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ARUNACHAL PRADESH
Namdapha Marathon: Yoicsha Yobin's Call to Save Tigers

 A Strong Message for Wildlife:

At the "Run for Tiger" marathon in Namdapha National Park, Yoicsha Yobin encouraged
everyone to protect tigers. "I ran for the tiger and for Namdapha. We need to save tigers
because they make nature beautiful," she said.
 Event Highlights:
The marathon was part of Global Tiger Day celebrations and aimed to raise awareness
about tiger conservation. Around 100 local young people participated, promoting both
environmental action and healthy living.
 Winners:
o Male Winner: Ongla Singpho – Finished in 39 minutes
o Female Winner: Yoicsha Yobin – Finished in 1 hour and 10 minutes
o Both received medals and prizes.
 Community Involvement:
The event included a drawing competition on "Save Tigers and their habitats," won by
Wangmay Wanger from Class 12. About 70 students also took part in a Tiger
conservation awareness campaign.

Rare Brahma Kamal Blooms Attract Bumble Bees in Arunachal Pradesh

In Arunachal Pradesh, the rare Brahma Kamal (Saussurea bracteata) has been found blooming,
attracting a rare species of bumble bee. The discovery was made by researchers from Rajiv
Gandhi University, confirming the flower's significance as a vital pollinator.

Longding District Launches NITI Aayog’s ‘Sampoornata Abhiyan’

 Inauguration: DC Longding, Beikir Nyorke, led the launch, joined by NITI Aayog
officials.
 Marathon Event: The launch included a marathon race in Pongcha Sub-Division,
flagged off by the SDO.
 Key Objectives: The Abhiyan aims to improve key performance areas: health,
agriculture, social development, and nutrition – over the next three months.
 Awareness Activities: Performances by Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and students raised
awareness about the initiative.
 School Involvement: DC Longding visited several schools to assess their conditions.
 Gram Sabha Meeting: A special Gram Sabha was held to discuss challenges, targets,
and action plans, resulting in a resolution to pursue collective goals.
 Coordination Meeting: The day concluded with a meeting of Block Level officials to
develop an action plan for monitoring and evaluation.

Frog Found in Arunachal Named After Apatani Tribe

A team of scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has identified a new species of

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horned frog, named Xenophrys apatani, from Tale Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS) in Arunachal
Pradesh, part of the Eastern Himalaya Biodiversity hotspot.

First Recorded Sightings of Mithun Bovine in Assam

The mithun, also known as the gayal (Bos frontalis), is a semi-wild type of cattle traditionally
raised by hill tribes. For the first time, this animal has been recorded in Assam, which is an
important discovery in animal science. Previously, mithuns were only thought to live in the
Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram. This new finding shows
that mithuns are also present in the Dima Hasao district of central Assam.

Charaideo Moidams: UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Charaideo Moidams in Assam, royal burial grounds of the Ahom dynasty, have recently
been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, gaining international recognition. Located
about 30 km from Sivasagar in eastern Assam, these sites hold significant historical value.

What are Moidams?

Moidams are tumuli, or earth mounds, built over the graves of Ahom kings. While the Ahom
royal moidams are in Charaideo, similar structures exist throughout eastern Assam. Each
moidam typically features:

 A vault with rooms

 A hemispherical mound on top
 A tower (chow chal) surrounded by an eight-sided wall

Unlike Hindu customs of cremation, the Ahoms linked to the Tai people produced both:

 The deceased but also items for the afterlife, servants, animals, and even wives within the
moidams.

Importance of Charaideo
Charaideo, meaning "Shining Town on a Hill" in Tai Ahom, was the first capital of the Ahom
kingdom established by King Sukapha in 1253 AD. It remains a vital cultural and historical
center in the region.

