Prime Minister Narendra Modi today laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth over Rs 5,100 crore in Arunachal Pradesh. Addressing a gathering in Itanagar, Modi said that local produce such as kiwi, oranges, cardamom, and pineapples is giving the state a new identity, while the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme continues to benefit farmers across the region.
Speaking about women’s empowerment, the Prime Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to creating three crore “Lakhpati Didis” and praised Chief Minister Pema Khandu for actively advancing this mission. He also announced the launch of several working women’s hostels, aimed at supporting young women in the state. Modi expressed pride in Arunachal’s patriotic spirit, calling it a land of valour, simplicity, and culture, and lauded its blend of peace and heritage, from the Tawang Monastery to the Golden Pagoda in Namsai.
The Prime Minister highlighted that his visit was special as it coincided with the first day of Navratri, marked by worship of Maa Shailputri. He also announced next-generation GST reforms and the GST Savings Festival, which will provide financial relief to households across the country. Modi emphasized that these initiatives, alongside the inauguration of development projects in power, connectivity, tourism, and health, demonstrate the combined efforts of the Union and State governments.
Recalling the slow pace of development in the Northeast prior to 2014, Modi criticized previous administrations for neglecting the region. He highlighted that while earlier Union Ministers visited the Northeast only occasionally, his government has ensured over 800 ministerial visits, with significant overnight stays and engagement. He underlined that Arunachal has received over Rs 1 lakh crore from central taxes in the past decade, compared to just Rs 6,000 crore in the previous ten years.
Modi also pointed out major infrastructure advancements, including the Sela Tunnel, improved highways, new power projects, heliports under the UDAN scheme, and modernized airports. He stressed the government’s efforts to improve healthcare, education, travel, and business opportunities, and highlighted the success of the Vibrant Villages Programme, which has transformed over 450 border villages.
Citing Arunachal’s growing tourism, Modi announced a new convention centre in Tawang and noted that the state is increasingly contributing to India’s green energy goals. He urged citizens to embrace “Swadeshi” products to boost self-reliance and accelerate regional and national development. Governor Lt Gen K T Parnaik, Chief Minister Pema Khandu, and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju were present at the event.
