PM Modi Inaugurates & Lays Foundation Stones for Projects Worth Rs. 5,100 Crore in Arunachal; Declares North East as Driving Force of India’s Growth.
On the first day of Navratri, Prime Minister Modi launches a slew of infrastructure, power, tourism, and health projects in Itanagar; hails Arunachal Pradesh as a beacon of patriotism, culture, and progress.
Itanagar:
In a landmark visit that underlined the strategic and developmental importance of India’s North East, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple development projects worth over Rs. 5,100 crore in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh. The Prime Minister’s visit marked a significant boost to connectivity, energy, tourism, healthcare, and overall regional integration, reinforcing the Centre’s “Nation First” approach and focus on inclusive development.
Addressing a large gathering amid vibrant cultural performances and warm public reception, the Prime Minister began by invoking the local deity Donyi Polo and expressing his deep affection for the people of Arunachal Pradesh. “This land of the rising sun is also a land of rising aspirations, deep patriotism, and rich cultural confluence,” he remarked. “From Tawang Monastery to the Golden Pagoda in Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh is truly the pride of India.”
Key Announcements and Highlights:
Rs. 3,700+ Crore for Hydropower:
PM Modi laid the foundation stone for two major hydroelectric projects:
- Heo Hydroelectric Project (240 MW)
- Tato-I Hydroelectric Project (186 MW)
Both located in the Siyom sub-basin, these will strengthen Arunachal’s role as a green energy producer and generate employment for thousands.
Rs. 1,290 Crore in Infrastructure Initiatives:
The PM launched projects in:
- Connectivity
- Health & Fire Safety
- Working Women Hostels
- Medical Infrastructure including a new Cancer Institute
These developments are expected to enhance the quality of life and stimulate economic activity in the region.
Major Boost to Tourism:
A world-class Convention Centre in Tawang (at 9,820 feet) was also inaugurated. With capacity to host 1,500+ delegates, the centre is set to become a hub for conference tourism, a growing trend globally.
North East as the ‘Ashtalakshmi’ of India
The Prime Minister reiterated his government’s unwavering commitment to the North East, calling the region the “Ashtalakshmi” of India — representing eight states and eight forms of prosperity.
He stated, “The North East was neglected for decades due to political apathy. But since 2014, our approach is different. This region is now a driving force of India’s development.”
Noting that Union Ministers have collectively visited the region over 800 times, and he himself has visited 70+ times, Shri Modi affirmed, “We have bridged the emotional gap. Delhi is no longer distant from the North East — we have brought it closer than ever.”
Transformative Shift in Development Philosophy
In a scathing critique of past governments, the Prime Minister said previous regimes viewed tribal and border areas as “last villages” — often neglected in planning and funding. “We have turned that around,” he said. “Today, we call them the first villages of India — they are the pride of the nation.”
He lauded the Vibrant Villages Programme, under which over 450 border villages in Arunachal Pradesh have been transformed with new roads, electricity, internet access, and tourism potential.
Ease of Living and GST Reforms
The PM used the occasion to announce the nationwide rollout of next-generation GST reforms and the launch of the GST Savings Festival, which aims to offer relief to citizens ahead of the festive season.
Key points:
- Only two tax slabs remain: 5% and 18%
- Many items now tax-free
- Significant savings on essentials like food, footwear, clothing, household goods, and education materials
He stated: “With the new GST regime, dining out, travel, and daily life have all become more affordable. This is our Diwali gift to the people of India.”
Women Empowerment in Focus
The Prime Minister emphasized his mission to create three crore “Lakhpati Didis” across the nation, ensuring financial independence and social empowerment for women. He praised Arunachal’s efforts, including:
- New working women hostels
- Active participation of women in local development programs
“Empowered women mean an empowered nation,” he said.
Support for Agriculture and Local Produce
Arunachal Pradesh’s unique agri-produce — including kiwi, oranges, cardamom, and pineapples — was highlighted as part of the state’s emerging economic identity. The PM-Kisan scheme, he noted, is benefiting thousands of farmers in the region.
A Vision for a Developed India by 2047
PM Modi connected the developmental strides of Arunachal Pradesh to India’s broader vision of becoming a developed nation by its 100th year of independence in 2047. “Every region must grow in alignment with this national goal. Arunachal and the entire North East are critical to India’s success story,” he asserted.
Call to Embrace Swadeshi
Concluding his speech, the Prime Minister gave a clarion call for “Swadeshi”, urging citizens to support Indian-made goods to ensure self-reliance and sustainable growth.
“Let us pledge to buy and sell only Indian products and declare them with pride. That is the path to a developed India — a self-reliant India.”
Dignitaries Present:
- Governor: Lt Gen K T Parnaik (Retd)
- Chief Minister: Shri Pema Khandu
- Union Minister: Shri Kiren Rijiju
Other senior officials and dignitaries from the Centre and State were also present.
Today’s announcements reflect a strategic blend of development, empowerment, and cultural recognition. From hydropower to health, women’s empowerment to tourism, and from border security to economic upliftment, Arunachal Pradesh is not only being connected to the rest of India through roads and runways — it is being connected emotionally, politically, and economically to the heart of the nation.
As the saffron hues of Arunachal’s sunrise meet the vision of a resurgent India, the Prime Minister’s message was clear: “Arunachal Pradesh is not the end of India — it is the beginning of a new India.”
