The fifth (Budget) Session of the Eighth Legislative Assembly commenced at the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, marking the first sitting of the Special Session for the year, which is scheduled to last for two days. In a comprehensive address, Lt. General K.T. Parnaik, the Governor, emphasized the themes of inclusive development, democratic governance, and the growth of infrastructure within the state. He expressed appreciation to the Government of India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for their support of various projects worth over Rs 5,100 crore and the initiation of the GST Bachat Utsav.
Governor Parnaik pointed out significant progress, noting that the state’s GDP has grown 2.6 times over the past decade, while state resources have increased five-fold. Key development initiatives highlighted include the expansion of Donyi Polo Airport, enhancements to National Highways, improvements to rural roads, and the Vibrant Villages Programme. He proclaimed the fiscal year 2025–26 as the “Year of Human Capital,” pledging major investments in sectors such as education, health, skill development, and youth employment.
The Governor also elaborated on achievements in agriculture, including advancements in organic farming, floriculture, and kiwi production, highlighting the importance of women-led Self-Help Groups in these sectors. He identified hydropower as a crucial engine for growth, with 1.2 GW currently operational and an additional 19 GW under development.
In addition, the promotion of tourism, the preservation of cultural heritage, and governance reforms were stressed, particularly the incorporation of digital initiatives and improvements in public safety. The Governor set forth five strategic commitments: human capital, livelihoods, ecological harmony, green energy, and sustainable tourism, calling for members to push forward people-centric policies and collaborative development targets.
During the afternoon session, the Assembly took a moment of silence to honor former MLAs and leaders who had recently passed away, including notable figures such as Takar Marde, Kapchen Rajkumar, Punji Mara, Thinghap Taiju, Nima Tsering Khrimey, and Yadap Apang. The Assembly expressed profound sorrow for their losses, acknowledged their contributions to public service, and conveyed condolences to their families.
