Arunachal Pradesh News
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Narendra Modi Stadium Ground: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Vaibhav Suryavanshi, along with Ishan Kishan and Devdutt Padikkal, smashed centuries to benefit their respective teams in Round One of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26 Season on Wednesday. It was a day on which a record 22 individual centuries were scored on the opening day of the competition. From a team perspective, Karnataka and Bengal completed mammoth successful run chases to make a big statement on Day One of Indias premier domestic mens one-day tournament. Kohli marked his return to Bengaluru with a commanding century as Delhi chased down 299 against Andhra with more than 12 overs to spare in their Elite Group D opener on Wednesday. Kohli's 58th List A hundred - 131 off 101 balls with 14 fours and three sixes - at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground overshadowed Ricky Bhui's 122 for Andhra as Delhi secured a four-wicket victory. Delhi pacer Simarjeet Singh was adjudged Player of the Match for picking 5-54. Meanwhile, in Jaipur, another former India captain, Rohit Sharma, produced a masterclass in front of over 20,000 spectators at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, smashing an unbeaten 155 off 94 balls to guide Mumbai to an eight-wicket victory over Sikkim in Elite Group C. Rohit raced to his 37th List A century in just 62 balls before adding another 50 runs off 29 deliveries, cutting and driving at will against an inexperienced Sikkim attack that had posted 236/6, as Mumbai chased down the target in 30.3 overs. In Ranchi, Bihar posted a staggering 574/6 - now the highest score in men's List A cricket - as teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi smashed 190 off 84 balls and captain Sakibul Gani blasted an unbeaten 128 off 40 balls - the fastest by an Indian batter in men's List A cricket - to crush Arunachal Pradesh by 397 runs in a Plate Group match on Wednesday. Suryavanshi struck 16 fours and 15 sixes in his blistering knock at a strike rate of 226.19, adding 158 runs for the opening wicket with Mangal Mahrour (33) before combining with Piyush Singh (77 off 66 balls) for a 103-run second-wicket partnership. Wicketkeeper Ayush Loharuka continued the carnage with 116 off 56 balls, including hitting 11 fours and eight sixes, before Gani unleashed mayhem in the final overs by hitting 10 fours and 12 sixes to propel Bihar past the 500-mark. Bihar's bowlers then completed the rout, dismissing Arunachal Pradesh for just 177 in 42.1 overs with Akash Raj (3-29), Suraj Kashyap (3-31) and Himanshu Tiwari (2-33) sharing eight wickets between themselves. In Rajkot, Dhruv Jurel and Rinku Singh hit half-centuries as Uttar Pradesh opened their campaign with an 84-run win over Hyderabad at the Niranjan Shah Stadium. Apart from the duo, Abhishek Goswami and Aryan Juyal were among their other half-centurions. UP's spin trio - List A debutants Zeeshan Ansari (4-31) and Prashant Veer (3-47), along with Vipraj Nigam - stifled Hyderabad's chase of 325 after the UP top-order posted 324/5. Hyderabad captain Tanmay Agarwal's 53 off 43 balls threatened briefly before the lower-order collapsed, as they were bowled out for 240. Defending champions Karnataka pulled off a stunning run chase, overhauling a record target of 413 against Jharkhand with 15 balls to spare at the Narendra Modi Stadium Ground B in Ahmedabad. Player of the Match Devdutt Padikkal's brilliantly-paced 147 off 118 balls eclipsed Ishan Kishan's explosive 125 off just 39 balls - the second fastest List A century by an Indian male batter - as Karnataka romped home despite losing five wickets on the way. Captain Mayank Agarwal (54 off 34 balls) and Padikkal added 114 in the first 11.5 overs before Abhinav Manohar (56 not out) and debutant Dhruv Prabhakar (40 not out) sealed Karnatakas victory with an unbroken 88-run stand off 41 balls. Kishan had earlier clubbed 14 sixes in his whirlwind knock, helping Jharkhand amass 151 runs in the final 10 overs to post 412 for nine. Meanwhile, at the main Narendra Modi Stadium, Tamil Nadu opened their campaign with a 101-run victory over Pondicherry, with Pradosh Ranjan Paul (73) and captain N. Jagadeesan (67) laying the foundation for a total of 310/9. Bengal completed a successful chase of 383 against Vidarbha, with Abishek Porel (56 off 35 balls), captain Abhimanyu Easwaran (71), Sudip Gharami (68), and Shahbaz Ahmed (71 off 58 balls) guiding them to a stunning victory. Shubham Khajuria smashed an unbeaten 129 as Jammu and Kashmir thrashed Chandigarh by 10 wickets, with Nasir Lone taking four wickets and recent IPL auction pick Auqib Nabi claiming two. Himachal Pradesh defeated Uttarakhand by 95 runs as Akash Vasisht took three wickets, while Arzan Nagwaswalla's four-wicket haul powered Gujarat to an eight-wicket victory over Services. Saurashtra successfully chased down a 346-run target against Odisha with five wickets in hand, powered by Gajjar Sammar's unbeaten 132. Odisha's Swastik Samal had earlier smashed 212 with Biplab Samantaray contributing 100. Kerala thrashed Tripura by 145 runs after posting 348 for eight, with Baba Aparajith taking 5-15. Vignesh Puthur created List A cricket history by taking six catches as a fielder - the most ever in an innings, surpassing the previous record of five shared by 21 fielders. Punjab defeated Maharashtra by 51 runs, with Naman Dhir's 97, Anmolpreet Singh's 85, and Prabhsimran Singh's 60 laying the foundation for their big win before debutants Sukhdeep Bajwa and Krish Bhagat claimed two wickets each. Brief scores: Andhra 298/8 in 50 overs (Ricky Bhui 122; Simarjeet Singh 5-54, Prince Yadav 3-50) lost to Delhi 300/6 in 37.4 overs (Virat Kohli 131, Nitish Rana 77; Maramreddy Hemanth Reddy 2-6, Satyanarayana Raju 2-74) by four wickets Sikkim 236/7 in 50 overs (Ashish Thapa 79, Shardul Thakur 2/19) lost to Mumbai 237/2 in 30.3 overs (Rohit Sharma 155) by 8 wickets. Bihar 574/6 in 50 overs (Vaibhav Suryavanshi 190, Sakibul Gani 128 not out; Tadakamalla Mohith 2-99, Techi Neri 2-83) beat Arunachal Pradesh 177 in 42.1 overs (Kamsha Yangfo 32 not out, Techi Doria 28; Akash Raj 3-29, Suraj Kashyap 3-31) by 397 runs. Odisha 345/6 in 50 overs (Swastik Samal 212, Biplab Samantaray 100) lost to Saurashtra 347/5 in 48.5 overs (Gajjar Sammar 132 not out, Chirag Jani 86) by five wickets Services 184 in 42.2 overs (Arzan Nagwaswalla 4-34) lost to Gujarat 185/2 in 34.5 overs (Aarya Desai 77 not out) by eight wickets Haryana 267/9 in 50 overs (Himanshu Rana 126, Parth Vats 57) lost to Railways 270/4 in 43.4 overs (Ravi Singh 109 not out, Upendra Yadav 80) by six wickets Uttar Pradesh 324/5 in 50 overs (Abhishek Goswami 81, Dhruv Jurel 80) beat Hyderabad 240 all out in 43 overs (Tanmay Agarwal 53, Rahul Buddhi 47; Zeeshan Ansari 4-31) by 84 runs Jharkhand 412/9 in 50 overs (Ishan Kishan 125, Virat Singh 88; Abhilash Shetty 4/72) lost to Karnataka 413/5 in 47.3 overs (Devdutt Padikkal 147, Abhinav Manohar 56 not out) by five wickets Tamil Nadu 310/7 in 50 overs (Pradosh Ranjan Paul 73, N. Jagadeesan 67) beat Pondicherry 209 in 46.5 overs (Neyan Kangayan 60, Gurjapneet Singh 4/32) by 101 runs Punjab 347/6 in 50 overs (Naman Dhir 97, Anmolpreet Singh 85) beat Maharashtra 296/8 in 50 overs (Ramakrishna Ghosh 73, Prithvi Shaw 46) by 51 runs Tamil Nadu 310/7 in 50 overs (Pradosh Ranjan Paul 73, N. Jagadeesan 67) beat Pondicherry 209 in 46.5 overs (Neyan Kangayan 60, Gurjapneet Singh 4/32) by 101 runs Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chhattisgarh 233 in 48.5 overs (Amandeep Khare 76, Mayank Verma 64; Deepraj Gaonkar 4/35) lost to Goa 234/4 in 44.1 overs (Snehal Kauthankar 107 not out) by six wickets Article Source: IANS
Sunrise Festival 2026 to light up Indias Easternmost village in Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh will host the inaugural Sunrise Festival 2025-26 from December 29 to January 2 in Dong village, the first place in India to witness the dawn. This adventure-led cultural celebration aims to position the region as a global destination for nature, culture, and heritage.
China Lists Arunachal As Core Interest, Rules Out Compromise: US Report
A Pentagon report submitted to the US Congress has flagged China's claim over Arunachal Pradesh as part of its stated core interests. The document states that China is not open to negotiation or compromise on these interests.
China aims to reset India ties amid LAC calm, US report says
Arunachal Pradesh figures as part of Chinas core interests in Beijings vision of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation by 2049, according to a report by the US Department of War.
Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate: Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) president congratulated the Bihar team for their historic performance, calling the match a moment of immense pride for state cricket. He lauded the entire squad for their fearless approach and discipline and extended special appreciation to the three centurions, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Sakibul Gani and Ayush Loharuka, for their outstanding batting displays. Bihar produced a batting performance for the ages, shattering the mens List A record for the highest team total by piling up a staggering 574 for 6 in 50 overs against Arunachal Pradesh in a Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate match. The innings rewrote history, eclipsing the previous record of 506/2 by Tamil Nadu against the same opponents in 2022 and Englands 498/4 scored earlier that year. Bihar's innings was highlighted by three magnificent centuries, an astonishing 49 fours and 38 sixes, and a run rate of 11.48 throughout the 50 overs. The BCA president noted that such performances reflect the consistent hard work of the players, coaches and support staff. Heartiest congratulations to the Bihar team for producing a truly historic performance. Today's match is a moment of immense pride for Bihar cricket, said BCA president Harsh Vardhan in a statement. I congratulate the entire squad for their fearless approach and discipline, and extend special appreciation to our three centurions, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Sakibul Gani and Ayush Loharuka, for their outstanding batting displays. Such performances reflect the hard work being put in by our players, coaches and support staff, he added. The standout performer was teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who, at just 14 years and 272 days, became the youngest player to score a hundred in mens List A cricket. He went far beyond that landmark, racing to the fastest 150 in mens List A history off just 59 balls, before being dismissed for a breathtaking 190 off 84 deliveries, laced with 16 fours and 15 sixes. The BCA president made a special mention of Suryavanshi for smashing multiple records and becoming the youngest player to score a century in mens List A cricket, calling the innings exceptional. He said records are meant to be broken and expressed confidence that this achievement is only the beginning, with many more milestones to come. A special mention must go to young Vaibhav Suryavanshi for smashing multiple records and becoming the youngest player to score a century in mens List A cricket, said Harsh Vardhan. The BCA president made a special mention of Suryavanshi for smashing multiple records and becoming the youngest player to score a century in mens List A cricket, calling the innings exceptional. He said records are meant to be broken and expressed confidence that this achievement is only the beginning, with many more milestones to come. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Vaibhav found excellent support in the middle order. Captain Sakibul Gani played a blistering unbeaten 128 off just 40 balls, smashing 10 fours and 12 sixes, and finishing the innings with brutal efficiency. Wicketkeeper-batter Ayush Loharuka scored a commanding 116 off 56 balls, striking 11 fours and 8 sixes, as Arunachal Pradeshs bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught. Article Source: IANS
Arunachal woman posing as UK pharma exec dupes Kashmiri businessman of Rs 26 lakh
Crime Branch Kashmir's Economic Offences Wing has filed a chargesheet in a Rs 26 lakh international online fraud case in which a woman from Arunachal Pradesh allegedly duped a Kashmiri businessman by posing as a UK-based pharmaceutical executive.
Former diplomat KP Fabian observed that China's claim over Arunachal Pradesh reflects a long-standing expansionist mindset. He noted India remains pragmatic in ties with China, while a Pentagon report flags Arunachal as a Chinese core interest amid broader strategic ambitions and lingering India-China distrust.
Bihar Captain Sakibul Gani Becomes Fastest Indian Batter To Score List A Century
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Bihar captain Sakibul Gani became the fastest Indian to score a List A century in just 32 balls in the Plate Group opener against Arunachal Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy at JSCA Oval Ground on Wednesday. Gani finished not out with 128 off 40 balls, just ahead of Jharkhand wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan, who on the same day scored a 33-ball century against Karnataka in the same tournament. Gani's record-breaking century included 10 fours and 12 sixes. The top two fastest List A centuries by Indians have all been recorded on the same day at two different venues, Ahmedabad and Ranchi, on the opening day of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-25. The world record for the fastest century in List A cricket belongs to Australian batter Jake Fraser-McGurk. The former Delhi Capitals player reached the 100-run mark in just 29 balls for South Australia against Tasmania in Adelaide on October 8, 2023. Teen prodigy Suryavanshi led the charge of Bihar's batting with an impressive 190 off 84 deliveries, whereas Ayush Loharuka scored a 56-ball 116, as captain Gani contributed another hundred to round out the assault. Suryavanshis performance made him the youngest centurion in List A cricket. After electing to bat first, Bihar went on to post the highest List A total of 574 for six, surpassing the previous record of 506 for 2 set by Tamil Nadu against Arunachal Pradesh in the same competition in 2022. The Bihar innings included 49 fours and 38 sixes. Fastest centuries by Indians in List A cricket Sakibul Gani 32 balls, Bihar vs Arunachal Pradesh, December 24, 2025 Ishan Kishan 33 balls, Jharkhand vs Karnataka, December 24, 2025 Anmolpreet Singh 35 balls, Punjab vs Arunachal Pradesh, December 21, 2024 Ishan Kishan 33 balls, Jharkhand vs Karnataka, December 24, 2025 Also Read: Live Cricket Score Yusuf Pathan 40 balls, Baroda vs Maharashtra, February 16, 2010 Article Source: IANS
Bihar Script History With Highest List A Team Total In Vijay Hazare Trophy
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Bihar are on a roll in its Vijay Hazare Trophy, having registered the highest team total in List A cricket during the Plate League opener against Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday. Batting first, Bihar posted a staggering 574 for the loss of six wickets, surpassing the previous List A record of 506/2 set by Tamil Nadu against Arunachal Pradesh in the 2022 Vijay Hazare Trophy. Teenager Vaibhav Suryavanshis blistering 190, coupled with a captains knock of 128 not out from Sakibul Gani and a fluent 116 from Ayush Loharuka, powered the team to a record-breaking total in a dominant batting display. Suryavanshi smashed a century off 36 balls to become the youngest centurion in List A cricket. His century was the second-fastest by an Indian man overall in List A cricket, after Punjab batter Anmolpreet Singh's 35-ball century against Arunachal in the Vijay Hazare competition last season. Overall, Suryavanshi's 36-ball ton ranks joint-fourth-fastest ever in the world in List A cricket. The teenage batter racked up his 150 off only 54 deliveries before being dismissed for 190 off 84. Suryavanshi laid the foundation for Bihars imposing total with a dominant batting display, first adding 198 runs for the opening wicket alongside Mangal Mahrour (33). He then kept the momentum going by stitching together another century stand, putting on 103 runs for the second wicket with Piyush Kumar Singh, before being dismissed for a magnificent 190. Overall, Suryavanshi's 36-ball ton ranks joint-fourth-fastest ever in the world in List A cricket. The teenage batter racked up his 150 off only 54 deliveries before being dismissed for 190 off 84. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Skipper Gani, who joined Ayush to establish a 94-run partnership, hit the third-fastest century in List A cricket with his 32-ball hundred. His century is the fastest by an Indian in List A. He remained unbeaten on 128 off 40 balls, which comprised 10 fours and 12 sixes. Article Source: IANS
Ishan Kishan Becomes Second-fastest Indian To Smash Century In List A History
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Jharkhand wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan produced a breathtaking display of power-hitting, smashing a 33-ball century against Karnataka in a Vijay Hazare Trophy fixture in Ahmedabad on Wednesday. The innings ranks as the second-fastest hundred by an Indian in List A cricket, falling just one ball short of the national record set earlier the same day by Bihar skipper Sakibul Gani, who reached the milestone in 32 deliveries against Arunachal Pradesh. Kishans latest feat adds to an extraordinary run of form for the left-hander. Only days ago, he was a surprise inclusion in Indias squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, shortly after captaining Jharkhand to their first-ever Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy triumph. During the SMAT campaign, Kishan topped the charts with 517 runs and played a decisive role in the final against Haryana, where he struck a blistering century. His hundred came off just 45 balls, making him only the second player to score a ton in a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final and registering as the third-fastest century in a mens T20 final. With five centuries in the tournament, he now shares the record for most hundreds in SMAT history with Abhishek Sharma. Kishans explosive credentials are well established at the international level, too. He holds the record for the fastest double century in One-Day Internationals, reaching the landmark in just 126 balls against Bangladesh in 2022. The Vijay Hazare Trophy witnessed several breathtaking performances on Wednesday. It all started with youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi grabbing headlines with his 36-ball century for Bihar, which he later converted into an 84-ball 190 before his knock came to an end. What followed next in the same innings was Ganis record-breaking ton and Ayush Loharukas 56-ball 116 as Bihar finished with a massive 574 runs on the scoreboard against Arunachal Pradesh. Kishans explosive credentials are well established at the international level, too. He holds the record for the fastest double century in One-Day Internationals, reaching the landmark in just 126 balls against Bangladesh in 2022. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Courtesy of Kishans recent performances in the domestic arena, he has earned a recall to the international setup, having been named in Indias T20I squad for the five-game series against New Zealand and the T20 World Cup in February 2026. Article Source: IANS
World record! Bihar smash highest-ever List A total; Gani slams fastest hundred
Bihar shattered List A cricket history, posting a world-record 574/6 against Arunachal Pradesh. Captain Sakibul Gani hit the fastest Indian List A century (32 balls), while 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi smashed 190 off 84 balls, becoming the youngest List A centurion ever. Ayush Loharuka also contributed a century in the dominant batting display.
Vaibhav Suyavanshi Hits 36-ball Ton For Bihar In Vijay Hazare Trophy Opener
Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate: India's 14-year-old batting sensation, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, made headlines again after smashing a 36-ball century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate league opener for Bihar against Arunachal Pradesh at the JSCA Oval Ground on Wednesday. Suryavanshi's century off 36 balls was the second-fastest hundred by an Indian man in overall List A cricket, after Punjab batter Anmolpreet Singh's 35-ball century against Arunachal in the Vijay Hazare competition last season. Overall, Suryavanshi's 36-ball ton ranks as the joint-fourth-fastest ever in the world in List A cricket. The teenage batter racked up his 150 off only 54 deliveries before being dismissed for 190 off 84, as Bihar are currently 379/2 in 39 overs. Earlier this month, Suryavanshi smashed an unbeaten century for Bihar against Maharashtra in an Elite Group B Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 match at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. He scored an unbeaten 108 off 61 balls, his maiden ton in the T20 domestic cricket tournament and third overall in the format. His century also made him the youngest batter to score a century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, at 14 years and 250 days. The 14-year-old cricketer also smashed the record for the highest score by an Indian in U19 Asia Cup history with his 171 off just 95 against the UAE. The explosive southpaw also slammed a ton against the Australia U19 team in Brisbane during a Youth Test match in November. His most recent jaw-dropping innings came in the Rising Stars Asia Cup, where he scored 144 off 42 balls for India A against UAE, smashing 11 fours and 15 sixes. The 14-year-old cricketer also smashed the record for the highest score by an Indian in U19 Asia Cup history with his 171 off just 95 against the UAE. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Last month, Instagram chose to spotlight Vaibhav Sooryavanshis journey on its official page - making him only the second Indian cricketer after Virat Kohli to receive the honour. Article Source: IANS
VHT: Suryavanshi slams 36-ball ton for Bihar, becomes the youngest List A centurion
Playing against Arunachal Pradesh in a Plate League fixture in Ranchi, Suryavanshi scored his first non-T20I ton in senior cricket
Vijay Hazare: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi becomes youngest List A centurion
Fourteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has electrified the Vijay Hazare Trophy, smashing a 36-ball century against Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday. This remarkable feat makes him the youngest List-A centurion ever. The young prodigy's explosive batting, including a conversion to 150 in 59 balls, signals a potential shift in Indian domestic cricket's landscape.
