Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: On China releasing a new 'official map', laying territorial claim on the entire Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin, Tenzin Lekshay Spokesperson and Additional Secretary, DIIR, Central Tibetan Administration says, "This is not the first time China is doing that. China for the last so many years has been repeatedly showing distorted maps which shows Arunachal Pradesh as a part of China.

New Chinese map shows parts of Arunachal Pradesh in China

With China’s growing belligerence, the border has become a battleground for testing wills and resilience. Analysts say China’s completely unfounded claims initially extended only to Tawang, a part of Arunachal Pradesh, where the sixth Dalai Lama was said to have been born. Since the 2000s, however, China has been claiming Arunachal Pradesh in its entirety. Pertinent to remember, that independent India has been exercising sovereignty over it. Arunachal Pradesh became a union territory in 1972 and a state in 1987. Arunachal Pradesh is also located at the confluence of the international borders of China, Myanmar and Bhutan, giving it strategic importance. This extension of territorial claims indicates a concerted strategy, consistent with China's stance on the East and South China Sea disputes.

China's irrational territorial ambitions showcased in new standard map

On China releasing a new 'official map', laying territorial claim on the entire Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin, Tenzin Lekshay Spokesperson and Additional Secretary, DIIR, Central Tibetan Administration says, "This is not the first time China is doing that. China for the last so many years has been repeatedly showing distorted maps which shows Arunachal Pradesh as a part of China.

India reacts to China's wrong map depicting parts of India as Chinese territories

India has pulled out of the World University Games being held in China’s Chengdu starting Friday, in response to stapled visas being issued to athletes from India’s northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh.

Earlier, before Thursday midnight, officials in New Delhi barred an eight-member contingent, including five athletes, a coach and two support staff members, from boarding their flight to China just before their departure.

Hours later, it turned out New Delhi had withdrawn from the games altogether, marking a strong protest against China’s attempts to normalise its segregated approach towards India’s Arunachal Pradesh.

“We were stopped at the gate by immigration officials and CISF personnel. They did not give any reason and claimed they were merely acting on the government’s instructions,” Coach Raghvendra Singh was quoted as saying by the Indian Express.

<h2>China issued stapled visas to&nbsp;athletes from Arunachal</h2>

The controversy erupted after Beijing issued stapled, not stamped, visas to Indian athletes hailing from Arunachal Pradesh, who were to participate in the wushu (martial art) championship in China.

The athletes applied for a Chinese visa on July 16. The applications of all athletes were processed in time and stamped visas were issued subsequently barring applications from three Arunachal athletes -- Nyeman Wangsu, Onilu Tega and Mepung Lamgu.

They were first asked to resubmit their applications and later were issued stapled visas on Wednesday (July 26).

<h2>India calls the decision ‘unacceptable’</h2>

India’s Ministry for External Affairs (MEA) called the decision by China “unacceptable”, adding that “India reserves the right to suitably respond to such actions”.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;China issues 'stapled visa' to Indian players

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“Our long-standing and consistent position is that there should be no discrimination or differential treatment based on domicile or ethnicity in the visa regime for Indian citizens holding valid India passports,” the MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.

“It has come to our notice that stapled visas were issued to some of our citizens representing the country in an international sporting event in China. This is unacceptable and we have lodged our strong protest with the Chinese side, reiterating our consistent position on the matter,” he said.

<h2>Why were stapled visas issued?</h2>

China claims India’s Jammu &amp; Kashmir, Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh to be so-called disputed territories.

It follows the practice of issuing stapled visas to athletes from these regions for a long time. In 2011, five karatekas from Arunachal were also issued stapled visas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unacceptable-india-slams-china-over-staped-visas-issued-to-indian-wushu-fighters-620024">Also read:&nbsp;'Unacceptable': India slams China over stapled visas issued to three Wushu fighters from Arunachal</a>

In May, China also declined to take part in a G20 tourism meeting held in India’s Kashmir, saying that it did not support “holding any kind of G20 meetings in disputed territory”.

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India has pulled out of the World University Games being held in China’s Chengdu starting Friday, in response to stapled visas being issued to athletes from India’s northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh.

India has pulled out of the World University Games being held in China’s Chengdu starting Friday, in response to stapled visas being issued to athletes from India’s northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. Earlier, before Thursday midnight, officials in New Delhi barred an eight-member contingent, including five athletes, a coach and two support staff members, from boarding their flight to China just before their departure. Hours later, it turned out New Delhi had withdrawn from the games altogether, marking a strong protest against China’s attempts to normalise its segregated approach towards India’s Arunachal Pradesh. “We were stopped at the gate by immigration officials and CISF personnel. They did not give any reason and claimed they were merely acting on the government’s instructions,” Coach Raghvendra Singh was quoted as saying by the Indian Express. China issued stapled visas to athletes from Arunachal The controversy erupted after Beijing issued stapled, not stamped, visas to Indian athletes hailing from Arunachal Pradesh, who were to participate in the wushu (martial art) championship in China. The athletes applied for a Chinese visa on July 16. The applications of all athletes were processed in time and stamped visas were issued subsequently barring applications from three Arunachal athletes -- Nyeman Wangsu, Onilu Tega and Mepung Lamgu. They were first asked to resubmit their applications and later were issued stapled visas on Wednesday (July 26). India calls the decision ‘unacceptable’ India’s Ministry for External Affairs (MEA) called the decision by China “unacceptable”, adding that “India reserves the right to suitably respond to such actions”. Watch: China issues 'stapled visa' to Indian players × “Our long-standing and consistent position is that there should be no discrimination or differential treatment based on domicile or ethnicity in the visa regime for Indian citizens holding valid India passports,” the MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said. “It has come to our notice that stapled visas were issued to some of our citizens representing the country in an international sporting event in China. This is unacceptable and we have lodged our strong protest with the Chinese side, reiterating our consistent position on the matter,” he said. Why were stapled visas issued? China claims India’s Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh to be so-called disputed territories. It follows the practice of issuing stapled visas to athletes from these regions for a long time. In 2011, five karatekas from Arunachal were also issued stapled visas. Also read: 'Unacceptable': India slams China over stapled visas issued to three Wushu fighters from Arunachal In May, China also declined to take part in a G20 tourism meeting held in India’s Kashmir, saying that it did not support “holding any kind of G20 meetings in disputed territory”. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India withdraws from World University Games in China over stapled visa controversy

India has lambasted China for issuing staple visas to some sportspersons hailing from Arunachal Pradesh describing the move taken by Beijing as unacceptable. To our notice that stapled visas were issued to some of Indian citizens representing the country in an international sporting event in China.

China issues 'stapled visa' to Indian players

India's foreign ministry on Thursday (July 27) hit out at China over the issuance of stapled visas to some Wushu fighters from Arunachal Pradesh. According to Indian media reports, New Delhi decided to call off the Indian Wushu team's trip to China for the World University Games after three female athletes from Arunachal Pradesh received stapled visas from Beijing.

India's foreign ministry on Thursday (July 27) hit out at China over the issuance of stapled visas to some Wushu fighters from Arunachal Pradesh. According to Indian media reports, New Delhi decided to call off the Indian Wushu team's trip to China for the World University Games after three female athletes from Arunachal Pradesh received stapled visas from Beijing. Addressing a press conference, Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi called China's actions unacceptable. "It has come to our notice that stapled visas were issued to some of our citizens representing the country in an international sporting event in China." Bagchi added that New Delhi has lodged its strong protest with Beijing, "reiterating our consistent position on the matter and India deserves the right to suitably respond to such actions." "Our longstanding and consistent position is that there should be no discrimination or differential treatment on the basis of domicile or ethnicity in the visa regime for Indian citizens holding valid Indian passports," he further said. How many players were given stapled visas? As per reports, three members of India's Wushu team, all from Arunachal Pradesh, were given stapled visas by China. A report from the Hindustan Times on Thursday said that the 12-member team included eight players, one coach and three officials. The three fighters from Arunachal were Nyeman Wangsu, Onilu Tega and Mepung Lamgu. Citing sources, the report said that the visas for the team were applied for on July 16. The rest of the team members got their visas on time, but the documents of the Arunachal fighters were not accepted. These three were finally asked to submit their documents again on Tuesday, and the Chinese embassy returned the passports with stapled visas on Wednesday, the sources added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Unacceptable': India slams China over stapled visas issued to three Wushu fighters from Arunachal

The United States Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), on a bipartisan basis, gave approval to a resolution which reaffirmed the status of Arunachal Pradesh as an 'integral part' of India. 
 
The approval of SFRC clears the way for the introduction of the resolution on the floor of the Senate and its chances of getting adopted by the full chamber. 
 
Oregon’s Jeff Merkley and Tennessee’s Bill Haggerty introduced the resolution and it was co-sponsored by Texas’s John Cornyn, Virginia’s Tim Kaine, and Maryland’s Chris Van Hollen. 
 
The resolution appreciates the Indian government for the steps taken to “defend itself” against the “aggression and security threats” from China.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/chinas-long-cherished-dream-of-breaking-up-india-and-new-delhi-in-slumber-mode-613870">China’s long-cherished dream of breaking up India and New Delhi in slumber mode</a>

It has supported the defence modernisation and diversification of India and applauded the development efforts of India in Arunachal Pradesh, which includes the steps to improve border infrastructure. The resolution has been committed to increasing assistance of the US in the region, which includes through its aid agencies.

