Arunachal CM Pema Khandu Inaugurates Monastery and Launches Development Blitz in Remote Border Village
In a significant push for frontier area development, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday inaugurated the Tsari Taksing Gajang Shedup Dargeyling Monastery at Taksing, a remote border village in the Upper Subansiri district adjoining the Tibet-China region. The event marked a historic moment, with Khandu reaffirming the state government's unwavering commitment to accelerating development, enhancing connectivity, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities in these strategically vital border zones.
Historic Gathering and Praise for Local Efforts
Chief Minister Khandu described the inauguration as a historic occasion, noting that such a large public gathering was being witnessed for the very first time in Taksing's recorded history. He extended heartfelt praise to the Nah Welfare Society, local community leaders, and the district administration for their exceptional efforts in successfully organizing the program despite the formidable logistical challenges posed by the region's extreme remoteness.
Over 40 Developmental Initiatives Unveiled
During his extensive visit to the area, the Chief Minister spearheaded more than 40 key developmental initiatives within the Nacho assembly constituency. These projects included a mix of inaugurations and foundation stone-laying ceremonies, collectively reflecting the accelerated pace of infrastructure growth currently underway in the Upper Subansiri district. Khandu attributed Arunachal Pradesh's remarkable transformation over the past decade to the collective and synergistic efforts of the state government, elected representatives, dedicated officials, and central agencies, all operating under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Connectivity: The Backbone of Frontier Development
Highlighting connectivity as the fundamental backbone of development, CM Khandu recalled a time when Taksing was accessible only by helicopter. A pivotal change occurred in 2019 when road connectivity was finally achieved through sustained and coordinated efforts with the Central Government and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), marking the beginning of a new era of socio-economic change for the region.
He cited the monumental Trans-Arunachal Highway—a sprawling 1,800-kilometer corridor stretching from Tawang to Longding—as a definitive game-changer that has drastically reduced travel times and improved access to district headquarters. Looking ahead, Khandu also spoke about the upcoming Frontier Highway, a strategic border road project, noting that tendering processes are currently underway for specific stretches in the Upper Subansiri district. He earnestly urged public cooperation to ensure the smooth and timely implementation of this critical infrastructure.
Zero Tolerance for Corruption and Border Development Focus
Emphasizing a policy of zero tolerance towards corruption, the Chief Minister issued a stern warning against any delays or irregularities in land compensation and project execution. He cited examples of strict action already taken in certain problematic stretches of the Trans-Arunachal Highway as a deterrent.
On the specific topic of border area development, Khandu stated that the Vibrant Villages Programme has already brought significant benefits to frontier regions by substantially improving connectivity, livelihoods, and core infrastructure. He stressed the paramount importance of continuous coordination between the civil administration, the Indian Army, and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) to build sustainable and resilient models of development in border villages.
Tourism, Hydropower, and Addressing Local Demands
In a major announcement, the Chief Minister revealed plans to develop Taksing into a dedicated tourism circuit, highlighting its profound historical and religious significance as a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site associated with the ancient Tsari (Rong Kora). Efforts are actively underway, in consultation with the Army and the Centre, to revive this pilgrimage in a carefully regulated manner.
Referring to Arunachal's immense hydropower potential, Khandu declared that the state is rapidly emerging as India's leading hydropower hub, with nearly 19,000 MW of capacity under various stages of development. Key projects like the 2,000-MW Lower Subansiri project are nearing completion, while several other mega projects are poised to further strengthen the state's economy. He urged local communities to extend their support to these hydropower initiatives, outlining the associated benefits such as employment generation, fair land compensation, and the direct transfer of 1% of power sale revenue to affected families.
The Chief Minister assured the gathering that all issues raised in a six-point memorandum submitted by the Nah Welfare Society—encompassing road connectivity, water supply, and tourism infrastructure—would be addressed through a dedicated, comprehensive project formulated specifically for the Taksing and Kodoka areas.
Call for Proactive Governance and Future Vision
Concluding his address, CM Khandu called upon newly elected Panchayati Raj representatives to play a proactive and constructive role in local governance. He stressed the principles of transparency, convergence of government schemes, and people-centric planning under flagship programs like the Viksit Bharat Gram Yojana, with a sharp focus on water security, livelihoods, agriculture, tourism, and employment generation.
Expressing robust confidence, Pema Khandu stated that with collective effort and active public participation, the Upper Subansiri district is poised to emerge as a shining model of holistic development, vibrant tourism, and steadfast border resilience in the years ahead.
