Arunachal Pradesh News | Latest News Updates, Politics, Events

Itanagar: Former Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has resigned as the president of the state Congress, ahead of the Lok Sabha and the assembly elections, a party leader said on Saturday.
Tuki sent his resignation to the All India Congress Committee on Friday, following the defection of three-party MLAs to BJP, he said. "The former chief minister resigned on moral grounds as he could not prevent the MLAs from defecting to other political parties," APCC general secretary Gyamar Tana said.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/arunachal:-pm-modi-dedicates-all-weather-strategic-sela-tunnel-to-nation" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/arunachal:-pm-modi-dedicates-all-weather-strategic-sela-tunnel-to-nation</a>&nbsp;
Tuki represents the Sagalee assembly constituency in the state. Earlier this month, Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Lombo Tayeng, a six-time MLA from Mebo in East Siang district, joined the BJP. Two other Congress MLAs, who joined the BJP last month, are Ninong Ering and Wanglin Lowangdong.
—PTI

Former Arunachal Pradesh CM Nabam Tuki resigns as state Congress president following MLAs' defection to BJP ahead of elections.

Ex-Arunachal CM Nabam Tuki resigns at state Congress chief

Itanagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation the strategic Sela Tunnel project virtually at an event held in Itanagar on Saturday. The foundation stone of the tunnel was laid earlier by him on February 09, 2019, and the construction commenced on April 1 of the same year.
The tunnel project was completed in just five years, overcoming challenges in the form of difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions. The tunnel has been constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) at an altitude of 13,000 feet on the road connecting Tezpur, Assam to Tawang in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh.

<div style="text-align:left;"><img src="https://thehawk.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/Sela%20Tunnel%20Arunachal.webp" alt="Sela Tunnel Arunachal" style="height: auto;width: auto"/></div>

Built at a total cost of Rs 825 crore, the tunnel will provide all-weather connectivity to Tawang across Sela Pass on the Balipara-Chariduar-Tawang Road, boosting the preparedness of the armed forces and augmenting the socio-economic development of the border region. In his address after the dedication of the project at the event Viksit Bharat Viksit North East, Prime Minister Modi voiced the government's 'unwavering commitment' to the development of the Northeast region.
 Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/arunachal:-%22completed-work-of-7-decades-in-just-one...%22-pm-modi-slams-congress" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/arunachal:-%22completed-work-of-7-decades-in-just-one...%22-pm-modi-slams-congress</a>&nbsp;
He said the Sela Tunnel will provide all-weather connectivity and improve the ease of travel for the people of Tawang. Work on many such tunnels is going on in the northeast region, he added. Prime Minister Modi also criticised the neglect towards border villages by previous regimes at the Centre. He reiterated his style of working as per the needs of the nation and not for electoral considerations. He promised the defence personnel that he would come to meet them at this engineering marvel in his next term. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and the Union Minister for Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju were among the dignitaries present during the inauguration ceremony. The Sela Tunnel has been constructed using the new Austrian Tunnelling Method and incorporates safety features of the highest standards. The project will not only provide a faster and more efficient transport route in the region but is of strategic importance to the country. The BRO has always been at the forefront of the development of the border areas. In the last three years, the BRO has completed a record 330 infrastructure projects constructed at the cost of Rs 8,737 crore. From the same event held in Itanagar, the Prime Minister, among others, inaugurated and dedicated to the nation and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth about Rs 55,600 crores in Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh.
—ANI

PM Modi inaugurates the strategic Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh, ensuring all-weather connectivity to Tawang and boosting Northeast India's socio-economic growth.

