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Meeting held to address concerns as 364 children in Meghalaya are infected with HIV


1. 364 children in Meghalaya are infected with HIV, revealed Priyank Kanoongo, chairperson of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights.
2. The announcement followed a June 22 meeting with 16 state government departments to address children’s issues.
3. The Commission is exploring financial assistance for affected children under the Juvenile Justice Act.


Shillong, June 23: 364 children in Meghalaya are infected with HIV, according to Priyank Kanoongo, chairperson of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights.

This revelation came after a meeting on June 22 with 16 state government departments to address issues affecting children.

Kanoongo described the situation as alarming and directed the concerned department to explore sponsorship under section 45 of the Juvenile Justice Act, which could provide financial assistance to the affected children.


Also Read: Arunachal Pradesh Introduces ‘Pink Patrolling’ to Boost Women’s Safety

It was also revealed that over 8,000 adults in the state are infected with HIV. The Commission directed the department to examine the families and children to ensure they receive monetary assistance.

Additionally, the Commission urged surveying 4,000 children with disabilities to identify their needs for financial aid and certificates.

The Commission plans to conduct awareness programs across the state to educate people about child protection rights, teenage pregnancies, and the POCSO Act.

Arunachal Pradesh Introduces ‘Pink Patrolling’ to Boost Women’s Safety


1. Arunachal Pradesh introduces “Pink Patrolling” with PCR vehicles for women’s safety.
2. Chief Minister Pema Khandu underscores commitment to gender equality and women’s safety.
3. Initiative aims to ensure rapid response to incidents impacting women’s safety across the state.


Itanagar, June 22: The Arunachal Pradesh government has launched the “Pink Patrolling” initiative, deploying dedicated Police Control Room (PCR) vehicles to swiftly respond to incidents affecting women’s safety.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening women’s safety and advancing gender equality in the state.


Also Read: New Anti-Paper Leak Law Enforced Amid NEET and UGC-NET Controversy

The initiative aims to enhance governance by intensifying efforts through ‘Pink Patrolling’ with PCR vehicles, ensuring a safer environment for women across Arunachal Pradesh.

The Arunachal Pradesh Women’s Welfare Society (APWWS) has expressed support for the initiative, anticipating significant improvements in women’s safety and overall well-being.

New Anti-Paper Leak Law Enforced Amid NEET and UGC-NET Controversy


1. The central government enacts the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.
2. Aims to combat unfair practices in national exams and common entrance tests.
3. Response to controversies surrounding NEET and UGC NET exam malpractices.


New Delhi, June 22: The central government has enacted the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, in response to controversies surrounding alleged malpractices during the NEET and UGC NET exams, aiming to combat unfair practices nationwide.

Passed by Parliament in February, the law imposes strict penalties: a minimum of three to five years imprisonment for cheating, escalating to five to ten years for organized cheating, along with a minimum fine of Rs 1 crore.

Institutions involved in organized paper leaks may face property attachment and financial penalties covering examination costs.


Also Read: Manipur Student Body Condemns Truck Arson on NH-2, Issues Directives

Candidates themselves are protected under existing unfair means policies of exam authorities. ‘Unfair means’ under the law include leaking papers, aiding candidates illicitly, tampering with networks or resources, impersonation, conducting fake exams, and manipulating documents for ranks or lists.

Offenses under the law are non-bailable, with investigations handled by officers, not below the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police or Assistant Commissioner of Police. The central government may also assign investigations to central agencies.

The Act applies to exams by bodies like UPSC, SSC, Railways, banking recruitment, and NTA-conducted computer-based tests, emphasizing national efforts to uphold examination integrity.

Manipur Student Body Condemns Truck Arson on NH-2, Issues Directives


1. SDSA issues directives following the NH-2 arson incident to maintain community interests and peace.
2. Announcement SDSA/64/22-24 urges all parties to refrain from disrupting vehicular traffic.
3. Directives aim to keep National Highway 2 harassment-free, emphasizing community safety and order.


