Four arrested for highway robbery in Itanagar

Two Arunachal Women Defy Age, Complete Everest Base Camp Trek at 50

HT Digital ITANAGAR, May 3: In a remarkable display of resilience and determination, 50-year-old Arunachal Pradesh women Pema YK Loyi and Dr. Tadar Sharmila Tana successfully completed the challenging Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek on April 26, 2025. Their achievement stands as a powerful example of how age is no barrier when matched with passion, []

Arunachal Pradesh gears up to host SAFF U-19 Championship 2025

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, May 2: Arunachal Pradesh is set to host the prestigious SAFF U-19 Championship 2025. It is scheduled to take place this May at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia. The anticipation for the event reached a new high when the Indian U-19 National Football Team arrived at Donyi Polo Airport in Itanagar []

50-year-old women triumph at Everest Base Camp, proving age is just a number

HT BureauITANAGAR, May 2: In a stunning display of determination and strength, Ms Pema YK Loyi, Managing Director of Iconic Group and daughter of former MP & Minister R. K. Khrimey, and Dr Tadar Sharmila Tana, Senior Paediatrician and daughter of the late former Minister Tadar Taninang, had successfully completed the rigorous Everest Base Camp []

Arunachals Nawang Chonzom and Gumin Megu appointed to CAU Board

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, May 2: In a significant development that has brought immense pride to the people of Arunachal Pradesh, two of the states prominent figures, Nawang Chonzom and Gumin Megu, have been appointed as members of the esteemed Board of Management (BOM) of the Central Agricultural University (CAU) in Imphal, Manipur. Their appointment to []

Governor reviews security situation in Arunachal Pradesh

HT BureauITANAGAR, May 2:Arunachal Pradeshs Governor, Lt. General KT Parnaik (PVSM, UYSM, YSM, Retd.), chaired a crucial meeting at Raj Bhavan in Itanagar on May 2, 2025, to review the security situation in the state. According to an official statement, the meeting saw a comprehensive briefing on key security matters from State Home Minister Mama []

Inbound cargo services begin at Itanagar airport

Abducted Worker Killed in Crossfire During Encounter with NSCN-KYA Militants in Arunachal

HT Digital ITANAGAR, MAY 1: A construction worker abducted by NSCN-Khaplang-Yung Aung (NSCN-KYA) militants was killed in a gunfight between the group and security forces on Sunday in Arunachal Pradeshs Longding district. The victim, Giyas Uddin, worked for PSK Enterprise at the Government Higher Secondary School in Pongchau. He died in the crossfire during the []

Itanagar: Legal Metrology Department conducts routine inspection, ten booked

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 30: The Department of Legal Metrology & Consumer Affairs (LM&CA), Government of Arunachal Pradesh, conducted a routine inspection at the Naharlagun Market area on Wednesday, as part of its continuing efforts to curb unfair trade practices and protect consumer interests. The inspection was carried out in the jurisdiction of Papum Pare []

Arunachal Governor extends May Day greetings

HT Bureau, ITANAGAR, April 30:On the eve of International Labour Day, observed globally as May Day, the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt. General K T Parnaik, PVSM, UYSM, YSM (Retd), extended his warm greetings to the people of the state, with special acknowledgement to manual workers. In an official message, the Governor paid tribute to []

Nirjuli Police arrest drug peddler after brief chase

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 30: In a significant development under the ongoing anti-drug initiative Operation Dawn 2.0, Nirjuli Police apprehended a suspected drug peddler in possession of heroin following a brief chase. The arrest was made during a naka checking operation conducted on April 28 at Dikrong Colony, based on specific input, an official statement []

Itanagar Capital Police return 75 lost mobile phones during 10th edition of SAMVAD

HT BureauITANAGAR, April 30: In a continued effort to build stronger police-community relations and enhance public service delivery, the Itanagar Capital Police returned 75 recovered lost mobile phones to their rightful owners during the 10th edition of SAMVAD, held at Chimpu on April 30, 2025. The event took place under the Police Ajin initiative, a []

Itanagar cops return 75 lost cellphones to owners

Chief Secretary Manish Kumar Gupta visits Kamlang Tiger Reserve

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 29:In a significant move toward strengthening conservation and promoting eco-tourism in Arunachal Pradesh, Chief Secretary Shri Manish Kumar Gupta (IAS) visited the Kamlang Tiger Reserve (KTR) on April 28. His visit underlined the state governments commitment to sustainable environmental governance and digital innovation in the conservation sector. Despite intermittent rain, Shri []

