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Guwahati Police Issues Guidelines for Safe Durga Puja Celebrations


1. Guwahati Police Commissioner Diganta Barah issues a safety advisory for Durga Puja.
2. Barah stresses the shared responsibility of puja organizers for maintaining order.
3. He stated, “It’s your credit if the puja goes smoothly, but your fault if there’s an anomaly.”


Guwahati, Oct 03: As the vibrant Durga Puja festivities approach, Guwahati Police Commissioner Diganta Barah has issued a detailed advisory to ensure smooth and safe celebrations.

Addressing the puja organizers, Barah emphasized the shared responsibility for maintaining order, stating, “It’s your credit if the puja goes smoothly, but your fault if there’s an anomaly.”

To guarantee a hassle-free celebration, Guwahati Police has released a comprehensive list of DOs and DON’Ts, outlining essential safety measures:

Key DOs:

  1. Obtain Necessary Permissions: All organizers must secure proper permissions before setting up pandals.
  2. Collaboration with Authorities: Cooperation with police and local authorities is mandatory for security.
  3. Medical Team: A medical team should be on standby for emergencies.
  4. Crowd Management: Separate entry and exit points for males and females should be arranged to manage crowds.
  5. CCTV Surveillance: Pandals must be equipped with CCTV cameras.
  6. Fire Safety: Ensure proper fire safety equipment is readily available.
  7. Eco-Friendly Materials: Use biodegradable materials for pandals and idols.
  8. Help Desk & Emergency Access: Set up a 24×7 help desk and ensure designated emergency access areas.
  9. Cleanliness: Keep the pandal and surrounding areas clean throughout the event.

Also Read: Sikkim: Mangan District Bags ‘Swachhta Hi Sewa’ Award

Key DON’Ts:

  1. No Forceful Donations: Avoid illegal or forceful collection of donations.
  2. No Overcrowding: Take steps to prevent overcrowding.
  3. No Blocking Public Roads: Ensure pandals do not obstruct public thoroughfares.
  4. No Firecrackers During Immersion: Refrain from bursting firecrackers during immersion to prevent accidents.
  5. No Unauthorized Processions: Ensure all processions have the necessary permissions.

Commissioner Barah stressed the importance of adhering to these guidelines, warning that any violations would lead to strict actions against the responsible puja committees.

These measures aim to ensure a peaceful, safe, and eco-friendly Durga Puja celebration for all.

Sikkim: Mangan District Bags ‘Swachhta Hi Sewa’ Award


1. Mangan district, Sikkim, wins the prestigious ‘Swachhta Hi Sewa’ award for cleanliness efforts.
2. The award recognizes the district’s focus on promoting hygiene, public health, and sanitation.
3. Targeted initiatives were implemented to boost environmental sustainability and community involvement.


Gangtok, Oct 03: Mangan district in Sikkim has been awarded the prestigious ‘Swachhta Hi Sewa’ award, acknowledging its outstanding contributions to cleanliness and sanitation.

This achievement highlights the district’s commitment to promoting hygiene, public health, and environmental sustainability through a series of targeted initiatives.

District Magistrate Anant Jain expressed pride in the collaborative effort that led to this honor.

He credited the district staff, including Block Development Officers (BDOs) and Additional District Collectors (ADCs), for their relentless dedication towards achieving the cleanliness goals.

“The collective hard work and determination of the team have paid off,” Jain said. “We focused on identifying and cleaning black spots across the district, ensuring office and corridor cleanliness, and organizing health camps for safai mitras.”

One of the key highlights of Mangan’s efforts was its engagement with the younger generation.

The district organized various painting and singing competitions in schools, encouraging students to participate actively in cleanliness awareness initiatives.

These activities helped instill a sense of responsibility among the youth while promoting hygiene and sanitation in educational institutions.


Also Read: Manipur: Internet Suspended in Ukhrul District Over Fears of Rising Violence

The ‘Swachhta Hi Sewa’ campaign, which kicked off on September 7, centered around three key pillars: cleanliness, sanitation, and community participation.

Mangan district’s comprehensive approach, involving both administrative efforts and public engagement, played a crucial role in its success.

Local authorities worked closely with community members to implement cleanliness drives, ensuring a widespread impact throughout the district.

The campaign aimed to clean public spaces and foster a culture of hygiene and sustainable living practices within the community. Mangan district excelled in all three pillars, showcasing a model approach for other regions to follow.

