There was a time when Arunachal Pradesh was synonymous with jungles, hills and lack of development. Cut to 2014, things have drastically changed for the state.
Roads from Guwahati to Bhalukpong and Dhola Sadiya bridge to Dibang are a smooth ride. Tourism has peaked in the state, with Dambuk in Dibang holding the eighth edition of the Orange Festival, attracting national and international tourists.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu credits the turnaround to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s model of development, which has transformed not just Arunachal but the entire Northeast. In an exclusive chat with News18, Khandu also spoke of the China threat and how India is countering it effectively.
Edited Excerpts:
How has this change come about in Arunachal Pradesh?
This change has taken place because of the leadership of PM Modi, not only in Arunachal Pradesh, but in the entire Northeast. A lot of development has taken place in the last nine years. Arunachal is one of the largest states of Northeast with a tough terrain. Despite this, the Union government has helped with development of infrastructure here by building roads and railway lines.
How are you trying to market the Dambuk Orange Festival?
This is the eighth edition of the festival. We export our oranges — which are on par with Nagpur oranges — to foreign countries. We have expanded the festival so that more tourists come here. There is so much to see in the Northeast which people don’t know about yet. These festivals will bring in more tourists. Very few people know about Arunachal’s beauty.
China always stakes claim to Arunachal Pradesh. What do you have to say to that?
Arunachal has always been a part of India. China can keep claiming whatever it wants, this is not new for us. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) looks into this matter and we are happy with our government. People here are always with India.
How is the Vibrant Villages Programme progressing?
There are Vibrant Villages on the northern side in our state. Home Minister Amit Shah came for the inaugural programme. The state government, ITBP, Army, and Centre are all working together. This programme is very important for us.
How is the partnership with the military?
We always get help from them and together, we are building a new Arunachal Pradesh. I request people from all over to come and see a changed Arunachal.
