Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated Bichom, the 27th district of Arunachal Pradesh, marking a significant milestone in the region’s development. This new district, carved out of West Kameng and East Kameng districts, was inaugurated in the presence of Union Earth Science Minister Kiren Rijiju and other dignitaries.
As part of the inauguration ceremony, CM Khandu handed over the National Flag and respective flag bearing DC and SP logos, signifying the transfer of responsibilities for the new district to DC Akriti Sagar and SP Sudhanshu Dhama.
In a message to the residents of the new district, CM Khandu expressed his joy in fulfilling a dream nurtured since 1984. He commended numerous groups and individuals, who contributed to this decision.
Tracing the history behind the district’s creation, the CM highlighted the origins of the appeal dating back to 1984 and its official endorsement following the establishment of the Bichom District Demand Committee in 1996, led by native son Kiren Rijiju of Nafra.
Acknowledging the collaborative efforts, CM Khandu credited MLAs Mama Natung, Goruk Pordung, and Dongru Siongju for their contributions to realising the vision of the Bichom district.
Furthermore, CM Khandu pledged support for infrastructural development in the new district headquarters and committed to replacing old assets from East Kameng with new ones in Bichom district.
The foundation for the Bichom district was laid in February with the approval of the Arunachal Pradesh (Re-Organization of Districts) (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in the state Assembly. The new district is expected to enhance accessibility to remote areas and bolster economic growth through government initiatives, benefiting communities such as Miji, Sajolang, Aka (Koro), and Puroik.
Encompassing 27 villages from West Kameng and 28 villages from East Kameng, the Bichom district covers circles including Nafra, Khazalang, Sirilang, Lada, and Bana.
During the inauguration, Chief Minister Khandu initiated the distribution of vehicles to Self-Help Groups (SHGs) through the Arunachal Grameen Express Yojana and inaugurated 18 initiatives, including a Multi Technology Testing Centre, the Administrative Building of Central Agricultural University (Imphal), and homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
Several dignitaries, including Cabinet Minister Mama Natung and MLAs Dongru Siongju, Goruk Pordung, and Hayeng Mangfi, along with representatives from various societies, graced the occasion, reaffirming the collective commitment to the development and progress of the Bichom district.
