APN Northeast News (2025)

06/05/2025

Sambit Patra Visits Violence-Hit Manipur, Meets Kuki-Zo Leaders in Kangpokpi

May 6, 2025: BJP National Spokesperson and North East In-Charge Dr. Sambit Patra visited Kangpokpi District on his two-day tour of Manipur, following stops in Churachandpur and Imphal, as part of efforts to assess the ongoing situation in the violence-hit state.

Dr. Patra held a closed-door meeting with local BJP MLA Nemcha Kipgen at her residence in Kangpokpi District Headquarters. Details of their discussion were not disclosed.

Later, Dr. Patra met representatives from the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), SAHILCA, KWU Sadar Hills, and various tribal organizations at the 112 CRPF Camp in Kangpokpi. While no official statements were issued, CoTU sources said Dr. Patra urged civil society leaders to help restore peace, normalcy, and ensure the safe movement of people along the national highway.

During the interaction, CoTU submitted a three-page memorandum outlining urgent concerns of the Kuki-Zo community, which emphasized the following key issues:

1. Security Concerns: Persistent and targeted violence against Kuki-Zo people, with calls for stronger deployment of central security forces.
2. Administrative Underrepresentation: Grievances over political and administrative marginalization, leaving the community vulnerable and denied of rights.
3. Call for Separate Administration: A renewed demand for administrative autonomy to protect the identity, safety, and rights of the Kuki-Zo, framed as a survival necessity.
4. Protection of Tribal Areas: Demands for enforcement of constitutional protections under Article 371C and the Fifth and Sixth Schedules to safeguard ancestral lands.
5. Peace Commitment: Affirmation of the Kuki-Zo community’s commitment to peace and constitutional dialogue, while stressing that calls for autonomy are driven by survival needs, not secessionism.
6. Cessation of Hostilities: Proposals including AFSPA imposition across Manipur, separate talks with the Ministry of Home Affairs for Kuki-Zo and Meitei groups, and a structured process for signing a cessation of hostilities.
7. Development and Rehabilitation: Urgent demands for a Hills University, a functional hospital in Kangpokpi, and comprehensive rehabilitation and resettlement programs for displaced persons.

06/05/2025

Kohima Deputy Commissioner Orders Strict Enforcement of To***co Control Act

May 6, 2025: The Deputy Commissioner of Kohima and Chairman of the District Level Coordination Committee (DLCC) under the National To***co Control Programme, B. Henok Buchem, NCS, has issued a directive mandating strict enforcement of the Ci******es and Other To***co Products Act (COTPA), 2003, across the district.

The official circular, released by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, calls on all village councils, municipal and town wards, government departments, educational institutions, commercial establishments, and the public to ensure full compliance with the Act’s provisions.

Smoking is banned in all public spaces, including government offices, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, public transport, restaurants, and entertainment venues. “No Smoking” signs must be prominently displayed at these locations to uphold the law.

The directive also prohibits all forms of direct and indirect to***co advertising, promotion, and sponsorship, covering point-of-sale displays, hoardings, and promotional events linked to to***co products.

Additionally, the sale of to***co products to minors under 18 is strictly forbidden, and vendors are required to verify the age of customers. Selling to***co products within 100 meters of educational institutions—including schools, colleges, and universities—is also banned.

Authorities across Kohima district have been tasked with ensuring effective implementation of the rules in their jurisdictions. Any violations or enforcement challenges are to be reported to the District Nodal Officer, District To***co Control Cell, Kohima.

***cocontrol ***cofree

06/05/2025

Assam to Set Up Japanese Language Centre to Boost Job Opportunities in Japan

May 6, 2025: Assam is set to establish a Japanese Language Centre aimed at training skilled professionals for short-term employment opportunities in Japan. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced this after a day of diplomatic engagements with an ASEAN ONE delegation led by Toshiaki Nishikawa.

The initiative aligns with Assam’s broader mission to strengthen educational and economic ties with Japan, focusing on skill development and human resource exchange. The proposed centre will equip youth with essential language proficiency and cultural understanding to access job markets in Japan.