Imphal, June 22: In response to recent tensions and an act of arson, the Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA) has issued strict directives aimed at safeguarding community interests and maintaining peace along National Highway 2 (NH-2).

Referenced as SDSA/64/22-24, the announcement comes following an appeal made on June 3, 2024, urging all parties to refrain from disrupting vehicular traffic and to ensure the highway remains free of harassment.

The SDSA has criticized the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) for disregarding their appeal, viewing it as a challenge to their authority and a threat to community safety. They demand that the perpetrators of the recent arson be identified and punished under the law.

Under resolutions from the 2nd Federal Assembly held on June 1, 2024, at Nteiramphung (Tumnoupokpi), the SDSA has issued the following directives:

  1. The SDSA holds the CoTU fully responsible for any consequences faced by the Kuki-zo community residing within Senapati.
  2. Effective immediately, no goods or commodities will be supplied from Senapati or any sources within the SDSA’s jurisdiction to the Kuki-zo areas. This embargo is a response to the aggression faced and aims to protect community interests.
  3. All individuals, businesses, and firms within Senapati are prohibited from engaging in commercial transactions or trade with the Kuki-zo community.

Also Read: Meghalaya Forest Department Allocates 300 Acres for Umiam Lake Revamp

The SDSA emphasizes that any violations of these directives will hold the violators solely accountable for any resulting harm or consequences.

They assert that they will not bear responsibility for the outcomes of non-compliance with these orders.

Meghalaya Forest Department Allocates 300 Acres for Umiam Lake Revamp


1. Umiam Lake near Shillong in Meghalaya will transform into a major tourist hub.
2. The Meghalaya forest department has allocated 300 acres of land for its development.
3. This initiative aims to enhance Umiam Lake’s tourism infrastructure and attractions.


Shillong, June 22: Umiam Lake near Shillong in Meghalaya is set for a significant transformation into a major tourist hub.

The Meghalaya forest department has approved the allocation of 300 acres of land for the development of Umiam Lake.

Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh announced this initiative following a recent meeting chaired by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma.

“We are delighted with the forest department’s decision to allocate 300 acres of land to enhance tourism at Umiam Lake,” Lyngdoh said. He added, “Our vision is for Umiam to not only be a top attraction in Meghalaya but a standout destination in the entire Northeast region.”

The development plan includes the expansion of infrastructure managed by the Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC).

This includes the establishment of new entertainment zones and the enhancement of accommodations at the Orchid Lake Resort.

“We plan to introduce water sports and enrich recreational offerings, identifying activities that will captivate tourists,” the Meghalaya Tourism Minister said.

Spiritual Fervor at Kamakhya as Ambubachi Mela Commences Today


1. The Kamakhya temple’s sanctum sanctorum will close at 8:43 am on Saturday for three nights for Ambubachi Mela.
2. Thousands of sadhus have gathered to practice tantra at the temple.
3. Devotees and sadhus from various states are arriving to enhance their energy through dhyana during the fair.


Guwahati, June 22: The sanctum sanctorum of the Kamakhya temple, one of the 51 shakti peethas, will close at 8:43 am on Saturday for three nights to observe the Ambubachi Mela.

Thousands of sadhus have already gathered at the temple to practice tantra. Devotees and sadhus from West Bengal, Gujarat, Odisha, Bihar, and other parts of the country have arrived to enhance their ‘energy’ through ‘dhyana’ during the fair.

Biswanath Aghor, a sadhu from Surat, has been attending the Ambubachi Mela for over a decade. He stated, “Where there is Maa, there is everything. This peetha of Maa Kamakhya is the center of creation and energy that sustains the living world.”

He noted that while historical evidence dates the temple back to the 5th century, Maa Kamakhya has existed on the Nilachal hill for time immemorial. “Maa was there when there was nothing in this world and will remain when nothing is left,” he added.