The district created a unified front in the battle for cleanliness by involving students, local organisations, and administrative staff.

The district’s achievement in the ‘Swachhta Hi Sewa’ campaign is a testament to the power of collective action and community participation.

This recognition also sets a high standard for cleanliness and public health efforts across the country, encouraging other regions to follow in Mangan’s footsteps to achieve similar success.

Manipur: Internet Suspended in Ukhrul District Over Fears of Rising Violence


1. The Manipur government acts urgently to address escalating violence in the Ukhrul District.
2. Reports of gunfire and casualties raise concerns about social media misuse.
3. Strict measures implemented to maintain peace and prevent unrest.


Imphal, Oct 02: In response to escalating violence in Ukhrul District, Manipur, the state government has taken urgent action to prevent further unrest.

Following reports of gunfire, casualties, and concerns over the potential misuse of social media to spread hate speech and incendiary content, authorities have imposed strict measures to maintain peace.

Fearing that anti-social elements could exploit platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram to incite public outrage and escalate the crisis, the government has invoked Rule 2 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017.


Also Read: Sikkim Celebrates Gandhi Jayanti, Mangan Awarded ‘Best-Performing’ District

This step aims to curb misinformation, false rumors, and the mobilization of agitators.

As of 1:20 P.M. on October 2, a 24-hour suspension of internet and mobile data services, including VSATs, broadband (IILL & FTTH), and VPNs, has been enforced across the Ukhrul District.

Essential services, such as certain lease lines for the District Commissioner (DC) and Superintendent of Police (SP) offices, have been exempted.

Additional exemptions may be granted by the state government on a case-by-case basis.

The order, issued ex-parte due to the urgency, will be reviewed within 24 hours. Legal action will be taken against anyone found violating these directives.

Sikkim Celebrates Gandhi Jayanti, Mangan Awarded ‘Best-Performing’ District


1. Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur, and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, paid tribute to Gandhi at Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Gangtok.
2. Mangan District was awarded as the best-performing district under Swachhata Hi Seva.
3. Swachh Bharat Diwas celebrations highlighted cleanliness efforts across Sikkim.


Gangtok, Oct 02: Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, and other ministers paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 155th birth anniversary by offering traditional Sikkimese khadas at Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Gangtok.

As part of the Swachh Bharat Diwas celebrations, Mangan District was recognized as the best-performing district under the Swachhata Hi Seva initiative. Mangan Nagar Panchayat won the award for the cleanest urban local body (ULB), receiving a cash prize of Rs 10 lakhs.

The Development Area was honored with Rs 1 lakh for being the cleanest ward under Gangtok Municipal Corporation, while Chandra Jyoti Self Help Group from Namchi Municipal Ward received Rs 50,000 for being the best-performing SHG.


Also Read: Assam Sub-Districts Upgraded to Co-Districts in New Administrative Reforms

Four Safaimitras from Gangtok Municipal Corporation and one from each Nagar Panchayat (Namchi, Nayabazar-Jorethang, Rangpo, Singtam, Mangan, and Gyalshing) were recognized for their exceptional efforts. Additionally, five sewerage workers were felicitated by the governor and chief minister.

Four Gram Panchayat Units (GPUs) were awarded for cleanliness, with Arithang Chongrong GPU in Gyalshing District securing the top spot and a Rs 5 lakh cash prize. Other winners included Budang Kamrey GPU, Lingdong Barfok GPU, and Samlik Marchak GPU.

Gangtok’s State Circuit House also received Swachhata Green Leaf Ratings for its cleanliness efforts.

Assam Sub-Districts Upgraded to Co-Districts in New Administrative Reforms


1. The Assam government has renamed newly created “sub-districts” to “co-districts” to enhance administrative efficiency.
2. This decision supersedes previous notifications dated September 12, 2023, and September 28, 2024.
3. The change is effective immediately.


Guwahati, Oct 02: The Assam government has officially approved the renaming of newly created “sub-districts” to “co-districts,” a move aimed at streamlining administrative processes.

This decision overrides the Department’s earlier notifications—ECF.No 374321/6 dated 12th September 2023 and ECF.No 458412/76 dated 28th September 2024—and has been put into immediate effect.

Under the new framework, the role of the Additional District Commissioner, who was previously in charge of the sub-districts, will now be elevated to Co-District Commissioner (CDC).

This rebranding of both the administrative division and its leadership is expected to bring greater clarity and cohesion in the management of these newly established districts.

