line of Actual Control with China. Both nations are using diplomatic and military channels to resolve border tensions effectively. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police director general remarked on continuous confrontations in Arunachal Pradesh. Recent agreements aimed at improving bilateral relations followed the severe strain caused by the Galwan Valley clashes.
Owaisi seeks independent report on serious situation at China border
Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Oct 23 (IANS) AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi on Friday demanded that a comprehensive and independent report should be presented before the country on the serious situation at the China border. The Hyderabad MP said that even a special session of Parliament be convened to discuss the situation and the current governments policy towards China. He also demanded Modi government to issue a clarification on the number of places in Arunachal Pradesh where Chinese troops have intruded. The MP said that the confirmation by the Director General of Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) of the situation on the Arunachal border with China is extremely concerning, particularly because of the concerted effort by the Narendra Modi government to keep the country in the dark about what has gone on. I have raised this issue even earlier and have not got any answers from the government. Now we know why, Owaisi said in a post on X. After the ITBP chiefs statement, we need a complete clarification on the number of places in Arunachal where the Chinese troops have intruded, stopped our patrols and citizens and are refusing to leave. The country also needs to know for how many months has this gone on, and why has the government acting friendly with China during this period. Is the Narendra Modi government even capable of defending and securing Indian territory? the MP asked. He alleged that there has been a pattern in this Modi government to keep the people in the dark about the real situation on the border. No discussion takes place in the Parliament, no questions are allowed, PM Modi doesnt hold a press conference, and even when he has spoken, as in June 2020, he has claimed that there were no Chinese on Indian territory. That was obviously not true or factual, he said. The serious situation on the China border needs a comprehensive and independent report that should be presented before the country. Even a special session of Parliament should be convened to discuss the situation and the current governments policy towards China. The least that this country deserves is the truth, honesty and political accountability, when it comes to such core issues that affect the territorial integrity of India, Owaisi added.
India Exposes Xi's Arunachal Duplicity; Fresh Face-Offs On LAC As China Breaks Patrolling Rules
India has blamed China for failing to maintain peace at the border. The MEA has accused China's PLA of diverging from established patrolling patterns after ITBP's explosive claim of frequent standoffs in Arunachal Pradesh. The ITBP chief has confirmed that face-offs with Chinese troops took place at several locations and are still continuing. Reports point to a stand-off near Asaphila and Taksing, where Chinese troops allegedly pitched tents near Indias perceived LAC. Beijing dismissed the reports as hype. But the ITBPs statement has exposed the gap between diplomatic language and military pressure. China wants dialogue, trade and travel to continue while the border issue remains compartmentalised. India says the border will decide the relationship.
Indias statement comes following ITBP D-Gs remarks on ongoing confrontations with Chinese troops in Arunachal Pradesh; MEA stresses on maintenance of peace and tranquillity in border areas for overall development of bilateral ties
Congress alleges govt prioritising image over national interests on China policy
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 23 (IANS) The Congress on Friday accused the Narendra Modi government of pursuing a weak-kneed policy towards China, alleging that its approach had emboldened Beijing's aggressive posture along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and compromised India's national interests. Addressing a press conference here, Congress Media and Publicity Department Chairman Pawan Khera alleged that Prime MinisterModi's response to the 2020 Galwan clash, in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, had effectively given China a clean chit and encouraged further assertiveness by Beijing. Citing remarks by ITBP Director General Shatrujit Kapur, Khera claimed that Chinese troops continued to adopt an aggressive approach, with face-offs between Indian and Chinese forces reported at several locations along the Arunachal Pradesh border. The Congress leader said the government could no longer remain silent on issues concerning national security and questioned what, according to him, prevented the Prime Minister from taking a stronger stand against China. He alleged that repeated concessions to Beijing had come at the cost of India's interests. Khera maintained that despite India's military strength and the sacrifices made by its armed forces, the government had failed to respond adequately to Chinese actions. He argued that China's posture from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh had hardened after the Galwan incident. Reiterating Congress's concerns over the situation in eastern Ladakh, Khera referred to reports that Indian troops continue to have restricted access to 26 of the 65 traditional patrolling points and asked whether the pre-May 2020 status quo had been fully restored. He also questioned what he described as preferential