Connectivity, hydel power key to Arunachal development, says Modi in maiden visit

The Centre is pro-active about the Northeastern states and would soon initiate measures to bring the region’s development on a par with developed parts of the country, Modi said.

“Arunachal Pradesh is getting both gati (momentum) and urja (energy) today. Both are essential for progress. We must remember that slogans alone cannot eradicate poverty,” he said.

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Highlighting the immense hydel potential of the state, Modi gave examples of Nepal and Bhutan, who had harnessed hydropower to transform their economies. And in India, Himachal Pradesh had done the same, he said. “Arunachal Pradesh could provide electricity to the entire country,” Modi said.

He also stressed on simultaneously providing proper compensation to those displaced by the projects.

The PM, while dedicating the Harmuti-Naharlagun rail line linking Itanagar with rest of the country, also flagged off two trains from Naharlagun: an AC Express between Naharlagun and New Delhi, and an Inter-City Express between Naharlagun and Guwahati. “Rail network is the backbone of development. Railways will not only emerge as a strength for Arunachal Pradesh’s development, but I am sure, will also boost tourism. People from outside will now see the beauty of this land,” he said.

Talking about his government’s increased focus on the Northeast, Modi said the Centre plans to set up six agricultural universities in the region. These could help the region become a major centre for organic farming, he said.

“The Northeast can become the organic farming capital of India,” Modi  said. “Make in the Northeast” was being envisaged as an integral part of “Make in India,” the PM added.

“My government is planning to launch 18 new FM channels for the region for which auction will be conducted soon. Besides, proposals have been made to improve 2G, 3G and 4G connectivity in the region which had remained neglected for many years,”he said.
The PM also inaugurated a water supply scheme for Itanagar and laid the foundation stone of a 132-KV transmission line.