The term “co-districts” in English will be translated into “Xama-Zilla” in Assamese, further emphasizing the region’s cultural and linguistic heritage. Accordingly, the Co-District Commissioner will be referred to as “Xama-Zilla Aayukta” in the Assamese language.

This linguistic adaptation is seen as a step to ensure that the administrative reforms are culturally resonant and easier for the local population to relate to and understand.

This initiative is part of a broader set of administrative reforms aimed at improving governance in Assam.


Also Read: Manipur: 48-hour General Strike Escalates as Bandh Spreads Across the State

By elevating sub-districts to co-districts, the government hopes to reduce the administrative burden on larger districts while ensuring that local issues are addressed more efficiently.

The new co-districts will operate as semi-independent administrative units, working closely with the main district administration but with greater autonomy in decision-making.

Officials believe that this change will improve the delivery of government services, especially in remote areas where the distance from the district headquarters has historically caused delays in addressing local issues. The Co-District Commissioners will now have enhanced authority to make decisions on a range of administrative matters, thus speeding up processes that previously required approval from higher authorities.

In addition to administrative efficiency, this move is also seen as a way to bring governance closer to the people. By establishing a more localized administrative structure, the government aims to foster better communication between local authorities and the communities they serve.

These reforms are part of Assam’s larger mission to decentralize governance and improve public service delivery, reflecting the government’s commitment to more effective and responsive administration across the state.

Manipur: 48-hour General Strike Escalates as Bandh Spreads Across the State


1. The 48-hour Manipur strike by JAC intensified on October 2, expanding statewide.
2. The strike demands the release of two youths abducted by militants.
3. JAC announced the strike on the evening of October 1.


Imphal, Oct 02: The 48-hour general strike in Manipur, called by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) demanding the release of two youths abducted by militants, intensified on October 2 as the bandh extended statewide.

The JAC, formed in response to the abduction, announced the strike on the evening of October 1. Initially, the strike began in Thoubal district at 3 am on October 1 and saw significant public support, with large groups blocking highways and roads at various points.

Major markets in Thoubal, including Lilong Keithel, Thoubal Keithel, Babu Keithel, Athokpam Keithel, Yairipok Tampha Keithel, New Market, and Wangjing Keithel, were all shut down.

Banks and government offices in the district were closed, and public transportation came to a halt.


Also Read: Indra Sena Reddy Nallu Sworn In as Governor of Mizoram

While police maintained strict surveillance in sensitive areas, essential services such as education, religious functions, medical services, and other emergency services were exempt from the strike.

JAC spokesperson Irom Bimol warned that the agitation could intensify if the Government of India and the state government fail to rescue the two youths within 48 hours.

He criticized the government for repeatedly asking for more time since September 27. Despite the government’s assurances, the public has peacefully protested, including a sit-in at Thoubal Mela Ground.

Bimol added that the bandh was triggered by the government’s failure to fulfil its promises. He also highlighted the ongoing Chin-Kuki conflict, stating that it has deeply hurt public sentiments.

He cautioned that if the two abducted youths are not returned to their families within the deadline, the JAC may not be able to control the escalating anger among the people.

Indra Sena Reddy Nallu Sworn In as Governor of Mizoram


1. At Hijam Irabot’s 128th birth anniversary, Manipur CM N. Biren Singh expressed concern over two kidnapped youths.
2. He confirmed that both state and central governments are actively working for their safe release.
3. Singh emphasized the commitment to resolving the situation swiftly and ensuring the safety of the victims.


Aizawl, Sep 30: On September 30, Indra Sena Reddy Nallu was sworn in as the Governor of Mizoram. Currently serving as the Governor of Tripura, Nallu has taken additional charge of Mizoram during the leave of the incumbent Governor, Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati.

The oath of office was administered by Justice Nelson Sailo of the Gauhati High Court at the Durbar Hall in Raj Bhavan, Aizawl. The ceremony also saw the reading of the warrant issued by the President of India, presented by Chief Secretary Dr. Renu Sharma.

The event was attended by key figures including Chief Minister Lalduhoma, Speaker Lalbiakzama, Home Minister K. Sapdanga, various Cabinet Ministers, and other dignitaries.


Also Read: State and Centre Collaborate to Ensure Safe Release of Two Kidnapped Youths: Manipur CM N Biren Singh

Born on March 31, 1949, in Ganuga Banda Village, Telangana, Indra Sena Reddy Nallu is a seasoned politician.