West Siang DC urges departments to prepare specific action plans

ITANAGAR, April 29: West Siang Deputy Commissioner Mamu Hage has directed all government departments in the district to prepare specific action plans and adhere to the timelines set by the government for various developmental projects. Chairing a District Level Monitoring Committee (DLMC) meeting here on Monday, the DC emphasized the need for timely submission of []

Arunachal: Molester booked under POCSO Act

ITANAGAR, April 29: The Miao police on Sunday arrested one Kabir Hussain [30], a resident of Karimganj in Assam, for allegedly attempting to rape a minor girl. Hussain currently resides in Kharsang town, and works as an autorickshaw driver. Miao PS OC Inspector Vicky Lowang informed that Hussain was captured by villagers while he was []

Awareness programme on Mission LiFE and SDGs held

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 29: A half-day awareness cum interactive programmeon Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment)and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)was conducted at Dera Natung Government College (DNGC), Vivek Vihar, today. The event aimed to promote environmental consciousness and align local actions with global sustainability goals. Organized by the Environmental Information, Awareness, Capacity Building, and []

Rajiv Gandhi Universitys commerce dept to lead key tourism consultancy project in Arunachal

ITANAGAR, April 29: The commerce department at Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) here, has been entrusted with a prestigious tourism consultancy project for Arunachal Pradesh by the North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd. (NEDFi). An agreement formalising the project was signed on Monday at NEDFis premises in Guwahati, the central varsity (RGU) said in a statement. []

APWWS extends support to Deepak Nabam Living Home

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 29: In a compassionate outreach initiative, the Arunachal Pradesh Workers Welfare Society (APWWS), under the leadership of its president Jalley Sonam, visited the Deepak Nabam Living Homeand distributed essential food items to its residents. During the visit, Sonam emphasized that APWWSs core mission is to uplift the labour community and support []

NEEPCO Director (Personnel) Meets Arunachal Governor

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 29: Major General RK Jha, director (Personnel) of the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO), called on the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh KT Parnaik at Raj Bhavan on Tuesday for a comprehensive discussion on the corporations ongoing and upcoming projects in the State. The Governor was apprised of NEEPCOs current energy []

Main drug supplier nabbed in Assam in NDPS case follow-up

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 29: In a major development under Operation Dawn 2.0, Naharlagun Police have apprehended the main drug supplier linked to Naharlagun PS Case No. 57/25 under sections 21(b)/27/29 of the NDPS Act on Tuesday. Acting on revelations made by two previously arrested accused, a joint police team led by Inspector Krishnendu Dev, []

Villagers demand relocation of Silicon Factory from Niglok IGC

ITANAGAR, April 28: Residents living near the Niglok Industrial Growth Centre (IGC) in East Siang district have raised serious concerns over pollution allegedly caused by a silicon factory operating in the area. United under the IGC Pollution-Affected Peoples Forum, the villagers have demanded the relocation of the factoryto a more isolated location, citing air and []

Three NSCN-KYA rebels killed in Arunachal, abducted worker rescued

ITANAGAR, April 28: An abducted construction worker was rescued and three militants of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (KYA) faction were killed during a fierce gun battle between security forces and extremists in Arunachal Pradeshs Longding district, a defence spokesman said on Monday. Two construction workers were kidnapped on April 25 from the Pangchao []

Pangin declared as clean model village under Swachhta Hi Seva Initiative

ITANAGAR, April 28: In a significant stride toward community-led development, Pangin village in Siang district was officially inaugurated as a Clean Model Village (CMV)under the districts Swachhta Hi Seva initiative. The inaugural ceremony was attended by Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Ojing Tasing, Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng, Deputy Commissioner PN Thungon, Director of Skill []

National Youth Exposure Programme 2025 inaugurated in Tawang

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 28: The vibrant National Youth Exposure Programme 2025 was inaugurated today at Zomkhang Hall, Tawang, bringing together 66 enthusiastic youth participants and over 10 officials from Meghalaya. The four-day programme, running from April 27 to 30, is jointly organized by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, and []

Drug addict, 2 peddlers arrested in Itanagar

Three NSCN Militants Killed in Joint Assam Rifles-Indian Army Operation in Arunachal Pradesh

HT Digital ITANAGAR, APR 28: In a major anti-insurgency operation, the Assam Rifles and the Indian Army jointly launched an offensive in the Pongchau area of Longding district, Arunachal Pradesh, on April 27, killing three militants belonging to the NSCN (Angmai) faction. Acting on intelligence inputs provided by military sources based in Kolkata, security forces []

RTI exposes Arunachal govt buildings in protected forest sans environmental clearance

Guwahati: The Arunachal Pradesh government constructed its Civil Secretariat and State Legislative Assembly within the notified boundaries of the Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary (IWS) without securing mandatory environmental clearances, official records accessed through the Right to Information (RTI) Act have revealed. According to a report by Hindustan Times, environmental advocate and activist S. Loda filed the [] The post RTI exposes Arunachal govt buildings in protected forest sans environmental clearance appeared first on NorthEast Now .