<h2>US deepening support to&nbsp;Arunachal Pradesh</h2>

The resolution further encourages like-minded partners to increase their own respective assistance to Arunachal Pradesh and extend their strong support towards the US-India bilateral partnership, which includes the initiative on critical and emerging technologies (ICET). 
 
After the approval of SFRC, Merkley, who is also the co-chair of the Congressional executive commission on China, in a statement said, “Committee passage of this resolution affirms that the US views the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh as part of the Republic of India—not the People’s Republic of China (PRC) — and commits the US to deepening support and assistance to the region, alongside like-minded international partners.” 
 
He stated that American values “supporting freedom and a rules-based order must be at the centre of all of our actions and relationships” around the world.

WATCH |&nbsp;India and China ramp up border infrastructure

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Haggerty, who is seen as an important voice on Indo-Pacific issues, said that he was happy to co-lead the resolution which reaffirmed the territorial integrity of India and pushed back against China’s “provocations”. 
 
“At a time when China continues to pose grave and gathering threats to the Free and Open Indo-Pacific, it’s critical for the US to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our strategic partners in the region — especially India and other Quad countries — and push back against the CCP (Chinese Communist Party)’s broader strategy of territorial aggrandizement that it has pursued in the South and East China Seas, the Himalayas, and the southern Pacific,” stated Haggerty.

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The United States Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), on a bipartisan basis, gave approval to a resolution which reaffirmed the status of Arunachal Pradesh as an 'integral part' of India.

The United States Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), on a bipartisan basis, gave approval to a resolution which reaffirmed the status of Arunachal Pradesh as an 'integral part' of India. The approval of SFRC clears the way for the introduction of the resolution on the floor of the Senate and its chances of getting adopted by the full chamber. Oregon’s Jeff Merkley and Tennessee’s Bill Haggerty introduced the resolution and it was co-sponsored by Texas’s John Cornyn, Virginia’s Tim Kaine, and Maryland’s Chris Van Hollen. The resolution appreciates the Indian government for the steps taken to “defend itself” against the “aggression and security threats” from China. ALSO READ | China’s long-cherished dream of breaking up India and New Delhi in slumber mode It has supported the defence modernisation and diversification of India and applauded the development efforts of India in Arunachal Pradesh, which includes the steps to improve border infrastructure. The resolution has been committed to increasing assistance of the US in the region, which includes through its aid agencies. US deepening support to Arunachal Pradesh The resolution further encourages like-minded partners to increase their own respective assistance to Arunachal Pradesh and extend their strong support towards the US-India bilateral partnership, which includes the initiative on critical and emerging technologies (ICET). After the approval of SFRC, Merkley, who is also the co-chair of the Congressional executive commission on China, in a statement said, “Committee passage of this resolution affirms that the US views the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh as part of the Republic of India—not the People’s Republic of China (PRC) — and commits the US to deepening support and assistance to the region, alongside like-minded international partners.” He stated that American values “supporting freedom and a rules-based order must be at the centre of all of our actions and relationships” around the world. WATCH | India and China ramp up border infrastructure Haggerty, who is seen as an important voice on Indo-Pacific issues, said that he was happy to co-lead the resolution which reaffirmed the territorial integrity of India and pushed back against China’s “provocations”. “At a time when China continues to pose grave and gathering threats to the Free and Open Indo-Pacific, it’s critical for the US to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our strategic partners in the region — especially India and other Quad countries — and push back against the CCP (Chinese Communist Party)’s broader strategy of territorial aggrandizement that it has pursued in the South and East China Seas, the Himalayas, and the southern Pacific,” stated Haggerty. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US Senate Committee calls Arunachal Pradesh an ‘integral part’ of India

Villages in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh are set to receive a digital boost. The Union government has installed over 200 mobile towers majorly in areas along with the border with China. These towers will provide 4G internet connections to more than 300 villages.

4G connectivity for Arunachal Pradesh: India's border state to get digital boost

The Indian government has installed&nbsp;254 network towers on Saturday (April 22) in order to provide 4G mobile telephony connectivity in around 336 villages in border areas of the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. The government aims at connecting remote areas of the Tawang district where there have been incursions of Chinese troops.&nbsp;

The government has given approval for the construction of 2,605 4G mobile towers for providing connectivity to more than 3,721 villages in the state with a total outlay of Rs 2,675 crore.&nbsp;

After a ceremony to dedicate the initial set of 254 mobile towers, India's Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju said: "Today's launch has happened mostly in border areas. By and large, most of the villages will be in border areas."&nbsp;

"Our district headquarters like Itanagar are already connected. The target is to reach out to unconnected and unreached locations," Rijiju added.&nbsp;

Rijiju also tweeted: "Momentous occasion for the people of #ArunachalPradesh as 254 4G mobile towers were dedicated to the nation. This high-speed internet facility to 336 remote villages will transform the lives of the people. The border people are extending their gratitude to PM @narendramodi Ji."&nbsp;

Apart from Rijiju, Union Minister for Communications Ashwini Vaishnaw, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, and Union Minister of State for Communications Devusinh Chauhan were also present during the launch event.&nbsp;

Rijiju also weighed in on other aspects as he said that the 4G connectivity will help the security forces and people as people in the border area used to depend on mobile SIMs of a Nepalese company for communication, however, the situation will change after he informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the situation.&nbsp;

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Momentous occasion for the people of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArunachalPradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArunachalPradesh</a> as 254 4G mobile towers were dedicated to the nation. This high-speed internet facility to 336 remote villages will transform the lives of the people. The border people are extending their gratitude to PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> Ji. <a href="https://t.co/GjYnZTpoDE">pic.twitter.com/GjYnZTpoDE</a>
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The minister had also said that thinning of the population because of the non-availability of basic infrastructure had become a major concern. Rijiju also said that now facilities like drinking water, electricity, and roads are reaching remote and border areas.&nbsp;

Rijiju, who represents the Arunachal West constituency in the Lok Sabha, said that "we are not building anything in their [China] territory, only in ours" and "other governments did not even take these steps".&nbsp;

He further added that difficult terrain and the need to create an infrastructure ecosystem were among the challenges the government faced while setting up the towers.&nbsp;

Rijiju said: "All agencies have come together to set up the infrastructure from roads to electricity. It will be pivotal in providing digital services to the people. It was a whole of government approach that helped."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The Indian government has installed 254 network towers on Saturday (April 22) in order to provide 4G mobile telephony connectivity in around 336 villages in border areas of the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh.

The Indian government has installed 254 network towers on Saturday (April 22) in order to provide 4G mobile telephony connectivity in around 336 villages in border areas of the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. The government aims at connecting remote areas of the Tawang district where there have been incursions of Chinese troops. The government has given approval for the construction of 2,605 4G mobile towers for providing connectivity to more than 3,721 villages in the state with a total outlay of Rs 2,675 crore. After a ceremony to dedicate the initial set of 254 mobile towers, India's Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju said: "Today's launch has happened mostly in border areas. By and large, most of the villages will be in border areas." "Our district headquarters like Itanagar are already connected. The target is to reach out to unconnected and unreached locations," Rijiju added. Rijiju also tweeted: "Momentous occasion for the people of #ArunachalPradesh as 254 4G mobile towers were dedicated to the nation. This high-speed internet facility to 336 remote villages will transform the lives of the people. The border people are extending their gratitude to PM @narendramodi Ji." Apart from Rijiju, Union Minister for Communications Ashwini Vaishnaw, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, and Union Minister of State for Communications Devusinh Chauhan were also present during the launch event. Rijiju also weighed in on other aspects as he said that the 4G connectivity will help the security forces and people as people in the border area used to depend on mobile SIMs of a Nepalese company for communication, however, the situation will change after he informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the situation. Momentous occasion for the people of #ArunachalPradesh as 254 4G mobile towers were dedicated to the nation. This high-speed internet facility to 336 remote villages will transform the lives of the people. The border people are extending their gratitude to PM @narendramodi Ji. pic.twitter.com/GjYnZTpoDE — Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) April 22, 2023 × The minister had also said that thinning of the population because of the non-availability of basic infrastructure had become a major concern. Rijiju also said that now facilities like drinking water, electricity, and roads are reaching remote and border areas. Rijiju, who represents the Arunachal West constituency in the Lok Sabha, said that "we are not building anything in their [China] territory, only in ours" and "other governments did not even take these steps". He further added that difficult terrain and the need to create an infrastructure ecosystem were among the challenges the government faced while setting up the towers. Rijiju said: "All agencies have come together to set up the infrastructure from roads to electricity. It will be pivotal in providing digital services to the people. It was a whole of government approach that helped." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: More than 300 border villages in Arunachal Pradesh to get 4G connectivity

Ending an over 50-year-old border dispute, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday signed an agreement in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah here which will bring settlement to 123 villages located along areas the two northeastern states share.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his Arunachal Pradesh counterpart Pema Khandu signed the agreement. Assam and Arunachal Pradesh share an 804.1-km-long border which has been in dispute since the latter was made a union territory in 1972. It was upgraded to state in 1987.