Arunachal: PM Modi dedicates all-weather strategic Sela Tunnel to nation

Itanagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday that it would have taken Congress 20 years to accomplish what his government did in the last five years for the development of the northeastern states. "Congress would have taken 20 years to do what we (BJP) have done in the last five years in the Northeast,' PM Modi said shortly in his address after inaugurating multiple development projects in the northeastern states.
Boosting the infrastructure push in the northeastern states ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, the PM said, "From Independence till 2014, around 10,000 km of National Highway were constructed in the Northeast...However, in the last 10 years, more than 6,000 km of National Highway have been constructed in the Northeast. I completed the work of seven decades in just one..."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/blow-to-congress-as-former-union-minister-suresh-pachouri-ex-mp-rajukhedi-among-leaders-who-join-bjp" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/blow-to-congress-as-former-union-minister-suresh-pachouri-ex-mp-rajukhedi-among-leaders-who-join-bjp</a> "After 2014, a 2000-km new railway line was laid in the north-east. A lot of work has been done in the power sector. Today, work has started on the Dibang multi-purpose hydropower project in Arunachal and the solar power project in Tripura," PM Modi said. "Dibang Dam is going to be the highest dam in the country," PM Modi said. PM Modi also said that the development of the North-East was part of the aim to become a developed nation. "Our vision for the development of the North-East has been Ashtalakshmi. Our North East is going to become a strong link in India's trade, tourism and other relations with South Asia and East Asia. The national celebration of India from a developed state to a developed one is continuing at a fast pace across the country. Today I have got the opportunity to participate together with all the states of the North-East in this celebration of the developed North-East" the PM said. Earlier today, laying the foundation stone for a bouquet of development projects for the Northeast in the state capital, Itanagar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the region, once ignored, was fast emerging as a strong and a thriving corridor for trade with South Asia and East Asia. At an event which was also attended by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, PM Modi laid out his vision for the development of the Northeast states, also known as the 'Seven Sisters', saying, "We are working for the development and progress of the Northeast in line with our vision of 'Ashta Lakshmi'. The Northeast is emerging as a strong corridor for harnessing trade and tourism ties with our partners in South Asia and East Asia."
—ANI

PM Modi inaugurates development projects in Northeast, highlighting BJP's rapid infrastructure advancement.

Arunachal: "Completed work of 7 decades in just one..." PM Modi slams Congress

Itanagar: Carved out of Lower Subansiri, Keyi Panyor became the 26th district of Arunachal Pradesh.
The new district, which was being demanded by the people of the Nyishi community for long, will have its headquarters at Ter Gapin-Sam Sarth.  Congratulating the people, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said the establishment of Keyi Panyor district marks the beginning of a new era of development and progress.  He noted the district's potential in agriculture and horticulture, promising the state government's support for its development.  Khandu urged community and religious leaders to advocate against the practice of 'cash for vote' during elections.  He stressed the importance of building a corruption-free ecosystem to ensure the district's prosperous future.  He assured the people that the state government would proactively address the infrastructural needs of Keyi Panyor.  Khandu handed over the district flag to the new deputy commissioner and superintendent of police.  The programme, held on Friday, was attended by Union Minister for Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju, Deputy CM Chowna Mein, and MPs Tapir Gao and Nabam Rebia, among others.  On February 8, the state assembly passed the Arunachal Pradesh (Re-Organization of Districts) (Amendment) Bill, 2024, paving the way for the creation of two new districts -- Keyi Panyor and Bichom.  The 27th district, Bichom, is scheduled to be inaugurated early next week.
—PTI

Discover the inauguration of Keyi Panyor, Arunachal Pradesh's 26th district, by Chief Minister Pema Khandu.

Keyi Panyor becomes 26th district of Arunachal Pradesh

Siang (Arunachal Pradesh): A tremor with a magnitude of 4.3 on the Richter scale shook Arunachal Pradesh on Saturday morning according to a report from the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). The earthquake occurred at 10;11 am reaching a depth of 60 km.  The NCS provided information through their channel stating that an earthquake measuring 4.3 in magnitude took place on 03 02 2024 at 10;11;01 IST. Its latitude was recorded as 36.77 and longitude as 97.17 with a depth of 60 km. The location was identified as being 975 km north of Pangin.  Residents in the area felt the tremors emphasizing the importance of monitoring activity, for public safety.
—Input from Agencies

Breaking: Magnitude 4.3 earthquake rocks Arunachal Pradesh. NCS update reveals depth, location, and impact of the seismic event.