He served as a three-time legislator in undivided Andhra Pradesh (1983, 1985, and 1999) and held the position of BJP state president in 2003.

In 2014, he was appointed as the party’s national general secretary. He is married to Renuka Nallu, and the couple has three sons.

State and Centre Collaborate to Ensure Safe Release of Two Kidnapped Youths: Manipur CM N Biren Singh


1. At Hijam Irabot’s 128th birth anniversary, Manipur CM N. Biren Singh expressed concern over two kidnapped youths.
2. He confirmed that both state and central governments are actively working for their safe release.
3. Singh emphasized the commitment to resolving the situation swiftly and ensuring the safety of the victims.


Imphal, Sep 30: During the observance ceremony for the 128th birth anniversary of freedom fighter Hijam Irabot, Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh expressed deep concern over the kidnapping of two youths by suspected Kuki militants.

He assured that both state and central governments are working diligently to ensure their safe release.

Speaking to the media at Irawat Square, Lilashing Khongnangkhong, Singh mentioned that while one youth had been rescued, two others remain uncontactable and in captivity. “The situation is deeply unfortunate,” he said, revealing that the Director General of Police (DGP) has been assigned to negotiate with the involved parties.

Singh emphasized the commitment of both the state and central governments to secure the victims’ rescue, urging the families to remain calm during these challenging times.


Also Read: Assam: Durga idol artisans face challenges due to rising costs and lack of government support

Reflecting on the occasion, the Chief Minister encouraged the younger generation to follow in Hijam Irabot’s footsteps.

“Irabot’s contributions to social, political, and economic spheres, as well as the freedom struggle, are invaluable,” he noted, highlighting the importance of realizing Irabot’s vision of unity and emotional integrity among Manipur’s diverse communities.

Hijam Irabot was a prominent freedom fighter against British colonial rule, a politician, and a founding leader of the Communist Party of India in Manipur. His influence extended beyond politics to literature, sports, and social justice for the marginalized.

Assam: Durga idol artisans face challenges due to rising costs and lack of government support


1. Shivpur artisans in Assam are preparing clay idols of Goddess Durga for Durgotsav.
2. Rising material costs and resource shortages are challenging their work.
3. Despite their crucial role, these potters receive little to no government support.


Guwahati, Sep 30: As Durgotsav approaches, artisans in Shivpur, a well-known potters’ village in Bongaigaon district, Assam, work tirelessly to craft Goddess Durga’s clay idols.

Despite being vital to the festival, these potters face numerous difficulties, including rising material costs and a lack of government assistance.

Creating a Durga idol is a complex and labor-intensive process. Artisans must gather materials like land, straw, bamboo, and wood from local river islands, which adds to their expenses.


Also Read: Northeast Excels in Best Tourism Villages 2024: 5 Villages Win National Honors

While each idol costs around ₹10,000 to make, they only manage to earn a profit of ₹18,000 to ₹20,000 per idol.

Shivpur’s clay idols have been sent across Bongaigaon district and beyond for over six decades. Yet, these skilled artisans continue to work without any government support.

They are now urging the government to recognize their cultural contributions and assist in sustaining their craft amidst growing challenges.

Northeast Excels in Best Tourism Villages 2024: 5 Villages Win National Honors


1. Five Northeastern villages were recognized among 36 winners in India’s Best Tourism Villages 2024.
2. The Ministry of Tourism announced the awards on World Tourism Day.
3. Sialsuk (Mizoram) and Alpana Gram (Tripura) won in the Community-Based Tourism category.


Guwahati, Sep 28: Five villages from Northeastern states have been honored among the 36 winners in India’s Best Tourism Villages 2024, announced by the Ministry of Tourism on World Tourism Day.

Tripura, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Assam, and Manipur earned recognition across different categories. Under Community-Based Tourism, Sialsuk village of Mizoram and Alpana Gram of Tripura were awarded.

In the Craft-Based Tourism category, Sualkuchi in Assam and Umden in Meghalaya were recognized. For Heritage-Based Tourism, Andro in Manipur and Mawphlang in Meghalaya received the title.


Also Read: Red Alert in Sikkim: Heavy Rainfall and Snowfall Expected, Public Advised to Avoid Travel

The Best Tourism Villages competition was launched in 2023 to identify villages preserving cultural and natural assets while promoting sustainability.

This year, out of 991 entries from 30 states and UTs, 36 villages were awarded across eight categories.

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