Northeast Desk, 23rd July: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized his commitment to equitable distribution of development funds across all districts during the ‘motion of thanks’ to the Governor’s address in the first session of the Eight Legislative Assembly on June 15. He assured that suggestions from members of all parties would be honored by the state government.
Khandu underscored the importance of connectivity in achieving ‘Viksit Arunachal’ by 2047, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a prosperous India. He highlighted the significant advancements in road, air, railway, and digital connectivity, attributing these to the sustained support from the central government.
Since assuming office in July 2016, Khandu’s administration has prioritized infrastructure enhancement. He revealed ambitious plans to connect all remaining villages in Arunachal Pradesh with road and mobile networks within the next five years. He noted a nine-fold increase in road construction pace over the past eight years and a 143% expansion of the state’s national highway network due to initiatives led by Modi.
Tourism has seen a significant boost, with a 141% rise in domestic tourist visits and a 36% increase in foreign tourist arrivals. In healthcare, over 7 lakh people have benefited from the Chief Minister Arogya Arunachal Yojana (CMAAY), while one lakh women have been supported through self-help groups. Additionally, more than 20,000 farmers have received assistance under schemes promoting self-reliant agriculture.
Khandu advocated for a development framework based on transparency and accountability, urging legislators to work together to achieve a robust Gross State Happiness Index.
During the session, lone Congress member Kumar Waii suggested revising the state’s land policy to provide ownership to people, making it easier for them to secure financing from banks for business ventures. PPA legislator Nabam Vivek recommended prioritizing the health and education sectors, while Independent member Laisam Simai proposed including the Indo-Myanmar border in the Centre’s vibrant village program.
The Assembly passed the Balipara, Tirap, Sadiya Frontier Tract Jhum Land Regulation bill in its amended form through a voice vote. The bill, introduced by State Urban Development and Land Management Minister Balo Raja on July 19, addresses land compensation procedures in the state.