Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu reaffirmed his dedication to the equitable distribution of development funds throughout all districts of the State.
Khandu assured suggestions from members of all parties would be considered and implemented by the State Government.
He asserted on the importance of connectivity in the State’s development, aiming for a ‘Viksit Arunachal’ by 2047 in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a prosperous Bharat.
Khandu highlighted the State’s progress in overcoming historical challenges related to road, air, railway, and digital connectivity. He credited these advancements to continuous Central Government support.
Acknowledging that poor connectivity had long hindered development, Khandu noted that his administration, since he took office in July 2016, has made infrastructure improvement a priority.
Looking forward, Khandu outlined plans to connect all remaining villages in Arunachal Pradesh with road and mobile networks within the next five years. He pointed to a nine-fold increase in road construction speed and a 143 per cent expansion of the State’s national highway network, achievements attributed to PM Modi’s initiatives.
In the tourism sector, Khandu reported a significant 141 per cent increase in domestic tourist visits and a 36 per cent rise in foreign tourist arrivals.
In healthcare, more than 7 lakh people have benefited from the Chief Minister’s Arogya Arunachal Yojana (CMAAY), while one lakh women have been linked to various schemes through self-help groups. Additionally, over 20,000 farmers have received support through programs aimed at promoting self-reliant agriculture.
Khandu advocated for a development approach centered on transparency and accountability, urging legislators from all parties to actively participate in achieving a robust Gross State Happiness Index.
During the session, Congress member Kumar Waii proposed a change in the State’s land policy to facilitate easier access to bank financing for business ventures.
PPA legislator Nabam Vivek recommended prioritising health and education sectors, while Independent member Laisam Simai suggested including the Indo-Myanmar border in the Centre’s vibrant village programme.
The Assembly passed the amended Balipara, Tirap, Sadiya Frontier Tract Jhum Land Regulation Bill through a voice vote. Introduced by State Urban Development and Land Management Minister Balo Raja on July 19, the bill addresses land compensation procedures within the State.
