Itanagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday laid the foundation stone for a series of projects worth over ₹5,127 crore in Arunachal Pradesh, focusing on power generation, infrastructure development, and border connectivity. The initiatives, officials said, will strengthen the frontier state’s economy while addressing strategic needs.
The highlight of the announcements was the launch of two major hydroelectric projects in Shi Yomi district. The 186 MW Tato-I and the 240 MW Heo projects, being developed by NEEPCO in joint venture with the state government at an estimated cost of ₹3,700 crore, are expected to generate 1,803 million units annually. Once commissioned, Arunachal Pradesh will benefit from free power worth more than ₹98 crore and a Local Area Development Fund of over ₹16 crore each year.
Modi also laid the foundation stone for a ₹147-crore integrated convention centre in Tawang. The facility, designed for meetings, exhibitions, and conferences, is expected to create new opportunities in tourism, services, and handicrafts.
Another key announcement was the launch of 10 infrastructure projects worth ₹1,291 crore, including the ambitious 1,830-km Frontier Highway. Running parallel to the McMahon Line, the highway will link Bomdila in West Kameng with Vijaynagar in Changlang district, improving border connectivity and bolstering national security.
The second phase of the Vibrant Village Programme (VVP) was also rolled out. Covering 122 villages along the India-Myanmar and India-Bhutan borders, the initiative will provide all-weather roads, 4G telecom networks, and electricity. Backed by ₹2,205 crore sanctioned by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the programme is part of a broader ₹6,839-crore national plan to develop border villages across 17 states and Union Territories by 2028-29.
Before addressing a large public gathering at Indira Gandhi Park in Itanagar, the Prime Minister visited an exhibition showcasing local crafts and interacted with artisans, entrepreneurs, and traders. He emphasised that the new projects would pave the way for prosperity in remote areas while ensuring stronger, safer borders.
The event was attended by Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd) K.T. Parnaik, Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Speaker Tesam Pongte, MP Tapir Gao, and Rajya Sabha member Nabam Rebia