Earlier in the day, CM Sarma welcomed a high-level Japanese delegation headed by Nukaga Fukushiro, Speaker of the House of Representatives. This marks the fourth senior Japanese delegation visit to Assam since February, reflecting the deepening bilateral cooperation.

“These repeated visits by Japan’s top representatives are very encouraging for Assam,” said Sarma, highlighting the multiple development projects already underway with Japanese assistance. He expressed confidence that continued engagement would help attract even more Japanese investment.

Reflecting on his February visit to Japan, Sarma shared that it was during a dinner hosted by Speaker Fukushiro that he invited the delegation to Assam. “He has now come here with a delegation of over 50 members,” Sarma told reporters after accompanying the visitors to the upcoming Tata semiconductor facility site.

05/05/2025

Manipur Conflict,Meetei and Kuki Groups Hold Separate Observances at Jantar Mantar

May 05, 2025: Two years after the outbreak of ethnic violence in Manipur, Jantar Mantar witnessed solemn and determined protests as both Meetei and Kuki groups marked the anniversary of the deadly conflict.

From 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the Delhi Meetei Coordinating Committee (DMCC), Manipur Students Association Delhi (MSAD), Manipur Innovative Youth Organisation Delhi (MAIYOND), and United Kakching Students (UNIKAS) organized a protest under the banner “We Stand for Manipur: A Multi-Ethnic State.”

Member of Parliament Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, a key speaker, delivered a scathing address criticizing the government’s failure to restore order and uphold constitutional duty in Manipur. He called for dismantling ethnic buffer zones, disarming militants, and ensuring the safe return of all displaced persons, both Meetei and Kuki.

The gathering paid tribute to the victims of the violence, with participants observing a moment of silence in honor of those who lost their lives.
Protestors highlighted the staggering toll: over 200 Meeteis killed, thousands displaced, and an alarming rise in narco-terrorism threatening to engulf the state.

Earlier that morning, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Kuki groups held their own observance at Jantar Mantar, paying tribute to their community’s victims and calling for justice and safety.

30/04/2025

Sikkim Becomes India’s First Carbon-Negative State, Sets Example in Climate Action

April 30, 2025: The Himalayan state of Sikkim has emerged as a national climate champion by becoming India’s first carbon-negative state, meaning it absorbs more carbon dioxide than it emits.

This achievement is credited to the state’s longstanding commitment to sustainable development, environmental protection, and innovative community-driven initiatives. Nearly 47.6% of Sikkim’s land is under forest cover, well above the national average of 21.7%. These forests act as vital carbon sinks, reportedly absorbing over 2.5 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent in 2021 alone.

Sikkim also became India’s first 100% organic state in 2016 after launching the Sikkim Organic Mission in 2003. Today, over 76,000 hectares of farmland are chemical-free, with more than 66,000 farmers practicing sustainable agriculture, reducing emissions and enhancing soil carbon storage.

The state's Mero Rukh Mero Santati initiative plants 100 trees for every child born. With approximately 16,000 births annually, that means 1.6 million new trees are planted each year, ensuring long-term carbon sequestration.

To guide policy and measure impact, Sikkim set up the Sikkim Carbon Inventory and Monitoring System (SCIMS) to track greenhouse gas emissions and carbon capture. By 2015, SCIMS data revealed the state was carbon negative by over 1.5 million tonnes of CO₂.

Sikkim’s reliance on hydropower and avoidance of major polluting industries help keep emissions low. Additionally, the state has relatively low private vehicle usage and limited industrial activity compared to larger states.
Though growing tourism and transport pose future challenges, Sikkim is prioritizing eco-tourism, cleaner fuels, and local conservation efforts to maintain its carbon-negative status.

30/04/2025

21 Manipur MLAs Urge Centre to End President’s Rule, Restore Elected Government

April 30, 2025: 21 Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from Manipur has submitted a joint memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging the reinstatement of an elected government in the violence-hit state.

The memorandum was submitted to the Prime Minister's Office and the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi. Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 13, 2025, following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh amid continued ethnic violence and instability.

