Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Reviews Minority Affairs Projects in Arunachal Pradesh, Announces New Initiatives

New Delhi: Union Minister of Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, conducted a comprehensive review of the physical and financial status of projects approved under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) for the State of Arunachal Pradesh.

The review meeting, held today, was attended by key state officials including Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Minister of Social Justice Empowerment and Tribal Affairs (SJETA) Kento Jini, and MLA Rode Bui, who also serves as an Advisor to the Minister (SJETA).

During the meeting, Rijiju announced the release of Rs. 35 crores as the Central Share for ongoing projects under the PMJVK. He also unveiled two new projects, one for Kumchaikha of Diyun Circle and another for Pakpu Maling, highlighting the government’s commitment to the development of minority communities in the region.

Emphasizing a “Whole of Government” approach, Rijiju reiterated the Government of India’s dedication to the development of minorities, with a specific focus on Buddhist communities in the far-flung border areas of Arunachal Pradesh. The minister outlined a roadmap for the early execution of 10 projects under the Buddhist Development Plan (BDP) of the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs. These projects, with a total estimated cost of Rs. 41.07 crores, aim to secularize traditional theological education while incorporating modern education, professional, vocational, and skill development courses for the young Buddhist population.

The review also discussed the convergence of various ongoing schemes, including PMJVK, PM-Vikas, and scholarship programs, along with initiatives administered by the National Minorities Development Finance Corporation Ltd. (NMDFC). This integrated approach aims to maximize the impact of these schemes, ensuring comprehensive development and empowerment of minority communities in Arunachal Pradesh.