Shah said the dispute over 123 villages on both sides of the inter-state border has been resolved once and for all at a time when the country is celebrating its 75th year of Independence.

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He said it was a historic event for both Assam and Arunachal Pradesh resolving their long boundary dispute amicably. Shah exuded optimism that the boundary settlement would usher in all-round development and peace in the Northeast as the agreement ended the border dispute which has been lingering since 1972.

"It is a big moment for the entire northeastern region which has been witnessing all round development ever since the Narendra Modi government came to power in 2014," he said. The home minister said Modi has been actively promoting the growth of languages, literature and culture of the Northeast and the recent record-breaking performance of Bihu dance was a shining example.

He said that the report of the Local Commission on the border dispute kept circling around for decades, which has now been accepted by both the states. Shah said today's agreement will prove to be a milestone in the direction of realising Modi's dream of a developed, peaceful and conflict-free Northeast.

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Shah said that since 2018, the central government has signed several accords including with Bru tribals, insurgent groups NLFT and some belonging to Assam's Karbi Anglong and established peace and ended violence in the Northeast.

He said as compared to 2014, there has been a 67 per cent reduction in incidents of violence, 60 per cent reduction in the number of deaths of security forces and 83 per cent reduction in the number of civilian deaths in the Northeast, which is a big achievement.

The home minister said the Modi government has withdrawn the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act from most of places in Assam, 15 police stations in 6 districts in Manipur, all but 3 districts in Arunachal Pradesh, 7 districts in Nagaland, and entire Tripura and Meghalaya.

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Assam chief minister Sarma termed the signing of the MoU as historic and said the deal would be a harbinger of peace and prosperity. He said after 51 years, one of India's longest running inter-state disputes comes to a decisive end and this breakthrough has been possible due to the prime minister's blessings, guidance of the union home minister and unstinted support from Arunachal Pradesh chief minister.

"Today's agreement with Arunachal Pradesh is in line with similar efforts made with Meghalaya in last two years. This will boost the spirit of bonhomie in the Northeast and strengthen our federal structure as it brings a new paradigm to resolve differences between states," he said.

Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Khandu termed the settlement of boundary dispute as "momentous and historic" and exuded confidence that it would bring about a sea change on the peace and development of both the states.

He said the agreement has been possible due to the initiative and political will of the prime minister and the union home minister and active cooperation of the Assam government led by Sarma. 
Out of the 123 villages claimed by Arunachal Pradesh before the Local Commission in 2007, 71 have been amicable resolved so far.

This includes 27 villages resolved through the Namsai Declaration on July 15, 2022 and 34 villages through this MoU.

Out of the 71 villages, one village will be included in Assam from Arunachal Pradesh, 10 villages will continue in Assam and 60 villages will be included in Arunachal Pradesh from Assam. Out of the remaining 52 villages, the village boundary of 49 villages is to be finalised by the regional committees in next six months while three villages situation inside the IAF bombing range will require rehabilitation.

Officials said the agreement will end the dispute relating to 123 villages along the border keeping in view the historical perspective, demographic profile, administrative convenience, proximity to the border and the aspirations of the residents. Under the pact, both the state governments have agreed that it will be final with regards to these 123 disputed villages and neither of the states will make any new claim related to any area or village in future.

After the agreement, a detailed survey will be carried out by the Survey of India in the presence of representatives of both the state governments to determine the boundaries of both the states, officials said. 
Sarma said as a goodwill gesture, the Arunachal Pradesh government will hand over a large tract of land under in possession in Assam's Jorhat to the Assam government.

Arunachal Pradesh, which was made a union territory in 1972, has been maintaining that several forested tracts in the plains traditionally belonged to hill tribal chiefs and communities and these were "unilaterally" transferred to Assam earlier.

After Arunachal Pradesh achieved statehood in 1987, a tripartite committee was appointed, which recommended that certain territories be transferred from Assam to Arunachal Pradesh. Assam contested this and the matter was in the Supreme Court for a long time.

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Ending an over 50-year-old border dispute, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday signed an agreement in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah here which will bring settlement to 123 villages located along areas the two northeastern states share.

Ending an over 50-year-old border dispute, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday signed an agreement in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah here which will bring settlement to 123 villages located along areas the two northeastern states share. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his Arunachal Pradesh counterpart Pema Khandu signed the agreement. Assam and Arunachal Pradesh share an 804.1-km-long border which has been in dispute since the latter was made a union territory in 1972. It was upgraded to state in 1987. Shah said the dispute over 123 villages on both sides of the inter-state border has been resolved once and for all at a time when the country is celebrating its 75th year of Independence. Also Read | North Korea hits back at G7, says position as nuclear state 'final and irreversible' He said it was a historic event for both Assam and Arunachal Pradesh resolving their long boundary dispute amicably. Shah exuded optimism that the boundary settlement would usher in all-round development and peace in the Northeast as the agreement ended the border dispute which has been lingering since 1972. "It is a big moment for the entire northeastern region which has been witnessing all round development ever since the Narendra Modi government came to power in 2014," he said. The home minister said Modi has been actively promoting the growth of languages, literature and culture of the Northeast and the recent record-breaking performance of Bihu dance was a shining example. He said that the report of the Local Commission on the border dispute kept circling around for decades, which has now been accepted by both the states. Shah said today's agreement will prove to be a milestone in the direction of realising Modi's dream of a developed, peaceful and conflict-free Northeast. Also Read | Russian recruitment ad calling for 'real men' to fight in Ukraine Shah said that since 2018, the central government has signed several accords including with Bru tribals, insurgent groups NLFT and some belonging to Assam's Karbi Anglong and established peace and ended violence in the Northeast. He said as compared to 2014, there has been a 67 per cent reduction in incidents of violence, 60 per cent reduction in the number of deaths of security forces and 83 per cent reduction in the number of civilian deaths in the Northeast, which is a big achievement. The home minister said the Modi government has withdrawn the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act from most of places in Assam, 15 police stations in 6 districts in Manipur, all but 3 districts in Arunachal Pradesh, 7 districts in Nagaland, and entire Tripura and Meghalaya. Watch | Have British schools become breeding grounds for Anti-Hindu hate? × Assam chief minister Sarma termed the signing of the MoU as historic and said the deal would be a harbinger of peace and prosperity. He said after 51 years, one of India's longest running inter-state disputes comes to a decisive end and this breakthrough has been possible due to the prime minister's blessings, guidance of the union home minister and unstinted support from Arunachal Pradesh chief minister. "Today's agreement with Arunachal Pradesh is in line with similar efforts made with Meghalaya in last two years. This will boost the spirit of bonhomie in the Northeast and strengthen our federal structure as it brings a new paradigm to resolve differences between states," he said. Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Khandu termed the settlement of boundary dispute as "momentous and historic" and exuded confidence that it would bring about a sea change on the peace and development of both the states. He said the agreement has been possible due to the initiative and political will of the prime minister and the union home minister and active cooperation of the Assam government led by Sarma. Out of the 123 villages claimed by Arunachal Pradesh before the Local Commission in 2007, 71 have been amicable resolved so far. This includes 27 villages resolved through the Namsai Declaration on July 15, 2022 and 34 villages through this MoU. Out of the 71 villages, one village will be included in Assam from Arunachal Pradesh, 10 villages will continue in Assam and 60 villages will be included in Arunachal Pradesh from Assam. Out of the remaining 52 villages, the village boundary of 49 villages is to be finalised by the regional committees in next six months while three villages situation inside the IAF bombing range will require rehabilitation. Officials said the agreement will end the dispute relating to 123 villages along the border keeping in view the historical perspective, demographic profile, administrative convenience, proximity to the border and the aspirations of the residents. Under the pact, both the state governments have agreed that it will be final with regards to these 123 disputed villages and neither of the states will make any new claim related to any area or village in future. After the agreement, a detailed survey will be carried out by the Survey of India in the presence of representatives of both the state governments to determine the boundaries of both the states, officials said. Sarma said as a goodwill gesture, the Arunachal Pradesh government will hand over a large tract of land under in possession in Assam's Jorhat to the Assam government. Arunachal Pradesh, which was made a union territory in 1972, has been maintaining that several forested tracts in the plains traditionally belonged to hill tribal chiefs and communities and these were "unilaterally" transferred to Assam earlier. After Arunachal Pradesh achieved statehood in 1987, a tripartite committee was appointed, which recommended that certain territories be transferred from Assam to Arunachal Pradesh. Assam contested this and the matter was in the Supreme Court for a long time. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh sign border pact ending decades-old disputes

Days after a renaming bid that drew sharp criticism, China has now been left fuming over Home Minister Amit Shah's visit to Arunachal Pradesh. A foreign ministry spokesperson from the other country insisted that Shah's visit to a 'Chinese territory' had violating Beijing's territorial sovereignty.

