| Staff REPORTER |
Itanagar, Mar 10: Five young citizens were felicitated for their outstanding suggestions under the Jan Bhagidari 2026, an initiative that aimed at encouraging citizens’ participation in the State Budget process.
The felicitation ceremony held at the DK Auditorium in the Assembly complex was graced by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Speaker Tesam Pongte, Deputy Speaker Kardo Nyigyor, MLA cum Advisor (Planning) Tsering Lhamu and other dignitaries.
During the event, the Chief Minister also launched the official website for the Arunachal Budget 2026-27.
The five youths honoured for their innovative suggestions were Christina Langkam, Sonjoy Bagang, Lakhi Mena, Milli Bharat, and Bangkong Perme.
Christina Langkam was recognised for her proposal “Unlocking Tourism Potential,” which suggested introducing a “Gold Seal” certification system for homestays based on hygiene and hospitality standards, along with hospitality training squads to train homestay owners in villages.
Sonjoy Bagang’s suggestion “Transforming Rural Arunachal” proposed the Biocarbon Valley Mission, aimed at leveraging the state’s vast forest cover to create a sovereign carbon economy and generate revenue for tribal communities.
Lakhi Mena’s proposal themed “Peaceful Society” recommended setting up of Community Harmony Centres across districts to promote social integration, peaceful conflict resolution and youth engagement.
Milli Bharat’s proposal on “Governance and Policy Reforms” introduced the concept of Arunachal Secure Pass, a next-generation digital Inner Line Permit (d-ILP) system using AI-based facial recognition and blockchain technology to strengthen monitoring and internal security.
Bangkong Perme’s submission “Clean and Green Environment” focused on strengthening civic sense for sustainable urban development, particularly in Itanagar, through infrastructure strengthening, enforcement mechanisms and public participation.
Congratulating the winners, Mein said the Jan Bhagidari initiative reflects the spirit of participatory governance, where citizens actively contribute ideas for the development and progress of the state. He expressed hope that such innovative suggestions would help shape policies and strengthen inclusive development in Arunachal Pradesh.