Mohesh Chai inaugurates AAPLU district office in Tezu

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 26: Tezu Sonpura MLA and Advisor to the Health & Family Welfare Minister, Mohesh Chai, on Saturday inaugurated the district office of the All Arunachal Pradesh Labour Union (AAPLU) at Tezu, in the presence of several prominent labour leaders from across the state, as well as representatives from Lohit, Anjaw, and []

Arunachal: Babies delivered inside 108 ambulances

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 26:Two healthy babies a girl and a boy were delivered inside 108 free emergency services ambulances in two different instances on Wednesday. The first incident occurred in Lower Dibang Valley district at around 5:30 pm, when a pregnant woman being transported from Holok Bari to the district hospital in []

Suspended APSSB secy reinstated by GoI

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 26:Former secretary of the Arunachal Pradesh Staff Selection Board (APSSB), SK Jain, who had been suspended by the state government, has been reinstated in service by the Government of India. His suspension was revoked by the Ministry of Home Affairs in 2021 itself. Jain, who was secretary of the APSSB when []

Dirang forest fire brought under control

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 26:The massive forest fire that had broken out on Thursday afternoon in Nadipar near here in West Kameng district was finally brought under control on Friday evening after a gruelling 15 hours of efforts, involving security forces, the local administration, and local residents. According to DDMO Mindu Yangzom, the fire, which []

Siang Royal Academy conducts cleanliness drive at Komlighat

HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, April 26: The Siang Royal Academy, B.Ed College, Pasighat, organized a social service and cleanliness drive at Komlighat on Friday (April 25). During the initiative, students, trainees, and faculty members actively participated in cleaning the area, aiming to raise awareness among the community about the importance and benefits of maintaining cleanliness. Komlighat, []

Two-day free heart screening camp underway at RK Mission Hospital

HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, April 26: A two-day free heart screening camp is currently underway at Rama Krishna Mission Hospital in Itanagar, drawing a huge turnout of citizens. Arunachal Life Saving Foundation (ALSF) Chairman Ramesh Jikke has appealed to the people of Itanagar to take advantage of this opportunity for their heart health. Speaking to the []

Minister Nyato Dukam appeals to workers and labour unions to unite

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 26: Labour, Employment, Trade & Commerce, and Industry Minister Nyato Dukam on Friday appealed to all labour and workers unions and organisations to join hands for the welfare of the workers community and the overall development of Arunachal Pradesh. Addressing an interaction programme with leaders and executive members of various trade []

16 out of 27 Arunachal districts malaria-free: Official

ITANAGAR, April 25: Sixteen out of the 27 districts in Arunachal Pradesh have been declared malaria-free, a health official said. Speaking at the World Malaria Day 2025 celebrations organised by the National Centre for Vector Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC) at Naharlagun on Friday, Health Services deputy director Dr KT Mulung praised the tireless efforts of []

CM Pema Khandu announces Rs 50 lakh aid

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 25: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu recently announced an ex gratia amount of Rs50 lakh and a government job for a family member of Late Corporal Tage Hailyang, who was among the 26 people killed in a terrorist attack at Baisaran near Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir on April 22. []

Arunachal Governor extends warm greetings on Gumkum Gumpa Festival

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 25: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh KT Parnaik has conveyed his heartfelt greetings to the people of the State, particularly to the Puroik community, on the auspicious occasion of Gumkum Gumpa. In his message, the Governor expressed hope that the festival a celebration of reunion and renewal would strengthen []

Hailyang helped others escape before terrorists killed him, says Arunachal CM

ITANAGAR, April 24: Indian Air Force Corporal Tage Hailyang, who was vacationing in Pahalgam with his wife, risked his life and guided tourists to safety, helping them escape before he fell to the bullets of the terrorists, Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Pema Khandu said on Thursday. Khandu, who went to Hailyang home at Tajang village []

Itanagar Capital Complex DC transfer demanded

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 23: The 13thItanagar Constituency Youth Association served a 15 day ultimatum to the State government to transfer Capital Complex Deputy Commissioner Talo Potum. Addressing media persons here on Wednesday afternoon at Arunachal Press club, the 13thItanagar Constituency Youth Association president Nangram Ganesh alleged that the public of Itanagar capital Complex []

Arunachal: Meeting of all political parties held

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 23: A meeting with office bearers and representative of political parties had been convened by the Deputy commissioner-cum-District Municipal Election officer capital recently at DC camp office IG park. The meeting was to ensure wide awareness up to grassroots Municipal wards in capital, Itanagar in accordance with notification of summary electoral []

Pasighat Press Club in East Siang inaugurated

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 23: Arunachal minister of printing Nyato Dukam on Tuesday inaugurated the Pasighat Press Club (PPC) in East Siang recently. Dukam inaugurated the Pasighat Press club (PPC) in a rented premises near Gandhi chowk in presence of several eminent personalities of state and several senor journalist and leaders of media organisation of []

IAF Corporal Tage Hailyang from Arunachal Pradesh Killed in Pahalgam Terror Attack

HT Digital ITANAGAR, APR 23: A tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, has claimed the life of Corporal Tage Hailyang of the Indian Air Force. Corporal Hailyang, a native of Tajang village in Arunachal Pradeshs Lower Subansiri district, was visiting the popular tourist destination with his wife when the attack occurred on April []

Arunachal: RTI exposes systematic destruction of Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary

Itanagar: Documents obtained under the Right to Information (RTI) Act have laid bare the alarming extent of destruction within the Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary (IWLS), Arunachal Times reported. Environmental activist and advocate SD Loda secured the RTI documents, revealing that the sanctuary, officially established on July 14, 1978, largely exists only in name, with significant encroachment [] The post Arunachal: RTI exposes systematic destruction of Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary appeared first on NorthEast Now .

Arunachal: RTI reveals massive encroachment in Itanagar sanctuary

Guwahati: A damning set of documents obtained through the Right to Information (RTI) Act has uncovered the widespread and unchecked destruction of the Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary (IWLS), revealing that what was once a protected ecological zone now exists largely in name only. Environmental activist and legal advocate SD Loda, who filed the RTI request, discovered [] The post Arunachal: RTI reveals massive encroachment in Itanagar sanctuary appeared first on NorthEast Now .

MLA Nabam Vivek assures relocation of ILP check gate in Kimin

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 20: MLA Nabam Vivek of the 14th Doimukh Assembly constituency has assured residents of Kimin that the Inner Line Permit (ILP) check gate currently situated in the centre of the township will be relocated to its entry point. According to an official statement, Vivek addressed the long-standing concern raised by the []

Techi Kaso lays foundation stone for new circle office building in Nirjuli

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 20: Advisor to the Minister of Urban Development, Housing and Town Planning, and MLA of Itanagar Capital Complex, Techi Kaso, laid the foundation stone for the construction of a G+2 Circle Office building at Nirjuli recently. According to an official statement, the foundation stone-laying ceremony was held in the presence of []

Arunachal Christian Forum celebrates 46th Foundation Day

HT Bureau ITANAGAR, April 18: The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) on Thursday April 17 celebrated its 46th foundation day in benefiting manner with several programmers here at its state officer at Papunallah in city. ACF President informed the media that on the day in 1978 the ACF come into being and since then the Christian []

Arunachal Dy CM Chowna Mein reviews strengthening of power transmission, distribution system

ITANAGAR, April 18: Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein has stressed the importance of timely and coordinated approach for smooth implementation of power projects to meet the growing power demands. Chairing a high-level review meeting on the comprehensive scheme for strengthening the transmission and distribution system at Namsai on Thursday, Mein, who is also []

Arunachal CM Khandu drops the micand picks up the dholin electrifying Bihu bash at his residence

Guwahati: It wasnt your usual political evening in Itanagar. The dhol beat echoed through the Arunachal Pradesh Chief Ministers residence on Thursday as Pema Khanduhimself joined inthe Rongali Bihu celebrationsdancing with gusto and drumming shoulder-to-shoulder with Assamese performers. The Assamese Association Itanagar, brought the spirit of Rongali Bihu alive with a vibrant Husori performance. Young [] The post Arunachal CM Khandu drops the micand picks up the dholin electrifying Bihu bash at his residence appeared first on NorthEast Now .

Golden Pagoda Glows as International Maha Sangken Festival Begins

HT Digital ITANAGAR, APR 15: The much-anticipated International Maha Sangken Festival commenced spectacularly on Monday at the serene and sacred Golden Pagoda (Kongmu Kham) in Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh. This vibrant three-day event, deeply rooted in Buddhist spirituality and Tai-Khamti culture, drew thousands of visitors, including devotees, tourists, dignitaries, and international guests. The festival opened with []

Nine Tigers Spotted at Pakke Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh During Latest Survey

HT Digital ITANAGAR, APR 12: The Pakke Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh has recorded the presence of nine tigers, according to Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) and Field Director Satyaprakash Singh. The sightings were confirmed through an extensive camera trap survey conducted by the Arunachal Pradesh Forest Department for the fiscal year 202324. []

Union Women and Child Development Minister on 3-day visit to Arunachal

HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, Apr 11: The Union minister for Women and Child Development Annpurna Devi, who arrived in Itanagar on Thursday, reviewed implementation of central schemes in presence of minister Dasanglu Pul and other senior officials of the department. The union minister is on a three-day visit to the state of Arunachal from April 10 []

Mahavir Jayanti celebrated with devotion at Parasnath Jain Temple

HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, April 10: The Jain community in Naharlagun gathered in devotion and unity to celebrate Mahavir Jayanti at the Shri Parasnath Digambar Jain Temple. The event, marking the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, was observed with great enthusiasm and spiritual fervor. According to an official statement, the celebrations began with a grand religious []

High-yielding exotic vegetable seeds distributed

HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, April 8: In a significant step towards promoting sustainable horticulture and enhancing the livelihood of local farmers, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Tawang, Kanki Darrang, recently handed over high-yielding exotic vegetable seeds to the Chairperson of Tawang Green Farmer Producer Company Ltd, Nawang Chonzom. The initiative, aimed at supporting local farmers, included []

One time relaxation of upper age limit for candidates seeking govt jobs in Arunachal

HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, April 8: The Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Pema Khandu recently approved One Time Relaxation of the prescribed upper age limit for candidates for direct recruitment in govt posts. The move would enable candidates to be eligible and to apply for those categories of posts where the previous vacancy notifications (issued prior []

Heroin Seized from Arunachal Govt Office, Employee Arrested

A multi-tasking staff from the state horticulture department was arrested after 44.36 grams of heroin were recovered from a government office in Itanagar.

Arunachal Guv tells students about opportunities in Sainik Schools

ITANAGAR, April 7: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) K T Parnaik on Monday encouraged Sainik School aspirants from the remote districts of Kurung Kumey and Upper Subansiri to foster a spirit of participation, curiosity, hard work, and the essential habits of reading and writing. Interacting with students from Sarli in Kurung Kumey district, and []

Emphasis on high quality security, research based teaching and training

HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, April 5:The Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) Pasighat campus focused on providing high quality security, research based teaching and training to the aspirants students of the Arunachal Pradesh in particular and Northeastern region as a whole. RRU is a pioneering National Security and Police University of India under the Ministry of Home Affairs []

MLA Darang flags off exposure tour for GBs to Kaziranga

HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, April 5:The 38thEast Pasighat MLA Tapi Darang recently today flagged off an exposure tour for Kaziranga National Park, (Assam) here in which thirty Gaon Burahss and Gaon Buris (GBs) from Bosing & Bogong group of village are embarking on a journey to learn and experience various aspects of wildlife conservation, rural and []

Arunachal: 3rd District Level Narco Coordination meeting

HT Correspondent ITANAGAR, April 4: District Police, Upper Siang Yingkiong conducted 3rd District Level Narco Co-ordination (NCORD) meeting under the chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner Upper Siang Talo Jerang at DCs conference Yingkiong on Friday. Presiding over the meeting DC cum- Chairman NCORD Talo Jerang reviewed the action taken by the members as per the []

Arunachal: Landslide in Anjaw District Disrupts Transport, Blocks Army Convoys

ITANAGAR: A huge landslide in the Mompani region of Anjaw district, Arunachal Pradesh, close to the Indo-China border, has halted road movement to a standstill. The landslide, which occurred on Wednesday, has hugely inconvenienced civilian traffic and suspended movement of army convoys along the border areas. As per officials, the landslide swept away about 10 []

Nirmala assures all possible assistance to help Arunachal realise its full potential

ITANAGAR, Mar 28: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman praised Arunachal Pradeshs development trajectory and assured continued central support to the frontier state. The progress happening in Arunachal Pradesh is truly commendable. The central government remains committed to supporting the states growth, ensuring that every city and town develops into a model of urban excellence, she said. Sitharaman also assured all possible assistance from the Finance Ministry to help Arunachal Pradesh realise its full potential. The Finance Minister gave this assurance [] The post Nirmala assures all possible assistance to help Arunachal realise its full potential appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Arunachal Christian Forum protests against law on anti-conversion

Thousands of Christians, led by the Arunachal Christian Forum, protested in Itanagar against implementing the 1978 anti-conversion law. They argue that the law will sow religious discord in the state. Although the protest was initially planned near the assembly, it was later shifted to a different location. Chief Minister Pema Khandu urged people not to misinterpret the law.

