ITANAGAR, 18 Sep: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday said that the Army is no longer just guarding the state’s borders but has become a key partner in Arunachal Pradesh’ development.
The CM said this while interacting with Chief of Army Staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi, who called on him at the civil secretariat here, accompanied by 3 Corps GOC Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar.
“The efforts of the Army are visible in tourism projects across the state, in improving connectivity, and in creating economic opportunities in forward areas. Such Army-state collaboration not only strengthens national security but also boosts local economies and transforms the state’s landscape,” the CM said.
He urged all MLAs and local administrations to actively involve the Army in civilian functions and recognize their role as partners in the state’s developmental journey.
During the meeting, discussions included the implementation of the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP), with focus on economic integration of forward areas, last-mile tourism development, and investment opportunities in scenic and strategic regions.
Khandu expressed gratitude to the Army for its support in developing tourist facilities in places like Mayudia and other scenic sites, including the holy waterfall in Yangtse along the border. Plans were also discussed for further development of the war memorial in Namti valley in Walong.
The chief minister and the visiting Army leadership also deliberated on addressing land issues, encouraging the recruitment of local youths into the Army, providing recognition to gallantry award winners from Arunachal, and exploring pathways for inducting Agniveers into the state police and absorbing ex-servicemen into state government services.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue working together for the progress of Arunachal and the broader vision of nation-building. (CM’s PR Cell)
