Arunachal Pradesh Sees Significant Growth in Border Areas Through Key Initiatives, Says CM Khandu

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu highlighted the remarkable progress in connectivity and essential services in the state's border districts and remote regions, attributing this advancement to initiatives such as the Vibrant Village Programme, Operation Sadbhavana, and Project Samaritan. Speaking at a conclave on border area development on Wednesday, Khandu emphasised the state's dual focus on national security and rural development.

"Over the past decade, our border districts and remote regions have seen tremendous growth in connectivity and essential services through the Vibrant Village Programme and initiatives like Operation Sadbhavna and Project Samaritan," Khandu said. He noted that significant strides have been made with the construction of 1,022 kilometres of roads connecting 124 habitations and the development of sustainable tourism in collaboration with the Indian Army.

The Chief Minister highlighted the state's commitment to synchronised planning between the defence forces, central armed police forces, and state representatives. "Our focus on synchronised planning between the defence forces, central armed police forces and the state representatives reflects our commitment to both national security and rural development. Together, we are laying the foundation for a prosperous and self-reliant Arunachal Pradesh ," he stated.

Khandu underscored the importance of the conclave in advancing the development of border regions, reflecting on the state's critical role in national security and development. He emphasised improvements in infrastructure across Arunachal Pradesh , noting that even major towns in remote border areas are now well-connected.

The Chief Minister also touched on the tourism potential of Arunachal Pradesh , stating that it will play a key role in boosting the rural economy through collaborative efforts. "Tourism must reach the borders and we are committed to ensuring that local communities benefit from this growth. Sustainable development will provide a source of income for the people and the Army can play a crucial role as a development partner," he added.

The conclave aims to enhance cooperation and unlock the full potential of India’s border regions, ensuring that development and national security progress together. The event was also attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, among other notable figures.