NHPC declares COD of first unit of Subansiri Lower HE Project
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 23: In a landmark milestone for Indias clean energy sector, NHPC Limited today declared the Commercial Operation Date (COD) of its first Unit (Unit Number 2 of 250 MW) of the 2000 MW (8 X 250 MW) Subansiri Lower HE Project, located on the Arunachal Pradesh/Assam border. Union Minister of Power, Housing & Urban Affairs Manohar Lal inaugurated the COD of the Project through virtual mode. Manohar Lal lauded the achievement as a proud milestone in [] The post NHPC declares COD of first unit of Subansiri Lower HE Project appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Arunachal Pradesh police have apprehended five individuals from Jammu and Kashmir. They are accused of espionage activities and sharing sensitive information with Pakistani handlers. The latest arrests were made in Kupwara district. Police are interrogating the accused. The public is urged to conduct thorough verification for renters.
Two Kashmir Residents Arrested in Arunachal for Alleged Espionage
Itanagar, Dec 23: Arunachal Pradesh Police have arrested two more men from Jammu and Kashmirs Kupwara district for allegedly spying and passing sensitive information to handlers based in Pakistan, taking the total number of arrests in the case to five. The latest accused, identified as Aijaz Ahmed Bhat and Bashir Ahmad Ganai, were arrested on [] The post Two Kashmir Residents Arrested in Arunachal for Alleged Espionage appeared first on Northlines .
Itanagar Police Arrests Two From J&K For Espionage Activities In Arunachal
Itanagar, Dec 23: The Itanagar Police has arrested two persons from Jammu and Kashmir for alleged espionage activities in Arunachal Pradesh, an officer said on Tuesday. Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) Chukhu Apa said the two persons were arrested from Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir on December 18, and they have been brought to the state, where they are currently in police custody. The arrested individuals have been identified as Aijaz Ahmed Bhat and Bashir Ahmad Ganai. [] The post Itanagar Police Arrests Two From J&K For Espionage Activities In Arunachal appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
2 J&K Men Arrested In Arunachal Pradesh For Allegedly Spying For Pakistan
Arunachal Pradesh's Itanagar police have arrested two more persons from Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district for allegedly spying and collecting sensitive information for handlers based in Pakistan, officials said.
Sakib Hussain Ready For Fresh Start In IPL Bandwagon After Being Picked By SRH
Tunna Giri Cricket Academy: Sakib Hussain was at Bihars Vijay Hazare Trophy camp in Patna when Sunrisers Hyderabad picked him for his base price of Rs 30 lakh at the IPL 2026 auction. The move marks the start of a new IPL chapter for Hussain, the right-arm pacer who tasted championship glory with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2024, though he didnt get to play a single game. At the time of the auction, we were at the Vijay Hazare Trophy camp in Patna. When SRH picked me, I felt really good because the things where I had my shortcomings, I did improve on them during the IPL and implemented that in domestic games. I have made sure to leave no stone unturned in overcoming those shortcomings and do well whenever a chance comes to play in the tournament, said Hussain in an exclusive conversation with IANS. Hussains path of coming back to the IPL involved trials with Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and KKR before SRH got him in the auction. Shortly after that, he received an encouraging call from the franchise's bowling coach and former India pacer Varun Aaron. Varun Aaron told me to get ready and that I have to do well and move ahead by working hard. On hearing this, first of all, I thanked him and the SRH team for taking me in. He replied back by telling me that this is just the fruit of your hardwork. Despite not getting a game in IPL 2024, Hussains time with KKR proved invaluable, as the Gopalganj native got masterclass from some of cricket's biggest names like Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Rinku Singh and coach Abhishek Nayar. All of them taught me a lot of good things. Like, the way they planned, playing with a different mindset on match day, and how to judge a player, I got to learn a lot of things there, he said. Hussain also learnt a valuable lesson in KKR - that physical talent alone wouldn't separate the good from the great at a higher level. In my time of being in KKR, one big thing I learnt was cricket is a mind game. The one who thinks well plays well on the field. Everyone is talented, but the one who thinks well, plays well. In the IPL, on a daily basis, you have to think and plan about what to do. Sometimes you have to change your plan in seconds and I got to learn about how to do that. Hussains journey traces back to humble beginnings at Tunna Giri Cricket Academy in Gopalganj, where coach Robin Singh became his pillar of support through every high and low. People like Saket bhaiya, Kumar bhaiya at the academy have supported me. My coach Robin Singh is the most special person in my life. He has helped me through ups and downs, as well as been in my good and bad times. Hes supported me a lot, he said. He also credited the Bihar Cricket Association leadership - President Harsh Vardhan, Rakesh Tiwari, and Secretary Rahul - for creating pathways that helped a small-town cricketer like him to play at the highest level. They all have helped me in going from playing in a small town to such a big stage. They have supported me a lot and I would like to thank them from the bottom of my heart. Looking ahead to his stint with SRH, Hussain is eager to learn from captain Pat Cummins and other international stars in the setup. In IPL, you get a good coach and mentor who can guide you well. But everywhere you go, the main interest is in playing at any given opportunity and that aids your growth. In the Hyderabad team, a lot of legendary players like skipper Pat Cummins are present, as I will get to learn a lot and carry those lessons very well. Hussains bustling pace in his domestic performances caught the attention of IPL scouts, particularly a remarkable 10-wicket haul against Arunachal Pradesh in the first half of Ranji Trophy and taking six wickets in Bihars Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy league games in Kolkata. In matches, I just keep things simple and focus on what I want to do, which was to pick timely breakthroughs. It also helps that I never think too far and keep focus on doing things in the present moment in the match. Hussains bustling pace in his domestic performances caught the attention of IPL scouts, particularly a remarkable 10-wicket haul against Arunachal Pradesh in the first half of Ranji Trophy and taking six wickets in Bihars Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy league games in Kolkata. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Having experienced the euphoria of an IPL title with KKR, Hussain signed off by saying hes hungry to recreate that success in SRH colours. Definitely we will try to become the winning team again in the IPL next year. It will be very good to have a picture there with the trophy again on my Instagram profile. I am very excited to learn a lot and do well to win the trophy for SRH this time. Article Source: IANS
2025: Arunachal remains resilient over diplomatic row, disaster response, sees NDA's win in polls
Arunachal Pradesh faced a challenging 2025, marked by a diplomatic spat over an Arunachalee woman's airport detention in Shanghai and local protests against a major power project. The state also grappled with natural disasters and a corruption scandal. Despite these hurdles, the BJP secured a significant political victory in local elections, showcasing the region's resilience.
ACB arrest Arunachal govt officer in frontier highway funds case
Arunachal Pradesh government officer was arrested by the Anti-Corruption Bureau for alleged misappropriation of compensation funds linked to a highway project in East Kameng district. The SP said the investigation into the alleged misappropriation of compensation funds for those who are affected by land acquisition is underway, he said
Search operation ends in Anjaw truck accident, 20 bodies recovered
A multi-agency search and rescue operation in Arunachal Pradesh's Anjaw district has concluded after a mini-truck carrying 21 people from Assam plunged into a gorge. Twenty bodies were recovered, and one survivor was rescued following intensive efforts. The operation, which began on December 11, was formally called off on Monday.
This Video Doesnt Show Chinas Massive Build up Near Arunachal Pradesh
The video is from November and does not show visuals recorded near Arunachal Pradesh.
Ex-Bureaucrat Raj Kumar Goyal Sworn In As Chief Information Commissioner
New Delhi, Dec 15: Former IAS officer Raj Kumar Goyal was on Monday sworn in as Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) by President Droupadi Murmu. A three-member panel headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week recommended Goyals name as the CIC. Goyal is a 1990-batch (retired) Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram-Union Territories (AGMUT) cadre. He superannuated as Secretary, Department of Justice under the Ministry of Law and Justice, on August 31. He has also served as Secretary [] The post Ex-Bureaucrat Raj Kumar Goyal Sworn In As Chief Information Commissioner appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
EC appoints five nodal officers for EVM first-level checking ahead of 2026 Bengal assembly polls
KOLKATA: T he Election Commission said it has appointed five nodal officers for first-level checking (FLC) of the electronic voting machines (EVMs) ahead of next year's West Bengal assembly polls. All the officers hailed from other states, the poll panel said in a statement. The EC has introduced rules by which the image of each candidate would be displayed on the EVM. The five nodal officers were appointed as observers at different FLC venues for assembly polls, said the statement issued on Sunday. The five officers are Shania Kayem Mize (deputy CEO, Arunachal Pradesh), Yogesh Gosavi (deputy CEO, Maharashtra), P K Boro (additional CEO, Meghalaya), Ethel Rothangpuii (joint CEO, Mizoram) and Kanishka Kumar (under secretary of ECI). In the 2021 elections, West Bengal had over 80,000 booths. An EC official said that following the enumeration, the number of booths is likely to go up by over 10,000.
Survey finds LGBTQIA+ youth face highest discrimination at home and school
A recent survey of over 900 LGBTQ+ individuals by a Kolkata-based organisation, Bridge, which works for the rights of the community across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Odisha, Jharkhand and West Bengal, reported that most bullying happens between the ages of 12 and 15 years
Two arrested in Assam over death of 21 workers in Arunachal
Rescue teams have recovered 20 bodies from a 200-metre gorge near Chaglagam in Arunachal Pradeshs Anjaw district, while two persons were arrested for illegally supplying labour to the State
PIB has debunked viral claims of a large-scale Chinese military build-up near Arunachal Pradesh. The government's fact-checking agency clarified that the circulated video depicts a routine exercise by the PLA's 78th Group Army, unrelated to the Indian border. Citizens are urged to verify information from official sources.
Queer children face maximum discrimination, bullying at homes, schools: Survey
A recent survey of over 900 LGBTQ+ individuals by a Kolkata-based organisation, 'Bridge', which works for the rights of the community across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Odisha, Jharkhand and West Bengal, reported that most bullying happens between the ages of 12 and 15 years
Three suspected spies including retired IAF official arrested
Security agencies have apprehended three suspected spies in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, including a retired Indian Air Force staffer from Tezpur. The individuals are accused of sharing sensitive information with Pakistan-based handlers through social media and Telegram channels, detailing Army movements and defense camp locations.
Three Jammu Kashmir Youth Arrested in Arunachal For Espionage
SRINAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh Police have arrested three youths from Jammu and Kashmir within a span of about three weeks on charges related to espionage and alleged links with Pakistan-based handlers, in what police sources have described as a serious national security case, reports appearing in the media said. The latest arrest was made late on []
Bodies of six Assam workers killed in Anjaw brought to Tinsukia
Six Assam workers who died in an Arunachal Pradesh accident have been identified in Tinsukia. Their bodies were brought to Tinsukia Medical College and Hospital for formal identification by family members. Joint rescue teams recovered the remains from the accident site in Anjaw district. The vehicle carrying 22 labourers fell into a gorge on the Hayuliang-Chaglagam road.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal visited families of victims from Assam who died in a tragic road accident in Arunachal Pradesh's Anjaw district. He conveyed condolences and assured government support, emphasizing coordinated rescue and relief efforts. Prime Minister Modi and the Assam Government announced ex-gratia payments and financial aid for the affected families.