China fumes as Amit Shah visits Arunachal Pradesh, dubs it 'violation of territorial sovereignty'

India bolstered defences in the strategically-vulnerable Siliguri Corridor amid exacerbated uncertainties with China. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan examined the operational readiness in the eastern sector on Saturday and Sunday. The Indian Army has taken several other measures along the entire frontier.&nbsp;

General Chauhan reviewed the forward areas in north Bengal and the Hasimara air base. Furthermore, he briefed the headquarters of the 33 Trishakti Corps at Sukna and the new Rafale fighters squadron on the operational situation along the northern borders of Sikkim, Times of India reported. "Accompanied by 33 Corps commander Lt-General V P S Kaushik, the CDS assessed the progress of infrastructure development, operational and logistics preparedness in the region," an officer stated on Sunday.

China has been fortifying its military positions, border infrastructure and air bases fronting India. However, there have been no signs of de-escalation along 3,488 kilometres of Line of Actual Control (LAC). On April 2, China released a hardened stance on 'standardised' names of eleven places in Arunachal Pradesh.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-5880-new-cases-nationwide-mock-drill-in-hospitals-to-check-preparedness-580873">COVID-19: India records 5,880 new cases. Nationwide mock drill in hospitals to check preparedness</a>

The People's Liberation Army have increased its activities and infrastructure enhancement in the Bhutanese territory of Doklam near the Sikkam-Bhutan-Tibet tri-junction. It is a prominent concern for India, underlining the menace to the Siliguri Corridor or Chicken's Neck.&nbsp;

The Siliguri Corridor is a narrow strip of land in North Bengal connecting the northeast with the rest of India. The Indian Army and Air Force have taken steps to shore up their offensive and defensive capabilities in the eastern sector. The continuous military conflict flared following numerous intrusions by the People's Liberation Army into eastern Ladakh in the western sector in April-May 2020.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Protests in US over new abortion pill ruling; China Taiwan tensions continue

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&nbsp;

In February, the Indian Army operationalised Abhra, the first medium-range surface-to-air missile (MR-SAM) regiment in the 33 Corps, tasked with the LAC defence in Sikkim and Siliguri Corridor. The IAF has also deployed the even more potent Russian-origin S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile system.

(With inputs from agencies)

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India bolstered defences in the strategically-vulnerable Siliguri Corridor amid exacerbated uncertainties with China. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan examined the operational readiness in the eastern sector on Saturday and Sunday.

India bolstered defences in the strategically-vulnerable Siliguri Corridor amid exacerbated uncertainties with China. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan examined the operational readiness in the eastern sector on Saturday and Sunday. The Indian Army has taken several other measures along the entire frontier. General Chauhan reviewed the forward areas in north Bengal and the Hasimara air base. Furthermore, he briefed the headquarters of the 33 Trishakti Corps at Sukna and the new Rafale fighters squadron on the operational situation along the northern borders of Sikkim, Times of India reported. "Accompanied by 33 Corps commander Lt-General V P S Kaushik, the CDS assessed the progress of infrastructure development, operational and logistics preparedness in the region," an officer stated on Sunday. China has been fortifying its military positions, border infrastructure and air bases fronting India. However, there have been no signs of de-escalation along 3,488 kilometres of Line of Actual Control (LAC). On April 2, China released a hardened stance on 'standardised' names of eleven places in Arunachal Pradesh. ALSO READ | COVID-19: India records 5,880 new cases. Nationwide mock drill in hospitals to check preparedness The People's Liberation Army have increased its activities and infrastructure enhancement in the Bhutanese territory of Doklam near the Sikkam-Bhutan-Tibet tri-junction. It is a prominent concern for India, underlining the menace to the Siliguri Corridor or Chicken's Neck. The Siliguri Corridor is a narrow strip of land in North Bengal connecting the northeast with the rest of India. The Indian Army and Air Force have taken steps to shore up their offensive and defensive capabilities in the eastern sector. The continuous military conflict flared following numerous intrusions by the People's Liberation Army into eastern Ladakh in the western sector in April-May 2020. WATCH | Protests in US over new abortion pill ruling; China Taiwan tensions continue In February, the Indian Army operationalised Abhra, the first medium-range surface-to-air missile (MR-SAM) regiment in the 33 Corps, tasked with the LAC defence in Sikkim and Siliguri Corridor. The IAF has also deployed the even more potent Russian-origin S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile system. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Eye on China: India's Chief of Defence Staff reviews operations in eastern border amid tensions

China made another claim to India's Arunachal Pradesh by releasing a list of “standardised geographical names” which included 11 places present in the frontier state that actually turned out to be random names given to nondescript peaks, isolated forest tracts, non-existent rivers and towns superficially bound together as part of Medog, Zayu and Cona counties in Tibet's Nyingchi prefecture.

For instance, China named the two rivers as “Qiburi He” and “Geduo He”, however, it did not provide the co-ordinate of both the rivers, as its civil affairs ministry simply claimed that these were “specific locations”.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-condemns-meeting-between-us-house-speaker-and-taiwan-president-vows-resolute-response-579595">China condemns meeting between US House speaker and Taiwan president, vows 'resolute' response</a>

In the list, they called a “piece of land” as “Bangqin” in the forested mountainous area ahead of Zemithang, which is the last village of India in the Tawang district, close to the McMahon Line which demarcates the border of the two nations.

The exercise was dismissed by the official sources as China's “mere mischief” ahead of the Cope India IAF-US Air Force air combat exercise to be held from April 10 to 21 at Kalaikunda airbase in West Bengal.

The list was released by China’s ministry of civil affairs on April 2, using both Tibetan and Chinese pinyin - which is the system of writing native words and names in the Latin alphabet on the basis of pronunciation.

The list, which was the third of its kind, was described by China as an “addition of publicly used place names in southern Tibet” along with administrative districts, select co-ordinates and categories.

China's list included one entry of a settlement named “Jiangkazong”, whose co-ordinates are of a house mapped to Tawang town, which is west of the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya.

The list includes co-ordinates of another settlement named “Dadong” which refer to a large open space marked as part of Tato town in the West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh as per Google Maps.

China has renamed another “piece of land” as “Guyutong” which actually is a forest clearing near Lohit River's western bank, north of Kibithoo in eastern Arunachal's Anjaw district.

WATCH | China renames places in India's Arunachal Pradesh state

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The co-ordinates mentioned for “Luosu Ri”, “Diepu Ri”, “Dongzila Feng”, “Nimagang Feng” and “Jiuniuze Gangri” are acutally mountain tops which are spread across the northeastern state's different locations.

While claims made by China have been dismissed by India, the Chinese foreign ministry has been asserting “sovereign right” on the 11 places listed. It continues to claim that they belong to “Zangnan, the southern part of Tibet”.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, in a statement, said that the United States opposed any “unilateral attempts to advance a territory claim by renaming localities”.

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(With inputs from agencies)

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China made another claim to India's Arunachal Pradesh by releasing a list of “standardised geographical names” which included 11 places present in the frontier state that actually turned out to be random names given to nondescript peaks, isolated forest tracts, non-existent rivers and towns superficially bound together as part of Medog, Zayu and Cona counties in Tibet's Nyingchi prefecture.

China made another claim to India's Arunachal Pradesh by releasing a list of “standardised geographical names” which included 11 places present in the frontier state that actually turned out to be random names given to nondescript peaks, isolated forest tracts, non-existent rivers and towns superficially bound together as part of Medog, Zayu and Cona counties in Tibet's Nyingchi prefecture. For instance, China named the two rivers as “Qiburi He” and “Geduo He”, however, it did not provide the co-ordinate of both the rivers, as its civil affairs ministry simply claimed that these were “specific locations”. ALSO READ | China condemns meeting between US House speaker and Taiwan president, vows 'resolute' response In the list, they called a “piece of land” as “Bangqin” in the forested mountainous area ahead of Zemithang, which is the last village of India in the Tawang district, close to the McMahon Line which demarcates the border of the two nations. The exercise was dismissed by the official sources as China's “mere mischief” ahead of the Cope India IAF-US Air Force air combat exercise to be held from April 10 to 21 at Kalaikunda airbase in West Bengal. The list was released by China’s ministry of civil affairs on April 2, using both Tibetan and Chinese pinyin - which is the system of writing native words and names in the Latin alphabet on the basis of pronunciation. The list, which was the third of its kind, was described by China as an “addition of publicly used place names in southern Tibet” along with administrative districts, select co-ordinates and categories. China's list included one entry of a settlement named “Jiangkazong”, whose co-ordinates are of a house mapped to Tawang town, which is west of the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya. The list includes co-ordinates of another settlement named “Dadong” which refer to a large open space marked as part of Tato town in the West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh as per Google Maps. China has renamed another “piece of land” as “Guyutong” which actually is a forest clearing near Lohit River's western bank, north of Kibithoo in eastern Arunachal's Anjaw district. WATCH | China renames places in India's Arunachal Pradesh state The co-ordinates mentioned for “Luosu Ri”, “Diepu Ri”, “Dongzila Feng”, “Nimagang Feng” and “Jiuniuze Gangri” are acutally mountain tops which are spread across the northeastern state's different locations. While claims made by China have been dismissed by India, the Chinese foreign ministry has been asserting “sovereign right” on the 11 places listed. It continues to claim that they belong to “Zangnan, the southern part of Tibet”. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, in a statement, said that the United States opposed any “unilateral attempts to advance a territory claim by renaming localities”. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China renames non-existent ‘piece of land’, rivers in India's Arunachal Pradesh

The Indo-China tensions over the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh are on the rise. In a move seen as a reiteration of China's claim over Arunachal Pradesh, China has released a third set of names of 11 cities in the state. China calls the Indian state “Zangnan, the southern part of Tibet”.