treatment being extended to China in matters related to trade and commerce. According to Khera, India's trade deficit with China had increased from $99 billion to $112 billion despite New Delhi accommodating Beijing's demands. He further claimed that China had received concessions, including relaxations in travel and visa norms, without offering reciprocal benefits. Referring to Operation Sindoor, Khera alleged that China had actively supported Pakistan during the operation. The Congress leader also expressed concern over China's reported restrictions on exports of critical equipment and materials to India, including Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs), rare earth minerals, fertiliser-related inputs, and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), which are vital for infrastructure development and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
ITBP D-G Says Face-Offs With China Continue At Multiple Locations Along Arunachal Border
ITBP chief Shatrujeet Singh Kapur confirms continuing face-offs with Chinese troops in Arunachal Pradesh as the force strengthens high-altitude combat and drone capabilities.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 23 (IANS) Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Friday expressed caution with the way China has ehaved on our borders and Beijing's overt support to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, calling for predictable relationships where trade won't be weaponised against India. Tharoor's remarks came amid a political row over Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) chief Shatrujeet Kapur's purported remarks that the Army is successfully dealing with a face-off (with China) in Arunachal Pradesh. Speaking at an interactive session at the NDTV World Summit, Tharoor said: The way in which China has behaved on our borders, the way in which they've nibbled away at our territory, their overt support for Pakistan during the brief conflict (Operation Sindoor) between our two countries last year is worrying. China not only supplied a vast amount of weapons, which is their legal right to do, but also supplied real-time data while the conflict was going on from their satellite spot above our territory, which was actually a hostile act. These are all things we have to really worry about, he added. Talking about India-China trade relations, Tharoor called the situation on the border as one of interdependence without trust. On our own borders we have the problem of interdependence without trust. I can't even say interdependence because our dependence on China is far greater than theirs on us and yet can we trust them? he pointed out. Galwan was not the only incident. There were other incidents in which China essentially unilaterally upended the understanding that had existed between the two countries of a tranquil border and this worries us. Why is it that they want to create this? It was initially supposed to be in their interest that the border situation remains tranquil while they dramatically expanded their exports to us. The exports are still expanding and they're still giving us a rough time, the Congress leader said. Moreover, Tharoor also expressed concern over India's dependence on Chinese imports, which in turn has shown that they can be urned off whenever they want. Those exports, by the way, have also created another dependency, which is that the Chinese have shown us repeatedly they can be turned off when they want. They actually turned off, for example, the export of Rare Earths to India for a couple of years. We had developed a major dependence on the large-size tunnel-boring machines, 100 per cent of which were coming from China. Now suddenly they decided not to export those to us as well. We could no longer bore holes into hillsides and construct our highways and so on for a couple of years until they chose to turn the tap back on again, he said. Further, Tharoor emphasised on having a predictable relationship with China where trade cannot be weaponised against India. We need, as far as possible, predictable relationships. Relationships which won't be weaponised, and trade dependencies which won't be weaponised against us, he said.
Arunachal: Five women hospitalised after police use tear gas on anti-dam protesters
Guwahati: Police reportedly used tear gas against anti-dam protesters in Arunachal Pradesh on Friday during a 12-hour bandh against the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP). Five women were taken to hospital after experiencing breathing difficulties. Police alleged that some protesters tried to breach barricades and attack security personnel. The clash began around 7 am near [] The post Arunachal: Five women hospitalised after police use tear gas on anti-dam protesters appeared first on NorthEast Now .
ITBP Chief Confirms Ongoing Arunachal Face-Offs with China; Congress Slams Centre
Tensions along the India-China border have surged back into the political spotlight following a high-level official acknowledgement. Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Director General Shatrujeet Kapur confirmed that face-offs between Indian and Chinese forces in Arunachal Pradesh have occurred on multiple occasions and remain active. The revelation immediately drew a sharp political reaction, with the Congress [] The post ITBP Chief Confirms Ongoing Arunachal Face-Offs with China; Congress Slams Centre appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
India's China border police chief, Shatrujeet Singh Kapur, said on Thursday that face-offs between Indian and Chinese troops are continuing at multiple locations along the border in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, despite ongoing talks ...
