Assam hosts Swasthya Chintan Shivir 2026 to advance healthcare roadmap
The News Mill
City cafe vandalised, manager assaulted
Bodies of woman, 4-yr-old son fished out of Barak river
Rs 5cr Yaba tablets seized in Cachar, 1 held
AI-enabled classrooms to identify learning gaps, check dropout risks
Bdeshi expelled from Assam after illegal entry conviction
Assam to partner with Spices Board India for business opportunities
Pavilion named after Zubeen to keep his passion for football alive among youth
103 and still giving, Kanaklata takes a 264-km journey, donates her life savings to flood victims
Cabinet clears coaching centre rules with suicide-prevention safeguards
Motha mounts pressure on BJP for Tiprasa Accord, BJP ties under strain
Chakmas urge Centre to stop fuel, power supply to Bangladesh over Hasina row; raise CHT issue
Assam unveils futuristic policy to spur oil, gas exploration
Strike over NRC-before-Census continues to cripple Manipur, NDA MLAs plan Delhi meet
Meghalayas first indigenous tribal woman chief secretary dies at 64
Assam Allocates 574 Bighas for Proposed IIM Guwahati: Chief Minister
Mumbai, August 18: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced significant decisions following a cabinet meeting on Tuesday. These decisions encompass various issues, including higher education, administrative restructuring, mental health services, child protection, and youth welfare, reflecting the state governments focus on expanding institutional infrastructure and social services. Speaking to reporters, Sarma revealed that 574 ... Read more Assam Allocates 574 Bighas for Proposed IIM Guwahati: Chief Minister
Assam Cricket Association Stadium: Rajveer Singh struck a fine half-century as Jorhat Stallions edged past Tezpur Titans by three wickets in a closely fought encounter in the Assam Premier League (APL) 2026 at the Assam Cricket Association Stadium in Guwahati on Tuesday. Put into bat after Jorhat Stallions won the toss and opted to field, Tezpur Titans posted 156/8 in their 20 overs. Opener Wasim Akram Haque top-scored with a steady 37 off 33 balls, while Nihar Deka provided impetus with a brisk 32 off 20 deliveries, hitting one four and three sixes. Danish Ahmed (21 off 18) and Roshan Topno (18 off 13) chipped in with handy contributions through the middle overs. Jorhats bowling attack delivered a disciplined collective display to restrict the Titans. Rajjak Uddin Ahmed was the pick of the bowlers with 2/28 in his four overs, while Vedant Pandey (2/31) and Mantu Yadav (2/32) also picked up two wickets apiece. In response, Jorhat Stallions overcame early hiccups to overhaul the target, finishing at 157/7 in 18.5 overs. Captain Swarupam Purkayastha led from the front early on with an aggressive 29 off 19 balls, featuring two fours and three sixes. Rajveer Singh then anchored the chase with a decisive 50 off 34 deliveries (four boundaries, one six), ably supported by Dyutimoy Nath, who contributed a valuable 35 off 29 balls. Tezpur Titans mounted a spirited fightback in the death overs through captain Ayushman Malakar (3/36) and an economical spell from Sidhartha Sarmah (2/18). However, Rajjak Uddin Ahmed (8* off 4) and Rohit Singh (5* off 6) kept their composure to seal the victory with seven balls to spare. Brief scores: Tezpur Titans: 156/8 in 20 overs (Wasim Akram Haque 37, Nihar Deka 32, Danish Ahmed 21; Rajjak Uddin Ahmed 2/28, Vedant Pandey 2/31, Mantu Yadav 2/32) Brief scores: Also Read: Live Cricket Score Result: Jorhat Stallions beat Tezpur Titans by 3 wickets Article Source: IANS
Our Aim Should Be To Get Two Or Three Players From APL To Play In The IPL: Abu Nechim
Assam Premier League: Guwahati Royals coach Abu Nechim praised his team's fearless approach after they secured their place in the semifinals of the Assam Premier League (APL), while also highlighting the tournament's role in creating a pathway for young cricketers from Assam. Reflecting on the Royals' performance, Nechim said the team's intensity and attacking approach had been key to their success. It was a very good match. Our intensity throughout the 40 overs was very good. Our cricket, which I have been saying since the first day, is fearless, attacking cricket. We did that today, and we got the result, said Nechim. Nechim was also pleased with the return of Muktar Hussain, who had missed games due to injury and made an immediate