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The Miao Times, Miao (2025)

08/10/2025

Team Arunachal led by CM Pema Khandu concludes 3-day hectic programme

TMT | MIAO | 8 Oct 2025: Chief Minister Pema Khandu, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Member of Parliament Tapir Gao, and Cabinet colleagues, concluded his three-day programme in Changlang district with the Sewa Aapke Dwar Camp at Neotan village under Namphai-I Circle today.

The outreach initiative exemplified the true spirit of participatory governance as the Cabinet connected directly with citizens, ensuring that essential public services reached every doorstep. Multiple departments came together on a common platform to provide on-the-spot services such as certificate issuance, health checkups, and awareness on welfare schemes — demonstrating the government’s commitment to last-mile delivery and inclusive growth.

On behalf of the people of Miao Subdivision and Changlang district, Zilla Parishad Chairperson Kumkho Mossang extended heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Minister and his Cabinet colleagues for conducting the Cabinet Aapke Dwar at Miao and announcing numerous welfare and infrastructure projects aimed at ensuring inclusive development and last-mile delivery of government services in Changlang district. “This historic event marks a new chapter in our region’s development journey,” Mossang stated. .

Miao ZPM Ashamto Tikhak also thanked the Chief Minister for announcing the long-awaited motorable bridge over Noa Dehing connecting Pisi village with Miao township, along with several other welfare schemes benefiting the people of Miao Subdivision. "The bridge, once completed, will usher in a new era of socio-economic growth, facilitating transport, trade, education, and healthcare access for the region’s inhabitants", Tikhak added..

08/10/2025

Cabinet Approves Construction of Motorable Bridge over Noa Dehing River

TMT | MIAO | 8 Oct 2025: In a major boost to surface connectivity in Changlang district, the State Cabinet, during its Cabinet Aapke Dwar sitting held at Miao on Wednesday, approved the construction of a motorable bridge over the Noa Dehing River to connect Pisi Village on the right bank with Miao township.

The decision fulfills a long-pending demand of the local populace and is expected to significantly improve connectivity and spur development in the N’khumsang Territorial area, which has remained relatively underdeveloped due to poor access.

The people of Miao subdivision and the Singpho community of the right bank have expressed deep gratitude to Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Miao MLA Kamlung Mossang, and all cabinet members for the approval of the long-awaited bridge project.

Local residents believe that the bridge, once completed, will usher in a new era of socio-economic growth, facilitating transport, trade, education, and healthcare access for the region’s inhabitants.

The Cabinet Aapke Dwar initiative, held for the first time in Miao, saw the announcement of several key projects aimed at ensuring inclusive development and last-mile delivery of government services in Changlang district.

06/10/2025

Female NSCN (IM) Cadre Surrenders Before Assam Rifles in Tirap

TMT | KHONSA | 6 Oct 2025: In a significant development towards restoring peace in Arunachal Pradesh’s insurgency - hit belt, a female cadre of the banned outfit NSCN (IM) surrendered before the Assam Rifles at Khonsa in Tirap district on Friday.

The insurgent, identified as Shikngam Wangpan, a self-styled corporal of the outfit, laid down arms before security personnel and expressed her willingness to return to the mainstream. She was later handed over to the local police for further formalities and rehabilitation procedures.

“This surrender is the result of sustained and patient efforts by our troops who maintained continuous engagement with the individual over several months,” said an Assam Rifles official. “Through consistent counselling and moral support, we helped her understand the futility of violence and the value of a peaceful life.”

Officials noted that the event reflects the success of the Assam Rifles’ humane counter-insurgency strategy, which emphasizes dialogue, persuasion, and community outreach instead of force.

“Her decision to shun the path of insurgency underscores the growing faith among the youth in the peace and development initiatives of the government,” the official added.

Security analysts pointed out that female cadres often play vital roles in insurgent networks, and Wangpan’s surrender could motivate others to follow her example.

She will undergo a government-supported rehabilitation and reintegration programme now, which includes vocational training, counselling, and financial aid to help her rebuild her life.

05/10/2025

Bhumi Pujan for Arunachal’s First Commercial Coal Mining at Namchik-Namphuk Block on Oct 6

TMT | NAMCHICK | October 5, 2025:
The bhumi pujan ceremony marking the launch of Arunachal Pradesh’s first-ever commercial coal mining project will be held at the Namchik-Namphuk block on October 6.