Arunachal Pradesh has achieved a significant leap in learning outcomes, securing 17th position nationally in the Parakh Rashtriya Sarvekshan 2024. Chief Minister Pema Khandu highlighted remarkable progress, especially in language learning at middle and secondary levels, surpassing national averages. This success underscores the effectiveness of ongoing education reforms aimed at transforming the state's educational landscape.
Six-year-old killed in Arunachal govt school hostel blaze; DC orders inquiry and safety audit
A midnight fire at the hostel of Netaji Subash Chandra Bose Awasiya Vidyalaya in Arunachal Pradeshs Tawang district claimed the life of a six-year-old Class I student, reportedly due to an electrical short circuit. Thirty other children were rescued by a Class VIII student and the hostel warden. District officials visited the site, ordered a magisterial inquiry, and announced a safety audit of all residential schools. The fire, intensified by wooden structures, caused extensive property damage.
At least nine people died when a bus overturned on a ghat road in Andhra Pradesh's Alluri Sitarama Raju district. In a separate incident, 21 people from Assam's Tinsukia district are feared dead after their minitruck plunged into a gorge in Arunachal Pradesh's Anjaw district. Prime Minister Modi announced financial compensation for the victims.
AP: 21 feared dead after mini truck falls into gorge; PM Modi expresses grief
Distressed by the loss of lives due to a mishap in the Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh. My thoughts are with those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured, the PMO said in a post on X
Arunachal accident: PM announces Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia for victims; 18 bodies spotted in gorge
A mini-truck carrying 22 labourers fell into a gorge in Arunachal Pradesh. The accident occurred on Monday night. A survivor reached a Border Roads Organisation camp to seek help. Eighteen bodies have been spotted. An NDRF team is en route for recovery operations. The Prime Minister's Office announced financial aid for the victims' families.
A truck carrying 21 labourers fell into a deep gorge on the Hayuliang-Chaglagam road in Arunachal Pradesh. At least 17 people are feared dead in the accident. The incident came to light when an injured labourer alerted authorities. Relief and rescue teams are working to locate missing persons and provide medical aid.
Arunachal: 18 killed, seven others missing as truck falls into gorge earlier this week
GUWAHATI: At least 18 people died when a truck, in which they were travelling in, plunged into a deep gorge near Metengliang in the Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh. The mishap occurred on the night of December 8 but authorities learnt about it on December 10 after an injured survivor had managed to reach a camp of the General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF) and narrated the incident. After first aid, he was shifted to Assam for further treatment. A group of 22 labourers had left from Assams Tinsukia district for Chaglagam in Anjaw district on December 7 to work at a construction site. Fellow workers were alarmed when they did not reach their destination on time. Based on their complaint, the Hayuliang police in Anjaw district launched a search operation and later, they received information from the GREF camp about the lone survivor. The police said the mishap, which occurred at a place located around 12 km from Chaglagam, remained unreported for two days due to the absence of mobile connectivity in the region. A defence ministry statement said the Indian Army launched a major search and rescue operation based on information received late on December 10. Preliminary inputs from the lone survivor, who managed to reach Chipra GREF Camp, indicate that a truck carrying 22 workers from Tinsukia fell off a cliff. The accident site lies in difficult terrain with limited connectivity and had not been reported by any local agency, contractor or civil representative until the survivors arrival, the statement said. After four hours of intensive search and rope descent on Thursday (December 11) by the teams of Army, police, National Disaster Response Force and GREF, the truck was spotted around 200 metres below the road in a re-entrant, inaccessible and not visible from helicopters or the road due to dense tree cover and thick foliage. Eighteen bodies have been sighted and are being retrieved using belay ropes, the statement said. Authorities were questioning the sub-contractor to verify the antecedents and exact strength of the workers hired. Despite harsh terrain and poor visibility, the Indian Army, in coordination with civil administration and other agencies, is making all possible efforts to trace the remaining individuals and provide immediate assistance, the statement further stated.
22 feared dead in Arunachal gorge tragedy
Tragedy struck in Arunachal Pradesh as at least 22 Assam labourers are feared dead after their mini truck plunged into a deep gorge near the Indo-China border. A lone survivor, severely injured, alerted authorities after a perilous journey. Rescue operations are underway, with specialized teams and the Army working to retrieve bodies from the treacherous terrain.
21 Labourers From Assam Feared Dead After Truck Falls Into Arunachal Gorge
At least 21 people are feared dead after a vehicle carrying daily-wage labourers from Assam's Tinsukia district plunged into a gorge in Arunachal Pradesh.
22 Feared Dead After Vehicle Carrying Labourers Rolls Down Gorge In Arunachal's Anjaw
At least 22 people are feared dead in Arunachal Pradeshs Anjaw district after a vehicle carrying daily wage laborers from Assams Tinsukia district plunged into a gorge.
Two Kashmiri Men Arrested in Arunachal Pradesh for Alleged Espionage for Pakistan
A senior police officer, handling the case said, Nazir collected a lot of information, including photographs and videos of vital military installations, and shared them with the handlers. He was in constant touch with Sabir throughout this period.
2 Kashmir Residents Arrested for Alleged Espionage in Arunachal Pradesh
NEW DELHI, Dec 11: Arunachal Pradesh Police on Wednesday arrested two Jammu & Kashmir residents on charges of espionage and alleged links with Pakistan-based handlers, after one was found collecting and transmitting sensitive military information on army and paramilitary movements. According to the FIR filed by the officer-in-charge of Chimpu police station, the first accused, [] The post 2 Kashmir Residents Arrested for Alleged Espionage in Arunachal Pradesh appeared first on Northlines .
Bandh brings Arunachal Capital Region to a standstill; police detain six amid tensions
A 12-hour bandh called by three organizations disrupted normal life across Arunachal Pradesh's Capital Complex. The shutdown, demanding the cancellation of alleged illegal mosque and madrasa construction, removal of Bangladeshi immigrants, and a ban on weekly markets, was declared illegal by authorities. Police detained six individuals and are investigating objectionable voice messages.
NEW DELHI: Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday said that attacking tall leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru cannot divert attention from the real issues. Speaking in the Rajya Sabha during the debate on the 150th anniversary of the national song, Kharge added that the purpose of the House must be to focus on the burning issues facing the nation, because the true tribute to Bharat Mata will be paid only when the Parliament debates the concerns of the people and their solutions. Kharge countered Prime Minister Narendra Modi's charges that Nehru removed four stanzas from 'Vande Mataram' to appease the Muslim League and its leader Mohammad Ali Jinnah by reminding the BJP that it was their founder Syama Prasad Mookerjee who had formed a government in alliance with the Muslim League in Bengal and not Nehru. He noted that the decision to adopt only the first two stanzas of the national song was taken in the Congress Working Committee meeting held in 1937. He said, those present in the meeting that approved only the first two stanzas as the national song, included besides Pandit Nehru, Mahatma Gandhi, Subhas Chandra Bose, Rabindranath Tagore, Abul Kalam Azad, Acharya Kripalani, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, Dr Rajendra Prasad, GB Pant and others. Why target Pandit Nehru selectively? he asked, pointing out, it was a collective decision of all these leaders. On real issues faced by the people of the country, he specially referred to the falling value of rupee against the US dollar and reminded PM Modi what he had said on the same issue as Gujarat Chief Minister in 2012. He quoted Modi as having alleged that it was due to the corruption that the value of rupee had fallen. Is it because of the same reasons that the value of rupee has fallen today, as you had attributed to its fall then? he asked. It is like a Himalayan fall, the way the rupee's value has fallen, he remarked. Kharge also referred to the foreign policy disaster during the NDA regime, pointing out how the neighbouring countries like Nepal and Bangladesh, which were traditional allies, had grown too distant from India. He said, Nepal was coming closer to China and Bangladesh, for the first time since 1971, was moving closer to Pakistan. He said China was expanding its influence in South Asia at the cost of Indias interests and influence. Taking a dig at Prime Minister Modis claims of possessing a 56-inch chest, he asked, what is the point of having such a broad chest when you cannot defend the country's interest and cannot stand up to Chinese bullying? He referred to aggressive expansionist claims of China over Arunachal Pradesh, pointing out how a woman from the state had been detained for 18 hours at a Chinese airport and was told that her Indian passport was illegal and she should apply for a Chinese passport. Kharge concluded his speech by urging the government to stop spreading falsehoods and slinging mud at national heroes to cover up its own failures. He said that whenever BJP leaders insult those who sacrificed everything for Indias freedom, it only becomes clearer that they and their ideological forefathers had no role in the countrys independence. He advised the government not to make a mockery of itself by questioning the wisdom of the heroes of the freedom struggle.
Arunachal Pradesh will remain an integral part of India, says MEA
Jaiswal said India expects China to abide by established global aviation norms and raised concern over the treatment of Indian citizens at Chinese airports
Sanils 9-wkt haul powers J&K to victory
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Jammu and Kashmir recorded a commanding 134-run victory over Arunachal Pradesh in the U-16 Mens Vijay Merchant Trophy at Surat, powered by an all-round masterclass from Sanil Singh and Karman Singh. Batting first, J&K posted 344 runs, with Karman Singh scoring a brilliant 129 not out, supported by Aksh Sharma and Haadi Amin. In response, Arunachal Pradesh were bundled out for 111 runs, with Saksh top-scoring with 57. Sanil Singh was the star with [] The post Sanils 9-wkt haul powers J&K to victory appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
China must assure us our citizens won't be harassed: India
India has demanded assurances from China that its citizens won't face selective harassment after an Arunachal Pradesh resident was reportedly mistreated at Shanghai airport. New Delhi strongly protested the incident, reaffirming Arunachal's status as an integral part of India. The MEA advised Indian nationals to exercise caution when traveling to or transiting through China.
Democracy and Pakistan dont go together, says MEA as it flags concerns over protests, border clashes
NEW DELHI: External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Monday made a sharp remark on the state of democracy in Pakistan, saying that democracy and Pakistan dont go together, while responding to questions on the political situation in the neighbouring country, including developments involving former Prime Minister Imran Khan and ongoing protests. Asked whether Pakistans democratic structures were weakening, Jaiswal said India has been closely monitoring developments. We keep a close eye on every development in Pakistan but regarding democracy, the less we talk, the better, he said. Jaiswal also commented on last weeks border clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan, expressing concern over reports of civilian deaths. We condemn such attacks on innocent Afghan people. India strongly supports the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Afghanistan, he said. Heavy gunfire was exchanged along the border last Friday, days after peace talks between the two sides collapsed. Meanwhile, protests linked to Imran Khans incarceration continued in Pakistan. Reports said that authorities at Rawalpindis Adiala Jail last week allowed Khans sister, Uzma Khanum, to meet him, even as PTI supporters held demonstrations outside the Islamabad High Court and the prison over restrictions on his visitation rights. On a separate query, Jaiswal urged Indian nationals to exercise caution while travelling through China, following an incident involving UK-based Indian citizen Pema Wangjom Thongdok. Thongdok, born in Arunachal Pradesh, was travelling from London to Japan with a layover in Shanghai when Chinese immigration officials allegedly deemed her Indian passport invalid because it listed Arunachal Pradesh as her birthplace. She was kept in the transit area for nearly 18 hours before being allowed to continue her journey after contacting the Indian Embassy. Reiterating Indias firm stance, Jaiswal said, Arunachal Pradesh is and will remain an integral part of India, and we do not want any interference in it. He added that IndiaChina relations were gradually moving in a positive direction and that New Delhi intended to maintain that momentum.
MEA asks China to assure Indian travellers won't be targeted, advises nationals to exercise...
Recently, Chinese immigration officials allegedly declared an Indian woman's passport 'invalid' because it listed Arunachal Pradesh as her place of birth.
India's Ministry of External Affairs has urged Chinese authorities to ensure fair treatment for Indian travelers transiting through their airports. This statement follows reports of alleged harassment of an Arunachal Pradesh woman, prompting an advisory for Indian nationals to exercise caution when traveling to or through China.
Rajnath Singh inaugurates record 125 BRO projects in Ladakh
NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday described Operation Sindoor as a historic success, crediting the missions scale and efficiency to Indias rapidly strengthened border connectivity. Singh, who was in Ladakh to inaugurate 125 strategically significant infrastructure projects of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) the highest number ever launched simultaneously, said the forces exercised restraint despite having the capability to go further. Speaking about the counter-operation launched after the Pahalgam terror attack, Singh said, Our Armed Forces launched the operation in response to the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Everybody knows what befell those terrorists. We could have done much more, but our forces, demonstrating both courage and patience, did only what was necessary. The success of the operation was made possible by seamless logistics and uninterrupted connectivity to forward areas. The projects inaugurated on Sunday span two Union Territories Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir and seven states: Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal and Mizoram. They include 28 roads, 93 bridges and four miscellaneous facilities, collectively built at an estimated cost of Rs 5,000 crore, marking the highest-value set of inaugurations in BROs history. As first reported by The New Indian Express , the assets represent a major boost to Indias border infrastructure push. These upgraded roads and bridges are expected to significantly enhance last-mile connectivity to remote villages and forward military posts, helping integrate these areas more closely into the national mainstream. The main event was held on the DarbukShyokDaulat Beg Oldie road at the newly completed Shyok Tunnel, one of the marquee projects unveiled by the minister. Calling the tunnel an engineering feat built in one of the worlds toughest terrains, Singh said the 920-metre cut-and-cover structure will ensure all-weather access to a strategically vital region frequently cut off by heavy snowfall, avalanches and extreme temperatures. The tunnel, he said, will boost mobility, security and rapid deployment capability, especially during harsh winters. Singh also virtually inaugurated the Galwan War Memorial in Ladakh, honouring the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers. Reaffirming the governments commitment to developing border regions, the Defence Minister said robust connectivity acts as a lifeline for security, economic growth and disaster management. There are numerous benefits of strong border infrastructure. It enables military mobility, smooth transport of logistics, increased tourism and employment opportunities, and most importantly greater public faith in development, democracy and the government, he said. He noted that the BRO spent a record Rs 16,690 crore in 202425 and has been set a target of Rs 18,700 crore for 202526. In the past two years alone, 356 BRO projects have been dedicated to the nation, underscoring the agencys capability to operate in high-altitude, snowbound, desert, flood-prone and forested terrain. The Union Budget 202526 has raised the BROs allocation from Rs 6,500 crore to Rs 7,146 crore, reflecting its expanding role in national security and development.
Defence Minister dedicates 125 BRO projects to nation
These projects built at a cost of 5,000 crore and spread across the Union Territories of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, and seven States including Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal and Mizoram consisted of 28 roads, 93 bridges and four miscellaneous works
Over 32K living co-infected with HIV and TB in 2024, admits Centre
NEW DELHI: Over 32,000 people living with HIV (PLHIV) were co-infected with tuberculosis (TB) in 2024. This dual burden continues to be a significant public health challenge in India, according to the latest government report. The report also said that a total of six states, including Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, recorded the highest number of people co-infected with HIV and TB in 2024-25. The dual burden of HIV and TB continues to be a major public health challenge in India, as co-infection substantially increases the risk of illness and death if not detected and treated promptly, said the India HIV Estimation 2025 report. Maharashtra (14%), Andhra Pradesh (10%), Karnataka (10%), Uttar Pradesh (10%), Tamil Nadu (7%) and Gujarat (7%) together accounted for 58% of the HIVTB co-infected PLHIV reported in FY 2024-25, forming the bulk of the 11 states that contributed 80% of the national caseload. Several smaller states/UTs such as Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Dadar & Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Puducherry, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands contributed less than 1% of total cases, said the report, which was released by Union Health Minister JP Nadda on December 1, observed as World AIDS Day. The report said that TB, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), remains one of the most significant opportunistic infections (OIs) among PLHIV in India. From 2021-22 to 2024-25, the proportion of PLHIV screened for TB remained consistently high at 95% or more, reflecting strong adherence to TB screening and effective implementation of testing services. However, TB diagnosis among PLHIV from 2021-22 to 2024-25 showed a gradual decline, from 7.2% in 2021-22 and 2022-23 to 5.8% in 2023-24, and further to 4.9% in 2024-25. This can be attributed to enhanced prevention efforts and treatment coverage leading to a decrease in transmission, said the report. Active TB may affect the lungs (pulmonary TB) or spread beyond the lungs to involve the lymph nodes, pleura, abdomen, central nervous system, bones, joints, or skin (extrapulmonary TB). Recognising the impact of the dual epidemic, the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) has implemented several strategic measures to address HIV-TB co-infection across the country effectively. A cornerstone of this effort is the integration of HIV and TB services, aimed at ensuring comprehensive, patient-centred care, the report added. Under this model, all PLHIV attending ART Centres are screened for TB symptoms. At the same time, all TB patients are tested for HIV to enable early diagnosis and timely care.
Rajnath Singh to unveil 125 BRO infrastructure projects in key areas
NEW DELHI: In a major push to strengthen Indias border infrastructure, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will inaugurate and dedicate 125 strategically important projects of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) on Sunday from the Shyok Tunnel in Ladakh. Sources said these vital projects that the minister will unveil cover 28 roads, 93 bridges, and four miscellaneous strategic facilities across seven states and two Union Territories, including Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Mizoram. Showcasing Indias engineering and technological advancements, the event will highlight the 920-metre Cut and Cover Shyok Tunnel, which ensures uninterrupted movement of troops and civilians through landslide- and avalanche-prone terrain. The 3D-printed Himank Air Dispatch (HAD) Unit Complex in Chandigarh also highlights the countrys innovation in modern defence infrastructure. These projects mark a major milestone in enhancing operational preparedness, troop mobility, and socio-economic development in some of the most remote and challenging regions of the country, officials said. BROs achievements demonstrate its capability to operate across high-altitude, snowbound, desert, flood-prone, and dense forest terrains, while improving last-mile connectivity to remote villages, forward military posts, and strategic locations. Notable road projects include the Sela-Chabrela-BJG and Shungester-Sulula Roads in Arunachal Pradesh, the KalepGaigong Road in Sikkim, and connectivity works in Mizoram along the LawngtlaiDiltlangParva axis. Bridges such as Lumla I & II, Shungetsar I & II, Rabam Chu, and Tuichanglui enhance logistics and access across critical border stretches. Officials pointed out these projects are some of the toughest terrains and it is uphill task. Raised in 1960, BRO has an authorized strength of 41,600 personnel, including 2,426 officers and 39,174 subordinates, and continues to be the preferred agency for MHA, MEA, and MoRTH for projects in challenging terrains. Over the past two years, BRO has dedicated 356 infrastructure projects, with its budget increased from Rs 6,500 crore to Rs 7,146 crore in recognition of its strategic contribution. Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, Director General of BRO, lauded the dedication and professionalism of officers, supervisors, and labourers. Upholding its motto, Shramena Sarvam Sadhyam Everything is achievable through hard work, BRO continues to play a pivotal role in national security, strategic connectivity, and socio-economic development, linking Indias remotest and most strategically vital regions to mainstream.
This was in response to Pakistan's official statement endorsing China's territorial claims over Arunachal Pradesh, which Beijing controversially calls Zangnan
Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's name included in World Book of Records for taking oath for 10th time
PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set to get global recognition as World Book of Records (WBR), London has listed his name for being the only individual to be sworn-in as chief minister of any state in independent India for 10th time. WBR congratulated Nitish for taking the oath of office as chief minister of Bihar for a record 10th time. In its congratulatory letter, WBR said that from 1947 to 2025, Nitish is the only individual to take the oath ten times. The milestone has set a benchmark in the countrys democratic system, reflecting rare continuity of leadership. It signifies his commitment, visionary leadership and unwavering trust of people of Bihar. Leading a state for ten times is not a remarkable personal achievement but also a moment of honour for entire country, WBR letter said. The letter pointed out that Nitishs consistent efforts in governance, development, social welfare and maintaining administrative stability has inspired millions of people across the country and will continue to motivate both present and future generations. As a mark of rare achievement, Nitishs name has been included in the list of WBR. The organisation will provide an official certificate acknowledging his record-setting milestone. On December 20, Nitish took the oath of office as CM along with 26 ministers. Reacting to WBRs initiative to list Nitishs name in its global list, Janata Dal (United) MLC and spokesperson Neeraj Kumar said that it was a moment of pride not only for Bihar but for the entire nation. This is recognition to Nitishs relentless efforts and vision for Bihars development. It will inspire workers of JD(U) who have been the backbone of the partys achievements, Neeraj said, adding that Nitish became the longest serving CM of Bihar as well. The list of other longest serving chief ministers includes Pawan Kumar Chamling (Sikkim), who served over 24 years, 5 months, and 14 days, followed by Naveen Patnaik (Odisha) with over 24 years and Gegong Apang (Arunachal Pradesh) for 22 years. Jyoti Basu (West Bengal) severed for 23 years. M Karunanidhi (Tamil Nadu) had the most terms and longest days across several stints. Lal Thanhawla (Mizoram) and Virbhandra Singh (Himachal Pradesh) served for nearly 22 and 21 years, respectively. WBR, London is a leading international institution dedicated to identifying, certifying and documenting extraordinary world records and outstanding achievements. The organisation honours eminent personalities, institutions, and historically significant sites worldwide for their contributions, impact and cultural heritage value.
Arunachal minister sparks row for saying non-BJP panchayats will lose govt schemes
GUWAHATI: An Arunachal Pradesh minister has stoked a controversy by publicly announcing that panchayat seats where ruling BJP loses will be denied the benefits of government schemes. Friends, I am straightforward when I talk. I want to say that government schemes will not go to those panchayat segments where the BJP is defeated. Remember, the panchayat minister is making this statement. I do what I say, the states panchayat and rural development minister, Ojing Tasing, said. He was speaking at an election rally in the Lower Dibang Valley district on Wednesday. Panchayat and municipal elections in the state will be held on December 15. Condemning the ministers blatant, unlawful, shocking and undemocratic statement, Opposition Congress said his remarks were not only unconstitutional but also an insult to the people since government funds do not belong to any political party but to the people. It demanded that the Election Commission initiate strict action against him. This statement is nothing short of a direct threat to the electorate and a coercive attempt to influence voters through intimidation and misuse of official position, the Congress wrote in a complaint lodged with the State Election Commissioner. Such conduct constitutes a grave violation of the Model Code of Conduct, Section 123 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which classifies undue influence and threats as corrupt practices, and the democratic principles of free and fair elections, the Congress further wrote. It demanded that the State Election Commission take immediate cognisance of the ministers statement, initiate strict disciplinary and legal action, issue necessary directives preventing further misuse of power by ministers or ruling party leaders and ensure free, fair, and intimidation-free elections across the state. A prompt intervention from the Commission is essential to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and protect voters from coercive political pressure. We request you to acknowledge this complaint and inform us about the action taken at the earliest, the Congress complaint further read. The Congress said the BJP had crossed every democratic and constitutional boundary by threatening to deny development based on voting choices.
Indian Army scales Arunachal's highest peak Kangto
An Indian Army team from the Eastern Command has achieved a historic feat by becoming the first to scale Mount Kangto, Arunachal Pradesh's highest peak. The 18-member expedition successfully conquered the challenging southern route of the 7,042-meter peak, demonstrating exceptional courage and endurance.
Jana Gana Mana echoes in Nagaland's 26th Hornbill Festival
Nagaland's 26th Hornbill Festival has begun. The event marks the state's 63rd Statehood Day. It features 18 tribes showcasing traditions. Six countries and Arunachal Pradesh are partners. The festival includes cultural shows and a photo fest. A World War II Peace Rally also took place. The Hornbill Festival runs until December 10.
Drones To Deliver Medicines And Blood To Health Centres In ASR District
The state health department is actively considering a proposal based on direction from the Chief Minister. A private firm, Proof of Concept, does so in Arunachal Pradesh and has promised to do this free of cost in AP too for a period of nine months.
Punjab records highest groundwater extraction in India, says CGWB report
CHANDIGARH: Groundwater extraction in the country is the highest in Punjab, followed by Rajasthan and Haryana, according to the latest National Compilation of Dynamic Ground Water Resources of India, 2025 report of the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB). The findings show that 25 per cent of the 6,762 total blocks in India have been categorised as over-exploited, critical or semi-critical, a situation concentrated in nine states, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Puducherry. As per the report, groundwater extraction in Punjab stands at 156.36 per cent, the highest in the country, followed by Rajasthan at 147.11 per cent and Haryana at 136.75 per cent, all significantly above the national average of 60.63 per cent. At the national level, annual groundwater extraction has seen a marginal decline, from 27.66 billion cubic metres (BCM) in 2023 to 26.27 BCM last year. The total annual ground water recharge of Punjab has been assessed as 18.6 bcm and annual extractable ground water resource as 16.8 bcm. Out of total 153 assessment units including three urban areas taken for study, 111 assessment units (72.55 per cent) have been categorized as Over-exploited, 10 blocks (6.54 per cent) as Critical, 15 blocks (9.80 per cent) as Semi Critical and 17 blocks (11.11 per cent) as Safe, the report said. Similarly, out of 50175.27 square kilometers recharge worthy area of the state, 34294.3 sq km (68.35 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 4353.15 sq. km (8.68 per cent) under Critical, 4478.11 sq km (8.92 per cent) under Semi-critical and 7049.71sq km (14.05 per cent) under Safe category, reads the report. For Rajasthan, the report states,Out of the 302 assessment units (blocks and urban areas), 213 units (70.53 per cent) have been categorized as Over Exploited, 23 units (7.62 per cent) as Critical, 27 units (8.94 per cent) as Semi-Critical, 36 units (11.92 per cent) blocks as Safe and 3 units (0.99 per cent) as Saline. Similarly, out of 317010.74 sq km recharge worthy area of the state, 222266.46 sq km (70.11 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 19404.23 sq. km (6.12 per cent) under Critical, 22535.05 sq km (7.11 per cent) under Semi-critical, 43869.11 sq km (13.84 per cent) under Safe and 8935.89 sq km (2.82 per cent) area under Saline categories of assessment units. In Haryana, the situation is similar. While in Haryana, out of total 143 assessment units (blocks/Urban), 91 units (63.64 per cent) have been categorized as Overexploited, 6 units (4.20 per cent) as Critical, 15 units (10.49 per cent) as Semi Critical and 31 units (21.68 per cent) as Safe categories of assessment units. Similarly, out of 43,205.81 sq. km recharge worthy area of the State, 26,828.05 sq. km (62.09 per cent) area are under Over-Exploited, 1,170.46 sq. km (2.71 per cent) under Critical, 4,253.89 sq. km (9.85 per cent) under Semicritical, 10,953.42 sq. km (25.35 per cent) under Safe categories of assessment units, it added. The report assesses the total annual groundwater extraction of the entire country for 2025 at 247.22 bcm. Agriculture remains the largest consumer, accounting for 87 per cent, or 215.10 bcm, followed by 11 per cent for domestic use (27.89 bcm) and 2 per cent for industrial use (4.23 bcm). In the present assessment, total annual groundwater recharge has been pegged at 448.52 bcm, while the annual extractable groundwater resource stands at 407.75 bcm. The average stage of groundwater extraction at the national level is 60.63 per cent. Out of 6,762 blocks in the country, 730 units (10.80 per cent) are categorised as over-exploited, and 201 blocks (2.97 per cent) are classified as critical where extraction ranges from 90 to 100 per cent. Another 758 blocks (11.21 per cent) fall under the semi-critical category, while 4,946 units (73.14 per cent) are considered safe, with extraction below 70 per cent. Additionally, 127 blocks (1.88 per cent) have been listed as saline due to brackish or saline groundwater in phreatic aquifers. The report highlights that the percentage of over-exploited, critical and semi-critical blocks exceeding 25 per cent of total units is found only in nine states, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Puducherry. It attributes the situation to region-specific factors, Over-exploitation of ground water resources could be due to various region-specific reasons. The assessment units located in the north-western part of the country (particularly in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh) have plenty of replenishable ground water resources but because of the over extraction beyond the annual ground water recharge, many of these units have become Over-exploited. Overexploited units are also common in the western part of the country, particularly in Rajasthan and Gujarat where the prevailing arid climate results in low recharge of ground water and hence stress on these sources, the report stated. It further adds, In peninsular India, over-exploited units are wide spread in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana which could be attributed mainly to the low storage and transmission capacities of aquifers of the hard rock terrains, which results in reduced availability of the resource. The report also notes that in Arunachal Pradesh, Delhi, Goa, Kerala, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Andaman and Nicobar, Chandigarh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Lakshadweep, domestic groundwater extraction exceeds 40 per cent. Groundwater extraction stands between 90 and 100 per cent in Delhi, and between 70 and 90 per cent in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. In most other states and Union Territories, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Sikkim, Telangana, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Lakshadweep, extraction levels are around 70 per cent. The report concludes that compared to the Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment of 2024, the total annual groundwater recharge has marginally increased from 446.9 bcm to 448.52 bcm.
Cooch Behar Trophy: Meghalaya close in on 300 after superb day
By Our Reporter Shillong, Dec 2: Meghalaya had an excellent second day in the U-19 mens Cooch Behar Trophy 2025-26 plate group match against Arunachal Pradesh and are 298/5 in their second innings, with Angkit Tamang on the cusp of a century at the MCA Ground here on Tuesday. Meghalaya are in a solid position []
SC seeks comprehensive affidavit on contracts awarded to Pema Khandu's kin
The Supreme Court has ordered the Arunachal Pradesh government to provide details of public works contracts. These contracts are linked to Chief Minister Pema Khandu and his relatives. The court is examining allegations of cartelisation in tender processes. The state must submit a comprehensive affidavit detailing these contracts across all districts. The next hearing is scheduled for February.
Indian Army's 1st Community Radio Station Launched in Arunachal Pradesh
Residents can now tune in to Radio Dirang at 88.4 FM for live broadcasts, community programs and cultural content
Cooch Behar Trophy: Mlaya seize Day 1 advantage vs Arunachal
By Our Reporter Shillong, Dec 1: Meghalaya are in a strong position despite being bowled out on the first day of their U-19 mens Cooch Behar Trophy 2025-26 plate group match against Arunachal Pradesh at the MCA Ground here on Monday. Made to bat first after Arunachal won the toss, Meghalaya were 205 all out []
Over 25 lakh people living with HIV in India, second largest globally: Govt report
NEW DELHI : India has an estimated 25.61 lakh people living with HIV (PLHIV), the second largest number globally in 2024, although the annual HIV incidence rate remains very low in the country, according to a government report released on Monday to mark World AIDS Day. The India HIV Estimation 2025 technical report, released by Union Health Minister JP Nadda, states that in 202425, 73% of newly detected HIV-positive persons reported acquiring the infection through heterosexual transmission. This was followed by injecting drug use, which accounted for 11.5% of reported transmissions. Another 5.4% of cases were attributed to homosexual/bisexual transmission, while 3.5% were due to vertical transmission. The HIV epidemic in India continues to be low, with adult HIV prevalence at 0.20% in 2024. While overall prevalence is low, India has 25.61 lakh people living with HIV (PLHIV), the second largest PLHIV population globally. The annual HIV incidence rate also remains very low at 0.05 per 1,000 uninfected population, the report said. Of the total 25.61 lakh PLHIV, 13.97 lakh are males and 11.64 lakh are females. Maharashtra (3.99 lakh) has the highest PLHIV burden, followed by Andhra Pradesh (3.10 lakh) and Karnataka (2.91 lakh). Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Bihar, Gujarat and Punjab also have estimated PLHIV figures ranging from one lakh to two lakh. Together, these nine states account for 74% of the total PLHIV burden in India, the annual report said. It added that the total PLHIV population in India in 2024 contributed 6.3% to the global HIV burden of 4.08 crore and 37.1% of the 69 lakh cases in the Asia-Pacific region. In 2024, Indias population living with HIV was second only to South Africas 78 lakh, owing to its population size, the report noted. HIV burden in South-East Asia remains substantial; 88,000 newly infected in 2024: WHO In 2024, around 64,470 new HIV infections and 32,160 AIDS-related deaths were estimated nationally, marking declines of 48.69% and 81.42%, respectively, compared to 2010. These reductions far exceeded the global averages of 40% and 54%, the report added. Highlighting Indias sustained progress under the National AIDS and STD Control Programme (NACP), Nadda reaffirmed the governments commitment to a rights-based, stigma-free, and inclusive HIV response. He emphasised that under NACP-V, access to prevention, testing, and treatment services has continued to expand, demonstrating strong and sustained momentum across key programme areas. Nadda said that between 2010 and 2024, new HIV infections declined by 48.7%, AIDS-related deaths by 81.4%, and mother-to-child transmission by 74.6%. Testing coverage increased from 4.13 crore in 202021 to 6.62 crore in 202425, while the number of people on treatment rose from 14.94 lakh to 18.60 lakh. Viral load testing also expanded significantlyfrom 8.90 lakh to 15.98 lakh tests. He noted that these achievements surpass global averages for the same period and reflect strong political commitment, sustained domestic investment, evidence-based programme strategies, and consistent community engagement. The report also found that AIDS-related mortality was highest in Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland. However, it noted that AIDS-related deaths have declined between 2010 and 2024 in nearly all states and UTs except Chandigarh, Punjab, Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura, where more PLHIV died of AIDS-related causes in 2024 compared to 2010. Globally, annual AIDS-related deaths declined by 54% between 2010 and 2024. The report stated that two statesMizoram and Nagalandhad an HIV prevalence of more than 1%. It also highlighted a noticeable increasing trend in the prevalence of new infections in the northeastern states of Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Assam, as well as in the northern state of Punjab, primarily driven by the rise in new infections. Nationally, annual new cases were estimated to decline by around 48.70% between 2010 and 2024, but increased by more than 400% in Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura. Similarly, in Punjab and Meghalaya, the annual new infections estimated for 2024 have nearly doubled compared to 2010. In 2024, 30 districts were estimated to have an adult HIV prevalence of 1% or more, with 29 of these located in Nagaland (11 districts), Mizoram (10), Manipur (5), Meghalaya (2) and Arunachal Pradesh (1). The only other district in this category is in Karnataka. Are fund cuts reversing the global fight against HIV?
Meghlayas first central referee shines at SGFI Nationals
By Our Reporter Shilong, Nov 29: Meghalaya recorded a landmark moment in its sporting journey as Albinash M. Marak became the first central referee from the state to officiate at the 69th SGFI National Taekwondo Championship in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh. Marak, representing the Meghalaya Taekwondo Association, was appointed as a middle referee for the Under-17 []
As India & China face-off over Arunachal, whats the larger geopolitical game? | World View
India and China exchange sharpwords over Arunachal Pradesh after an Indian woman was detained at Shanghai airport.
To honour the invaluable contribution made by private schools in elevating the stature of education, sports and culture in the country, Chandigarh University in collaboration with Federation of Private Schools and Associations of Punjab (FAP) felicitated principals, teachers and students from over 800 schools across India during the 5th edition of the FAP National Awards 2025 held at Chandigarh University campus. Haryana Governor, Prof Ashim Kumar Ghosh, addressing the awardees during the inauguration of 2-Day FAP National Awards 2025 Ogranised by Chandigarh University Governor of Haryana, Prof Ashim Kumar Ghosh, inaugurated the FAP National Awards 2025 as the Chief Guest. He was accompanied by his wife Mitra Ghosh. Besides Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Chancellor, Chandigarh University, Satnam Singh Sandhu who presided over the event as Guest of Honour, the other dignitaries who graced the event included Dr G Immanuel, Chairman of Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (ICSE), singer, actor and lyricist Gurnam Bhullar, Chandigarh University Vice-Chancellor, Dr Raviraja N Seetharam, Senior Managing Director Chandigarh University Deepinder Singh Sandhu and President of FAP Dr Jagjit Singh Dhuri. On the opening day of FAP National Awards 2025, 782 schools, teachers, principals and meritorious students from 18 States & UTs were felicitated with the awards. During the inaugural ceremony, 20 awards were given for Lifetime Achievement, Academic Achievement, Pride of India- Academic Achievement and Pride of India- Sports Achievement Awards. In all, Lifetime Achievement Award was given to 50 principals and teachers, Pride of India- Academic Achievement Awards were given to 315 awards students of 105 schools and 41 schools were given awards for achievements in sports. Pride of India- Sports Achievement Awards were also given to 356 students. In the two-day award ceremony, awards will be given to teachers, students and schools from 18 States and Union Territories including Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Chandigarh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Bihar. These Awards will be given in four categories including The Best School Award, Lifetime Achievement Award, Pride of School Award and The Best Student Award (Pride of India) for their futuristic vision and meritorious achievements in the domains of academic, sports, cultural and social contribution. In his inaugural address, Governor of Haryana, Prof Ashim Kumar Ghosh said, “ Private sector plays a pivotal role in elevating the standard of school education in our country. Of about 14.72 lakh schools in India, there are 3.40 lakh private schools which account for 23% of the total schools. I strongly feel that an organization like FAP must come forward in ensuring the children from weaker sections of society have their fair representation in private schools as well which will further promote equity and inclusiveness in education .” “ Our progress in education also reflects the visionary leadership of our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji under whom historic reforms have strengthened India's position as a global education hub. The PM Shree scheme has modernized over 4,500 schools providing world class infrastructure and access. The National Education Policy has placed research, innovation, and knowledge at the center of learning. As a result, India's ranking in the Global Innovation Index has improved from 81 in 2014 when Prime Minister Modi ji had come to power to 39 in 2025 which is a remarkable achievement. Patent filings have grown up by 31% and India now ranks 4th globally with 1.3 million academic research publications in the last five years. The government's decision to reduce patent application fee is by 80% for institutions has accelerated this change ,” the Governor added. Prof Ashim Kumar Ghosh further said, “ Moreover, the education budget has risen from Rs 79,451 Crore in 2014 to a historic figure of Rs Rs 1,28,650 Crore in 2025-26. As we honor today's achievers let us reaffirm our collective commitment to shaping a brighter more innovative and inclusive future for India's children .” Commending the award recipients for their significant contributions in shaping the minds of the youth, Satnam Singh Sandhu, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Chancellor of Chandigarh University, said, “ As an educationist, I can say that whatever change that has come in the society has come because of teachers. Our visionary Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s has given the vision of a Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat by 2047. I am sure the biggest role in realizing this vision will be played by the provided educational institutions and private school teachers because it is not possible for government to do everything or even fulfil the need of quality education which is being fulfilled by the private institutions for making this vision a reality. So today India has emerged from the 11th largest economy in the world to become the fourth largest economy. Even children from the poorest of the poor backgrounds can touch the heights of progress with the power of education. Five years ago, no one had thought that private schools would get the same honor and respect as government schools. Which has been possible through these FAP Awards. ” “ Children from the poorest of backgrounds can touch the skies of progress with the power of education. Affectionate and devoted teachers play the most important role in giving strength to the flight of children. The new National Education Policy 2020 aims to make India a Global Knowledge Superpower. Our educational institutions and teachers have to contribute actively in school education, higher education and skill education to achieve this goal. I am sure our teachers will establish India as a Global Knowledge Superpower with their crucial contribution ,” he added. Dr G Immanuel, Chairman of Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (ICSE) said, “ Now around the world now there is a lot of competition happening and every school education board is trying to compete from with other board. The best practices are being transferred easily. Most of the boards are going for STEAM education now. Earlier, STEM education which means Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education was followed. Now, to this we added Art. Art is very important because Art is part of everything. In STEM education, Art is being added to make it more collaborative, more useful for everybody .” Warning against the dangers of digital information, Dr G Immanuel said, “ Learning doesn't happen and only within the school premises in the schools, colleges or universities. It happens everywhere anyway with lots of information freely flowing. Now one has to regulate this. Unless we regulate this information to decide which information should be taken in and which information should not be taken in, it may affect and cause a problem. Therefore, as educators we need to reach out to the children and have some regulatory system as unregulated information may cause a lot of havoc for everybody. Now, digital information is causing problems for everybody. There are countries and universities around the world who are going back to physical books and physical way of teaching because e-books, smart boards, they are causing lot of problems. ” In his address, President of FAP Dr Jagjit Singh Dhuri said, “ Private schools are playing a pivotal role in school education. But despite this, the contribution of private schools in India’s transformation in the education sector was ignored and the teachers at private schools were not given due recognition for the crucial role they are playing in providing quality education with utmost dedication and hard work. So, the purpose of FAP awards is to give due recognition to private schools and their teachers in society with these awards. This initiative not only recognizes the efforts of private schools who have reached the pinnacles but also encourages other schools to compete for achievements in the fields of academics, sports, cultural heritage, infrastructure and facilities .” “ We are honoured that FAP has become the only educational federation in the world to award 11001 management members, principals, teaching and non-teaching staff and students from across India with FAP National Awards between 2021 to 2025 for achievements in academic, sports and cultural domains at no financial cots to any recipient. The award for this record was presented to us today by Dr Aravind Lakshminarayanan, CEO of Nobel World Records Private Limited, during inauguration of the 5th edition of the FAP National Awards 2025 which is matter of great joy and satisfaction for us ,” he added. About Chandigarh University Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC. www.cuchd.in
The Mandal Revenue Officer, after verifying the identity and appointment order of the personnel, will mark the voter's name on the electoral roll and provide a ballot paper for on-the-spot voting
Arunachal SEC introduces on-the-spot voting facility for personnel engaged in civic poll duty
ITANAGAR: The State Election Commission (SEC) has, for the first time in Arunachal Pradesh, introduced on-the-spot voting facility for personnel engaged in poll duty for the upcoming municipal elections, instead of exercising their franchise through postal ballots. According to an order issued by SEC secretary Taru Talo on Thursday, the polling personnel, hailing from Itanagar and Pasighat where the civic polls will be held will have to apply for the facility to their respective municipal returning officer at least three days before the scheduled polling date, and attach a copy of the election duty appointment order. The MRO, after verifying the identity and appointment order of the personnel, will mark the voter's name on the electoral roll and provide a ballot paper for on-the-spot voting. The order allows the MRO to fix the date, time, and place for casting the vote and mandates that contesting candidates, their election agents, or authorised representatives be informed and remain present during the voting. Voters would cast their ballots either by sealing the ballot paper in an envelope given to the MRO or using the ballot box procedure under the Election Duty Certificate (EDC). The MRO will retain the counterfoil of the ballot paper in a sealed cover for security and transparency, the order stated. The order has been issued in exercise of the plenary powers conferred by Article 243ZA of the Constitution, which aims to ensure that officers serving on election duty do not miss their right to vote, thereby strengthening democratic participation. The 12th general election to panchayat bodies and third municipal polls for Itanagar and Pasighat will be held simultaneously on December 15. There are 27 zilla parishads with 245 constituencies and 2,103 gram panchayats with 8,181 constituencies in the state. The Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) has 20 wards, while the Pasighat Municipal Council (PMC) has eight wards. A total of 8,31,648 voters are eligible to vote -- 7,59,210 for the panchayat and 72,438 for municipal elections. Upper Subansiri district has the highest number of panchayat voters at 61,142 while Dibang Valley has the lowest at 4,249. In the municipalities, Itanagar's ward number 19 has the highest number of voters (5,106), whereas Pasighat's ward number 6 has the lowest (812). The SEC will set up 2,171 polling stations for panchayat elections, 67 for the IMC and 12 for PMC. EVMs will be used in the municipal elections, while panchayat polls will be conducted using ballot boxes. Over 40,000 personnel, including 15,000 polling staffers, will be deployed. The counting of votes is scheduled for December 20.
