Itanagar, Sep 28: Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, on Sunday laid the foundation stones for a series of development projects across Ziro (Lower Subansiri), Keyi Panyor, and Papum Pare districts under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) 2024-25, reaffirming the Government of India’s commitment to inclusive growth and welfare-driven development in Arunachal Pradesh.
At Ziro, Rijiju laid the foundation stones for Sadbhavna Mandaps at Dutta and Siiro, with the ceremony held at Government Middle School, Siiro. The programme was attended by Ziro-Hapoli MLA Hage Appa, Nari-Koyu MLA Tojir Kadu, Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme, SP Keni Bagra, Panchayat members, students, teachers, and the public.
Addressing the gathering, MLA Hage Appa thanked the Union Minister for bringing welfare projects to Ziro and urged people to utilise government schemes judiciously. In his keynote speech, Rijiju lauded the hard work of the Apatani community and their effective use of government funds. He encouraged the youth to venture into eco-tourism, noting Arunachal’s immense natural wealth.
“If we use our resources judiciously and promote eco-tourism sustainably, Arunachal Pradesh can one day emerge as the state with the highest per capita income,” he remarked. He also praised the Ziro Festival of Music for placing Ziro Valley and Arunachal Pradesh on the global map, boosting tourism and strengthening the local economy.
Later, Rijiju interacted with shopkeepers and traders at Hapoli Market, where he spoke about Next-Gen GST reforms, underlining how GST has unified India’s taxation system for the benefit of both traders and consumers.
In Keyi Panyor district, the Union Minister laid the foundation stones for three key projects: Infrastructure development of Community Health Centre (CHC), Yazali – to upgrade medical facilities and healthcare access; installation of solar street lamps at Peni village – a renewable energy initiative to improve rural safety and sustainability; and infrastructure development of Joram Primary Health Centre – to strengthen healthcare delivery in remote areas.
At Yazali Market, Rijiju interacted with traders during a GST awareness session, highlighting government efforts to ease compliance for small businesses.
Later, he attended a public meeting at the Govt Higher Secondary School auditorium, where local MLA Toko Tatung welcomed the dignitaries. Rajya Sabha MP Nabam Rebia, MLA Tojir Kadu, APEDA Chairman Taba Tedir, ZPC Likha Sangcchore, district officials, PRI leaders, traders, and the public attended the programme.
In his address, Rijiju reaffirmed his commitment to the aspirations of the people of Keyi Panyor and assured full support for meaningful and timely development. The event concluded with a community lunch symbolising unity and collective progress.
At Yupia in Papum Pare district, Rijiju laid foundation stones for two key projects: infrastructure development of the Primary Health Centre at Jote (Rs 2 crore) and construction of a multipurpose hall at Sangring village under Sagalee (Rs 1 crore).
Addressing the gathering, the Union Minister urged implementing agencies to ensure quality and timely execution so that the projects serve as valuable community assets. “Every initiative must contribute to sustainable development and the welfare of people,” he stressed.
The programme was attended by MP Nabam Rebia, Doimukh MLA Nabam Vivek, Nari-Koyu MLA Tojir Kadu, ZPC Nabam Yakum, DC Vishakha Yadav, senior officers, community leaders, and members of the public.
Rijiju’s day-long engagements across three districts not only underscored the Centre’s focus on inclusive growth but also reflected his personal commitment to strengthening health, community infrastructure, and livelihood opportunities in Arunachal Pradesh. (DIPROs)