Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Wednesday highlighted eight focus areas for the overall development of the rural sectors of the state that would also curb urban migration of rural population. The key areas include health, education, connectivity, electricity, livelihood, agriculture, sanitation, and water supply. Khandu informed that the state government is sketching a plan to empower all villages of the state in coming years. Attending the Golden Jubilee celebration of Biru village in West Siang district, Khandu said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been giving special attention to empowering villages through many centrally sponsored schemes and programs, with which the state government is taking up and utilizing. He further added that once the eight areas of focus are achieved,many villages and residents will be empowered. “The most important unit of our country is a village. Only when our villages are empowered, the country will develop. Arunachal’s identity is in our villages,” the Chief Minister said. Expressing concern over the migration of people from villages to urban towns and cities, Khandu said if this is not checked, the state’s villages will disappear and so will the distinct cultural identity of the state. “We are committed to ensuring that all our villages are empowered with all facilities so that they continue to thrive,” he assured. The Chief Minister urged Gram Panchayat leaders, Gaon Buras, and village elders to closely monitor all schemes and programs being implemented in their respective villages and ensure the quality of work and its timely completion. He expressed happiness on knowing that Biru village, established 50 years ago, has preserved the rich cultural heritage of the Galos. He acknowledged the fact that the entire village comprising of 50 households, are all followers of the indigenous Donyi Polo faith. “Galos are the torchbearers of the state with perhaps the largest number of government employees. Other communities look up to you. You have the responsibility to lead from the front and set examples for others to follow,” he said. On road connectivity, Khandu assured that all under-construction portions of the Trans-Arunachal Highway in the district will be completed by coming year. He informed that the target has been conveyed to the concerned department and contractors and that his office will be closely monitoring the progress. He also informed that the Union Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways has approved the sanction of an additional 2500 km of highways for the state worth Rs 44,000 crore. On a three-day visit to West Siang, the Chief Minister inaugurated the newly constructed building of the Aalo Circuit House, the Golden Jubilee Gate of Biru village, and the Taken Riba indoor badminton stadium while officially opening the 9th Chief Minister’s sub-veteran and veteran state badminton championship.
Source: Chief Minister Office Communique .