The event will be graced by Union Minister for Coal & Mines G. Kishan Reddy, Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, along with several ministers, senior officials, and private operators. Following the bhumi pujan, the Union Minister will formally hand over the mining lease to the selected operator.

The Namchik-Namphuk block, estimated to contain 1.5 crore tonnes of coal, is projected to generate over ₹100 crore annually for the state, offering a major boost to local revenue and employment. The project aims to optimise resource utilisation, minimise wastage, and strengthen energy security in the Northeastern region.

Originally allocated in 2003, the block remained inactive for years due to procedural and environmental hurdles. Its revival became possible after a 2022 auction, paving the way for private participation and investment in the state’s mining sector.

The Ministry of Coal has further indicated that additional mineral-rich zones are under development, with two more blocks in Arunachal Pradesh currently up for auction. These include deposits of critical minerals vital to emerging industries.

Officials emphasised the importance of swiftly operationalising these resource blocks to boost local economies, create jobs, and enhance India’s self-reliance in critical minerals and energy resources.

04/10/2025

Cathrine Mossang Honoured by PM Modi at National Skill Convocation

TMT | NEW DELHI | 4 Oct 2025: In a proud moment for Arunachal Pradesh, Miss Cathrine Remto Mossang from Namphuk Village in Changlang district has been honoured by the Prime Minister of India at the 4th Kaushal Deekshant Samaroh 2025 held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

A student of ITI Balinong (COPA Trade), Miss Mossang was recognised as the lone topper from Arunachal Pradesh among the country’s best trainees in Industrial Training Institutes.

The national convocation, organised by the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India, celebrated excellence in skill training and felicitated top achievers from ITIs across the nation.

Representing Arunachal Pradesh on the prestigious stage, Miss Mossang’s success reflects not only her personal dedication but also the growing skill potential and talent of the state’s youth.

02/10/2025

Centre releases ₹8,668-Cr tax devolution to Northeast; Assam tops with ₹3,178-Cr, Arunachal second with ₹1,785-Cr

TMT | NEW DELHI | 03 Oct 2025: In a major fiscal push ahead of the festive season, the Centre on October 1 released an additional tax devolution of ₹1,01,603 crore to all state governments.

Out of this, the eight Northeastern states collectively received ₹8,668 crore as an advance release. Assam received the highest share at ₹3,178 crore, followed by Arunachal Pradesh at ₹1,785 crore. The allocations for other states are as follows: Meghalaya [ #₹779 crore], Manipur [₹727 crore], Tripura [₹719 crore], Nagaland [₹578 crore], Mizoram [₹508 crore] and Sikkim [₹394 crore].

The Union Finance Ministry said the advance disbursal will help states ramp up capital expenditure and welfare programmes during the festive period. It also clarified that this release is in addition to the regular monthly instalment of ₹81,735 crore due on October 10.

Expressing gratitude, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, noting that the timely release would significantly accelerate the state’s welfare and development initiatives.

Under the constitutional framework, 41% of the Centre’s tax collections are devolved to states in instalments throughout the fiscal year. This devolution process reflects the principle of cooperative federalism and supports India’s long-term vision of building a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.

02/10/2025

Finally, Siddhartha Sharma breaks his silence on Zubeen Garg's death

TMT | GUWAHATI | 02 Oct 2025: Days after the sudden demise of singer Zubeen Garg, his long-time manager Siddhartha Sharma has finally broken his silence.

In a heartfelt statement, Sharma addressed widespread speculation surrounding the late icon’s music ownership and financial affairs. His remarks came barely a day after the Special Investigation Team (SIT) raided his residence in Guwahati’s Datalpara as part of its ongoing probe into Garg’s death.

Song ownership and finances

Sharma clarified that contrary to popular belief, most of Garg’s vast catalogue—estimated at over 38,000 songs—is contractually owned by music companies and production houses.

“Almost all of Zubeen Da’s songs, even the biggest blockbusters, were created before I entered his life. He often lamented how producers and labels earned crores while he received only modest payments,” Sharma revealed.

To safeguard his creative rights, Garg had established Zubeen Garg Music LLP in 2021, with Sharma as a partner. According to Sharma, the firm generated only modest revenue, which remains untouched in company accounts. Garg held a 60% stake in the LLP, which, Sharma confirmed, will now pass to his widow, Garima Garg.

