Northeast Desk, 29th August: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has hailed the recent Cabinet approval of Rs. 4,136 crore for hydroelectric projects in the North Eastern Region as a significant milestone towards sustainable energy. This initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s special focus on the Northeast, aiming to generate 15,000 MW of clean energy by 2032, thereby accelerating regional development and bolstering India’s contribution to global sustainability.
The Central Financial Assistance (CFA) for state governments in the Northeast was sanctioned by the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Modi, on August 28. The funding will support equity contributions in hydroelectric projects through joint ventures between state corporations and Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs). The scheme, with a total outlay of Rs. 4,136 crore, is set to be implemented from FY 2024-25 to FY 2031-32, with an anticipated cumulative hydro capacity of around 15,000 MW.
One of the key projects under this initiative is the proposed construction of India’s highest dam at Dibang, positioning Arunachal Pradesh at the forefront of this green energy revolution. The scheme includes a provision for allocating 10% of the Gross Budgetary Support (GBS) to the Northeast Region. Grants will be provided to state governments, capped at 24% of the total project equity, with a maximum of Rs. 750 crore per project, subject to possible relaxation on a case-by-case basis.
Chief Minister Khandu expressed optimism about the positive impact of this initiative, emphasizing its potential to transform the energy landscape of the Northeast and contribute significantly to India’s sustainable development goals.
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