impact on his comeback. Muktar came back to the team and bowled very well. That is a very good thing for us, he said. With the Royals now through to the semi-finals, Nechim said the team would be looking to maintain its momentum and push for a strong finish to the league stage. It is very important to continue winning matches. There is a match tomorrow as well, and we will definitely win. After that, we will see what happens. But I would like to continue this momentum, Nechim said. The Royals coach also reflected on the challenges faced during their preparation for the tournament. With only five to six days available for preparation and persistent rain limiting outdoor practice, the team had to make the most of its limited training time. We did not get much time. We got only 5-6 days of preparation time. It was raining continuously. We were practising indoors. We were not able to use the field, he said. Despite those challenges, Nechim believes the tournament has already showcased several promising young players. He named Bastab Roy, Dibrugarh's fast bowler Vikas Ranjan, Vishal Chahar, Rishabh Deepak, as well as Guwahati Royals' Gunjan Jyoti Deka and Nipan Deka among those who have impressed him. He also highlighted Ayushman Malakar's recent performance. For Nechim, the ultimate measure of the inaugural APL's success will be the number of players who are able to use the platform to progress to the IPL. Our goal in APL was that if we get 2-3 players from APL to play in the IPL, then we will consider APL a success. Our aim should be to get 2-3 players to play in the IPL, so that we can make a good player, he said. Looking ahead to the semi-finals, Nechim identified the middle overs and spin bowling as areas where the Royals can still improve. Right now we are doing well in all three departments. But if we can improve in the middle overs, it will be good. And we should work on the spin department, he said. For Nechim, the ultimate measure of the inaugural APL's success will be the number of players who are able to use the platform to progress to the IPL. Our goal in APL was that if we get 2-3 players from APL to play in the IPL, then we will consider APL a success. Our aim should be to get 2-3 players to play in the IPL, so that we can make a good player, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It is a very big platform. When we used to play, we would play in the district and state zones. Then we used to get the chance to play at bigger platforms such as this. But now, if you play in these franchise leagues, there is a chance to play in the IPL. So, what can be better than this? It is a very good platform for the youngsters, Nechim said. Article Source: IANS
Six lakh Meghalaya voters verify credentials
Guwahati, August 18: The Gujarat CID has arrested a 25-year-old man from Assam for allegedly masterminding a cybercrime network linked to 1,090 cases, including digital arrest scams, involving fraud of around 1,071.5 crore across the country. The accused, Rafiqul Alam, was arrested in Barpeta, Assam. Police said he helped transfer fraud proceeds through 1,758 bank... The post Assam Man Arrested In 1,071-Crore Cyber Fraud Network first appeared on Northeast Today .
Bangladeshi National Ordered To Leave Assam In 24 Hours After Conviction For Illegal Entry
Guwahati, August 18: Assam has ordered the expulsion of a Bangladeshi national convicted in a case related to illegal entry into India, directing him to leave the state within 24 hours. An order issued by the South Salmara-Mankachar District Magistrate on August 14 directed Mohammad Masood, alias Mister, 24, to leave Assam through the South... The post Bangladeshi National Ordered To Leave Assam In 24 Hours After Conviction For Illegal Entry first appeared on Northeast Today .
Assam Cabinet Approves New Rules To Regulate Private Coaching Institutes
Guwahati, August 18: The Assam Cabinet on Tuesday approved the Assam Private Coaching Institutes (Control and Student Mental Health Safeguard) Rules, 2026, introducing a comprehensive regulatory framework for private coaching institutes across the state. The proposed rules place a strong emphasis on student safety, mental health and accountable academic practices. Coaching institutes enrolling 50 or... The post Assam Cabinet Approves New Rules To Regulate Private Coaching Institutes first appeared on Northeast Today .