Nageswar Baba, from Purba Bardhaman district of West Bengal, emphasized Maa Kamakhya’s significance in Sanatan Hindu culture. “Maa Shakti is the ultimate truth. This peetha is a hub of knowledge where saints have learned for ages,” he said.


Also Read: Kuki Body to Hold June 24 Demonstrations Demanding Separate Union Territory in Manipur

Despite a week of heavy rain since June 8, the weather improved on Friday, which Baba attributed to Maa Kamakhya’s blessings. “People find solutions to their problems here; it is a sanctuary where people can find direction in life,” he remarked.

Temple authorities expect a footfall of about 30 lakh this year, an increase from last year’s 25 lakh. The Kamrup (Metro) district administration and temple authorities have implemented extensive safety and security measures for the mela.

The doors of the sanctum sanctorum will reopen for devotees on the morning of June 26 after the rituals are completed.

Meanwhile, in Kanpur’s ancient Jagannath temple, the tradition of predicting the monsoon through the stone slab dripping phenomenon continues to baffle scholars. The meteorological department has predicted heavy rain based on this tradition.

In a separate note, Virat Kohli’s devotion to his wife Anushka Sharma and his family resonates with fans.

Despite a hectic schedule, he remains committed to his family, as emphasized by Anushka’s post-birth privacy.

Over 2.86 crore pilgrims visited the Kashi Vishwanath temple in the first five months of 2024, marking a 48% increase from 2023. The temple’s income also rose by 33%, credited to the ‘ease of darshan’ and improved facilities.

Kuki Body to Hold June 24 Demonstrations Demanding Separate Union Territory in Manipur


1. ITLF plans non-violent demonstrations on June 24 for a Kuki-Zo Union territory in Manipur.
2. They criticize autonomous district council elections for allegedly dividing Kuki-Zo communities.
3. The protests aim to unite people in demanding political recognition for their territorial aspirations.


Imphal, June 21: The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) announced on June 20 that its members will stage non-violent demonstrations on June 24 to demand a Union territory for the Kuki-Zo people of Manipur.

In a statement, the ITLF said they would also protest the autonomous district council elections, which the tribal group claimed created divisions among the Kuki-Zo people.


Also Read: Manipur CM Predicts Decrease in Violence, Anticipates Resolution in 2-3 Months

“We request everyone to join in great numbers to demonstrate our political demands,” the statement read.

The rally will take place simultaneously in other hill regions such as Pherzawl, Kanggui, and Tengnoupal, among others, with a total shutdown observed on the day of the rally.

“We have demanded separation from Manipur, and so far, there has been no settlement to our political demands,” the statement added, urging people not to participate in the ADC polls.

Manipur CM Predicts Decrease in Violence, Anticipates Resolution in 2-3 Months


1. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh reported reduced violence in the state.
2. He noted the crisis lasted 6-7 months out of 14.
3. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh is optimistic about a resolution in 2-3 months.


Imphal, June 21: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has reported a reduction in incidents of violence in the state, stating that the actual crisis period lasted only 6-7 months out of the past 14 months.

He expressed optimism that a resolution would be achieved within the next 2-3 months.

Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister emphasized that while violence exists in various places, normalcy has returned to Manipur with schools and businesses reopening.

He noted, “Violence is everywhere, but it has particularly reduced in Manipur. The actual crisis occurred in only 6-7 months out of the last 14 months, indicating that the other 7 months were peaceful.”


Also Read: Himanta Biswa Sarma announces Mangaldai bypass completion by 2025

The Chief Minister acknowledged that some pockets of the state still experience violence due to a lack of security personnel.

However, he informed us that security forces have returned from election duties and have been redeployed to vulnerable areas. “Now, the situation will be better,” he added.

Addressing claims of continuous violence being instigated in the state, Singh suggested that the root of the present crisis lies outside the region, citing influx and drug menace as contributing factors.