While acknowledging that people initially welcomed President’s Rule with hopes for peace and restoration of normalcy, the MLAs expressed deep concern over the lack of visible progress and the worsening sense of uncertainty among the public.

“There is strong apprehension among the people that the violence may recur. Many civil society organisations have started holding rallies and corner meetings, demanding an elected government and blaming ruling MLAs for failing to stake claim,” the letter stated.

The 21 MLAs assured the Centre of their commitment to restore peace and governance, stating that a popular government is essential for stability.

The MLAs who signed the memorandum include:
Lourembam Rameshwor (Keirao)
Paonam Brojen (Wangjing-Tentha)
Kh Raghumani (Uripok)
T Robindro (Thanga)
Dr Y Radheshyam (Hiyanglam)
Md Ashab Uddin (Jiribam)
Janghemlung Panmei (Tamenglong)
Th Radheshyam (Heirok)
Nishikant Sapam (Keishamthong)
S Rajen (Lamsang)
Kh Loken (Wangoi)
J Kumo Sha (Karong)
Sheikh Noorul Hassan (Kshetrigao)
Kongkham Robindro (Mayang Imphal)
Yumnam Khemchand (Singjamei)
Thangjam Arunkumar (Wangkhei)
K Leishiyo (Phungyar)
Kh Joykisan (Thangmeiband)
S Kebi Devi (Naoriya Pakhanglakpa)
L Losii Dikho (Mao)
Ram Muivah (Ukhrul)
The letter, dated April 10 and received by the Ministry of Home Affairs on April 29, noted that reinstating a popular government is “the only way” to achieve lasting peace in the state.
“The people of Manipur deserve a responsive and functioning government. We urge immediate steps to restore democratic governance,” the legislators emphasized.

30/04/2025

COCOMI Slams Centre for 'Biased' Response to Manipur Crisis Compared to Pahalgam Attack

April 30, 2025: Expressing deep disappointment over the Central Government’s continued silence on the prolonged unrest in Manipur, Khuraijam Athouba, convenor of the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), has accused the Government of India of treating the people of Manipur as "second-class citizens."

Addressing a press conference, Athouba criticized the swift response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir, contrasting it with what he described as the Centre’s apathetic handling of the nearly two-year-long crisis in Manipur.

"When Kashmir faces terrorism, the Centre responds with urgency. But when terror groups infiltrate from Myanmar into the Northeast, the same urgency is missing. This unequal treatment highlights the government's bias," Athouba said.

He emphasized that while youth in Manipur still believe in the Indian identity, the government's inaction sends a damaging message of neglect. He also condemned the imposition of President’s Rule (PR) in the state, calling it an "ineffective and failed option" that has failed to restore peace or governance.

Athouba pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has yet to visit the state or meet the displaced families, who continue to live as refugees in their own homeland. "Such selective concern only fuels alienation instead of fostering national unity," he warned.

29/04/2025

Naren Gurung from Sikkim Receives Padma Shri for Contributions to Art and Culture

April 29, 2025: Naren Gurung has been awarded the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, by the President of India for his outstanding work in the field of Art. The recognition celebrates his decades-long dedication to preserving and promoting Nepali folk literature, music, and the cultural richness of Sikkim.

A multi-talented personality, he is an artist, singer, musician, choreographer, and drama artist. Gurung has played a vital role in showcasing Sikkim's heritage across India and abroad. Born on January 21, 1957, he has also authored several books on folk music and received numerous accolades, including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Sikkim State Award, and Sikkim Sewa Samman.

29/04/2025

North Eastern Hill University Students' Union President Arrested for Assaulting Hindi Professor

Shillong, April 29: Sandy Sohtun, President of the North-Eastern Hill University Students’ Union (NEHUSU), has been arrested for allegedly assaulting Dr. Alok Singh, a Hindi professor at the university, according to police reports.

The incident occurred on April 24, when Dr. Singh was attacked by unidentified individuals while in his office on the NEHU campus. He was immediately rushed to the hospital for treatment.

Following the assault, an FIR was lodged by an assistant professor at NEHU, leading to Sohtun’s arrest. East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police, V. Syiem, confirmed that legal proceedings are underway and a case will be registered.

The attack has sparked widespread condemnation across the university community. The NEHU Teachers Association (NEHUTA) expressed deep concern, stating they would meet Dr. Singh personally to gather details and ensure justice is served.

“We urge the police to take strict action against the attackers of a teacher in his office on a university campus,” said one of Dr. Singh’s colleagues.

29/04/2025

No Salary Without Attendance, Tripura Govt Tightens Monitoring at Agartala Medical College, GB Pant Hospital

April 29, 2025: The Tripura Government has issued a strict directive mandating verified attendance for the release of salaries and stipends of all staff at Agartala Government Medical College (AGMC) and GB Pant Hospital. The move follows widespread allegations regarding irregular presence of doctors and staff at the state’s top healthcare institutions.

According to the order, salaries of faculty, medical officers, officials, and employees will only be released after attendance is verified through both biometric and manual systems. The same rule applies to the stipends of Postgraduate Trainees, Junior Residents, and Intern Doctors.

Department heads and section in-charges must submit verified attendance reports to the Medical Superintendent and HoD by the 15th of each month. In case biometric devices are non-functional, manual registers will serve as a backup until devices are restored.

The policy will be extended to all District Hospitals, Primary Health Centres (PHCs), and Community Health Centres (CHCs) across Tripura, reinforcing the government’s push for accountability and regularity in the state’s healthcare workforce.

29/04/2025

Manipur Orders One-Time birth day Verification for Aadhaar,No Edits Later

April 29, 2025: The Manipur Government has issued a strict directive to prevent the issuance of multiple birth certificates and to restrict date of birth corrections during Aadhaar enrolment.

In an official order dated November 4, 2024, the Home Department instructed key departments, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj (RD&PR), Municipal Administration, Housing & Urban Development (MAHUD), and Health & Family Welfare, to implement stringent guidelines across all birth certificate issuing authorities.

The directive emphasizes that issuing authorities must avoid granting multiple birth certificates. If a new birth certificate is necessary, the previously issued certificate must be officially canceled to prevent duplication and potential misuse.

The government also raised concerns about the increasing number of requests for repeated corrections to the date of birth in Aadhaar records, terming it a significant challenge to the Aadhaar enrolment process.

To address this, the Governor has mandated that all issuing authorities thoroughly verify an individual's date of birth prior to Aadhaar registration. Once recorded, no further changes to the date of birth will be permitted.

29/04/2025

MLA Tsering Lhamu Donates her Monthly Salary to Destitute Home Highlighted by PM Modi

April 29, 2025: Tsering Lhamu, Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Lumla constituency in Tawang district and Advisor to the Women & Child Development Department, has pledged her entire monthly salary to support underprivileged residents at the Deepak Nabam Destitute Home in Senki Park, Itanagar.

The shelter's founder and caretaker, Deepak Nabam, expressed heartfelt gratitude for Lhamu's continued support, describing her as “a true humanist” and “a mother to the weak and deprived.” “Her dedication to helping those discarded by society reveals her character,” said Nabam. “We are extremely proud of her kindness and service toward our vulnerable fellow citizens.”

The shelter recently gained national recognition when Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Nabam’s humanitarian work during the 118th episode of his monthly radio address “Mann Ki Baat” on April 27.
“He runs a Shelter House at Senki Park in Itanagar where mentally unwell, physically challenged and elderly people are served,” the Prime Minister said. “Drug addicts are taken care of here as well.”

PM Modi praised Nabam for setting “a unique example of the spirit of service in Arunachal Pradesh,” noting that his initiative began with no external help and was driven purely by a mission to serve society’s most marginalised, including violence-affected and homeless individuals.
Now recognised with multiple national awards, the Deepak Nabam Destitute Home has become a beacon of hope for the destitute in Arunachal Pradesh. Lhamu’s personal commitment to the cause adds further momentum to this grassroots movement of compassion and care.

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