ITBP Chief Says Face-Off With China Continues In Arunachal Pradesh
Face-offs have happened with China at several locations along the border in Arunachal Pradesh in the past few days, and they still continue, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) director general Shatrujeet Kapur said Thursday. In the past few-days, a situation arose where face-off happened at several locations in Arunachal and it still continues, Kapur, who is set to retire at the end of this month, told his troops at a force base in Rajasthan's Alwar. The ITBP chief added that a new combat team, the Shaurya commandos, has been raised. This team displayed its skills during the ongoing faceoff with the Chinese PLA troops at multiple places in Arunachal Pradesh, he said.
India-China Face-Off Continues Along Arunachal Border, Says ITBP Chief; Cong Targets PM Modi
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has raised a new combat unit, the Shaurya commandos, who have demonstrated their capabilities during ongoing face-offs with Chinese troops in Arunachal Pradesh, ITBP chief Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor said. The force is strengthening its combat readiness along the 3,488-km Line of Actual Control through specialised training, drone warfare capabilities and infrastructure upgrades. The ITBP has established drone platoons in all border battalions, with government funding supporting drone and anti-drone systems. A new Strike course, designed to prepare personnel for combat situations similar to the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, will be completed across the force by the end of 2027. Meanwhile, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh accused the Centre of making concessions to China and raised concerns over patrolling access, place renaming and a proposed massive dam in the region.
Arunachal border row: ITBP chief
Guwahati: A political controversy erupted on Friday after a video of Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) chief Shatrujeet Kapur referring to an ongoing face-off at multiple locations in Arunachal Pradesh surfaced online, prompting the Congress to accuse the Narendra Modi government of remaining silent on the issue. The ITBP, which guards and patrols the Line of [] The post Arunachal border row: ITBP chiefs remarks prompt Congress to question governments silence appeared first on NorthEast Now .
China face-offs 'ongoing' along Arunachal Pradesh border, says ITBP Chief Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has raised a new combat unit, the Shaurya commandos, who have demonstrated their capabilities during ongoing face-offs with Chinese troops at multiple locations in Arunachal Pradesh, ITBP chief Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor said on Thursday.
ITBP chief confirms ongoing face-offs with China at Arunachal
New Delhi:Indian and Chinese troops are facing off at several places along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Arunachal Pradesh, ITBP Director General Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor has said, in what is the first official confirmation of confrontations between the two countries. Kapoor was addressing personnel of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) at a force 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 .
Face-Off With China Continues In Arunachal: Border Police Force Chief
The ITBP chief added that a new combat team, the Shaurya commandos, has been raised. This team displayed its skills during the ongoing faceoff with the Chinese PLA troops at multiple places in Arunachal Pradesh, he said.
Deafening silence: Congress targets PM Modi over reported Arunachal face-offs
Congress general secretary in-charge of communications Jairam Ramesh cited a media report quoting Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Director General Shatrujeet Kapur as saying that confrontations had occurred at several locations in Arunachal Pradesh and were continuing
Cong targets Modi over 'ongoing' China face-offs in Arunachal
The Congress has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his deafening silence regarding reported face-offs with the Chinese Army in Arunachal Pradesh.
India-China Border Tensions: ITBP Chief Says Face-offs Continue At More Than One Spot In Arunachal
The border standoff between China and India in Arunachal Pradesh appears to be intensifying after the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) chief confirmed that face-offs between Indian and Chinese troops are continuing at more than one place. Speaking at an annual event
Face-off with China 'ongoing' at multiple locations along Arunachal border: ITBP chief
The confrontation with the Chinese troops are ongoing at multiple locations along the Indo-China border in Arunachal Pradesh, said ITBP DG Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor addressing his troops during an investiture ceremony held leading up to...
Reality check on Indo-Myanmar border fencing
The 1,643 km porous India-Myanmar border will be fenced at a cost of Rs 31,000 crore, and passes through Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. The free movement regime with Myanmar was scrapped in 2024. FMR allowed people residing close to the border to venture 16 km into each other's territory without a visa.
Seven shades of golden cat found in Arunachal, study reveals
Guwahati: A new study has documented seven distinct coat colour forms of the elusive Asiatic golden cat in Arunachal Pradeshs West Kameng district, making the region a significant hotspot of colour diversity in the Eastern Himalaya. The findings, based on camera-trap surveys, also record three colour forms in Sikkims Teesta basin and add to scientific [] The post Seven shades of golden cat found in Arunachal, study reveals appeared first on NorthEast Now .