Nagaland makes TET mandatory for pre-2009 teachers
Assam BJP Questions Raijor Dal Chief Akhil Gogoi
Guwahati, August 18: The Assam Bharatiya Janata Party has criticised Raijor Dal chief Akhil Gogoi for not responding to allegations arising from an audio clip that purportedly links one of his close associates to an illegal coal trade network along the Nagaland border. In a press release, State BJP spokesperson Kishore Upadhyay said the clip... The post Assam BJP Questions Raijor Dal Chief Akhil Gogois Silence Over Alleged Coal Trade Link first appeared on Northeast Today .
Assam: Koch-Rajbongshi students
Guwahati: The Madhya Assam Koch-Rajbongshi Students Union on August 18 urged the Assam government to immediately halt alleged illegal hill mining activities in central Assam. The organisation submitted a four-point memorandum to Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah through Nagaon Deputy Commissioner Debashis Sharma, seeking action against alleged illegal mining and measures to protect central [] The post Assam: Koch-Rajbongshi students body seeks halt to illegal hill mining in Karbi Anglong, Jagiroad appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Guwahati, August 18: The death of an 18yearold girl in Jorhat has sparked controversy and raised serious questions about the circumstances leading to her final hours. The girl, identified as Anwesha Saikia, was found in a suspicious condition at the Gauri Enclave apartment in Dahbara Chuk on August 14 and was taken to Jorhat Medical... The post Assam:18-Year-Old Girls Mysterious Death In Jorhat Triggers Allegations Of Rape And Murder; Police Probe Underway first appeared on Northeast Today .
Assam Government to Establish Eight New Co-Districts to Enhance Governance
Guwahati, August 18: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Tuesday that the state government is expanding its Co-District Model to bring administration closer to the people and make governance more accessible. Sarma revealed that eight additional co-districts will be created across the state, increasing the total number of operational co-districts to 47. In ... Read more Assam Government to Establish Eight New Co-Districts to Enhance Governance
1.439 kg suspected cannabis seized in SWGH, 1 nabbed
Shillong, Aug 18: Police seized 1.439 kg of suspected cannabis and detained a 53-year-old man from Assam during a routine naka checking at Jhunjhuni Tri-Junction in South West Garo Hills, officials said. A team from Kalaichar Police Patrol Post intercepted Abdul Zaher, a resident of Jhagarchar, Kakripara, Mankachar, as part of intensified border surveillance. The [] The post 1.439 kg suspected cannabis seized in SWGH, 1 nabbed first appeared on Highland Post .
Shillong, Aug 18: Nazareth Hospital, Shillong participated in Mission 1500 Restoring Hope, Empowering Futures in flood-affected Sivasagar, Assam. Nazareth Hospital joined AARO Assams Mission 1500 in Sivasagar to provide healthcare services to flood-hit communities. Led by Dr. Debomallya Bhuyan, President, AARO Assam, the mission brought together doctors, volunteers and partner organisations to deliver holistic [] The post Nazareth Hospital joins Mission 1500 to aid flood-hit Sivasagar first appeared on Highland Post .
ONGC Corpn commissions gas evacuation facilities at Khoraghat in Golaghat district, Assam
Complimenting the North East Gas Grid
Tribal Organisations Protest Gangrape of Minor Girl in Chirang
A protest demonstration was organised at Kajalgaon in Chirang district on Tuesday against the recent gang rape of a minor tribal girl in the district. The protest was led by the Chirang District Commi
CPI Opposes Proposed Cut in Kaziranga Eco-Sensitive Zone
The Communist Party of India (CPI) has opposed the Assam governments reported move to reduce the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve and demanded that the
Assam Schools to Implement AI for Early Identification of Dropout Students: CM
Guwahati, August 18: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma unveiled an AI-based roadmap for the states school education system on Tuesday. He emphasized that AI will play a crucial role in making classrooms smarter, more inclusive, and student-centered in the future. In a post on the social media platform X, CM Sarma stated that the ... Read more Assam Schools to Implement AI for Early Identification of Dropout Students: CM
ONGC successfully commissions gas evacuation facilities at Khoraghat GGS-1 in Assam's Golaghat
ONGC has commissioned gas evacuation facilities at Khoraghat GGS-1 in Assam. This development enables surplus natural gas to be processed and evacuated through the North East Gas Grid. The new connectivity will facilitate the utilization of nearly one lakh SCM of gas daily. Improved gas availability will create opportunities for households and industries in the region.
Residents from areas around Kaziranga National Park protested in Assams Kaliabor on Tuesday, backing the state governments proposal to reduce the eco-sensitive zone from 10 km to 1 km. Protesters opposed Congress leaders Gaurav Gogoi and Akhil Gogoi, while community groups supported greater local involvement in deciding the ESZ boundary.
Tripura: Surrendered NLFT Members Lift NH Blockade After Minister Bikash Debbarma
Agartala, August 18, 2026: Tension prevailed in the Hatai Kotor Sadhupara area of Teliamura on Tuesday after surrendered NLFT insurgents staged a road blockade on the Agartala-Assam National Highway, pressing for the fulfilment of their seven-point demands. The blockade disrupted traffic movement along the busy highway for some time. The situation was brought under control... The post Tripura: Surrendered NLFT Members Lift NH Blockade After Minister Bikash Debbarmas Assurance first appeared on Northeast Today .
103-Year-Old Assam Woman Donates Lifelong Savings To Flood-Hit Families
Deputy Commissioner Mridul Yadav received the donation and expressed gratitude for her generosity.
Assam Police Shoot Main Accused Who Attacked Officers During Probe
Main accused in Assam gang-rape case shot after attacking police during crime-scene visit
Assam man with China links held for Rs 1,071 crore cyber fraud across 1,090 cases
Gujarat CID arrested a man from Assam for orchestrating 1,090 cybercrimes. These frauds amounted to over Rs 1,071 crore and involved China-based criminals. The accused masterminded transferring funds into numerous bank accounts across India. He then converted these illicit funds into cryptocurrencies for transfer to China. This arrest also helped prevent ten other digital arrest cases through counselling.
China-linked cybercrime racket busted; Assam man behind 1,090 cybercrimes arrested
Chinalinked cybercrime racket busted Assam man behind cybercrimes arrested
Assam Completes Online Census Phase with Over 1.16 Million Entries
Guwahati, August 18: The self-enumeration phase of the Assam Census 2027 has successfully concluded. Over 1.16 million families submitted their information online before the deadline on August 16. According to officials, the districts of Cachar, Shivsagar, and Kokrajhar emerged as the top performers in terms of participation. During a press conference held at the Census ... Read more Assam Completes Online Census Phase with Over 1.16 Million Entries
Assam CM Criticizes Congress Over Kaziranga Eco-Sensitive Zone Debate
Guwahati, August 18: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma criticized the Congress party on Monday for opposing the proposal to reduce the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around Kaziranga National Park. He argued that maintaining a uniform 10-kilometer zone would adversely affect local residents and businesses. Sarma stated that the ESZ, currently extending 10 kilometers by default, ... Read more Assam CM Criticizes Congress Over Kaziranga Eco-Sensitive Zone Debate
Assam Chief Minister Directs Strengthening of Sensitive and People-Centric Police System
Guwahati, August 18: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reviewed the states law and order situation on Monday. He instructed police officials to enhance a modern, sensitive, and people-centric police system. Special emphasis was placed on crime prevention and effective investigation. During the meeting with Director General of Police (DGP) Harmit Singh and senior officials ... Read more Assam Chief Minister Directs Strengthening of Sensitive and People-Centric Police System
Assam staffers stare at 20% pay cut if rewed sans divorce or first wife alive
In a notable move, the Assam government has announced a twenty percent salary reduction for employees who enter into second marriages without obtaining a legal divorce. This deduction will be redirected to the first wifes account following her formal request. The government is also looking to extend similar protective measures to women in the private sector. Previously, a ten percent salary cut was enforced for those who neglect their parents.