He also stressed that royalties Garg earned directly as a composer and lyricist always went to his personal account—now legally transferred to Garima.

On allegations of exploitation

Sharma dismissed allegations of financial misuse as “baseless and deeply hurtful.” He assured full cooperation with investigators and emphasized his priority was to preserve Garg’s legacy.

“This is a request from one human being to another. Let the investigation proceed without fear or prejudice. We owe it to Zubeen Da’s memory to pursue truth with dignity,” Sharma said.

Zubeen Garg passed away on September 19 in Singapore, where he was scheduled to perform at the North East Festival. Despite doctors’ efforts after he was rescued from the sea, he could not be saved. Fans continue to grieve the loss of Assam’s irreplaceable voice, whose legacy lives on through his timeless music.

01/10/2025

Mahanta, Sharma in 14-day custody; SIT recovers Zubeen Garg’s phone

TMT | GUWAHATI | 01 Oct 2025: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the death of cultural icon Zubeen Garg secured 14-day custody of prime accused Shyamkanu Mahanta (event organiser) and Siddharth Sharma (long-time manager).

The duo was produced before a Magistrate at his Geetanagar residence, since courts were shut for Mahanabami. Both are being interrogated at the CID office in Ulubari.

SIT chief M.P. Gupta confirmed that Mahanta was arrested at Delhi airport after his return from Singapore, following a lookout circular. Sharma was traced and arrested the previous night near the Rajasthan-Haryana border. Importantly, Garg’s mobile phone was recovered from Sharma.

Earlier on Wednesday, the two were flown to Guwahati and brought under heavy security to the Magistrate’s residence before being taken to CID headquarters.

Reacting to the arrests, Garg’s wife Garima expressed faith in the police investigation:

> “I want the police to get all the details out of them. Now that the investigation is on, we are hoping the facts will come to light and the law will take its course. All we, and millions of his admirers, want is fast justice.”

30/09/2025

MHA invokes MLAT with Singapore in Zubeen Garg death probe

TMT | NEW DELHI | 01 Oct 2025: The Ministry of Home Affairs [MHA] has formally invoked the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty [MLAT] with Singapore in connection with the investigation into the death of renowned singer Zubeen Garg.

According to officials, the IS-II Division/Legal Cell of the MHA sent an official MLA request to the High Commission of India in Singapore on September 30, seeking legal cooperation under Case FIR 18/2025. The request, signed by Under Secretary Parveen Singh, has been addressed to the Attorney General of Singapore, the designated Central Authority for such matters.

To ensure coordination, copies of the request have also been shared with Assam Police, the Criminal Investigation Department [CID], the Central Bureau of Investigation [CBI], the Assam Home Department, and the Ministry of External Affairs [MEA].

The move is aimed at securing critical evidence and recording testimonies falling under Singaporean jurisdiction, which are considered vital to advancing the ongoing probe into Garg’s untimely demise.

30/09/2025

Mother, newborn die due to alleged medical negligence; rights body lodges complaint with APSHRC

TMT | NAMSAI | 01 Oct 2025: The North East Human Rights Organization [NEHRO] has filed a complaint with the Arunachal Pradesh State Human Rights Commission [APSHRC] over alleged medical negligence and denial of emergency services at Namsai District Hospital, which reportedly led to the death of a woman and her newborn.

According to the complaint, on the night of 28 September, around 8:30 pm, Gita Murmu, who was due for delivery, developed severe labour pain and was rushed to the Namsai hospital by 9 pm. The family alleged that no emergency doctor was on duty. A nurse allegedly issued a referral slip to Assam Medical College, Dibrugarh, without consulting any doctor.

Despite the hospital having an ambulance, the staff allegedly refused its use, claiming that no driver was available. Instead, the family was handed a petrol coupon worth ₹1,500 and asked to arrange a private vehicle. They were also denied paramedic assistance or medical equipment support for the transfer, NEHRO stated.

Tragically, on the way, Murmu delivered inside the private car, but the newborn did not survive. The family sought help at Doomdooma Hospital in Assam, where preliminary treatment was provided, but she was referred further to Tinsukia/AMC due to excessive bleeding. However, before reaching Tinsukia, the woman succumbed to excessive bleeding.

NEHRO alleged that the hospital failed to provide critical maternal care, an emergency doctor, ambulance services, or basic transfer support, amounting to a violation of the right to health and life under Article 21 of the Constitution.