China provokes India by ‘renaming’ 11 places in Arunachal Pradesh

China has renamed 11 places in the northeast Indian state Arunachal Pradesh that it says are part of South Tibet. This was the third time China has unilaterally renamed places in Arunachal Pradesh, having done it in April 2017, and in December 2021.

China renames places in India's Arunachal Pradesh state

In an effort to lay claim over Arunachal Pradesh, Beijing has renamed 11 places in the northeast Indian state that it says are part of South Tibet. The move drew sharp reaction from India.

China's Ministry of Civil Affairs on Sunday released a third set of names for 11 places in the state, which it refers to as “Zangnan, the southern part of Tibet”, state-run Global Times reported on Monday.

The first batch of six places was announced in 2017 and the second batch of 15 places in 2021.

The names are standardised in Chinese, Tibetan, and Pinyin characters, which follows the regulations on geographical names issued by the State Council, China's cabinet.

The list includes precise coordinates for two land areas, two residential areas, five mountain peaks, and two rivers, along with their subordinate administrative districts, the news outlet reported.

These are the 11 places that have been renamed

<img src="https://images3.mca.gov.cn/www2017/pic/202304/02/20230402094035921.jpg" />

Beijing has also released a map showing&nbsp;parts of Arunachal Pradesh inside the southern Tibetan region, including a town situated close to the state capital of Itanagar.

<img src="https://images3.mca.gov.cn/www2017/pic/202304/02/20230402094344230.jpg" />

The Global Times quoted Chinese experts as saying that the announcement of names is a legitimate move and China's sovereign right to standardise geographical names.

The move drew&nbsp;strong reactions from New Delhi, which has asserted that Arunachal Pradesh has "always been" and will "always be" an integral part of India and that assigning "invented" names does not alter this fact.

"We have seen such reports. This is not the first time China has made such an attempt. we reject this outright. Arunachal Pradesh is an integral, inalienable part of India. Attempts to assign invented names will not alter this reality,"&nbsp;India's Ministry of External Affairs&nbsp;spokesperson Arindam Bagchi&nbsp;said in a statement.

Renaming ahead of defence minister’s visit

The latest move at renaming places comes days ahead of the scheduled visit of China’s newly appointed Defence Minister General Li Shangfu to India.

He is expected to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meetings this month. China’s Foreign Minister Qin Gang will also be attending the meeting of SCO foreign ministers in May. India currently holds the presidency of the group.

Also, Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit India for the SCO summit in July.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In an effort to lay claim over Arunachal Pradesh, Beijing has renamed 11 places in the northeast Indian state that it says are part of South Tibet. The move drew sharp reaction from India.

In an effort to lay claim over Arunachal Pradesh, Beijing has renamed 11 places in the northeast Indian state that it says are part of South Tibet. The move drew sharp reaction from India. China's Ministry of Civil Affairs on Sunday released a third set of names for 11 places in the state, which it refers to as “Zangnan, the southern part of Tibet”, state-run Global Times reported on Monday. The first batch of six places was announced in 2017 and the second batch of 15 places in 2021. The names are standardised in Chinese, Tibetan, and Pinyin characters, which follows the regulations on geographical names issued by the State Council, China's cabinet. The list includes precise coordinates for two land areas, two residential areas, five mountain peaks, and two rivers, along with their subordinate administrative districts, the news outlet reported. These are the 11 places that have been renamed Beijing has also released a map showing parts of Arunachal Pradesh inside the southern Tibetan region, including a town situated close to the state capital of Itanagar. The Global Times quoted Chinese experts as saying that the announcement of names is a legitimate move and China's sovereign right to standardise geographical names. The move drew strong reactions from New Delhi, which has asserted that Arunachal Pradesh has "always been" and will "always be" an integral part of India and that assigning "invented" names does not alter this fact. "We have seen such reports. This is not the first time China has made such an attempt. we reject this outright. Arunachal Pradesh is an integral, inalienable part of India. Attempts to assign invented names will not alter this reality," India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said in a statement. Renaming ahead of defence minister’s visit The latest move at renaming places comes days ahead of the scheduled visit of China’s newly appointed Defence Minister General Li Shangfu to India. He is expected to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meetings this month. China’s Foreign Minister Qin Gang will also be attending the meeting of SCO foreign ministers in May. India currently holds the presidency of the group. Also, Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit India for the SCO summit in July. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China renames 11 places in India’s Arunachal Pradesh state, calls it ‘Southern Tibet’; New Delhi reacts

A confidential G20 meeting held in Itanagar, the capital city of India's Arunachal Pradesh, was not attended by China on Sunday, as per reports.

Arunachal Pradesh which is India's northeastern state has long been part of a border dispute as China continues to claim that the state is a part of Tibet. Such claims have been rejected by India in the past as it continues to claim Arunachal as an integral part of the country.

Around 50 delegates participated in the meeting which is one among many events being planned across 50 major cities before the G20 summit which will be held in the month of September in India's capital New Delhi.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-g20-framework-working-group-meeting-underway-chaired-by-india-uk-575227">Second G20 framework working group meeting underway; chaired by India, UK</a>

Currently, India holds the G20 presidency. It still remains unclear if a protest has been officially lodged by China against India over the meeting.

No comments were made by China or India's foreign ministry so far. The meeting, which was held at the weekend, was declared confidential and no media coverage of the event was allowed.

The meeting which was held under the theme 'Research innovation initiative, gathering' was organised by the Science and Technology department.

The delegates who participated in the meeting also visited the legislative assembly of Arunachal Pradesh as well as a Buddhist monastery in Itanagar. On their arrival, the delegates were welcomed by the cultural troupes at the airport. The delegates also tasted local cuisines, officials said.

WATCH | India aims to build consensus at G20 meet

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Last December, the troops of India and China were reported to have clashed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Tawang sector of the state, in a face-off which came during a border standoff which continued for a month in eastern Ladakh.

China was then accused by India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh of making attempts to "unilaterally" change the status quo along the LAC.

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A confidential G20 meeting held in Itanagar, the capital city of India's Arunachal Pradesh, was not attended by China on Sunday, as per reports. Arunachal Pradesh which is India's northeastern state has long been part of a border dispute as China continues to claim that the state is a part of Tibet.

A confidential G20 meeting held in Itanagar, the capital city of India's Arunachal Pradesh, was not attended by China on Sunday, as per reports. Arunachal Pradesh which is India's northeastern state has long been part of a border dispute as China continues to claim that the state is a part of Tibet. Such claims have been rejected by India in the past as it continues to claim Arunachal as an integral part of the country. Around 50 delegates participated in the meeting which is one among many events being planned across 50 major cities before the G20 summit which will be held in the month of September in India's capital New Delhi. ALSO READ | Second G20 framework working group meeting underway; chaired by India, UK Currently, India holds the G20 presidency. It still remains unclear if a protest has been officially lodged by China against India over the meeting. No comments were made by China or India's foreign ministry so far. The meeting, which was held at the weekend, was declared confidential and no media coverage of the event was allowed. The meeting which was held under the theme 'Research innovation initiative, gathering' was organised by the Science and Technology department. The delegates who participated in the meeting also visited the legislative assembly of Arunachal Pradesh as well as a Buddhist monastery in Itanagar. On their arrival, the delegates were welcomed by the cultural troupes at the airport. The delegates also tasted local cuisines, officials said. WATCH | India aims to build consensus at G20 meet Last December, the troops of India and China were reported to have clashed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Tawang sector of the state, in a face-off which came during a border standoff which continued for a month in eastern Ladakh. China was then accused by India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh of making attempts to "unilaterally" change the status quo along the LAC. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China skips confidential G20 meet in India's Arunachal Pradesh

A Cheetah helicopter of the Indian Army crashed near the Mandala hills area in Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday (March 16), killing the pilot and co-pilot on board. The pilots were identified as&nbsp;Lieutenant Colonel VVB Reddy and Major Jayanth A.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, the Eastern Command of the army said, "Lieutenant General RP Kalita, Army Cdr EC&nbsp;&amp; All Ranks offer tribute to the supreme sacrifice of Lt Col VVB Reddy and&nbsp;Maj Jayanth A, in the line of duty at Mandala, Arunachal Pradesh while carrying out operational flying of Cheetah Helicopter. Indian Army stands firm with the bereaved families."

