Itanagar, Feb 11: The Directorate of Urban Local Bodies, Govt of Arunachal Pradesh, organised a one-day orientation programme for newly elected Municipal members at the DK Convention Centre here on Wednesday.
The programme aimed at strengthening the capacity of newly elected representatives by familiarising them with the constitutional framework, institutional roles, and key urban development initiatives related to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
The inaugural session was presided over by Urban Affairs Minister Balo Raja, who underlined the responsibilities of elected representatives in strengthening urban institutions and ensuring effective implementation of flagship urban missions in the State.
Commissioner Urban Affairs Vivek Pandey delivered the keynote address, highlighting decentralised urban governance, effective service delivery, and the critical role of ULBs in achieving sustainable urban development. In his welcome address, the Additional Secretary of Urban Affairs emphasised the importance of informed decision-making and accountable leadership at the municipal level.
During the technical sessions, Town Planning Director Likha Suraj elaborated on the constitutional provisions relating to Urban Local Bodies under the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act. Senior Finance & Accounts Officer (ULB) Obang Mingki discussed the devolution of Funds, Functions, and Functionaries (3Fs) to ULBs.
Sessions on Municipal Solid Waste Management were delivered by Dr Nabam Rich, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, NIT Jote, and Anil Kumar Maddipatla, Design Head, NGT-PMU. They highlighted the prevailing scenario of solid waste management in Arunachal Pradesh and the role of ULBs in ensuring sustainable waste management practices.
An overview of flagship urban schemes was presented by Hano Takka, Director (ULB).
The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates to participants by the Minister and the Commissioner of Urban Affairs.
The orientation programme served as a vital platform to enhance the understanding of newly elected municipal members regarding statutory responsibilities, governance mechanisms, and sectoral priorities, contributing to more effective and responsive urban governance in Arunachal Pradesh.