1962 War Hero To Get Memorial In Arunachal, State Earmarks Rs 5 Crore
The Indian Army's 19th Battalion of the JAT Regiment joined ITBP personnel and villagers in Arunachal Pradesh to pay tribute to Neelam Tebi, an Assam Rifles soldier killed during the 1962 India-China war.
Arunachal: 23.4 lakh trees at risk as NHPC seeks forest clearance for Kamala hydroelectric project
Guwahati: National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) has sought approval from the Union Environment Ministry to divert 3,278 hectares of forest land in Arunachal Pradesh for its proposed 1,720 MW Kamala hydroelectric project, a move that could lead to the felling of 23.4 lakh trees. The Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) of the Union Environment Ministry is [] The post Arunachal: 23.4 lakh trees at risk as NHPC seeks forest clearance for Kamala hydroelectric project appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Important Government Job Application Deadlines Approaching on October 20, 2026
October 20, 2026, is a pivotal date for job seekers aiming for government positions. This deadline marks the end of the application process for numerous recruitment drives, including 710 apprenticeships at SAIL Bhilai, 135 posts with the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission, and various roles at NIT Agartala, IGNOU, and the Gujarat High Court. Candidates are urged to review official notifications carefully and ensure they meet eligibility criteria before applying. With limited time left, it's essential to act quickly and prepare all necessary documents to secure a chance at these opportunities.
Arunachal CM Khandu calls for roadmap to boost yak conservation, herders' livelihoods
Digital Desk | Itanagar, Oct 17 (IANS) Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Saturday called for a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen yak conservation, improve the livelihoods of yak herders and harness the economic potential of yak-based products, stressing the need for focused policy support from both the state and Central governments for traditional yak-rearing communities in the Himalayan region. The yak is a long-haired species of domesticated cattle native to the Himalayan region, the Tibetan Plateau, Tajikistan and the Pamir Mountains, with its distribution extending northwards to Mongolia and Siberia. It is descended from the wild yak. Addressing the Yak Economy Summit 2026 and Yak Mela at Mago in Tawang district, the Chief Minister said yak rearing was not merely a livelihood but also an important part of the social, cultural and strategic landscape of the Himalayan belt, extending from Jammu and Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh. From the perspective of national security, it is our duty to support our Brokpa communities and yak herders through appropriate policy interventions, he added, underlining the importance of strengthening pastoral communities living in remote and strategically significant areas. Khandu said that yak associations had now been formed in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh, bringing these regional bodies together under the Yak Federation of India. He recalled participating virtually in the Federation's first programme in Ladakh, noting that the deliberations at Mago were significant not just for Arunachal Pradesh but for the entire country. The Chief Minister announced that a follow-up meeting would be convened in February, within the next three months, to review progress and share a roadmap for taking the initiative forward. The roadmap, he said, would identify the policy interventions required from the state government and the Union government to ease the lives of yak herders and improve their income. Emphasising the need for a clear understanding of the sector, Khandu added that comprehensive mapping of yak populations, herders and their seasonal movements must be undertaken before planning could progress. Mapping of both summer and winter grazing camps would be essential for developing appropriate infrastructure and ensuring the sustainable management of yak herds. The state's yak economy, he noted, could not be strengthened without organising herders into cooperatives. He called for the establishment of the Arunachal Pradesh Yak Herders and Products Development Cooperative Society, stressing that a cooperative framework would help herders pool resources, improve bargaining power, access markets and develop viable businesses around yak products. The proposed roadmap is expected to bring together the Army, the ICAR-National Research Centre on Yak (ICAR-NRCY), relevant government departments and other stakeholders to develop a coordinated and sustainable approach to yak rearing and pastoral livelihoods. Khandu also called for capacity building and the adoption of scientific yak-rearing practices, including the semi-intensive model developed by ICAR-NRCY. He stressed the need to develop basic amenities for Brokpa communities at summer and winter satellite stations, while ensuring that traditional grazing practices and livelihoods are protected. A Brokpa-friendly grazing tax regime, particularly in winter grazing grounds, was among the measures highlighted for consideration. Highlighting the commercial potential of yak products, the Chief Minister said the quality and taste of yak dairy products could help them establish a strong presence in the market. He expressed confidence that yak cheese and yak ghee, if developed and marketed effectively, could compete with established brands. The Chief Minister called for stronger dairy development and value chains for yak milk products and fibre, along with the involvement of investors and entrepreneurs to improve processing, marketing and market access. Yak-based livelihoods, he said, could extend beyond animal husbandry to include cottage stays, guiding services and the sale of local crafts. The summit also highlighted the need to explore education-related proposals for yak herders under the National Livelihood Mission framework, alongside targeted support for Brokpa communities. The possibility of extending special-category recognition to Brokpas, along with the Puroik community, was also raised for consideration.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu calls for roadmap to boost yak economy, herders income
Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized the importance of creating a roadmap for yak conservation. He highlighted the need to support yak herders through suitable policy interventions from both levels of government. A proposed cooperative society aims to help herders improve their income and market access. The Chief Minister also called for capacity building and scientific practices to strengthen the yak economy.