Earlier in the day, Lieutenant Colonel Mahendra Rawat, the public relations officer (PRO) at Defence Guwahati, told the news agency ANI that&nbsp;the helicopter was flying an operational sortie near Bomdila and was reported to have lost contact with the ATC at around 9.15 am.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LtGenRPKalita?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LtGenRPKalita</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArmyCdrEC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArmyCdrEC</a> &amp; All Ranks offer tribute to the supreme sacrifice of Lt Col VVB Reddy &amp; Maj Jayanth A, in the line of duty at Mandala, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArunachalPradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArunachalPradesh</a> while carrying out operational flying of Cheetah Helicopter. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> stands firm with the bereaved families <a href="https://t.co/XimeZQ0pan">pic.twitter.com/XimeZQ0pan</a>
— EasternCommand_IA (@easterncomd) <a href="https://twitter.com/easterncomd/status/1636348278974324737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, the Arunachal Pradesh Police said search and rescue teams of the army, the SSB and the police left for the crash site. However, no visuals were available as the area had no signal.&nbsp;

This incident in Arunachal Pradesh more than two years after 13 personnel of the Indian Air Force (IAF) died after their AN-32 aircraft crashed on June 3, 2019, after taking off from Assam`s Jorhat. The aircraft was headed for Mechuka Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) in Arunachal Pradesh when it lost contact with ground authorities at around 1 pm.

After massive search and rescue operations, &nbsp;the wreckage of the aircraft was located by a Mi-17 chopper. The remains of IAF personnel were retrieved on June 20 from Arunachal Pradesh where the aircraft crashed.

On January 28 this year, two fighter jets of the Air Force crashed, killing one pilot and injuring two others, in an apparent mid-air collision while on exercises south of the capital New Delhi. The crash involved a Russian-made Sukhoi Su-30, carrying two pilots, and a French-built Mirage 2000.&nbsp;

Both these aircraft took off from the Gwalior air base, around 50 kilometres east of where they came down.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Cheetah helicopter of the Indian Army crashed near the Mandala hills area in Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday (March 16), killing the pilot and co-pilot on board.

A Cheetah helicopter of the Indian Army crashed near the Mandala hills area in Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday (March 16), killing the pilot and co-pilot on board. The pilots were identified as Lieutenant Colonel VVB Reddy and Major Jayanth A. Taking to Twitter, the Eastern Command of the army said, "Lieutenant General RP Kalita, Army Cdr EC & All Ranks offer tribute to the supreme sacrifice of Lt Col VVB Reddy and Maj Jayanth A, in the line of duty at Mandala, Arunachal Pradesh while carrying out operational flying of Cheetah Helicopter. Indian Army stands firm with the bereaved families." Earlier in the day, Lieutenant Colonel Mahendra Rawat, the public relations officer (PRO) at Defence Guwahati, told the news agency ANI that the helicopter was flying an operational sortie near Bomdila and was reported to have lost contact with the ATC at around 9.15 am. #LtGenRPKalita #ArmyCdrEC & All Ranks offer tribute to the supreme sacrifice of Lt Col VVB Reddy & Maj Jayanth A, in the line of duty at Mandala, #ArunachalPradesh while carrying out operational flying of Cheetah Helicopter. #IndianArmy stands firm with the bereaved families pic.twitter.com/XimeZQ0pan — EasternCommand_IA (@easterncomd) March 16, 2023 × Earlier, the Arunachal Pradesh Police said search and rescue teams of the army, the SSB and the police left for the crash site. However, no visuals were available as the area had no signal. This incident in Arunachal Pradesh more than two years after 13 personnel of the Indian Air Force (IAF) died after their AN-32 aircraft crashed on June 3, 2019, after taking off from Assam`s Jorhat. The aircraft was headed for Mechuka Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) in Arunachal Pradesh when it lost contact with ground authorities at around 1 pm. After massive search and rescue operations, the wreckage of the aircraft was located by a Mi-17 chopper. The remains of IAF personnel were retrieved on June 20 from Arunachal Pradesh where the aircraft crashed. On January 28 this year, two fighter jets of the Air Force crashed, killing one pilot and injuring two others, in an apparent mid-air collision while on exercises south of the capital New Delhi. The crash involved a Russian-made Sukhoi Su-30, carrying two pilots, and a French-built Mirage 2000. Both these aircraft took off from the Gwalior air base, around 50 kilometres east of where they came down. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Army helicopter crashes near Mandala hills in Arunachal, both pilots killed

India & China have a long shared history of what could arguably be one of the world’s most intense border disputes. The dispute in the Eastern sector revolves around the state of Arunachal Pradesh. Both nations have an ongoing tussle over the territorial claim in Arunachal Pradesh.

U.S. acknowledges McMahon Line as China-Arunachal Pradesh international border

A Bipartisan Senate Resolution has been passed in the United States announcing the recognition of the McMahon Line as the international border between the countries of India and China. It also recognised the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh as an integral part of India.

U.S. recognises McMahon Line as international boundary between India-China border

Two United States (US) Senators- Jeff Merkley (Democratic Senator from Oregon) and Bill Hagerty (Republican Senator from Tennessee) teamed up to introduce a bipartisan Senate resolution reaffirming America's recognition of Arunachal Pradesh as an integral part of India, condemning China's military aggression to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

In a statement on Thursday (February 16), Senator Merkley said that US's values supporting freedom and a rules-based order must be at the centre of all its actions and relationships around the world- especially as the Chinese government pushes an alternative vision.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-talk-to-xi-in-wake-of-balloon-shoot-down-by-us-562889">US President Biden to talk to China's Xi in wake of balloon controversy</a>

“This resolution makes clear that the United States views the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh as part of the Republic of India—not the People’s Republic of China (PRC)—and commits the US to deepening support and assistance to the region, alongside like-minded international partners and donors,” Merkley added.&nbsp;

Senator Bill Hagerty, meanwhile, said on Thursday that at a time when China continued to pose grave and gathering threats to the free and open Indo-Pacific, it was critical for the US to "stand shoulder-to-shoulder" with its partners in the region, especially India.

"This bipartisan resolution expresses the Senate’s support for unequivocally recognizing the state of Arunachal Pradesh as an integral part of India, condemning China’s military aggression to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control, and further enhancing the US-India strategic partnership and the Quad in support of the Free and Open Indo-Pacific," Senator Hagerty added.&nbsp;

Thursday's resolution comes after Indian and Chinese troops engaged in a skirmish in Arunachal Pradesh along the LAC in December 2022, the biggest clash in the Eastern Sector in six years. The statement by Senator Merkley said the resolution reaffirmed that the US recognised the McMahon Line as the international boundary between China and Arunachal Pradesh, and pushes back against Beijing's claims that Arunachal is PRC&nbsp;territory, which is a part of the PRC’s increasingly aggressive and expansionist policies.&nbsp;

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"The Senators’ resolution condemns additional PRC provocations, including the People’s Republic of China’s use of military force to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control, construction of villages in contested areas, publication of maps with Mandarin-language names for cities and feature in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, and expansion of PRC territorial claims in Bhutan," the statement added.&nbsp;

The resolution also commended the Indian government for taking steps to defend itself from China's aggression and security threats. These efforts included securing &nbsp;India’s telecommunications infrastructure; examining its procurement processes and supply chains and expanding cooperation with Taiwan in public health and other sectors.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Two United States (US) Senators- Jeff Merkley (Democratic Senator from Oregon) and Bill Hagerty (Republican Senator from Tennessee) teamed up to introduce a bipartisan Senate resolution reaffirming America's recognition of Arunachal Pradesh as an integral part of India, condemning China's military aggression to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Two United States (US) Senators- Jeff Merkley (Democratic Senator from Oregon) and Bill Hagerty (Republican Senator from Tennessee) teamed up to introduce a bipartisan Senate resolution reaffirming America's recognition of Arunachal Pradesh as an integral part of India, condemning China's military aggression to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). In a statement on Thursday (February 16), Senator Merkley said that US's values supporting freedom and a rules-based order must be at the centre of all its actions and relationships around the world- especially as the Chinese government pushes an alternative vision. ALSO READ | US President Biden to talk to China's Xi in wake of balloon controversy “This resolution makes clear that the United States views the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh as part of the Republic of India—not the People’s Republic of China (PRC)—and commits the US to deepening support and assistance to the region, alongside like-minded international partners and donors,” Merkley added. Senator Bill Hagerty, meanwhile, said on Thursday that at a time when China continued to pose grave and gathering threats to the free and open Indo-Pacific, it was critical for the US to "stand shoulder-to-shoulder" with its partners in the region, especially India. "This bipartisan resolution expresses the Senate’s support for unequivocally recognizing the state of Arunachal Pradesh as an integral part of India, condemning China’s military aggression to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control, and further enhancing the US-India strategic partnership and the Quad in support of the Free and Open Indo-Pacific," Senator Hagerty added. Thursday's resolution comes after Indian and Chinese troops engaged in a skirmish in Arunachal Pradesh along the LAC in December 2022, the biggest clash in the Eastern Sector in six years. The statement by Senator Merkley said the resolution reaffirmed that the US recognised the McMahon Line as the international boundary between China and Arunachal Pradesh, and pushes back against Beijing's claims that Arunachal is PRC territory, which is a part of the PRC’s increasingly aggressive and expansionist policies. ALSO READ | Sanctions imposed by China on Lockheed Martin and Raytheon over Taiwan arms sales "The Senators’ resolution condemns additional PRC provocations, including the People’s Republic of China’s use of military force to change the status quo along the Line of Actual Control, construction of villages in contested areas, publication of maps with Mandarin-language names for cities and feature in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, and expansion of PRC territorial claims in Bhutan," the statement added. The resolution also commended the Indian government for taking steps to defend itself from China's aggression and security threats. These efforts included securing India’s telecommunications infrastructure; examining its procurement processes and supply chains and expanding cooperation with Taiwan in public health and other sectors. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US Senators introduce bipartisan resolution reaffirming Arunachal Pradesh as integral part of India

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will be in Arunachal&nbsp;Pradesh on Tuesday and&nbsp;inaugurate several infrastructure projects, both virtually and in person. In the bordering state, he will be&nbsp;inaugurating four bridges --Siyom ,&nbsp;Simar, Swamy and Moody bridges and&nbsp;Pangin Boleng road. All in all, he will be inaugurating 28 infrastructure projects in bordering states like Sikkim, Uttarakhand and union territories of Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh.&nbsp;

This is the first visit by a top Indian minister to the bordering state since the India-China face off on December 9. The face-off&nbsp;took place in LAC in Yangtse area of Tawang Sector when Chinese forces tried to transgress in the region. The incident led to injuries to a few personnel on both sides and was the worst ever face off since 2020 Galwan incident in Eastern Ladakh. The Galwan incident saw the worst ever loss of life at the Line of actual control between India and China in the last 45 years.