The organization has urged APSHRC to take suo motu cognizance, initiate an independent inquiry into the conduct of hospital staff and officials, fix accountability, and award compensation to the bereaved family. It further sought directives to the Health Department to ensure round-the-clock emergency services, functional ambulances, and preventive measures against such incidents.

The APSHRC has registered the case under diary number 11/IN/2025.

30/09/2025

Three UTA cadres surrender in Itanagar

TMT | ITANAGAR | 30 Sept 2025:
In a significant development in the state’s fight against insurgency, three cadres of the United Tani Army [UTA] - Jummik Riba, Sengseng Thouwmoung and Jonali Basumatary - laid down arms before the state government in Itanagar on Tuesday. The surrender ceremony was held in the presence of Home Minister Mama Natung and Advisor to Home Mutchu Mithi.

Welcoming the cadres back to the mainstream, Home Minister Natung said their decision reflects the growing success of the state government’s peace and rehabilitation initiative. “Our policy has always been to bring misguided youths back into society by ensuring that they are provided with opportunities for livelihood and growth. Violence brings nothing but suffering. Today’s surrender is a step towards peace and stability,” he remarked.

The Advisor to Home, Mutchu Mithi, also praised the move, noting that such gestures help restore normalcy in conflict-prone regions and create a conducive environment for development. He appealed to other insurgents to follow the same path, assuring that the government will stand by those who choose reconciliation over violence.

The United Tani Army, a relatively small insurgent group, has been active in pockets of Arunachal Pradesh in recent years, often accused of extortion, intimidation, and unlawful activities. Security agencies, in coordination with the state police, have been carrying out operations to curb its activities while simultaneously encouraging militants to surrender through rehabilitation packages.

So far, five UTA cadres have surrendered while seven have been arrested, reflecting a steady decline in the outfit’s operational strength. Officials believe this trend signals waning support for insurgency and a stronger push towards peace building in the frontier state.

The Arunachal Pradesh government has repeatedly emphasized that its approach to insurgency is two-pronged: firm security action against those who continue unlawful activities, and rehabilitation for those who willingly give up arms. The rehabilitation programme generally includes vocational training, financial assistance, and avenues for social reintegration to help former cadres lead dignified lives.

Observers say that the latest surrender will not only weaken the UTA further but also send a positive message to other armed groups in the region. With development projects expanding across the state, the government has underlined the importance of peace as the foundation for progress.

The surrender of Riba, Thouwmoung, and Basumatary, therefore, is being seen as a morale booster for the security establishment and a sign of changing times in Arunachal Pradesh, where aspirations for growth are beginning to outweigh the pull of insurgency.

29/09/2025

ATKSSU commends winners of WAKO India Junior Boys/Girls National Championships

TMT | NAMSAI | 30 Sept 2026: The All Tai Khamti Singpho Students’ Union (ATKSSU) has congratulated young athletes from the Tai Khamti Singpho community of Arunachal Pradesh for their outstanding performance at the WAKO India Junior Boys/Girls National Championships 2025, held recently in Solan, Himachal Pradesh.

Chow Suchim Thamong emerged as a gold medalist, while Chow Meong Mirip Singpho secured a bronze medal in the Light Kick (LK), 54 kg weight category, earning accolades for their skill and determination on the national stage.

In its congratulatory message, ATKSSU lauded the athletes for their discipline and perseverance, describing them as shining examples for the younger generation. “Your dedication, discipline, and determination have brought immense pride and glory to our community. You are true inspirations for the younger generation, proving that hard work and perseverance always lead to success,” the union stated.

ATKSSU also extended its best wishes for the duo’s future sporting journey, expressing confidence that they would continue to scale greater heights and bring further recognition to the community and the state. “May you continue to achieve greater heights and make our community and state proud,” the union added.

The achievements of the two athletes have been warmly welcomed by the local community, with many viewing their success as a testimony to the untapped sporting potential of youth in the region. Observers note that their accomplishments will likely motivate more youngsters to take up sports professionally, particularly combat sports such as kickboxing, which is gaining popularity in Arunachal Pradesh.

ATKSSU reiterated its commitment to supporting and encouraging young talents, emphasizing that nurturing sportsmanship among youth plays a vital role in community growth and identity.

The Miao Times

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