The Elephant Ownership Exception: A History of Protection and Possession
In 1963, private forest owners in Malabar challenged provisions of the Kerala Forest Act, 1961 (Act IV of 1962). The question before the Court was whether the State could deprive forest owners of their existing right to capture and own elephants found on their land. In Kuppathode Madhavan Nair v State of Kerala (1963), the Kerala High Court sided with the owners. Applying common-law principles inherited from the colonial period, it held that ownership of land conferred a qualified right over wild animals found there ( ratione soli ), including the right to capture them and claim them as private property. Within a decade, the Indian Parliament would enact a national conservation law and the Constitution would soon expressly recognise duties towards forests, wildlife ( Article 48A ) and living creatures ( Article 51A(g) ). Even though the elephants legal status would change profoundly as both a Schedule I animal in law and a National Heritage Animal, a symbol of the country itself, the owners place in her life would prove much harder to dislodge. Elephants, forests and capture The Malabar litigation belonged to a much longer history in which protecting elephants and putting them to work were closely connected. In Elephants and Kings: An Environmental History (2015), Thomas R. Trautmann, a historian and anthropologist, explains how the military value of elephants gave Indian rulers an interest in preserving wild populations and the forests that sustained them, even as they continued to capture individual animals. Academic Natasha Nongbris 2003 study of nineteenth-century Northeast India shows how colonial authorities regulated capture of elephants through licences, leased grounds and royalties. The forest was not simply a place where elephants lived. It was also the source of successive generations taken into captivity. Preserving wild elephant populations and capturing individual animals became part of the same policy which gave birth to the Elephant Preservation Act, 1879, a national law modelled on the regional Madras Wild Elephant Preservation Act, 1873. It was arguably the first national law on Elephants in British India enacted with the ostensive realisation that a live elephant was more valuable than dead. The policy as preservation, not conservation, was instrumentalised to preserve the source the elephant in the forest, to allow for its simultaneous extraction from it to feed the rising demand for captive elephants. Among the important establishments in this system were Dacca, now Dhaka, and Mysore , both associated with khedda operations in which wild elephants were driven into stockades and subdued with the help of trained elephants. The Dacca establishment drew upon the Garo Hills and other northeastern forests, while the Mysore operations captured elephants from the forests of southern India. These regional systems of capture existed alongside wider networks of trade. The Sonpur fair in Bihar , already an important elephant market in the nineteenth century, connected elephants captured in the Northeast with buyers from elsewhere in India. Against this background of an extensive elephant trade, the forest-owning timber merchants in Kuppathode Madhavan Nair asserted their right to capture elephants and put them to work within a legal order that still accepted their removal into human service. The shift in constitutional law The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 introduced a national framework for conservation, prohibiting the hunting of the most protected species. Yet the elephants initial classification revealed how much of the older world remained. She appeared in Schedule II, Part I as special game, whose hunting which included capture could be licensed, while Section 2(6) included domestic elephants, curiously for a wildlife law, in its definition of cattle. The changes of the next five years gave the law a different direction. The Constitution (Forty-second Amendment) Act, 1976 , passed during the Emergency, is remembered for weakening fundamental rights and curbing the powers of the courts. Yet it left a curious and enduring legacy in the protection of the environment and animals. Even during the darkest period of Indira Gandhis leadership, her concern for the natural world found expression in the Constitution. The amendment inserted Article 48A, directing the State to protect the environment and safeguard forests and wildlife, and Article 51A(g), making it the duty of every citizen to protect the natural environment and to have compassion for living creatures. These duties gave constitutional weight to the responsibilities we owe to the non-human world. In October 1977, months after these provisions took effect, the elephant was elevated to Schedule I , bringing her capture within the highest level of statutory protection. In 1986, amid growing concern over the killing of elephants for their tusks, Parliament prohibited domestic trade in Indian elephant ivory. In 1991, following stronger international restrictions under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna, it extended the prohibition to imported ivory, which traders had been using as a cover for selling ivory from poached Indian elephants . That year, Parliament also removed the Acts definition of cattle, which had included domestic elephants. It introduced livestock in its place, expressly excluding protected wild animals. Yet these changes did not bring private ownership of elephants to an end. Under Sections 4042, people in lawful possession of elephants could declare them to the authorities and obtain certificates recognising their ownership after an inquiry. Even as the law strengthened protection for elephants and restricted the trade in their ivory, it continued to recognise that a living elephant could remain someones property. The 2002 amendment: live elephant ownership exception and the prohibition on sale A 2002 amendment to the Act (which became effective from 2003) tightened restrictions on private ownership of protected captive animals. However, it expressly exempted live elephants. Although the newly introduced Section 43 prohibited transfers for any commercial consideration, a person could still acquire an elephant and pass her to another owner with the necessary permissions. This left an opening for sales disguised as gifts. In the years that followed, animal protection organisations documented how this distinction enabled trade to continue. At the Sonpur Mela in Bihar, where elephants had long been bought and sold, transactions were now presented as gifts. Researchers even recorded owners carrying blank gift deeds to transfer possession. These practices formed part of the challenge brought to the Supreme Court in 2014 by the Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (WRRC) and others in W.P.(C) No. 743 of 2014. Still pending twelve years later, the WRRC case has become a central proceeding through which the Court supervises the treatment and regulation of captive elephants. Although the Court imposed no blanket prohibition, the continuing proceedings, notices to forest departments in every State with captive elephants, and numerous interim orders largely halted the trade. These included a nationwide census and checks on ownership certificates , welfare inspections at tourist resorts in Goa , and an order blocking Keralas attempt to regularise 289 elephants held without ownership certificates and restraining their transfer. The Courts scrutiny of ownership papers and transfers had made the trade harder to carry on. A 2021 case in Guwahati High Court confirmed the concerns raised by WRRC before the Supreme Court in 2014. In April 2021, forest officials at Doomdooma in Assams Tinsukia district intercepted two elephants travelling from Arunachal Pradesh to Odisha, ostensibly for religious purposes. Their investigation went beyond the ownership certificates and transport permissions. In a recorded statement, the claimed owner described bank payments of 9 lakh and 17 lakh from an intermediary who had also arranged the documents. He could not identify the receiving religious institution. In State of Assam v. Sri Chow Sonjit Pomong (2021), the Gauhati High Court found prima facie evidence of a commercial sale and set aside the order releasing the elephants to the claimed owner while the investigation continued. The elephants were reported to be in the Forest Departments custody at Kaziranga National Park. The 2022 amendment: religious and other purposes In December 2021, the Central Government introduced the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Bill, 2021 , which went considerably further than the amendment eventually enacted. It proposed exempting transfers of live elephants by ownership certificate holders from Section 43 altogether, subject to government permission and prescribed conditions. This would have removed the prohibition on commercial transfers for those elephants, allowing them to be openly bought and sold again. The pressure for change came particularly from Kerala, where temple authorities and private elephant owners associations were seeking easier acquisition and interstate transfer of elephants. In my view, the elephant provision in the 2022 amendment must be understood as an attempt to loosen the practical restraints that the Supreme Courts scrutiny in the WRRC case had helped impose. Following objections from conservation and animal protection organisations, the Parliamentary Standing Committee chaired by Jairam Ramesh recommended deleting this proposal. In April 2022, it suggested a narrower provision allowing transfers of existing captive elephants for religious institutions, with additional safeguards. The version Parliament ultimately enacted extended this to transfers for a religious or any other purpose , subject to conditions prescribed by the Central Government. The prohibition on commercial consideration remained. Non-commercial transfers were already possible under the elephant exception introduced in 2002. An amendment was therefore unnecessary merely to allow an elephant to pass from one private owner to another as a gift. In this respect, the new provision largely reaffirmed the existing position, while creating a specific framework for central rules governing transfers . Its practical significance lay in giving renewed statutory backing to transfers at a time when litigation and enforcement had made them increasingly difficult. The words any other purpose were particularly troubling because they offered no meaningful limit of their own. For those of us who had worked to curb the use of elephants for begging, entertainment, circuses and timber logging, the concern was that this broad wording could encourage attempts to revive practices we had spent years challenging. The safeguards governing these transfers consequently became crucial. On March 14, 2024, fifteen months after the amendment, the government notified the Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules (2024 Rules). These attempted to place meaningful safeguards around a difficult accommodation. By limiting transfers to elephants whose ownership certificates predated the Rules and to their offspring, and by requiring registration of genetic profiles, they offered a means of confining transfers to an identifiable population already lawfully in captivity. Read together, these provisions seek to break the logic of the khedda , in which the forest continually supplied elephants for human use. Putting this into practice is a demanding exercise. The State must build a reliable genetic record of the captive population, then verify each claimed captive birth through a DNA match with the mother and records establishing that she was lawfully held. Each new addition must be traceable to this legally recognised population, closing off the forest as a continuing source of captive elephants. Yet the government was still struggling to identify the population it sought to regulate. In August 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change placed the proceedings of the Captive Elephant Healthcare and Welfare Committee (formed under Project Elephant) for the month of February before the Supreme Court in the WRRC case . These recorded that the profiling exercise remained incomplete and that, among 2,075 samples analysed, 40.5 per cent of elephants had unknown origins and 25.4 per cent were documented as wild-caught. Nearly two-thirds therefore fell into these two categories. The continuing exception These concerns have become urgent with the September 2026 movement of five young elephants from Assam to Tamil Nadu temples: Durga, Rupsing, Shiva, Hiralal and Bijuli. More than fifty organisations have sought an independent investigation into their origins, ownership documents and the possibility of sales disguised as gifts. The pace of the transfers shows how readily decisions that will shape decades of an elephants life can be made while fundamental questions remain publicly unanswered. In my account of Durgas transfer , the sequence from the request for a health certificate to her departure from Manas took three days. Her ownership certificate was issued in October 2025, after the 2024 Rules came into effect, so her transfer depended on a claimed captive birth to a mother covered by them, yet her mothers identity and lawful captive status remained publicly unverified. A five-year-old elephant is not a remnant of pre-conservation law; she is another generation entering a system that can determine almost her entire future. These journeys follow years of large transfers from the Northeast to Vantara in Jamnagar, where reporting in 2024 documented convoys coming in from Arunachal Pradesh and the private wildlife facility hosting more than 200 elephants. Vantara describes its work as rescue and rehabilitation, and in September 2025 the Supreme Court accepted an investigation reporting no legal violations. Its transfers and those to temples have different stated purposes, but their scale raises a very important question: how should a constitutional commitment to wildlife, and to compassion for living creatures, govern the continuing movement and concentration of elephants in human institutions? Elephants leaving the Northeast in convoys is not very dissimilar from the old geography of the khedda , when the forests of the Garo Hills supplied elephants to distant establishments and markets. Trautmann and Nongbri show that the forest sustained a system in which wild populations were protected in part because they supplied animals for capture. The question is whether the modern ownership regime has truly broken that relationship. In his Study on Illegal Sale and Transfer of Live Elephants from Assam , Chaturbhuja Behera, then a regional official of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, described illegal sales and transfers, accounts of wild calves being captured, and weaknesses in records used to establish captive birth. Findings such as this make it difficult to treat an ownership certificate, by itself, as an answer to where a young elephant came from. The 2024 Rules thus return us to the contradiction the law has carried since 1972. Once again, the government is trying to make its core commitment to protection coexist with private ownership, a relationship that subordinates an elephants life to the purposes of her owner. The safeguards are necessary, but they cannot resolve that contradiction while the exception is effectively allowing institutions to replenish their captive populations for generations to come. The demand for young elephants must be supplied from somewhere. The historical answer is in front of us: it is the forest. The forest is the breeding ground from which elephants have long been taken to replenish captivity. The exception leaves open the route by which demand for elephants in captivity can be met through illegal capture in the wild, disguised as captive-born. More than sixty years after the Malabar owners defended their right to capture elephants for timber in Kerala High Court, the law is yet to confront the continuity between that older system and the present one.