The projects have been completed by BRO at the cost of Rs 724.3 Cr. These include 22 Bridges and several roads. Bridges include 5 bridges in Union territory of J&amp;K --Maitra, Manna-II, Basti, Baknor, Begal, 8 in UT of Ladakh- PMH-II, III, IV, BR at KM 61,BR at KM 63, &nbsp;BR at KM 111.60, BR at KM 130, BR at KM 172, 2 Bridges in Uttarakhand-Dhauliganga, Gumrodi Nallah, 3 Bridges in Sikkim--kalep Chu, Samdong, Thangu. Roads that will be opened to the public are Srinagar-Sonmarg-Gumri road in UT of J&amp;K, Bhaironghati-Nelong in Uttarakhand.

India is ramping up its border infrastructure fast even as worries grow over Chinese infrastructure development in Tibet &amp; as Delhi-Beijing ties go southwards. EAM Jaishankar recently pointed out that ties with China are "not normal" and how "intense challenge" remain when it comes to the northern border.&nbsp;

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Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will be in Arunachal Pradesh on Tuesday and inaugurate several infrastructure projects, both virtually and in person. In the bordering state, he will be inaugurating four bridges --Siyom , Simar, Swamy and Moody bridges and Pangin Boleng road.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will be in Arunachal Pradesh on Tuesday and inaugurate several infrastructure projects, both virtually and in person. In the bordering state, he will be inaugurating four bridges --Siyom , Simar, Swamy and Moody bridges and Pangin Boleng road. All in all, he will be inaugurating 28 infrastructure projects in bordering states like Sikkim, Uttarakhand and union territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. This is the first visit by a top Indian minister to the bordering state since the India-China face off on December 9. The face-off took place in LAC in Yangtse area of Tawang Sector when Chinese forces tried to transgress in the region. The incident led to injuries to a few personnel on both sides and was the worst ever face off since 2020 Galwan incident in Eastern Ladakh. The Galwan incident saw the worst ever loss of life at the Line of actual control between India and China in the last 45 years. The projects have been completed by BRO at the cost of Rs 724.3 Cr. These include 22 Bridges and several roads. Bridges include 5 bridges in Union territory of J&K --Maitra, Manna-II, Basti, Baknor, Begal, 8 in UT of Ladakh- PMH-II, III, IV, BR at KM 61,BR at KM 63, BR at KM 111.60, BR at KM 130, BR at KM 172, 2 Bridges in Uttarakhand-Dhauliganga, Gumrodi Nallah, 3 Bridges in Sikkim--kalep Chu, Samdong, Thangu. Roads that will be opened to the public are Srinagar-Sonmarg-Gumri road in UT of J&K, Bhaironghati-Nelong in Uttarakhand. India is ramping up its border infrastructure fast even as worries grow over Chinese infrastructure development in Tibet & as Delhi-Beijing ties go southwards. EAM Jaishankar recently pointed out that ties with China are "not normal" and how "intense challenge" remain when it comes to the northern border.

India: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to inaugurate infra projects in Arunachal Pradesh

Border tensions between India and China are escalating again. There has been yet another faceoff in Indian and Chinese troops this time. The incident has been reported in the Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh in the Eastern part of India.

India, China border tensions escalate, faceoff in Arunachal's Tawang sector

A number of Indian soldiers were engaged in a clash with Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA)&nbsp;at Yangtse, Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh on December 9. Sources claimed that few Indian soldiers were injured in the altercation and as a follow-up to the incident, the Indian Commander in the area held a Flag Meeting with his counterpart to discuss the issue in accordance with structured mechanisms.&nbsp;

This was the first altercation between India and China in Arunachal Pradesh since 2020 when 20 Indian soldiers were killed as a result of violent clashes with Chinese forces in the Galwan Valley.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-parliament-rocked-by-corruption-scandal-linked-to-qatar-542193">EU calls corruption charges 'very worrisome' as Greece freezes Kaili's assets</a>

According to The Hindu, there were a few Indian soldiers who suffered fractured limbs and they were taken to a hospital in Guwahati. While no official statement was issued regarding the incident, a source told the publication that more than 600 PLA soldiers were present when the clashes happened.&nbsp;

The clashes between the two forces are not uncommon in Arunachal Pradesh. An altercation took place near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) back in 2021 when Chinese soldiers were detained for a few hours by the Indian army after minor clashes took place near the Yangtse. Government sources told NDTV that such clashes have been taking place since 2006 mainly due to the "differing perceptions" of the border.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-loud-blast-gunfire-heard-near-building-housing-chinese-nationals-542327">Kabul: Attackers killed after blast near building housing Chinese nationals</a>

"In certain areas along the LAC in the Tawang Sector in Arunachal Pradesh there are areas of differing perception, wherein both sides patrol the area up to their claim lines. This has been the trend since 2006. On 09 December 2022, Chinese troops contacted the LAC in Tawang Sector which was contested by own troops in a firm and resolute manner," said the sources.&nbsp;

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A number of Indian soldiers were engaged in a clash with Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) at Yangtse, Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh on December 9. Sources claimed that few Indian soldiers were injured in the altercation and as a follow-up to the incident, the Indian Commander in the area held a Flag Meeting with his counterpart to discuss the issue in accordance with structured mechanisms.

A number of Indian soldiers were engaged in a clash with Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) at Yangtse, Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh on December 9. Sources claimed that few Indian soldiers were injured in the altercation and as a follow-up to the incident, the Indian Commander in the area held a Flag Meeting with his counterpart to discuss the issue in accordance with structured mechanisms. This was the first altercation between India and China in Arunachal Pradesh since 2020 when 20 Indian soldiers were killed as a result of violent clashes with Chinese forces in the Galwan Valley. Also read | EU calls corruption charges 'very worrisome' as Greece freezes Kaili's assets According to The Hindu, there were a few Indian soldiers who suffered fractured limbs and they were taken to a hospital in Guwahati. While no official statement was issued regarding the incident, a source told the publication that more than 600 PLA soldiers were present when the clashes happened. The clashes between the two forces are not uncommon in Arunachal Pradesh. An altercation took place near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) back in 2021 when Chinese soldiers were detained for a few hours by the Indian army after minor clashes took place near the Yangtse. Government sources told NDTV that such clashes have been taking place since 2006 mainly due to the "differing perceptions" of the border. Also read | Kabul: Attackers killed after blast near building housing Chinese nationals "In certain areas along the LAC in the Tawang Sector in Arunachal Pradesh there are areas of differing perception, wherein both sides patrol the area up to their claim lines. This has been the trend since 2006. On 09 December 2022, Chinese troops contacted the LAC in Tawang Sector which was contested by own troops in a firm and resolute manner," said the sources.

Indian soldiers clash with Chinese Army in Arunachal Pradesh, injuries on both sides

In India, four bodies have been recovered from a site where an Indian Army helicopter crashed in Arunachal Pradesh early this morning. The advanced light helicopter was carrying five army personnel when it crashed in the Upper Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh.

Indian Army chopper crashes in Arunachal Pradesh, search operation underway

Germany's new ambassador to India Dr Philipp Ackermann&nbsp;has called China claiming the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh as "outrageous" and that "infringement at border is extremely difficult and should not be accepted", in response to a WION question.

The comment come amid worsening of ties between India and China, with the latter's aggressive actions at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. For long, Beijing&nbsp;has been claiming India's northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh as its own, terming it 'south Tibet', something that has been regularly dismissed by New Delhi.

