Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu Promotes Bottom-to-Top Planning for Development Projects

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has proposed a shift in planning for development projects, advocating for a bottom-to-top approach. Speaking at the Sankalp Samaroh in Kurung Kumey district, he emphasised the need to replace traditional planning methods with processes that prioritise local recommendations. This reform aims to ensure that government funds are effectively utilised and that each district's specific needs are addressed.

Khandu announced the appointment of guardian ministers and mentor secretaries for each district. A workshop is scheduled in Itanagar on January 16 and 17 to discuss district challenges and potentials. The workshop will involve brainstorming sessions, followed by meetings with stakeholders at the district level. Districts will then prioritise their needs and submit recommendations for inclusion in the annual plan.

Infrastructure and Connectivity Developments

Significant improvements in connectivity have been noted since Narendra Modi became Prime Minister, according to Khandu. Travel times from Itanagar to Nyapin or Sangram have drastically reduced due to the Trans Arunachal Highway. The upcoming Frontier Highway is expected to further enhance connectivity in Nyapin-Sangram and Koloriang constituencies, linking Nafra in West Kameng with Vijaynagar in Changlang.

The tender process for the Frontier Highway has begun, though some sections face land acquisition challenges. Khandu assured that these issues would be resolved soon. Additionally, inter-corridor roads will be developed to connect areas not linked by existing highways. Approval has been granted for the Itakhola-Seijosa-Pakke Kessang-Seppa-Chayangtajo stretch, which will pass through Nyapin-Sangram-Parsi Parlo in Kurung Kumey.

Education and Health Initiatives

The state's Education Minister PD Sona has nearly completed visits to all districts, engaging with stakeholders to identify educational challenges and needs. The findings will be compiled and discussed in the cabinet before implementing reforms over three financial years. Khandu promised significant improvements in education across districts.

Kurung Kumey and Kra-Dadi districts have been included in the Prime Minister's TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, part of a campaign across 347 districts nationwide. Khandu urged residents to participate in upcoming health camps under this initiative. He also expressed concerns about election-related money culture, urging people to avoid it for regional development.

Tourism Potential and Local Development

The state government plans to work with the central government to designate Kurung Kumey and Kra-Dadi as tourist circuits. Once road projects are completed, these areas could benefit significantly from tourism growth. In Nyapin-Sangram assembly segment, Khandu announced sanctions for five schemes worth Rs 20.45 crore and assured consideration of a nine-point memorandum submitted by local legislator Tai Nikio.

Khandu highlighted that this new planning approach would prevent wastage of government funds while ensuring districts receive priority projects. He stated, "We will study these recommendations, discuss them in the cabinet and then introduce reforms, which I can foretell will be huge." This commitment underscores his dedication to implementing effective changes across Arunachal Pradesh.