Magnitude 4.3 Earthquake Jolts Arunachal Pradesh

Itanagar: The termination of service of 256 government employees for producing forged documents, China's decision to deny visa to wushu players from Arunachal Pradesh for the Asian Games and protests against the state public service commission exam paper leak took centre stage in the frontier state in the year 2023.
The abduction of village officials and construction workers by militants, killing of a former MLA and anomalies over the recruitment of junior engineers found a place in the headlines in the northeastern state during the year.  India strongly protested China's decision to deny visa to three women athletes from Arunachal Pradesh for the Asian Games with Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur cancelling his visit to Hangzhou where the event took place.
Women players Nyeman Wangsu, Onilu Tega and Mepung Lamgu were denied accreditation, which also worked as visa for the games held in September-October this year.  Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu dubbed the denial of visa to the athletes from the state as 'unfortunate'.  "Beijing has acted against the established diplomatic norms and has shown utter disregard for the spirit of sports. People of Arunachal Pradesh, an integral part of Bharat, firmly stand by our players and vehemently oppose China's abominable decision," Khandu had written on X, formerly Twitter.  The Pema Khandu government in the state terminated the services of 256 employees for producing 'forged and fabricated' documents to authorities concerned without maintaining formalities of the Education department.  State Education Commissioner Amjad Tak had issued separate orders terminating these employees from services in various districts after an inquiry committee, constituted to analyse the alleged irregularities, found that their appointment letters had 'never been issued from the directorate of elementary education'.  Irregularities in the appointments of 66 junior engineers also surfaced in the state during the year.  The northeastern state was also in the news earlier this month after former MLA Yumsem Matey was shot dead by unknown gunmen near the Indo-Myanmar border in the Lazu circle of Tirap district.  Amid protests by the opposition Congress over the law and order situation in the state, the BJP government decided to transfer the murder case to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).  The Pan Arunachal Joint Steering Committee intensified its protests against the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission's question paper leak.  Normal life in the state capital was affected in February as the committee called for a 48-hour 'public' bandh to press for the fulfilment of the 13-point charter of demands. The government had suspended internet services in the Itanagar capital region for three days after the protestors broke barricades, while police personnel baton-charged them and fired tear gas shells to disperse the mob.  The assistant engineer (civil) exam was conducted by the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) in 2022.  The controversy over the question paper leak took an ugly turn when APPSC under-secretary and assistant controller of examinations Tumi Gangkak allegedly died by suicide, and Gyamar Padang, the whistleblower of the scam, breathed his last in May.  The border state also remained in headlines when the Changlang district administration unearthed the presence of 'ghost staffers' in the education department as they were drawing salaries without any presence.  During the year, the kidnapping of persons by various factions of the outlawed NSCN for ransom emerged as a major challenge to the state administration.  Militants of Ang Mai faction of the NSCN-K abducted a village chief and a gaon bura (village headman) from Longding district in November and demanded a 'house tax' of over Rs 50,000 from them.  In another case, a junior engineer and a supervisor of a construction company were kidnapped last month by three armed militants of the outfit from a camp near the Tisa river in the district. However, both were released on November 28.  It was suspected that the motive behind the kidnapping was extortion, but it could not be confirmed whether any ransom was paid for their release.  During the year, the state also witnessed an extension of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) for another six months in Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts. Additionally, areas falling within the jurisdiction of Namsai, Mahadevpur, and Chowkham police stations in Namsai district were designated as 'disturbed areas' under Section 3 of AFSPA, 1958.  US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti in November inaugurated 'The Hump WWII Museum', the second museum in Asia, dedicated to the fallen airmen of the Allied forces during World War II.  The 'Hump World War II' museum at Pasighat in East Siang district of the state will pay tribute to 'Hump Operation', one of the most remarkable feats of aviation history.
—PTI

The termination of service of 256 government employees for producing forged documents, China's decision to deny visa to wushu players from Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh news wrap 2023: Termination of 256 govt employees, China's denial of visa to Wushu players

Sela Tunnel (Arunachal Pradesh): A big push for better connectivity towards the Eastern Sector of the Indo-China border, the Border Roads Organization (BRO) has completed 90 per cent of construction works of the strategically important Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh. According to BRO officials "Border Roads Organization (BRO) is engaged in the construction works of tunnels, and roads in Arunachal Pradesh in a war footing manner and the Sela Tunnel project is at the final stage of completion. Almost 90 per cent of construction works of the strategically important Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh have been completed and hopefully, it will be completed by this year,'
"The tunnel once commissioned will provide all-weather thoroughfares for the people of Tawang of Arunachal Pradesh, the tourists visiting the district as well as the armed forces will also get benefits," added the official.
The Sela Tunnel once completed will offer the world the longest bi-lane tunnel at an altitude above 13,000 feet. Padip Kachari, a construction worker of the Sela Tunnel said " Almost 90 per cent of construction works of the tunnel have been completed. There are two tunnels in the Sela Tunnel project. After completion of the projects, people will get benefits," Pradip Kachari said. The Sela Tunnel project comprises of two tunnels - Tunnel 1, which is a 980-meter-long single-tube tunnel and Tunnel 2, which is a 1555-meter-long twin-tube tunnel. The Sela Tunnel is 400 meters below the Sela Pass and once the tunnel is completed, people will be able to pass through it even in winter and it will boost not just infrastructure in the area but tourism as well. The foundation stone of the Sela Tunnel was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 9, 2019, and its construction commenced on April 1, 2019.
—ANI

A big push for better connectivity towards the Eastern Sector of the Indo-China border, the Border Roads Organization (BRO) has completed 90 per cent

Arunachal Pradesh: Sela Tunnel world's longest Bi-Lane tunnel at 13,000 Feet, nears Completion