In his first presser since taking charge, Ambassador Ackermann pointed to the difference in 'dimensions' when it comes to Chinese aggression at the LAC in Eastern Ladakh and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. &nbsp;

"You should also differentiate that what happens at the border with China has nothing to do with what happens in Ukraine. China doesn't hold 20 per cent of the Indian territory. China is not destroying systematically every village, every town in the area they hold. This is by dimension is completely different what we see," said Ambassador Ackermann.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/calling-for-reforms-unga-president-abdulla-shahid-says-un-should-reflect-geopolitical-realities-511288">Calling for reforms, UNGA President Abdulla Shahid says UN should reflect geopolitical realities</a>

Comparing the Russian invasion of Ukraine with the Nazi German invasion of Poland during the start of World War 2, Ackermann highlighted that, "..in my lifetime, I would have not thought it would have been possible", pointing, "I think Indian side very well recognizes this problem of violation of international law, basically it is also an Indian problem. You have it in your northern border, something you have been experiencing every couple of years,"

The Russian invasion of Ukraine which started in February has had a huge impact on Europe even as the refugee crisis compounds the continent's problems. Elsewhere, especially in the global south, the impact has been seen as food and fuel prices escalate.&nbsp;

"When we talk with the Indian side, there is an understanding..that international order must be held up and preserved," added the ambassador.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/reflective-of-larger-national-attitude-indian-mission-gives-an-earful-to-chinese-envoy-to-colombo-510768">'Reflective of larger national attitude', Indian mission gives an earful to Chinese envoy to Colombo</a>

Asked about the Russian invasion of Ukraine being a European problem, Ambassador Ackermann said, "...there is a western angle to it, no doubt. &nbsp;There is also a very global concern, food prices are one, it is not a European problem, Senegal, Lebanon and even Ecuador. The second thing is a violation of international law, it has nothing to do with the west, it's a universal principle."

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&nbsp;

Germany's new ambassador to India Dr Philipp Ackermann has called China claiming the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh as "outrageous" and that "infringement at border is extremely difficult and should not be accepted", in response to a WION question.

Germany's new ambassador to India Dr Philipp Ackermann has called China claiming the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh as "outrageous" and that "infringement at border is extremely difficult and should not be accepted", in response to a WION question. The comment come amid worsening of ties between India and China, with the latter's aggressive actions at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. For long, Beijing has been claiming India's northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh as its own, terming it 'south Tibet', something that has been regularly dismissed by New Delhi. In his first presser since taking charge, Ambassador Ackermann pointed to the difference in 'dimensions' when it comes to Chinese aggression at the LAC in Eastern Ladakh and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. "You should also differentiate that what happens at the border with China has nothing to do with what happens in Ukraine. China doesn't hold 20 per cent of the Indian territory. China is not destroying systematically every village, every town in the area they hold. This is by dimension is completely different what we see," said Ambassador Ackermann. Read more: Calling for reforms, UNGA President Abdulla Shahid says UN should reflect geopolitical realities Comparing the Russian invasion of Ukraine with the Nazi German invasion of Poland during the start of World War 2, Ackermann highlighted that, "..in my lifetime, I would have not thought it would have been possible", pointing, "I think Indian side very well recognizes this problem of violation of international law, basically it is also an Indian problem. You have it in your northern border, something you have been experiencing every couple of years," The Russian invasion of Ukraine which started in February has had a huge impact on Europe even as the refugee crisis compounds the continent's problems. Elsewhere, especially in the global south, the impact has been seen as food and fuel prices escalate. "When we talk with the Indian side, there is an understanding..that international order must be held up and preserved," added the ambassador. Read more: 'Reflective of larger national attitude', Indian mission gives an earful to Chinese envoy to Colombo Asked about the Russian invasion of Ukraine being a European problem, Ambassador Ackermann said, "...there is a western angle to it, no doubt. There is also a very global concern, food prices are one, it is not a European problem, Senegal, Lebanon and even Ecuador. The second thing is a violation of international law, it has nothing to do with the west, it's a universal principle." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

German envoy Ackermann calls China's claims on Arunachal Pradesh 'outrageous'

Australia's former prime minister Kevin Rudd believes that China could 'double down' on smaller disputes including Arunachal Pradesh after invading Taiwan. Catch an excerpt of his exclusive conversation with Palki Sharma.

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In pics: Researchers rediscover rare ‘lipstick plant’ in Arunachal Pradesh after a century

India completed the excavation work of Nechiphu Tunnel, located at an altitude of 5,700 feet in its eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh by conducting a final "breakthrough blast", officials said&nbsp;on Friday.

The blast marked the cumulative excavation of more than 4,500 meters, achieved by India's Border Roads Organisation (BRO), in less than two years.

BRO is a road construction executive force in India that provides support to and is now a part of the Indian armed forces. It develops and maintains road networks in India's border areas and friendly neighbouring countries. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Nechiphu Tunnel is a unique 500-metre-long “D-shaped, single tube double lane tunnel” on the Balipara-Charduar-Tawang (BCT) Road in West Kameng district in Arunachal Pradesh.

Once it opens up, the Nechiphu Tunnel, along with the Sela Tunnel, will provide safe, all-weather strategic connectivity on the BCT Road while reducing the carbon footprint in this eco-sensitive area.

Director-General of BRO Lt Gen Rajeev Chaudhry conducted the blast remotely from India's national capital New Delhi.

The tunnel will accommodate two-way traffic and will be equipped with modern lighting and safety facilities, Indian officials said.

The tunnel has been conceived to bypass extreme foggy conditions prevailing around Nechiphu Pass which had caused hindrance to general traffic and military convoys for many decades, officials said.

<img alt="Nechiphu Tunnel " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e1cc81a0-195e-48b8-9919-fdef47229638" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/nechiphu%20%281%29.jpg" />

"The tunnel will be provided with a state-of-the-art electro-mechanical system including firefighting devices, auto illumination system and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) controlled monitoring systems.

"It will also accommodate raised footpaths on both sides for safer pedestrian movement which will have ducts for power cables, optical fibre cables and utility lines to strengthen the civic amenities infrastructure," they said.

The ongoing tunnel construction is being accomplished by cutting through fragile and highly fractured rock strata, officials said.

The attendant challenges are being tackled on daily basis through strict 3D monitoring and through proactive application of desired tunnel support systems in accordance with the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM).

The foundation stone of the project was laid by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on October 12, 2020.

In tandem with the Nechiphu Tunnel project, the Project Vartak of BRO has also completed the excavation work on another strategic tunnel, the Twin Tube (1,555 meters and 980 meters) “Sela Tunnel Project” on the same road, on January 22 this year.

Friday's blast thus marks the cumulative excavation of more than 4,500 meters achieved by BRO in less than two years, officials said.

India has taken up tunnelling in a big way with the completion of high altitude and mountainous tunnels. In addition to the Atal Tunnel, Rohtang in Himachal Pradesh, the Chamba Tunnel in Uttarakhand have also been dedicated to the nation in the recent past, officials said.

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India completed the excavation work of Nechiphu Tunnel, located at an altitude of 5,700 feet in its eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh by conducting a final "breakthrough blast", officials said on Friday.

India completed the excavation work of Nechiphu Tunnel, located at an altitude of 5,700 feet in its eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh by conducting a final "breakthrough blast", officials said on Friday. The blast marked the cumulative excavation of more than 4,500 meters, achieved by India's Border Roads Organisation (BRO), in less than two years. BRO is a road construction executive force in India that provides support to and is now a part of the Indian armed forces. It develops and maintains road networks in India's border areas and friendly neighbouring countries. The Nechiphu Tunnel is a unique 500-metre-long “D-shaped, single tube double lane tunnel” on the Balipara-Charduar-Tawang (BCT) Road in West Kameng district in Arunachal Pradesh. Once it opens up, the Nechiphu Tunnel, along with the Sela Tunnel, will provide safe, all-weather strategic connectivity on the BCT Road while reducing the carbon footprint in this eco-sensitive area. Director-General of BRO Lt Gen Rajeev Chaudhry conducted the blast remotely from India's national capital New Delhi. The tunnel will accommodate two-way traffic and will be equipped with modern lighting and safety facilities, Indian officials said. The tunnel has been conceived to bypass extreme foggy conditions prevailing around Nechiphu Pass which had caused hindrance to general traffic and military convoys for many decades, officials said. "The tunnel will be provided with a state-of-the-art electro-mechanical system including firefighting devices, auto illumination system and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) controlled monitoring systems. "It will also accommodate raised footpaths on both sides for safer pedestrian movement which will have ducts for power cables, optical fibre cables and utility lines to strengthen the civic amenities infrastructure," they said. The ongoing tunnel construction is being accomplished by cutting through fragile and highly fractured rock strata, officials said. The attendant challenges are being tackled on daily basis through strict 3D monitoring and through proactive application of desired tunnel support systems in accordance with the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM). The foundation stone of the project was laid by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on October 12, 2020. In tandem with the Nechiphu Tunnel project, the Project Vartak of BRO has also completed the excavation work on another strategic tunnel, the Twin Tube (1,555 meters and 980 meters) “Sela Tunnel Project” on the same road, on January 22 this year. Friday's blast thus marks the cumulative excavation of more than 4,500 meters achieved by BRO in less than two years, officials said. India has taken up tunnelling in a big way with the completion of high altitude and mountainous tunnels. In addition to the Atal Tunnel, Rohtang in Himachal Pradesh, the Chamba Tunnel in Uttarakhand have also been dedicated to the nation in the recent past, officials said.

India’s BRO conducts 'breakthrough' blast of Nechiphu Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh state