Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the NDA government at the Centre has given unprecedented attention and resources to the all-round development of the Northeast, ushering in a new phase of growth, connectivity, and opportunities across the region.
In a letter addressed to Pema Khandu on the occasion of Arunachal Pradesh’s 40th Statehood Day, the Prime Minister highlighted the Centre’s sustained efforts to improve infrastructure and connectivity in the border state.
The Prime Minister said that in the last decade, thousands of kilometres of roads have been constructed, many of them in remote and difficult terrain. He said the laying of foundation stones and timely completion of major projects such as the Donyi Polo Airport and the Sela Tunnel reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening connectivity in the region.
Referring to Arunachal Pradesh’s geographical and symbolic significance, PM Modi said the state is the land where the sun rises first in the country. He noted that the tradition of people greeting one another with “Jai Hind” reflects deep-rooted patriotism and national unity, calling it a living expression of pride in the nation.
Highlighting the state’s cultural richness, the Prime Minister said Arunachal Pradesh is home to vibrant tribal communities, each with its own distinct traditions and ethos. He said the people’s strong commitment to sustainability is evident through individual and community-driven initiatives across the state.
Recalling his visits to Arunachal Pradesh, PM Modi said the affection and warmth of the people have always left a lasting impression on him. He noted that it was from Itanagar that the GST Bachat Utsav was launched, during which he interacted with self-help groups and traders from across the state. He said their entrepreneurial spirit and passion for local products such as rice, pickles, tea, handicrafts, carpets, and confectionery were inspiring, adding that he was impressed by the technological awareness among the people.
The Prime Minister said the people of Arunachal Pradesh felt proud when Kiren Rijiju became the first Union Cabinet Minister from the state, adding that ministerial visits to Arunachal Pradesh in the past decade have been higher than under any previous government.
Emphasising the Centre’s focus on border development, PM Modi said the government has moved away from the notion of “last villages” and instead adopted the vision of “first villages” through the Vibrant Villages Programme. He said the initiative has benefited Arunachal Pradesh, along with schemes such as the Ujala Scheme, PM-KISAN, Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, and the Jal Jeevan Mission.
The Prime Minister also expressed enthusiasm about the ongoing documentation and digitisation of rare manuscripts in districts including Tawang, West Kameng, Shi-Yomi, Upper Siang, and Namsai under the Gyan Bharatam Mission, saying it would help preserve the state’s intellectual and spiritual heritage.
Highlighting efforts to promote tourism, PM Modi said the government is working to boost nature- and adventure-based tourism in Arunachal Pradesh, adding that ministers visiting the state consistently return with positive feedback about its people and natural beauty.
Praising the contribution of the people of Arunachal Pradesh to national progress, the Prime Minister said the state has produced brave soldiers guarding the nation’s frontiers, as well as sportspersons, artists, entrepreneurs, and civil servants who have contributed to India’s growth and security.
-IANS
