Arunachal Pradesh hydropower potential highlighted as Mein seeks central support at Delhi meet

Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein said the state’s 58,000 MW hydropower potential, around 38 per cent of India’s total, can support the clean energy transition. Speaking at the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 in New Delhi, he urged strategic central backing, faster CPSU-led projects, and stronger intra- and inter-state transmission networks.

Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein said the state is central to India’s clean energy shift. Mein said Arunachal Pradesh has 58,000 MW of hydropower potential. Mein added this is over 38 per cent of India’s total. Mein asked for targeted help from the Centre to use this capacity.

Mein spoke at the Power Ministerial Meet National and later at a ministerial panel. Both sessions were held during the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 in New Delhi. The Yashobhoomi Convention Centre hosted the meeting. Union Minister for Power and Housing Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar chaired the discussion, an official report said.

Arunachal Pradesh hydropower potential and central support

Mein linked the hydropower push to the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. Mein said steady cooperation and timely policy steps are needed. Mein also called for planned investment to unlock hydropower resources. Mein said strategic central support would help move projects forward and reduce delays.

At the ministerial panel, Mein spoke alongside Shripad Naik and RM Dhavalikar. Mein urged faster work on projects that are financially viable. Mein suggested using Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) to speed execution. Mein said quicker approvals and early starts can help limit rising project costs.

Arunachal Pradesh hydropower potential and transmission planning

Mein said transmission limits could block future power evacuation. Mein called for stronger intra-state and inter-state transmission capacity. Mein proposed building 220 kV and higher voltage networks. Mein also asked for joint planning so evacuation works across river basins stay aligned.

Mein raised concerns about roads and bridge gaps near project areas. Mein said stronger enabling infrastructure is needed for implementation. Mein also sought policy changes to keep tariffs workable. Mein asked to extend the Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) charge waiver beyond June 2028 up to 2035.

Arunachal Pradesh hydropower potential and sector issues at the meet

The wider meeting also covered several national power sector matters. Officials discussed the financial viability of DISCOMs. The agenda included the Electricity Amendment Bill and the National Electricity Policy. The roadmap for achieving 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047 was also reviewed.

Mein said Arunachal Pradesh can add major clean power if support continues. Mein stressed coordinated planning for transmission and evacuation. Mein said policy stability and basic infrastructure will shape project timelines. The discussions in New Delhi placed the state’s hydropower potential within national energy goals.

With inputs from PTI