Arunachal Pradesh CM Advocates for Enhanced Developmental Support
Chief Minister's Call for Strategic Policy Interventions
Arunachal CM Pema Khandu detailing about development initiatives of his state (Photo: @NITIAayog/X)
Itanagar, June 13: Pema Khandu, the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, has emphasized the necessity for tailored policy measures and increased support systems to tackle the state's distinct developmental and strategic hurdles.
During a high-level meeting with Chief Ministers from the North Eastern States, organized by NITI Aayog in New Delhi, Khandu expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his unwavering support towards the North East's development and for the implementation of the Act East Policy, which he believes has significantly improved connectivity, infrastructure, and public trust in the region.
Focusing on Arunachal Pradesh's extensive geographical area and its strategic significance, Khandu highlighted the urgent need for dedicated infrastructure assistance to navigate the challenges posed by its rugged terrain and scattered settlements.
He pointed out that despite being the largest state in the North East by area, Arunachal Pradesh faces unique developmental challenges that necessitate special attention.
Khandu mentioned the state's ambitious goal of generating 40,000 MW of hydropower by 2047 and requested coordinated efforts from NITI Aayog and relevant ministries to effectively tap into its substantial hydropower resources.
Additionally, he underscored the importance of skill development for local youth and the promotion of ancillary industries to enhance employment prospects.
Addressing the funding challenges faced by sparsely populated yet large states, Khandu urged NITI Aayog to reassess the population-based funding criteria.
He noted that the current allocation methods often disadvantage Arunachal Pradesh, given its vast area, challenging terrain, and strategic relevance. He called for the development of alternative criteria that accurately reflect the state's realities and developmental needs.
Regarding rural connectivity, Khandu advocated for the expansion of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana to include villages with populations of 250 and above, highlighting that many remote areas still lack road access despite advancements under the Vibrant Villages Programme.
In his plea for increased developmental assistance, Khandu pointed out that Arunachal Pradesh has not received the same level of benefit from externally funded projects as other North Eastern states and requested NITI Aayog to identify suitable mechanisms to address this disparity.
Furthermore, Khandu sought guidance from NITI Aayog to enhance the newly established Institute of Transforming Arunachal (ITA) into a leading policy and governance think tank for the state.