The proud Assamese from other States
While others can identify as Assamese speakers, Bengali-origin Muslims were the first
Assam plans to rebuild, flood loss mounts to Rs 450 cr after 26k families assessed
Have credible info, SI Nabajit was murdered by drug traffickers: CM
Declare floods in 3 dists as national disaster: Akhil to PM
Hotline help for allay farmers concerns over power transmission corridor
Biplab Deb named BJP national general secy, Sambit Patra remains NE coordinator
Nagaland MP S Phangnon Konyak, Assams youth leader Mriganka natl secretaries
CM keeps faith in police protection after death threat
Homeless & threatened twice, flood-hit families of Sivasagar risk lives on rly tracks this time
Assam records 95.4% completion in Census self-enumeration
5 Army men still missing in Arunachal flash floods as 150-plus rescuers battle treacherous terrain
Assam proposes 1-3km ESZ around Kaziranga, Cong opposes move
Mega poultry farm planned in Mizorams Serchhip district to boost egg production
Mizo cultures bamboo roots showcased through Cheraw dance, film
Meghalaya bets on sustainable tourism with over Rs 5cr homestay
CM trying to shape Gen Z opinion: MNF slams Lalduhoma over ILP, peace accord remarks
Chakma bodies mark Black Day over CHTs Partition-era allocation
Over Rs 12 crore heroin seized in Mizoram
48-hour Manipur bandh called; women vendors, students join NRC-before-Census protests
2 minors among 5 Meghalaya pilgrims die in Tarapith hotel fire
Inauguration of Jan Aushadhi Kendra in Majuli Brings Affordable Medicines to Locals
Guwahati, August 17: A Jan Aushadhi Kendra was inaugurated at the district hospital premises in Majuli, Assam, under the Prime Ministers Jan Aushadhi scheme. The opening of this center has brought smiles to the faces of local residents and those from surrounding areas. They can now access high-quality, life-saving medicines at affordable prices. The people ... Read more Inauguration of Jan Aushadhi Kendra in Majuli Brings Affordable Medicines to Locals
Meghalaya, Assam officials meet to address flooding
Nongpoh, Aug 17: District authorities of Ri-Bhoi and Kamrup (Metro), Assam, held a joint meeting at the DRDA Hall in Nongpoh on Monday to discuss measures to address recurring flooding along the Jorabat-Khanapara stretch. The meeting focused on identifying the root causes of frequent waterlogging and flooding in the area during heavy rainfall. The Jorabat-Khanapara [] The post Meghalaya, Assam officials meet to address flooding first appeared on Highland Post .
Assam releases Rs 47.93 crore flood relief to 31,951 families; total aid reaches Rs 146.26 crore
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma released Rs. 47.93 crore in interim flood assistance through DBT to 31,951 families across Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat and Golaghat. With the latest disbursement, the state has provided Rs. 146.26 crore to 96,842 flood-affected families, while damage assessment and verification continue across the four districts.
Resonia launches Assam's first dedicated helpline for farmers
Resonia Ltd has launched Assams first dedicated farmer helpline for communities along the NERES XXV transmission project corridor. Launched by Chirang District Commissioner Gokul Chandra Brahma, the multilingual helpline will operate in Assamese, Bodo and Hindi, allowing farmers across corridor villages to seek information, raise grievances and resolve project-related queries.
Himanta defends move to limit eco-sensitive zone around Kaziranga to 1 km
Guwahati, Aug 17: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday defended his governments move to approach the Centre for notifying a one-km radius around the Kaziranga National Park as an eco-sensitive zone. He maintained that the government was well within the Supreme Courts directives in this regard and said that notifying up to a [] The post Himanta defends move to limit eco-sensitive zone around Kaziranga to 1 km first appeared on Highland Post .
3 Ex-Chief Ministers, 18 MPs, 10 Women: BJP's Power-Packed Team For 2029
A special focus has been placed on the northeast. Three leaders from the area - one each from Tripura, Assam and Nagaland -- have found space in the team.