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MANIPUR
After 4 Years, Sirarakhong Chilli Festival Returns to Ukhrul

 Overview:
The Sirarakhong Hathei, a unique chilli native to Sirarakhong village in Ukhrul, Manipur,
situated about 67 km from Imphal, this chilli is renowned for its distinctive taste and
vibrant red color.
After a four-year break, the 13th Sirarakhong Chilli (Hathei) Festival is set to take place
from August 29 to 30, 2024, in Sirarakhong village, Ukhrul district.
 Importance to the Community
o Cultural Significance: The Sirarakhong chilli is deeply embedded in the culture
of the village, being a staple in local cuisine.
o Economic Impact: It supports the livelihoods of approximately 300 households,
providing significant revenue that helps meet family expenses.

Manipur Appoints First Tribal Woman as Chairperson of State Women’s Commission

The Naga Women’s Union Chandel (NWUC) has extended heartfelt congratulations to Thumli
Tninghopam Monsang on her appointment as the chairperson of the Manipur State Commission
for Women (MSCW) on Saturday.

Manipuri Film Sole NE Entry for Bangalore Queer Film Festival 2024
ONENESS, directed by Priyakanta Laishram, has been officially selected for the 14th Bangalore
Queer Film Festival (BQFF 2024), taking place from August 23-25, 2024.

Manipur: Joyson Khoho Appointed as State NSUI President

Joyson Khoho has been appointed as the new president of the National Students’ Union of India
(NSUI) Manipur unit, effective immediately.
The announcement was made by the All India Congress Committee (AICC) in New Delhi.

Manipur: Ukhrul Marks Naga Independence Day with Tributes to Martyrs

Ukhrul District commemorated the 78th Naga Independence Day on Wednesday at the district
headquarters, with a large turnout of people from various parts of Ukhrul and Kamjong districts,
joining the broader Naga community in observing the day.

Manipur: Lakshman Prasad Acharya Sworn in as New Governor

Lakshman Prasad Acharya has been sworn in as the new Governor of Manipur. He took the oath
of office in a ceremony that typically involves the Chief Justice of the High Court or another
designated authority administering the oath. Acharya, a politician with a background in the
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has previously served in various capacities within the party and
government.

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MEGHALAYA
Dr. Mukul Sangma Appointed Leader of Opposition in Meghalaya Assembly
Dr. Mukul Sangma, a leader from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), has been officially appointed
as the new Leader of Opposition in the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly on Thursday. Speaker
Thomas Sangma also announced that lone Congress MLA Ronnie V. Lyngdoh has been
appointed as the new Opposition Chief Whip.

Zubeen Garg, Lou Majaw Awarded Honorary [Link]. at USTM’s 10th Convocation
Zubeen Garg and Lou Majaw were awarded honorary Doctor of Letters ([Link].) degrees during
the 10th convocation of the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM). This
recognition celebrates their significant contributions to music and culture in the region. Zubeen
Garg, a renowned singer and musician from Assam, is known for his versatility and impact on
Assamese and Indian music. Lou Majaw, often referred to as the "Bob Dylan of India," is
celebrated for his contributions to rock music and his influence in Meghalaya and beyond.

BSF Personnel at Indo-Bangla Border Trained to Handle Wild Elephants

Aaranyak, a research-driven non-profit focused on biodiversity conservation, has initiated a
sensitization programme for Border Security Force (BSF) personnel stationed along the Indo-
Bangladesh border in the Garo Hills region of Meghalaya. This programme aims to equip the
BSF with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle encounters with wild elephants, a
frequent occurrence in this area.

Meghalaya: Former CM Salseng C Marak Passes Away at 82

Salseng C Marak, former Chief Minister of Meghalaya and a prominent Congress leader, passed
away on Friday at Tura Civil Hospital (TCH) in West Garo Hills. He was 82.

USTM Ranks Among India’s Top 200 Universities

The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) has been ranked among the top
200 universities in India for the third consecutive time in four years. The prestigious ranking has
been announced by the Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, in the 5th edition of the
National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024.