Air pollution levels across north India are significantly higher than national average: Report
CHANDIGARH: The air pollution levels across North India are significantly higher than the national average as per the latest report released by Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), an independent research organisation. The report stated that Delhi, along with Punjab, Assam and Tripura, was identified as a year-round pollution hotspot failing to meet PM 2.5 standard even during the monsoons. On the other hand, the southern states recorded the lowest values. The report titled, Beyond City Limits: A Satellite-Based PM-2.5 Assessment Across Indias Airsheds, States and Districts, stated that all the 23 districts of Punjab, 22 of Haryana and 12 of Himachal Pradesh exceeded the annual National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) of 40 ug/m3 for PM 2.5 concentration last year. During summer, winter and post-monsoon periods, PM 2.5 concentrations exceeded the NAAQS limits in these states. During the monsoon, 15 out of 23 districts in Punjab, 5 out of 22 in Haryana and 2 out of 12 districts in Himachal Pradesh exceeded the air quality limit. It read, Delhi recorded the highest pollution levels with an annual mean PM 2.5 concentration of 101 g/m, 2.5 times the Indian standard and 20 times the World Health Organisation (WHO). The pollution crisis extends across northern India, with the average PM 2.5 concentrations in all states in these regions, including Delhi, Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir, exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). This concentration of pollution aligns with their location in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. The eastern and northeastern states showed similarly concerning levels, with PM 2.5 average concentrations in Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh all above the NAAQS. Among western states, the mean concentrations in Rajasthan and Gujarat exceeded the annual national standard, it added. While the southern states presented the lowest PM 2.5 values, Puducherry recorded the lowest concentration at 25 g/m, followed by Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Sikkim, Telangana, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. The report stated that Delhi consistently ranks as the most polluted city across all seasons, highlighting the capital's year-round air quality crisis. While Chandigarh appears in the top five during three seasons (winter, summer, and post-monsoon), West Bengal also ranks among the worst across the winter and post-monsoon seasons. Punjab and Haryana emerged as major air-pollution concerns, with Punjab during the monsoon and post-monsoon periods and Haryana during the summer and post-monsoon periods. The northeastern states present an unexpected pollution hotspot, with Assam and Tripura featuring in the top five in three seasons (winter, summer, and monsoon). Overall, 60 per cent of districts (447 out of 749) exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for annual PM 2.5. None of the districts met the World Health Organisation (WHO) guideline of less than 5 g/m. The most polluted districts are heavily concentrated in a few states, highlighting regional clustering of severe air quality issues. Delhi (11 districts) and Assam (11 districts) alone account for nearly half of the top 50, followed by Bihar (7) and Haryana (7). Other notable contributors include Uttar Pradesh (4), Tripura (3), Rajasthan (2), West Bengal (2), and single districts from Chandigarh, Meghalaya and Nagaland, it reads. It further added, Several states are in universal non-compliance, where all monitored districts exceed the NAAQS. These include Delhi, Assam, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Jammu and Kashmir. Several other states show a large majority of districts breaching the norm, such as Bihar (37 of 38), West Bengal (22 of 23), Gujarat (32 of 33), Nagaland (11 of 12), Rajasthan (30 of 33), and Jharkhand (21 of 24). A second group shows mixed performance, where some districts meet the standard but many continue to exceed it. This includes Uttar Pradesh (49 of 75 districts exceeding), Odisha (22 of 30), Madhya Pradesh (27 of 52), and Maharashtra (14 of 36). In the Northeast, Arunachal Pradesh (12 exceed, 13 comply) and Manipur (five exceed, 11 comply) also fall in this transitional category. At the other end of the spectrum, several states have the majority of their districts below NAAQS, such as Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, Sikkim, Goa, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. These contrasting patterns highlight the continued dominance of northern and eastern states in Indias PM 2.5 pollution hotspots, while southern and coastal regions remain relatively cleaner. The report stated that the states should develop district-level air quality action plans, guided by satellite data to identify hotspots, prioritise high-exposure populations, and allocate mitigation resources efficiently. The satellite-derived PM 2.5 data should be formally integrated into NCAP for spatially comprehensive assessment and performance tracking. Also, establishing protocols for validation, periodic updates, and public dissemination of satellite-based estimates will strengthen transparency and enable real-time decision-making in areas lacking ground monitors.
Watch: Why China detained an Indian woman in Shanghai | The Hindu Explains
A simple layover in Shanghai turned into a major diplomatic standoff between India and China. Indian citizen Prema Wangjom Thongdok was allegedly detained because her passport listed Arunachal Pradeshclaimed by China as its own territory. This explainer breaks down what happened, Chinas response, Indias protest, and why this incident is deepening tensions between two nuclear-armed neighbours.
Shillong to host Santosh Trophy matches
By Our Reporter Shillong, Nov 26: Shillong is set to host the Group E fixtures of the 79th National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy 2025-26, with all matches scheduled to take place at the SSA Stadium in Polo Grounds. Group E will feature three teams including host Meghalaya, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh who will []
Most unhelpful: MEA slams China's arbitrary actions amid row over Arunachal woman's detention
NEW DELHI: Arbitrary actions by China involving an Indian citizen from Arunachal Pradesh are most unhelpful to ongoing efforts by both countries to build mutual trust and gradually normalise bilateral ties, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Wednesday. The remark came in response to questions about the impact of the detention of an Arunachal Pradesh-born Indian national at Shanghai airport on bilateral relations. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at the weekly briefing, Arbitrary actions by China involving an Indian citizen from Arunachal Pradesh are most unhelpful towards efforts being made by both sides to build mutual trust and understanding, and gradually move towards normalisation of bilateral relations. The comments followed allegations by Prema Wangjom Thongdok, a UK-based Indian national, who said her short layover on 21 November turned into a traumatising ordeal when immigration officials at Shanghai airport allegedly refused to accept her Indian passport because it listed Arunachal Pradesh as her birthplace. Reiterating Indias position, Jaiswal said Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India and added that no amount of denial by China will alter the indisputable reality. The MEA made a similar assertion a day earlier after Beijing refuted allegations of harassment and reiterated its claim over the state. Responding to a separate question on ongoing talks under the Special Representatives mechanism, Jaiswal stressed the importance of maintaining calm along the border. Our position in this regard has always been very clear and consistent. Since October 2024, both sides have worked closely to maintain peace and tranquillity in the border regions and it is on this basis that progress has been made particularly in people-centric engagements, he said. India and China reached an understanding in October 2024 to end the standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh. India has repeatedly rejected Chinas claims over Arunachal Pradesh.
India has strongly protested China's detention of an Indian citizen from Arunachal Pradesh at Shanghai airport, asserting the region's integral status. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that China's denials won't alter this reality, emphasizing the incident violated international norms and China's own transit regulations. Beijing, however, rejected harassment claims.
China reignites Arunachal Pradesh dispute, historical facts favour India, details here
India hit back at China after an Arunachal Pradesh woman was detained at Shanghai airport, reigniting the border dispute and raising questions over Beijing's shifting policy.
Shanghai Airport Row Rekindles The Big Question: Why Does China Claim Arunachal Pradesh At All?
As China responds to the Shanghai airport row by calling Arunachal illegally set up by India, the long arc of the boundary dispute is back in the spotlight
Arunachal Woman's Unity Post, Message For Trolls After Shanghai Harassment
A woman from Arunachal Pradesh who faced harassment in China has hit out at trolls after the Shanghai airport episode.
Here is a select list of stories to start the day.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the matter has been taken up with Chinese authorities at a high level, while reiterating that Arunachal Pradesh remains an integral and inalienable part of India.
India hits back at China over remarks on Arunachal Pradesh: 'No amount of denial...'
This comes after a woman from Arunachal Pradesh was allegedly detained for nearly 18 hours and harassed at Shanghai Pudong Airport as Chinese immigration officials reportedly refused to recognise her Indian passport.
Arunachal India's integral part: MEA on China's comments
India has strongly refuted China's claims regarding an Indian citizen from Arunachal Pradesh. India maintains Arunachal Pradesh is an inalienable part of the nation. China's foreign ministry had defended its immigration authorities' actions. India stated that no denial from China can alter this reality. The matter has been taken up with the Chinese side.
Mlaya U-17 taekwondo team gears up for SGFI Nationals
By Our Reporter Shillong, Nov 25: The Meghalaya Taekwondo contingent is set to compete in the 69th School Games Federation of India (SGFI) National Taekwondo Championship for the Under-17 category in both boys and girls divisions. The event will be held in Arunachal Pradesh from November 26 to December 2, 2025. The entire squads participation []
India strongly took up with China detention of its citizen at Shanghai airport: MEA
Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India, and this is a self-evident fact; no amount of denial by the Chinese side is going to change this indisputable reality, says Randhir Jaiswal
India has firmly rejected China's territorial claims over Arunachal Pradesh. The Indian government reiterated that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India. This statement follows reports of an Indian citizen from Arunachal Pradesh being detained in Shanghai. India has strongly taken up the matter with China, calling the detention a breach of international travel norms.