He stated, “The unrest in Northeast India is due to influx and drug menace from areas outside the region. Treatment of the situation will be easier after the route is identified.”

Chief Minister Singh assured that addressing the violence in Manipur is a top priority for the Modi 3.0 government.

Home Minister Amit Shah holds high-security meetings and gathers necessary details to form an action plan. “I hope a solution is achieved within 2-3 months,” he said.

On International Yoga Day, the Chief Minister also encouraged people to practice yoga daily, highlighting its recognition by the United Nations under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.

Himanta Biswa Sarma announces Mangaldai bypass completion by 2025


1. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma targets completing the Mangaldai bypass by 2025 to enhance regional infrastructure.
2. The project aims to reduce traffic congestion and stimulate economic growth in Mangaldai.
3. Improved connectivity expected to benefit residents and commuters with smoother travel conditions.


Guwahati, June 20: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently announced the anticipated completion of the Mangaldai bypass by 2025, emphasizing the state government’s commitment to enhancing regional infrastructure.

The bypass project, aimed at alleviating traffic congestion and fostering economic growth in Mangaldai, is poised to significantly improve local connectivity and ease travel for residents and commuters.

During a media briefing, Sarma underscored the importance of expediting construction efforts, noting, “Our goal is to finish the Mangaldai bypass by 2025.” He highlighted the project’s strategic significance in bolstering transportation efficiency and promoting socio-economic development across the region.

Sarma further detailed that the Central government has allocated a total of Rs 341 crore for the project, with Rs 95 crore already disbursed for land acquisition. The foundation stones for seven major road initiatives, collectively worth over Rs 1,000 crore, including the NH 15 Mangaldai bypass, were ceremonially laid at Mangaldai College Playground.


Also Read: Arunachal Pradesh Government Implements Significant Bureaucratic Reorganization

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, remotely inaugurated the Rs 535 crore four-lane highway project under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH) from New Delhi.

In his address, Gadkari praised Assam’s rapid developmental strides under Chief Minister Sarma’s leadership.

He outlined the significant investments made in road infrastructure across Assam and the Northeast since 2014, under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, projecting an additional investment of Rs 1.5 lakh crore for new road projects in the coming years.

Additionally, Sarma visited the proposed site for the Darrang Medical College to oversee the land allocation process, reaffirming the government’s commitment to expanding healthcare facilities in the region.

The announcements and initiatives reflect the government’s proactive approach towards modernizing infrastructure and stimulating economic growth in Assam, underscoring its efforts to create robust connectivity and developmental opportunities for the state’s residents.

Arunachal Pradesh Government Implements Significant Bureaucratic Reorganization


1. The Arunachal Pradesh government initiates a major bureaucratic reshuffle.
2. Kaling Tayeng was appointed Principal Secretary (Election) in a recent official order.
3. Chief Secretary Dharmendra issues an order outlining key changes in administrative roles.


Itanagar, June 20: The Arunachal Pradesh government has undertaken a significant bureaucratic overhaul affecting multiple senior officials.

Kaling Tayeng, a 1998 batch IAS officer, has been appointed as Principal Secretary (Election) as per an official order issued by Chief Secretary Dharmendra.

In another key change, Vivek Pandey will assume the role of Commissioner of Urban Affairs, encompassing Urban Development, Town Planning, Urban Local Bodies, and Housing, succeeding Pawan Kumar Sain.


Also Read: Heavy Rainfall Causes Severe Waterlogging in Guwahati, Assam

Sain, in turn, will now serve as Commissioner of Health and Family Welfare, while also taking charge of Commissioner, of Public Health Engineering & Water Supply, succeeding Audesh Kumar Singh.

Additionally, Sadhana Deori, Amjad Tak, Saugat Biwas, and others will assume new responsibilities in critical sectors such as industries, education, and technology.

These adjustments are aimed at enhancing administrative efficiency and governance across the state.

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