Arunachal Pradesh’s youngest district, Panyor, is racing against time to build a strong foundation for governance and development. Carved out earlier this year, the district faces the twin challenges of inadequate educational performance and encroachment issues but is also making remarkable strides in infrastructure, healthcare, and public services.
At the heart of this transformation is Deputy Commissioner Shweta Nagarkoti Mehta, who has prioritised education reforms and sustainable development initiatives as cornerstones of the district’s growth strategy.
One of the most pressing concerns has been the district’s poor academic performance. CBSE results revealed a pass percentage of just 56 per cent, far below expectations. In response, the administration has launched a comprehensive reform drive, aiming to push the pass rate to 80 per cent in the coming academic year.
New measures include subject session plans, education vision boards, and a process called “education shuffling” designed to enhance classroom engagement. “Our goal is not just to improve results but to build a culture of learning and accountability,” DC Mehta explained.
Support mechanisms like the Poshan mid-day meal scheme and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for school uniforms are also being streamlined. To ensure smooth DBT payments, student bank accounts are being systematically opened and revived, creating a stronger link between welfare schemes and students’ academic needs.
Beyond education, the district has taken a tough stand against unauthorised land and cattle encroachments that threaten development. The administration has already conducted four eviction drives, where seized cattle were auctioned as a deterrent. Encroachment on government land remains a challenge, but officials are confident that continued vigilance will bring relief.
Despite being newly formed, Panyor is witnessing rapid infrastructure growth. A Mini Secretariat, complete with a modern conference hall, has been completed and is expected to be inaugurated within a month. Once operational, it will house several key offices, including the Panchayat and District Planning & Development Officer (DPDO) offices, which are currently functioning out of the Deputy Commissioner’s premises.
The district is also planning a district hospital, now in the proposal stage, alongside new community health centres. At present, Yazali hosts the only functioning CHC, but additional facilities are on the way to improve healthcare accessibility.
In terms of connectivity, road projects have reached all but two villages, with proposals already in place to cover the remaining habitations. The Jal Jeevan Mission has achieved full saturation in Panyor, ensuring safe and reliable drinking water for every household — a rare feat for a newly created district.