46-Year-Old Anti-Conversion Law Making A Comeback, Arunachal Christians Protest

Thousands of people under the banner of the Arunachal Christian Forum held a peaceful protest near Itanagar against the implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act 1978, an anti-conversion law.

Opposed to Freedom of Religion Act, Christians in Arunachal warn of referendum rally

GUWAHATI: The protest against the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978, is getting intensified with thousands of Christians holding a peaceful demonstration on Thursday, demanding its repeal. The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF), the states largest Christian organisation, which is spearheading the protest, warned of a referendum rally. If APFRA is not repealed within this month, we will organise a referendum rally, ACF president Tarh Miri told this newspaper, adding that, If the Act is not repealed, it should be kept dormant like what it was. He alleged APFRA violates the freedom of accepting a faith and religious belief. Earlier, ACF Secretary General James Techi Tara warned that the enforcement of APFRA would create hatred among people. Changing faith is ones own choice, he said. The ACF claimed that over 1 lakh people had turned up at the rally which was organised at Naharlagun near the state capital Itanagar. The ACF had plans to organise it in Itanagar but authorities denied permission as the budget session of the state Assembly began on Thursday. While the Christians in the state stand opposed to APFRA, the indigenous faith believers, however, endorse it. They also took to the streets recently demanding its early implementation. They demonstrated their solidarity with the state government for its move to implement the Act by organising a Sadbhavna Pad Yatra at Doimukh. This Act was introduced in 1978 for the welfare of the indigenous tribal society. Despite repeated requests, it has not been implemented yet, lamented Pai Dawe, president of the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh. Earlier, the state government stated that APFRA would be implemented in deference to a directive of the Gauhati High Court. The court asked the government to finalise the Acts draft rules within six months from September 2024. Chief Minister Pema Khandu said the draft rules were not against any religion. The Act was introduced to safeguard the traditional religious practices of indigenous communities from external influence or coercion. However, it was never implemented. Indigenous faith believers, Christians and Buddhists are Arunachals three major communities.

Bhagwat emphasises need to balance cultural heritage with modern aspirations

ITANAGAR, Mar 2 : RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday emphasised the need to balance cultural heritage with modern aspirations. Bhagwat, who visited the Donyi Polo Nyedar Namlo a revered prayer centre of the Nyishi community at Naharlagun near Itanagar, spoke on the role of spiritual practices in promoting societal harmony and nation-building. The Namlo, located near the banks of the Pachin river, is dedicated to the worship of the sun (Donyi) and the moon (Polo), holding deep spiritual [] The post Bhagwat emphasises need to balance cultural heritage with modern aspirations appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Arunachal indigenous faith group rallies for anti-conversion law

The demonstration at Doimukh followed a meeting of indigenous faith believers with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat in the States capital Itanagar

Arunachal Pradesh: Indigenous faith believers take out rally in support of Freedom of Religion Act

GUWAHATI: Days after Christians in Arunachal Pradesh staged a hunger strike opposing the state governments move to implement the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978, the states indigenous faith believers took out a rally on Saturday demanding early implementation of the Act. During the Sadbhavna Pad Yatra organised by the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP) at Doimukh, the participants shouted slogans demanding early implementation of the anti-conversion law. IFCSAP vice president Pai Dawe told media that through this rally, the indigenous faith believers demonstrated their solidarity with the government for early implementation of the Act. This Act was introduced in 1978 for the welfare of the indigenous tribal society. Despite repeated requests, it has not been implemented yet, Dawe said. Stating that the Act was passed in the Assembly within four months of its maiden session and it subsequently got the Presidential assent, he lamented that successive governments gave lip service by committing to stand for the welfare of tribals. He said the Act, once implemented, would protect the tribals culture, tradition and belief system. A participant said the Act was introduced to protect indigenous people from becoming extinct. If it is implemented, we will be able to preserve and maintain our culture, tradition and rituals. Our people are increasingly converting to other religions. This Act will control conversion. Thats the reason why we support it, he said. On February 17, the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) had staged an eight-hour hunger strike in Itanagar to oppose the Act. Thousands of Christians, including some MLAs, participated. ACF president Tarh Miri claimed APFRA violates the freedom of accepting a faith and religious belief. We oppose this Act. Anti-conversion law is enforced in 11 states. This is only against Christianity, he alleged. ACF secretary general James Techi Tara had stated the enforcement of APFRA would create hatred among people. Changing faith is ones own choice, he stated. Earlier, the state government said APFRA would be implemented in deference to a directive of the Gauhati High Court. The court asked the government to finalise the Acts draft rules within six months from September 2024. Chief Minister Pema Khandu has already said that the draft rules are not against any religion.