Mago Chuna (Arunachal Pradesh): Residents of Mago Chuna on Thursday debunked Chinese claims on Arunachal Pradesh and asserted "Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India." Mago Chuna is the last border village of Arunachal Pradesh along the Indo-China border. The villagers said that, if needed they could take AK-47 rifles in their hands to fight against China.
"Arunachal can't be a part of China. We are Indian and Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India. We are safe under the Indian army. Our border is so strong and more than 1000 army personnel are guarding here and the border is totally safe. We are ready to give full support to our jawans. We know how to run weapons. We can take AK-47 rifles in our hands to fight against China," Tsering Panden, a resident of Mago Chuna village told ANI. The villagers said that lots of development work along the international border areas has been done during the current BJP-led government. "We want to thank the central government that, the government has done a lot of infrastructure development works here. This is the last border village of Arunachal Pradesh and just 4-5 km away from the Indo-China border. There was no road here 8-9 years back. After the BJP came to power, road connectivity is better and vehicles can reach here now," said Tsering Panden. There are two roads here - one is on the upper side built Indian Army and BRO and another on the lower side which is under the state government. "Now we can reach Jang town from here within 2 hours. Earlier, it took 3 days as we were forced to reach Jang by foot. Earlier the rate of one bag of cement here used to be Rs 1500-2000. Development is being done here at a faster rate after the BJP government came to power. We are getting lots of benefits during the Pema Khandu-led government - schools, medical buildings, circuit houses are being made here and we are getting water supply, and electricity. There are two mini hydropower projects here. Indian Army, ITBP personnel are also getting benefits after completion of this road," added Tsering Panden. Another villager Tashi Panden said that Mago Chuna is the last border village of Arunachal Pradesh along the Indo-China border, but the state government has declared it as the first village.
A resident of Mago Chuna village, Tashi Panden said "We are Indian and we are part of India. We don't accept China's claim. Now, our lifestyle has also been changed. The road connectivity in this area has improved." After completion of the Mago Chuna-Jang road, will also boost tourism to Mago village which is the treasure house of hot springs. The road is strategic as it has cut short the distance to Tulung La Pass on the border of Tibet-China. Tsering Dondu, a villager of Mago village said, "We are now getting lots of benefits from the government. Earlier, we were forced to reach Jang by foot and it had taken 3 days. Now, the road has been constructed." "We are so happy with it, we thank our Chief Minister Pema Khandu, the Indian Army, ITBP, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. The government is doing good work. We are now safe here because of the Indian Army. They support us and we also support them," Tsering Dondu said. Dormu Tima, a girl from Mago village said that the government is doing good work for the villagers and all villagers are happy with it. Mago is a village Panchayat in Thingbu Tehsil of Tawang district in the north-eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed development in the border areas of Mago village in the Mukto assembly constituency of Arunachal Pradesh and said that this will empower those living in border villages. "Golden Jubilee Border Illumination Program is in sync with the vision of Hon PM Shri Narendra Modi ji that border villages aren't the last but first to be transformed. Mago village in my Mukto assembly constituency is witnessing a new dawn. As many as 50 stand-alone mini and micro hydel projects will be developed near the international border with an estimated cost of Rs 200 crore, ensuring 24x7 power supply to villagers and border guarding forces", Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu posted on X.
—ANI

Residents of Mago Chuna on Thursday debunked Chinese claims on Arunachal Pradesh and asserted "Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India."

"Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India": Mago Chuna residents debunks Chinese claims

Tezu (Arunachal Pradesh): Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Sunday inaugurated the revamped Tezu airport in Lohit district adding that it is a "historic day" for Arunachal Pradesh.  After inaugurating the revamped Tezu airport, Scindia said, "Today is a historic day for Arunachal Pradesh. An airport with a Rs 170 crore capital investment and a 40,000 square foot area has been inaugurated," Scindia said.
He further said that this happened because of the commitment and determination of Prime Minister Modi. "The North-East region had only nine airports; today there are 17 airports. This connectivity will bring strategic importance and prosperity. An airport is a medium for bringing economic activity to the region," he added.  The upgraded airport includes two aprons designed for ATR 72 type aircraft, a runway extended to 1500m x 30m, a traveller-friendly terminal, and a Fire Station cum Air Traffic Control Tower with a wide 75m runway strip. The inauguration event was also attended by the Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Chowna Mein. The Civil Aviation Minister of the state, Airports Authority of India (AAI) member planning AK Pathak, local MPs, and MLAs including other senior government officials also attended the event. According to AAI officials, the terminal will be able to handle 300 passengers at peak hours, due to which two ATR aircraft can come here at the same time. The length of the runway is 1,500 meters. AAI carried out development and upgradation work to make Tezu Airport operational at the request of the State Government. The domestic airport has undergone a transformation with the implementation of infrastructure upgrades worth Rs 170 crore. These developments include the extension of the runway to 1500 meters by 30 meters, the construction of a modern apron capable of accommodating two ATR 72 type aircraft, the establishment of a new terminal building, and the creation of a fire station cum Air Traffic Control (ATC) Tower. Tezu Airport was operationalised in 2018 under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) UDAN of the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The airport is currently connected to Dibrugarh, Imphal, and Guwahati through regular scheduled flights by Alliance Air and Flybig airline. Tezu is a small town situated on the banks of the Lohit River and is the headquarters of the Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh. The city is known for its natural beauty, where there are lush green forests and high hills all around.
—ANI

Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Sunday inaugurated the revamped Tezu airport in Lohit district adding that it is a "historic day"

"Today is historic day for Arunachal Pradesh...," Jyotiraditya Scindia after inaugurating revamped Tezu airport

Tezu (Arunachal Pradesh): Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya M Scindia on Sunday inaugurated the newly upgraded Tezu airport in Arunachal Pradesh's Lohit district. Civil Aviation Minister Scindia said, "Today is a historic day for Arunachal Pradesh. An airport with a Rs 170 crore capital investment and a 40,000 square foot area has been inaugurated."&nbsp;
"It happened because of the commitment and determination of Prime Minister Modi. The Northeast region had only nine airports; today there are 17 airports. This connectivity will bring strategic importance and prosperity. An airport is a medium for bringing economic activity to the region," he said after inaugurating the revamped Tezu airport.  The inauguration event was also attended by the Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Chowna Mein.  The Civil Aviation Minister of the state, Airports Authority of India (AAI) member planning AK Pathak, local MPs, and MLAs including other senior government officials also attended the event.  According to AAI officials, the terminal will be able to handle 300 passengers at peak hours, due to which two ATR aircraft can come here at the same time. The length of the runway is 1,500 meters.  "This terminal is beautiful, as local art and culture have been represented here. This will be the fourth airport in Arunachal Pradesh from which civil flights will start. This airport will help in the economic development of the region. Many economic activities will increase, which will help the local people," A. K. Pathak, an AAI Member (Planning) said while speaking to ANI.  According to officials, Tezu Airport is a domestic airport located in the city of Tezu which operates via a single runway. The airport is developed on 212 acres of land and is capable of handling operations of ATR 72 types of aircraft.  AAI carried out development and upgradation work to make Tezu Airport operational at the request of the State Government.  The domestic airport has undergone a transformation with the implementation of infrastructure upgrades worth Rs 170 crore.  These developments include the extension of the runway to 1500 meters by 30 meters, the construction of a modern apron capable of accommodating two ATR 72 type aircraft, the establishment of a new terminal building, and the creation of a fire station cum Air Traffic Control (ATC) Tower.  Tezu Airport was operationalised in 2018 under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) UDAN of the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The airport is currently connected to Dibrugarh, Imphal, and Guwahati through regular scheduled flights by Alliance Air and Flybig airline. Tezu is a small town situated on the banks of the Lohit River and is the headquarters of the Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh. The city is known for its natural beauty, where there are lush green forests and high hills all around.
—ANI

Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya M Scindia on Sunday inaugurated the newly upgraded Tezu airport in Arunachal Pradesh

Union Minister Scindia inaugurates updgraded Arunachal's Tezu airport

Itanagar: A hardcore NSCN militant was gunned down in a fierce encounter between the extremists and Assam Rifles troopers in Miao district of Arunachal Pradesh, defence officials said on Thursday.
A defence source told IANS that the Assam Rifles had launched a massive operation against the NSCN extremists on Wednesday and at one point of time, the guerillas attacked the security forces leading to the heavy gun battle.
Though one NSCN militant managed to escape, the operation was still in progress, the source said.
A pistol and some ammunition were recovered from the forested areas.
Identity of the NSCN group involved in the encounter was not yet known. Further details of the shootout are awaited.
—IANS

A hardcore NSCN militant was gunned down in a fierce encounter between the extremists and Assam Rifles troopers in Miao district

NSCN militant killed, another flees after encounter with Assam Rifles in Arunachal

Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu said on Thursday that China is proposing to construct a 60,000 MW dam over Siang River in Tibet just before it enters India (Arunachal), asserting that both the Centre and the state government are privy to the development and the possible threat arising out of it.
China's proposed dam construction and its possible threat were also discussed in the Arunachal Assembly on Wednesday.
Addressing the opening day function of the three-day Banggo Solung celebrations at Mebo in East Siang district, the Chief Minister said that while the Central government is responding to the development at its level, the concern of the state government is to save Siang River at all cost and also to keep its flow under control.
It is to mentioned here that the Tsangpo River flows through Tibet before entering Arunachal Pradesh where it is called the Siang River. It becomes the Brahmaputra in Assam and the Jamuna in Bangladesh before it empties into the Bay of Bengal.
“History is witness that we cannot trust our ‘neighbour’. You never know what they can do. They can either divert the entire river flow, drying up our Siang, or release water at once causing unprecedented flood havoc downstream,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that the only solution to these threats is to construct a barrage on the Siang River by India.
“While this barrage will save water from the tributaries within Arunachal Pradesh to maintain the natural flow of the Siang River, it will also protect our land from flash floods. Hydropower generation is our secondary objective,” he said.
Khandu, however, passed the onus on the local Adi society whether to build the barrage.
He said that 30-40 years down the line, people shouldn’t blame the leadership for not doing anything while China was building the mega dam.
Meanwhile, hailing the Adis for taking pride in their rich culture, Khandu reiterated his stand for passing on the heritage to the next generation without dilution.
He urged the elders to encourage the young ones to participate in traditional practices and learn to speak their native languages.
“Without our identity, we will be lost in the vast majority of people who have long lost their indigeneity,” Khandu added.
Acknowledging the recurring land erosion by Siang River every monsoon in the Mebo area of East Siang district as a major cause of concern, the Chief Minister said that construction of a barrage on the river is the only viable option to tame its course and flow.
Khandu counted the massive losses caused by flooding waters of Siang River along the left bank in the plains of Mebo area.
"A couple of years ago, the all-important Mebo-Dhola road was breached. We constructed an alternate road, which too was eroded the next year. We then spent about Rs 35 crore through the Department of Water Resources to construct flood protection structures.
"But these too got eroded. The famous Daying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary on the right bank is also shrinking due to soil erosion. We need to find a long-term solution to the problem,” he said.
Khandu admitted that safeguarding a 23-km long bank is not an easy task, but the governments, both at the state and Centre, are committed to make life easy for the 10-plus villages that bear the brunt of Siang River every monsoon.
He also informed that the Central government has asked the state government to submit a comprehensive plan for the protection of both left and right banks as a single project.
— IANS

 Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu said on Thursday that China is proposing to construct 

China proposes to build dam over Siang River in Tibet, govt aware of threat: Arunachal CM

Itanagar: Heavy rain has caused landslides in various areas of Arunachal Pradesh, which have cut off surface communication, officials said on Thursday. PWD (Highway) Assistant Engineer Gemar Padu reported multiple incidents of roadblocks on the Aalo-Pangin Road in the West Siang area.
He also reported that four roads in the Siang district, not far from Lokpeng, were closed.
Padu said, "the department has hired people and equipment to clean up the mess."<span style="color: rgb(53,53,53);background-color: rgb(255,255,255);font-size: medium;font-family: ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji;">—Inputs from Agencies&nbsp;

 Heavy rain has caused landslides in various areas of Arunachal Pradesh, which have cut off surface communication, officials said on Thursday.

Landslides block surface connection in various Arunachal districts

Itanagar: On Monday, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said that all Arunachal Pradesh villages along the borders with China, Myanmar, and Bhutan will be fully developed and have all basic facilities.
The Chief Minister mentioned that Arunachal has a large number of villages along its 1,817 km international borders with China (1,080 km), Myanmar (520 km), and Bhutan (217 km) during the inauguration ceremony of a three-day training event commemorating the National Panchayati Raj Day.
"We will also develop all the other villages by convergence of state and Central government schemes and programmes," he said.
Khandu asserted that the state government with the support and guidance of the Centre is committed to develop each village of the state.
He mentioned how Home Minister Amit Shah recently went to Kaho, the 'first' village on the Indian side of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Anjaw district, to inaugurate the ambitious 'Vibrant Village Programme' (VVP) for the development of the villages along the border.
For the development of villages in Arunachal Pradesh, the Chief Minister has supported nine factors to meet the set localised sustainable development goals (LSDGs), based on the sustainable development goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations.
A ideal road map for the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) to plan and implement development projects for their respective segments, he added, are the nine factors as stipulated by the Department of Panchayati Raj.
The nine parameters are - clean and green village, water sufficient village, child friendly village, healthy village, poverty free village, self-sufficient infrastructure village, socially secured and socially just village, village with good governance and gender equality village.
"In accordance with the 17 SDGs adopted by the United Nations, of which 15 are relevant for Arunachal Pradesh, the state government has been preparing the annual budget to achieve these goals. Likewise, the PRIs can now plan to achieve these nine parameters prescribed in the LSDGs for wholesome development of the villages," the Chief Minister said.
While informing that Rs 123 crore was accorded to the PRIs last year, Khandu said that in this year's budget (2023-24), the fund for Panchayati Raj has been increased to Rs 143 crore.
In addition to the grants from the finance commission, he revealed that the state is allocating 10% of its own resources to PRIs.
"In fact, there's no drought of funds with the state government. Things are not progressing well because the planning system is not perfect yet," he said.
Khandu restated his earlier recommendation that similar plans and activities involving many agencies be merged into a single entity and implemented at the grass-roots level.—Inputs from Agencies

