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The North Eastern Council (NEC), the apex statutory body responsible for regional planning and development in the northeastern states, has reported a significant milestone in the financial year 2025-26, with total expenditure reaching Rs 1,496.78 crore, stated an official release.This marks a notable acceleration in development efforts across the region.According to official data, Rs 792.12 crore was utilized under the Schemes of NEC (SoNEC), while Rs 704.66 crore was spent under the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme – Roads (NESIDS-Roads), highlighting a strong push toward infrastructure and connectivity.During the year, NEC sanctioned 54 new projects worth Rs 435.22 crore…

Conservation experts, scientists, and forest officials gathered at Cotton University on Monday and Tuesday to chart a roadmap for protecting the critically endangered White-bellied heron, whose global population is estimated to be fewer than 50 individuals. The two-day workshop was organised by the Nature Conservation Foundation and brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including researchers, forest department officials, and community representatives. The White-bellied heron—scientifically known as Ardea insignis—is found across parts of India, China, Myanmar, and Bhutan. In India, its presence is limited to Arunachal Pradesh, particularly in Namdapha Tiger Reserve, Kamlang Tiger Reserve, and parts of Anjaw district.…

On the occasion of Earth Day, the Indian Army’s Red Shield Gunners, under the aegis of Spear Corps, organised the Green Canvas Challenge—a painting competition at Reflection Senior Secondary School, Rupai, to promote environmental awareness among students. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students across various classes, who expressed their ideas on themes such as environmental conservation, climate change and preservation of natural resources. The artworks reflected creativity, awareness and a strong sense of responsibility towards protecting the environment. The initiative aimed to inspire young minds to adopt eco-friendly practices and contribute towards a sustainable future. Army representatives encouraged students…

Assam’s literary and journalistic community is in mourning following the demise of two eminent figures—Sukumar Bagchi and Nitya Bora—whose contributions left a lasting impact on the state’s cultural and intellectual landscape.Sukumar Bagchi, who passed away last night, was a distinguished elocutionist, writer, and language activist. He played a pivotal role in promoting Bengali language and culture in the Barak Valley. Known for his unwavering commitment to correct spelling, pronunciation, and recitation, Bagchi mentored generations of writers and cultivated a culture of linguistic discipline.Through his association with the magazine Samay Prabah, he inspired many young writers to enter the world of…

The General Manager of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), Shri Chetan Kumar Shrivastava, conducted a comprehensive inspection of the Bairabi-Badarpur and Badarpur-Patharkhola sections under Lumding Division on 21st April 2026. The inspection was carried out as part of an on-going safety drive and review of infrastructural preparedness, particularly in view of the approaching monsoon season. During the inspection, a detailed window trailing inspection of the tracks was undertaken to assess track fitness and the structural integrity of the sections. This exercise is crucial for identifying vulnerabilities and ensuring resilience of railway infrastructure against monsoon related challenges such as waterlogging, soil erosion…

Assam-born filmmaker, writer and actor Rajdeep Choudhury’s film, A Teacher’s Gift, has been selected for the 41st Guadalajara International Film Festival in Mexico, where it will be screened on April 24 as part of the Premio Maguey section, one of the festival’s prominent competitive strands.Regarded as one of the leading film festivals in Latin America, the Guadalajara International Film Festival has, over the years, showcased a diverse range of global cinema and emerging voices, making it a significant platform for international filmmakers.Each year, it draws a wide international audience and showcases films across multiple competitive and non-competitive sections.Directed by Artur…

Amid ongoing legal proceedings related to the death of Assamese music icon Zubeen Garg, Anita Deka Mahanta on April 22 strongly defended her husband, Shyamkanu Mahanta, asserting that he has no involvement in the case and that the family is also seeking justice. Speaking to the media, Anita said Mahanta’s bail plea was being heard in a fast-track sessions court in Guwahati and expressed hope that he would receive relief. She alleged that her husband has been “wrongly incarcerated” for the past seven months. “Innocent people have been put behind bars. He has been in jail for no fault of…