Frontier Highway game changer for Arunachals border development: Rijiju

ITANAGAR, Feb 20: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday asserted that the multi-crore Frontier Highway project will be a game changer for the border areas of Arunachal Pradesh. Speaking at the 39th Statehood Day celebrations here, Rijiju said this is the highest allocation ever made by the Centre for a single project in the country. The Frontier Highway is going to be the largest road project in the history of India. It is going to be around 1,400 kilometres long, [] The post Frontier Highway game changer for Arunachals border development: Rijiju appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Arunachal church body stages hunger strike to oppose Freedom of Religion Act

GUWAHATI: Thousands turned up at a ground in Itanagar on Monday as the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) staged an eight-hour hunger strike in protest against the state governments move to implement the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978. Some MLAs were among the participants. The participants held posters which had messages such as we demand the repeal of APFRA, do not turn us against one another, there is no honour in enforcing APFRA. ACF president Tarh Miri claimed that APFRA violates the freedom of accepting faith and religious belief. We oppose this Act. Anti-conversion law is enforced in 11 states. This is only against Christianity, he alleged. ACF secretary general James Techi Tara said the enforcement of APFRA would create hatred among people. Changing faith is ones own choice. Forced conversion is restricted in the Indian Constitution. Show me one instance where a complaint was lodged against forced conversion. We want nothing less than the repeal of the Act, Tara said. Earlier, the state government said APFRA would be implemented in deference to a directive of the Gauhati High Court. The court asked the government to finalise the Acts draft rules within six months from September 2024. Chief Minister Pema Khandu said the rules, being framed as per a directive of the High Court, were not against any religion. The government has been asked to frame the rules to give some more protection to indigenous (faiths), Khandu said. He said he would ask the states department of indigenous affairs minister and the home minister to deliberate the matter together with all stakeholders. The ACF, however, slammed him for his alleged double standard.We dont entertain his statement. In 2018, he himself had announced that he will repeal this draconian law. But in 2024, he announced that it will be implemented. This is his double-standard, ACF president Tarh Miri told TNIE . The Act was introduced in 1978 to safeguard the traditional religious practices of indigenous communities from external influence or coercion.

Arunachal church body to sit on hunger strike against Freedom of Religion Act

GUWAHATI: Christians in Arunachal Pradesh will stage an eight-hour hunger strike on Monday to protest against the state governments move to implement the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act (APFRA), 1978. The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF), the apex organisation of various Christian denominations in the state, will spearhead the protest. The state government said APFRA would be implemented in deference to a directive of the Gauhati High Court. The court had asked the government to finalise the draft rules of the Act within six months from September 2024. Chief Minister Pema Khandu said rules were being framed as per a directive of the High Court. He said the rules were not being framed against any religion. They are not against Buddhists, Hindus, Christians or Muslims, he said. The government has been asked to frame the rules to give some more protection to indigenous (faiths), Khandu said. Stating that the rules would not harm anybody, he said he would ask the states Department of Indigenous Affairs Minister and the Home Minister to deliberate on the matter together with all stakeholders. He appealed to the ACF not to resort to any protest. The church organisation, however, slammed the CM for his alleged double standard. We dont entertain his statement. In 2018, he himself had announced that he will repeal this draconian law. But in 2024, he announced that it will be implemented. This is his double standard, ACF president Tarh Miri told TNIE. The ACF termed the Act unconstitutional, anti-Christian, and against the spirit of secularism. The 9 am to 5 pm hunger strike will be staged across district and subdivisional headquarters. Miri said three to four MLAs would join the protestors in Itanagar. The Act was introduced in 1978 to safeguard the traditional religious practices of indigenous communities from external influence or coercion.

GST fraud racket busted: Fake invoices worth Rs 658.55 crore unearthed

Central GST Itanagar Commissionerate has uncovered a racket issuing fake invoices worth Rs 658.55 Crores without supplying goods, leading to a loss of nearly Rs 100 Crores to the government. Two masterminds, Ashutosh Kumar Jha and Bipin Kumar Jha, have been arrested, and forensic analysis is underway.

Rise and Shine in Arunachal 2025 Calendar launched in Itanagar

The Department of Tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, in partnership with Miss India Organisation, Times Group, has launched the Rise and Shine in Arunachal Pradesh 2025 Calendar. The calendar, billed as a tribute to the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Northeastern state, was unveiled on Saturday at an event at the Dorjee Khandu [] The post Rise and Shine in Arunachal 2025 Calendar launched in Itanagar appeared first on The Shillong Times .