Meghalaya HC Considers Cancellation of Pilgrimage to Mawjymbuin Cave

The Meghalaya High Court on Wednesday accepted the decision of the writ petitioners to call
off the annual pilgrimage to the Mawjymbuin Cave. Mawjymbuin Cave, located near
Mawshynrut in Meghalaya, is renowned for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. This natural
cave is significant both ecologically and culturally, tied to local legends. It attracts tourists and
adventure seekers, offering a glimpse of Meghalaya's lush landscape and unique underground
formations.

Meghalaya’s Betsida Marak Wins Global Gibbon Champion Award

In a remarkable honor, Betsida C Marak from Meghalaya has been awarded the inaugural Global
Gibbon Champion Award 2024 for her exceptional contributions to gibbon conservation. The
Global Gibbon Champion Award was launched in 2020 by the International Union for

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Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and other conservation organizations. The initiative was created
to raise awareness and support for gibbon conservation efforts around the world, highlighting the
critical threats these primates face and recognizing those making impactful contributions to their
preservation.

Manipur: Lakshman Prasad Acharya Sworn in as New Governor

Lakshman Prasad Acharya has been sworn in as the new Governor of Manipur. He took the oath
of office in a ceremony that typically involves the Chief Justice of the High Court or another
designated authority administering the oath. Acharya, a politician with a background in the
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has previously served in various capacities within the party and
government.

Dr. Mukul Sangma Appointed Leader of Opposition in Meghalaya Assembly

Dr. Mukul Sangma, a leader from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), has been officially appointed
as the new Leader of Opposition in the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly on Thursday. Speaker
Thomas Sangma also announced that lone Congress MLA Ronnie V. Lyngdoh has been
appointed as the new Opposition Chief Whip.

Zubeen Garg, Lou Majaw Awarded Honorary [Link]. at USTM’s 10th Convocation
Zubeen Garg and Lou Majaw were awarded honorary Doctor of Letters ([Link].) degrees during
the 10th convocation of the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM). This
recognition celebrates their significant contributions to music and culture in the region. Zubeen
Garg, a renowned singer and musician from Assam, is known for his versatility and impact on
Assamese and Indian music. Lou Majaw, often referred to as the "Bob Dylan of India," is
celebrated for his contributions to rock music and his influence in Meghalaya and beyond.

BSF Personnel at Indo-Bangla Border Trained to Handle Wild Elephants

Aaranyak, a research-driven non-profit focused on biodiversity conservation, has initiated a
sensitization programme for Border Security Force (BSF) personnel stationed along the Indo-
Bangladesh border in the Garo Hills region of Meghalaya. This programme aims to equip the
BSF with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle encounters with wild elephants, a
frequent occurrence in this area.

Meghalaya: Former CM Salseng C Marak Passes Away at 82

Salseng C Marak, former Chief Minister of Meghalaya and a prominent Congress leader, passed
away on Friday at Tura Civil Hospital (TCH) in West Garo Hills. He was 82.

USTM Ranks Among India’s Top 200 Universities

The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) has been ranked among the top
200 universities in India for the third consecutive time in four years. The prestigious ranking has
been announced by the Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, in the 5th edition of the
National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024.

Meghalaya HC Considers Cancellation of Pilgrimage to Mawjymbuin Cave

The Meghalaya High Court on Wednesday accepted the decision of the writ petitioners to call
off the annual pilgrimage to the Mawjymbuin Cave. Mawjymbuin Cave, located near

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Mawshynrut in Meghalaya, is renowned for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. This natural
cave is significant both ecologically and culturally, tied to local legends. It attracts tourists and
adventure seekers, offering a glimpse of Meghalaya's lush landscape and unique underground
formations.

Meghalaya’s Betsida Marak Wins Global Gibbon Champion Award

In a remarkable honor, Betsida C Marak from Meghalaya has been awarded the inaugural Global
Gibbon Champion Award 2024 for her exceptional contributions to gibbon conservation. The
Global Gibbon Champion Award was launched in 2020 by the International Union for
Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and other conservation organizations. The initiative was created
to raise awareness and support for gibbon conservation efforts around the world, highlighting the
critical threats these primates face and recognizing those making impactful contributions to their
preservation.