On Monday, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said that all Arunachal Pradesh villages along the borders with China, Myanmar, and Bhutan will be fully developed and have all basic facilities

 All Arunachal villages along int'l borders to be developed with all basic facilities: CM

Itanagar/Guwahati : Two Army pilots were killed Thursday morning after their Cheetah helicopter went down near Mandala in the West Kameng region of Arunachal Pradesh, according to a defence spokeswoman.
He revealed the names of the two fallen officers as Lieutenant Colonel VVB Reddy and Major Jayanth A.
The helicopter was reportedly travelling from Missamari in Assam's Sonitpur district to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh when it crashed, according to Lt. Colonel Mahendra Rawat, a defence spokeswoman based in Guwahati.
He claimed that "inconducive weather" contributed to the tragedy as the plane returned to Missamari.
Air traffic control (ATC) was unable to reach the chopper after 9:15 a.m. Within moments, five separate search parties were dispatched by the Indian Army, SSB, and ITBP. Rawat stated that the plane's remains had been discovered near the Mandalean community of Banglajaap East.
Moreover, "a Court of Investigation is ordered to investigate the reason of the catastroph<span style="color: rgb(53,53,53);background-color: rgb(255,255,255);font-size: medium;font-family: ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji;">Major Jayanth A <span style="color: rgb(53,53,53);background-color: rgb(255,255,255);font-size: medium;font-family: ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji;">Major Jayanth A e," he said.
SIC Superintendent Rohit Rajbir Singh claimed that locals in Dirang had discovered the downed helicopter burning and notified authorities.
"Bangjalep at Dirang villagers spotted the helicopter at 12:30," Singh said.
The weather is extremely foggy, with visibility as low as five metres, and there is no cell coverage in the area, he said.<span style="color: rgb(53,53,53);background-color: rgb(255,255,255);font-size: medium;font-family: ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji;">—Inputs from Agencies&nbsp;

Two Army pilots were killed Thursday morning after their Cheetah helicopter went down near Mandala in the West Kameng region of Arunachal Pradesh, according to a defence spokeswoman.

Two pilots die in Arunachal Pradesh Army chopper crash

Itanagar: It took 66 years to connect Arunachal Pradesh's Tali assembly constituency and its headquarters by roads, officials said on Tuesday.
Tali was last unconnected administrative centre and the only unconnected Assembly constituency of the state. An official of the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said that Pema Khandu became the first Chief Minister to reach Tali in Kra Daadi district by road.
During his visit to the area in 2017 by helicopter, Khandu had promised to the people that his next visit would be by road - a promise fulfilled on the auspicious occasion of Nyokum, a festival celebrated by the Nyishi tribe of the state.
Expressing his happiness, the Chief Minister said that though established in 1957, Tali administrative headquarters never saw road connectivity. "We worked on mission mode to complete 51 km Yangte-Tali road at the earliest," he said while joining the 45th NyokumYullo celebrations. He reiterated his appeal to the people "not to expect or demand land compensation". As overall development would follow road connectivity, Khandu said adding that if people give land free of cost, the government is duty bound to construct roads, wherever needed.
He called upon the people of Tali area, who have migrated to other towns and cities like Ziro and Itanagar, to resettle in their own villages.
He gave the example of local MLA JikkeTako, who has constructed his residence at Tali though being settled at Itanagar.
"This is your birth place. Your roots grow from this area. Even if you are settled elsewhere, stay connected to your roots. Have your home and hearth at Tali," he said. Khandu was accompanied by Home Minister Bamang Felix, Namsai legislator Chow Zignu Namchoom, Palin legislator Balo Raja and others.
—IANS

 took 66 years to connect Arunachal Pradesh's Tali assembly constituency and its headquarters by roads, officials said on Tuesday.

After 66 Years, Arunachal’s Tali  Assembly Segment Linked By Road

New Delhi: According to a statement released by the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Sunday, President Droupadi Murmu will visit to Arunachal Pradesh on the 20th and 21st of February.
It said that the president will grace the 37th Statehood Day celebrations of Arunachal Pradesh and a civic reception that will be held in her honour by the state government at Itanagar on Monday.
In addition, it was stated that on February 21, President Murmu will deliver a speech at the special session of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly that will be held in Itaganar.—Inputs from Agencies

According to a statement released by the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Sunday, President Droupadi Murmu will visit to Arunachal Pradesh on the 20th and 21st of February

President Murmu on two-day visit of Arunachal Pradesh from Monday

Itanagar (The Hawk): On the 60th anniversary of the 1962 Indo-China War, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and the Army's Eastern Command Chief Lt Gen R.P. Kalita dedicated the restored War Memorial in the scenic village of Tawang to the country on Monday.
The 1962 War Martyrs are remembered at the War Memorial.
Khandu declared in homage to the martyrs, "1962 was history, and it would never be repeated."
"In 1962, the situation was completely different. The region's infrastructure was in terrible shape. In spite of this, the Indian Army fought valiantly and gave hundreds of its soldiers' lives to defend the homeland. However, we are no longer what we were in 1962 "added he.
Khandu also attributed the improvement in infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh and the other northeastern states to the Central government, which took office under Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014.
"Unprecedented infrastructural growth has been seen in the region during the past eight years, especially near the borders. In addition to helping the civilian population, it has significantly improved the presence and logistics of the Indian Army "said he.
In addition, Khandu stated that highways would be constructed from the west to the east of Arunachal in the upcoming years.
According to him, "The Union Ministry for Road Transport and Highways has sanctioned road projects worth Rs 1.65 lakh crore for the northeast, with Arunachal Pradesh receiving Rs 44,000 crore, the biggest amount among the northeastern states."
According to Khandu, the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways will build a two-lane, 1,465 km frontier highway at an estimated cost of Rs 27,349 crore, which will alter the situation of road connection along the borders from the far east of Arunachal to the west.
"The morale of our soldiers is really high as a result of seeing how much the federal and state administrations care about the wellbeing of the soldiers stationed at border outposts. The same is true for our citizens who live in border regions. Together with the Indian Army, they are prepared to take on any hostile force "said Khandu.
Along with reopening the Light and Sound theme park, Khandu also dedicated the newly built "Veer-Aangan" or courtyard of bravehearts, which is located next to the War Memorial and has busts of courageous soldiers who lost their lives during the Sino-Indian War.
The Army honoured a number of local war veterans from 1962 to commemorate the occasion.
(Inputs from Agencies)

On the 60th anniversary of the 1962 Indo-China War, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and the Army's Eastern Command Chief Lt Gen R.P. Kalita dedicated the restored War Memorial in the scenic village of Tawang to the country on Monday.

We're not the same as during the 1962 Indo-China battle. CM Arunachal

Itanagar (The Hawk): Jambey Tashi, a BJP lawmaker from the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh's Lumla Assembly constituency, passed away on Wednesday after a brief illness.
Besides his wife, the 48-year-old BJP leader also leaves behind two children and a son. He passed away while receiving treatment in a hospital in Guwahati.
Tashi has served as a Lumla legislator three times.
He served as the state's Planning and Investment Minister's advisor.
Pema Khandu, the chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh, expressed her sorrow and grief over the abrupt passing of the lawmaker by saying: "My loss at the passing of my older brother Jambey Tashi is profound, and I am heartbroken by this tragedy. I offer prayers for the deceased along with the family. Dear Brother, may you experience the nirvanic joy."
In his message of sympathy, Khandu stated that Tashi was actively involved in social activities from the start and joined the Anchal Samiti in 2001.
"The Lumla constituency, which was formerly isolated and underdeveloped, is now one of the most developed in the state. Lumla and its surrounding areas must be seen to fully appreciate the transformation that Tashi has brought about "added the chief minister.
(Inputs from Agencies)

Jambey Tashi, a BJP lawmaker from the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh's Lumla Assembly constituency, passed away on Wednesday after a brief illness.

Jambey Tashi, a BJP lawmaker, is no longer

Itanagar (The Hawk): This morning, a military helicopter went down in the area of Singging hamlet, around 25 kilometres from the Tuting headquarters in the Upper Siang district. The location of the accident is cut off from the rest of the world by a road. There is a rescue crew on their way. According to a statement released by the Defence PRO in Guwahati, further details are still pending.
(Inputs from Agencies)

This morning, a military helicopter went down in the area of Singging hamlet, around 25 kilometres from the Tuting headquarters in the Upper Siang district.

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