A 10-Year-Old Dies in a Tragic Road Mishap on Her Way to School

Hyderabad: A 10-year-old Class V student who was on the way to school on her fathers two-wheeler died on the spot after a lorry hit their vehicle at Sitanagar on the Shaikpet-Manikonda road. The incident took place at 8.10 am, Filimnagar sub-inspector A. Ganesh Goud said. Her father, a social media manager with an electronic media firm, who survived with injuries said the lorry was being driven in a rash manner and hit their two-wheeler from the rear. We fell on the road and my daughter came under the wheels of the lorry, he said. The 10-tyre multi-axle lorry was carrying a cargo of sugar. The father fell towards the right side and the victim fell on the left side and came under the lorrys wheels. By the time the driver realised and applied brakes, it was too late, said G. Giri who runs a kiosk near the accident spot. The victim, the only daughter of the family, had gone to a taekwondo class at 6 am from her residence in Shaikpet and returned by 7.40. She changed and got ready for school, a family member of the victim said. She was very active and always stood first in her school, the relative said. The victims parents were married around 18 years back and migrated to the city from Suryapet, the family member said. The victim was well-mannered and punctual. It's a great loss, the victims school mate told Deccan Chronicle . Police arrested driver Yasin Quereshi, seized the lorry and registered a case of death due to rash and negligent driving. The victims body was handed over to the family after a post-mortem examination at the Osmania General Hospital.

AP civil supplies minister conducts ward inspection in Tenali

Vijayawada :Food and civil supplies minister, Nadendla Manohar, conducted a ward inspection in Tenali on Monday, addressing long-standing civic issues and promising sweeping reforms. The inspection revealed several infrastructure gaps left by the previous administration, including an incomplete housing project worth `530 crore meant for poor beneficiaries, the minister claimed. During his visit to the municipal high school, the minister interacted with students and teachers. He said immediate action will be taken to level the school's boundary wall, which had been in disrepair. We have uncovered several instances where welfare pensions were arbitrarily canceled by the previous government. An investigation is under way, and we will ensure justice for all legitimate beneficiaries, he said. The minister announced several new initiatives for Aitanagar, including a park near the water tank, at a cost of `1.30 crore. This would open by summer. The other plans are for the modernization of existing parks and development of new walking tracks, renovation of the pond adjacent to Aitanagar school and a three-year programme to integrate Anganwadi students into government municipal schools On women's empowerment, he outlined plans to strengthen the savings societies and create income-generating opportunities. Our government is committed to transparent governance and inclusive development, he stated. The inspection highlighted issues with previous housing projects, wherein some units were completed without basic amenities while others remained only on paper despite land allocation. The minister promised that these irregularities would be set right.

4 tourists fall in frozen Sela Lake in Arunachal while attempting to walk

Itanagar: Four tourists fell into the frozen Sela Lake in Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, while attempting to walk on its icy surface, an official said on Monday. However, they were safely pulled out of the icy water, the district official said. At Sela Pass in Arunachal Pradesh. My advice to tourists: Walk on the Frozen Lakes with experienced people, drive carefully on slippery snow roads and be aware of snow avalanche. Temperatures is freezing so wear warm clothes and enjoy. Your safety is important. pic.twitter.com/UWz8xOzd57 Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) January 5, 2025 The incident took place at the scenic lake, located at an altitude of 14,000 feet on Sunday, when the four tourists from Assam, including one woman, ventured onto the frozen surface despite clear risks. Fortunately, their companions acted quickly, pulling them out of the icy water and preventing a tragedy, the official said. The incident occurred around 10 am when the tourists ventured onto the frozen surface of the lake. There was no casualty reported and all of them are fit and fine, additional deputy commissioner (ADC) Hakraso Kri said. Local authorities had previously issued warnings against such activities. In December last year, Tawang Deputy Commissioner Kanki Darang had advised visitors to avoid walking on high-altitude frozen lakes, including Sela Lake, Shongetser Lake, PT Tso Lake, and the lakes around Bumla Pass. For the local community, these lakes hold deep cultural and spiritual significance. According to tradition, tampering with or polluting these sacred water bodies is believed to invite misfortune. Meanwhile, Union Parliamentary Affairs minister Kiren Rijiju who hails from the state has cautioned tourists to remain careful while walking in such frozen lakes. Enjoy mountains but be careful of snow avalance, icy roads and ice lakes, Rijiju said in a post on X. At Sela Pass in Arunachal Pradesh. My advice to tourists: Walk on the frozen lakes with experienced people, drive carefully on slippery snow roads and be aware of snow avalanche. Temperatures is freezing so wear warm clothes and enjoy. Your safety is important, he added.