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MIZORAM
Mizoram: 11-Year-Old Posthumously Awarded India’s Highest Bravery Honour
The prestigious Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak 2023 was posthumously awarded to 11-year-
old Anthony Vanmawna from Tuimail Tlangvei, Mizoram, for his extraordinary bravery in
saving his younger brother from drowning. The award, which recognizes acts of courage in
saving human lives, was presented to Anthony's family by Aizawl District Deputy Commissioner
Er. Lalhriatpuiia at a ceremony held in the DC Office Conference Hall.

CRS Authorises Train Operations on New Railway Line in Mizoram

The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), Sumeet Singhal, has authorised the operation of
freight and passenger trains on the newly constructed 16.75 km broad-gauge (BG) line between
Bhairabi and Hortoki in Mizoram. The approval was granted on 22 August 2024, following the
completion of a statutory inspection of the section at the end of last month. The section is part of
the ongoing 51.38 km Bhairabi-Sairang new rail line project, which is part of Indian Railways'
capital connectivity initiatives.

Mizoram: Excise Dept. Leads Walk Against Drugs to Mark I-Day

As part of the 78th Independence Day celebration and to strengthen the fight against drug abuse,
the Excise & Narcotics Department organized the Ruhlho Do Kawngzawpui Walk Against Drugs
Walkathon on the morning of August 14, 2024. The event held under the theme Together we can
create a safer, healthier, and drug-free community aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of
drug abuse.

Mizoram to Host India’s First Red Bull Urban Downhill Racing Event
This October, Mizoram is set to make history by hosting India’s first-ever Red Bull Urban
Downhill Racing event, the Red Bull Thang Rume. Held in the bustling streets of Aizawl, this
landmark event will bring together elite cyclists from across the nation and beyond, competing in
a thrilling and challenging race that marks a significant milestone in India’s adventure sports
scene.

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NAGALAND
Nagaland: Tuensang Gears Up to Host Dr T Ao Football Trophy
The 23rd edition of the Dr T Ao Trophy, Nagaland’s prestigious inter-district football
championship, is set to take place from September 17 to 22, 2024, in Tuensang. This marks the
first time Tuensang district will host the tournament, which promises to showcase the best
football talents from across the state’s 16 districts.

Nagaland’s Seihyam Village All Set to Host 3rd Naga King Chilli Festival
The 3rd Naga King Chilli (Naga Mircha) Festival is set to take place on September 6, 2024, in
Seihyam village under Kohima district, a picturesque community perched on a mountaintop 42
km from Kohima, bordering Tseminyu district of Nagaland.

Nagaland: CM Life Insurance Scheme Launched for Indigenous Residents

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio launched the Chief Minister’s Universal Life Insurance
Scheme (CMLIS) on the occasion of the 78th Independence Day celebrations at Civil Secretariat
Plaza, Kohima.

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TRIPURA
Tripura CM Manik Saha Aims to Eradicate HIV by 2030
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has set an ambitious target of eliminating HIV cases in
the state by 2030.

ICFAI University Tripura Offers Flood Relief

ICFAI University Tripura has donated ₹5 lakh to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund in aid of the
flood-affected communities in Tripura. The university has distributed food packets to over 1000
families in the flood-affected areas.

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SIKKIM
A Orchid That Never Opens Its Flower Discovered in Sikkim
Orchids are known for their blooming flowers, but a newly discovered species in India
challenges this norm. A unique orchid species, Gastrodia indica, was recently discovered in
Famborglind Wetlands in Sikkim, which never opens its flower. This discovery was made during
a botanical expedition by botanist Madhusudan Khan from the G.B. Pant National Institute of
Himalayan Environment—Sikkim Regional Centre.

I-Day Celebrations in Sikkim Focus on 50 Years of Statehood Next Year

The state-level celebrations of the 78th Independence Day were held at Paljor Stadium in
Gangtok which had the Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay hoisting the National Flag followed by
a national salute and review of the Independence Day parade.

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