Itanagar, May 20: Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas and Tourism, Suresh Gopi, during his whirlwind visit to Arunachal Pradesh to review the functioning of the Film and Television Institute (FTI) Itanagar campus, held a meeting with Trade & Commerce, Industries, IPR and Skill Development Minister Nyato Dukam and senior state government officials on Wednesday.
The Union Minister stressed the need for all stakeholders to work collectively to transform FTI into a centre of excellence and a major asset for both the state and the nation in the region. He highlighted the strategic importance of the institute’s location, which also houses premier institutions such as the NIT-AP and a Law College.
Emphasizing the need for better civic infrastructure, Gopi called for the establishment of a Community Health Centre in the area to address healthcare and emergency needs, noting its distance from major hospitals. He also advocated for setting up a police outpost to maintain law and order, stating that any untoward incident could have national implications and affect the confidence of parents sending students to the institute.
The Union Minister further stressed the urgent need to improve road connectivity and water supply to the institute. Referring to the tourism potential of the region, he said the sector remains largely untapped and requires focused development efforts.
Highlighting the importance of skill development, Gopi underscored the need to train rural youth in various trades and industries to promote self-sustainability and employment opportunities. He also demonstrated the multiple uses and benefits of banana peels during a practical session at the Civil Secretariat park in Itanagar.
Minister Nyato Dukam assured full cooperation from the state government towards the growth and development of the institute and the issues discussed during the meeting.
Among those present were Commissioner Education Amjad Tak, Commissioner Home and IPR Nyali Ete, Commissioner Industries, Textiles and Skill Development Mimum Tayeng, Tourism Secretary R Ngowa, IGP Chukhu Apa, along with directors, faculty members and the Dean of the FTI. (DIPR)