Not Dimagi Naxal, but Pure Naxal: Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma hits out at Chidambaram
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday launched a sharp attack on senior Congress leader and former Union Home Minister P Chidambaram, demanding an inquiry into his tenure over alleged inaction against Naxalism. Sarmas remarks followed Chidambarams social media post declaring himself proud to be a dimaagi Naxal, a term Prime Minister Narendra Modi... The post Not Dimagi Naxal, But Pure Naxal: Assam CM Hits Back At Chidambaram, Seeks Probe Into Naxalism During His Tenure first appeared on Northeast Today .
Kaafi Real: For Assam, Floods Mean Losing Everything
The floods affected over 1.22 lakh people across multiple districts, with the total death toll reaching 104.
Assam Government to Reward 1,000 Progressive Farmers with
Guwahati, August 17: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Monday that the state government will honor 1,000 progressive and educated farmers with a cash prize of 1 lakh each under the Chief Ministers Agricultural Excellence Award this year. In a media interaction, the Chief Minister stated that the initiative aims to encourage educated ... Read more Assam Government to Reward 1,000 Progressive Farmers with 1 Lakh Each
Assam MLA Akhil Gogoi Urges PM Modi For
Guwahati, Aug 17: Assam MLA Akhil Gogoi has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to declare the devastating floods in Sivasagar, Charaideo, and Jorhat districts as a national disaster. In his letter to the Prime Minister, the Raijor Dal legislator from Sivasagar outlined a 22-point charter of demands aimed at ensuring immediate recovery, resettlement, and... The post Assam MLA Akhil Gogoi Urges PM Modi For 10 Lakh Aid To Flood Victims first appeared on Northeast Today .
Assam Staff May Face 20% Pay Cut For 2nd Marriage Without Divorce
Assam will deduct 20% salary of employees abandoning first wives without divorce and marrying again.
Assam Floods Damage Over 26,000 Houses; Relief Payments Underway
CM Himanta Biswa Sarma releases Rs 15,000 each to nearly 97,000 affected families
Nearly 97,000 Flood-Hit Families Get Rs 15,000 Each In Assam
The Chief Minister said the list of beneficiaries was still being prepared and around 3,000 more families could be covered in the next phase.
Assam Cop, On Duty, Dies After Car Hits Him, Police Probe Drug Movement Link
Assam police investigate possible drug link in Sub-Inspector Nabajit Das death.
Assam flood damage estimated at 480 cr, 26,681 houses affected: CM Himanta
He said 96,842 families affected by the latest wave of floods in the state have received Rs 15,000 each, and the government will expedite PMAY house construction in hit districts
Assam Govt Targets Flood Damage Compensation Before Durga Puja: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma
Guwahati, Aug 17: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said the state government has provided financial assistance of Rs 15,000 each to 96,842 flood-affected families, spending a total of Rs 146.26 crore on the relief measure. Sarma said another 3,000-4,000 affected families may also be provided the financial assistance. He said the preliminary... The post Assam Govt Targets Flood Damage Compensation Before Durga Puja: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma first appeared on Northeast Today .
Assam flood damage estimated at Rs 480 crore, 26,681 houses affected: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma
GUWHATI: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said floods last month caused damage worth Rs 480 crore and affected 26,681 houses.He said 96,842 families affected by the latest wave of floods in the state have received Rs 15,000 each, and the government will expedite PMAY house construction in hit districts. Addressing a press []
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Reviews Flood Relief, Says
Guwahati, Aug 17: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday reviewed the ongoing relief and restoration work in flood-hit districts of Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat, and Golaghat. During the meeting, he directed officials to accelerate rehabilitation measures and ensure that every affected family receives timely assistance. The review covered damage assessments, interim relief distribution, restoration... The post Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Reviews Flood Relief, Says 150 Crore Interim Aid Disbursed first appeared on Northeast Today .
Assam Flood Situation Improves, Affected Population Drops To 51,000
The flood situation in Assam showed further improvement on Sunday as the number of affected people dropped to 51,000 across five districts, according to an official bulletin. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) confirmed that no new fatalities were reported in the past 24 hours, offering some relief to communities that have endured weeks... The post Assam Flood Situation Improves, Affected Population Drops To 51,000 first appeared on Northeast Today .
Why is Kazirangas Eco-Sensitive Zone in focus? | Explained
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarmas indication that the width of the buffer zone around the Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve may be fixed ataminimum of 1 km instead of the default 10 km has stoked controversy
Kaziranga, Development and Dissent: When Does a Protest Become a Threat?
The controversy over a proposed luxury resort near Kaziranga is no longer only about a tourism project. It has become a larger test of how Assam pursues development, how disputes over land are handled
Assams Floods in a Warming World
Floods in Assam are no longer explained simply by the arrival of the monsoon. Flooding has always been part of life in the Brahmaputra and Barak valleys, but a changing climate, shifting river behavio
Journalist Pranay Bordoloi Summits Mount Kilimanjaro on Independence Day
Assam journalist Pranay Bordoloi marked Indias Independence Day with a remarkable achievement, successfully climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africas highest peak, and unfurling a traditional
Formal child adoption remains low in J&K; CARA records 42 cases in 2025-26
Jammu and Kashmir recorded 42 children adopted through the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) during 2025-26, a figure substantially lower than adoption numbers reported by several major States, according to data presented by the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development in the Rajya Sabha. The State/UT-wise data, furnished in response to a parliamentary question answered on August 12, shows that Maharashtra recorded the highest number of CARA-facilitated adoptions during the financial year, with 792 cases. Gujarat followed with 547, while Tamil Nadu recorded 501 adoptions. Karnataka accounted for 377 cases, followed by Odisha with 308 and Telangana with 307. Jammu and Kashmirs 42 adoptions were also lower than the figures reported by several northern and neighbouring States. Rajasthan recorded 172 adoptions, while Punjab reported 49, only seven more than J&K. Uttar Pradesh registered 231 cases, Haryana 68, Uttarakhand 30, Himachal Pradesh 14 and Delhi 109. Among other States, Assam recorded 186 adoptions, Kerala 170, Andhra Pradesh 140, Bihar 125 and Chhattisgarh 114. West Bengal reported 237 cases, Madhya Pradesh 221 and Jharkhand 60. The data also showed considerable variation among the northeastern States. Meghalaya and Nagaland reported 13 adoptions each, Mizoram 78, Tripura seven, Arunachal Pradesh five and Manipur four. Sikkim recorded 28 cases. Smaller Union Territories and States also reported relatively modest numbers. Goa recorded 25 adoptions, Chandigarh 18, Puducherry 15 and Andaman and Nicobar Islands 11. Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu reported five cases. No adoption through CARA was recorded in Ladakh or Lakshadweep during 2025-26. Across the 36 States and Union Territories listed in the annexure, the reported number of CARA-facilitated adoptions stood at 5,022 during the financial year. J&Ks 42 cases therefore accounted for less than one per cent of the reported national total. The Ministry, however, has clarified that adoption figures should be viewed in the context of the availability of children who have been declared legally free for adoption. The waiting period for prospective adoptive parents depends not only on the number of applicants but also on the availability of legally free children and the age group preferred by prospective parents. The government is seeking to strengthen the adoption infrastructure through Mission Vatsalya. States and UTs have been advised to establish at least one Specialised Adoption Agency (SAA) in every district under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and the Adoption Regulations, 2022. As of July 29, 2026, 795 SAAs had been approved across the country under Mission Vatsalya. These agencies support the formal adoption process and provide residential care to adoptable children below six years of age. The adoption system has also been substantially digitised. All SAAs are required to operate through the integrated CARINGS-Mission Vatsalya platform, which facilitates digital processing of cases from referral and matching to documentation. The system also allows authorities to monitor compliance through real-time dashboards at the Central and State levels. The Ministry said District Magistrates have been empowered to issue adoption orders under the Juvenile Justice Act and Adoption Regulations. Prescribed timelines have been laid down for different stakeholders, while CARA undertakes regular monitoring and follow-up with States and UT administrations to reduce delays. The Centre is also using Mission Vatsalya for awareness campaigns promoting legal adoption and foster care. Nationwide and local outreach programmes, workshops, seminars and orientation sessions are being conducted, while CARA uses print, electronic and social media platforms to spread information on legal adoption procedures.
